2025 Gifu Prefecture Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#newyearnewtrip Takayama, often called “Little Kyoto,” is a gem in the heart of the Japanese Alps, renowned for its beautifully preserved Edo-period heritage and serene atmosphere. Its old town, Sanmachi Suji, is perfect for strolling, with wooden townhouses, sake breweries, and craft shops offering local souvenirs. History lovers will enjoy the Takayama Jinya, a former government office, and the Hida Folk Village, showcasing rural life with traditional houses and cultural artifacts. The city is also a gateway to the stunning Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Culinary delights, like melt-in-your-mouth Hida beef and local sake, further enhance the experience. Takayama combines history, nature, and culture in a way that leaves visitors enchanted.

At Kito Sekigahara, there is a private sauna that you can rent out and use as much as you like at any time during your stay. There are also "totonoi chairs" available outside, so you can relax surrounded by nature - we highly recommend it! ୨୧ ‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥୨୧ Accommodation: Kito Sekigahara Address: 9581-1 Imasu, Sekigahara-cho, Fuwa-gun, Gifu Access: Approximately 10 minutes from Sekigahara IC Parking: Available (free) Rooms with sauna access: Villa Suite (4 people capacity) ୨୧ ‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥୨୧ #Gifu #Gifu Tourism #Gifu Hotel #Ichito Kashi #Sauna #Private Sauna #Private Sauna #Sauna 2024

#Travelwithme It's been a bit hectic so it's been a while I can only remember the fun times and I'm amazed at how quickly my memories are slipping away... A travel journal compiled in the style of a travel guide I hope it will be useful to someone someday, somewhere ① Miyagawa Morning Market The original farm market! Of course there were vegetables, but there were surprisingly many food stalls! There was also a stylish coffee stand ② Checked out of hotel around TAKAYAMA Parking is 1500 yen for 24 hours and within walking distance of the main tourist spots I left my car at the hotel and went sightseeing ③ TRAIN BLEU A bakery recommended by the ramen shop yesterday Shiny jewel-like bread I bought coffee on the way and had TRAIN BLEU bread for lunch ④ Rail Mountain Bike Gattan go!! You can ride your bike along abandoned railway tracks It's so much fun!! The rail joints make a "clack" sound like a train, which gets you excited! Please note that there are two courses, one in the town and one in the valley, and the meeting places are different ⚠️ You might want to make a reservation early ⑤ Hida Farm Market A wide variety of items, from fresh local vegetables to folk crafts and souvenirs I'm sorry I thought "Maybe I should buy some Takayama ramen to take home" 💦 I was able to buy souvenirs to give to my fashionable friends! It was a 2-day, 1-night trip, but it was a very fulfilling trip I wish I could have gone to the Shinhotaka Ropeway or Shirakawa-go, but I think I'll save that for next time I have to work ꒰ঌ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈໒꒱ Thank you for reading to the end Like! I'm happy to receive comments ·͜· ꕤ︎︎ Adults can enjoy it too ・Hotels ・Cafes and gourmet ・Tourist spots etc. We provide travel tips that make travel lovers think "Maybe I want to go𓂃◌𓈒𓐍" I'll cry tears of joy if you follow me❤︎ ꒰ঌ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈໒꒱ #HidaTakayama #HidaTakayamaGourmet #GifuTrip #Hida #DomesticTrip #TravelDiary

There is a unique souvenir shop at the entrance of the old street. This is a shop that mainly sells honey. There are many exquisite honeys in the store, which look rich and delicious. It was really hot when I came here, eating an ice cream to cool down was really a great enjoyment This shop sells honey soft serve ice cream. It would be nice to have a cup of honey water. The soft serve portion is actually quite big. I remember it was around 300-400 yen. Rich and mellow fragrance with honey flavor, not too heavy or greasy, very delicious~ This can really be the ending of Gaoshan Old Street Before I got on the bus, I unexpectedly found a beautiful view at the intersection where I had just eaten ice cream. This is a rural area in Japan. There are no cars in the photo and not many passers-by. It is very beautiful. It's a perfect ending here. It's great to eat ice cream and take beautiful photos here #Japan #Hokuriku #Gifu

Come to Gifu Prefecture in central Japan, especially Takayama City, which is full of antiques. Takayama Hida Old Town is one of the attractions not to be missed. The Blacksmith Bridge next to the entrance is a super classic red bridge. It is in sharp contrast with the wooden Japanese-style buildings in the old streets of Takayama. The completely different style is meant to give you a strong style. In fact, what is really unique is a bridge over Miyagawa River. On the left and right sides of the Forge Bridge are the Miyagawa Asaichi Takayama Old Street (Sanden Building Complex: Kamisan, Kamini, and Ichino), Honmachi Street, and Kokubunji Street. What's special is that there is a lane for cars on the bridge. The most special thing is the "Forging Monster Bronze Statue" on the left and right. The beautiful scenery of the entire river is amazing. I will definitely be unforgettable after seeing it once. It’s so beautiful especially in winter. It’s worth coming back several times to take photos! #Japan #Hokuriku #Gifu

In the retro streets of Onami-cho, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, you will find the Michelin 1-star Japanese restaurant Takumi Hirano, which serves kaiseki cuisine. The appetizers and side dishes are made with seasonal ingredients, and you can choose from Japanese soba, Inaniwa udon, and ochazuke for your meal. The Japanese soba is handmade by the chef every day. It is delicious soba with a fragrant soba. The Japanese sweets are also seasonal. This time, it is chestnut kinton. It is made using only Ena chestnuts. If you are going to eat Japanese food in Gifu, be sure to try the Michelin 1-star restaurant Takumi Hirano✨ #Gourmet trip #Breathtaking views #Couple trip #Retro streets

The Mino Washi Akari Art Exhibition is held for a limited time every October in Mino City, Gifu Prefecture. We accept entries from all over the country for light art using Mino washi paper, which boasts a 1,300-year tradition, and the winning works are exhibited in the Udatsu-nobori streetscape. It's a wonderful event where intricately crafted lights made from washi paper are displayed in the retro streetscape that retains the atmosphere from the Edo period. #RetroStreetscape

Located near Gifu Castle, this is an ancient shrine. It is one of the three shrines in Mino Province. It is said to have a history of at least several hundred years. Its stately appearance in the mountains is impressive, and the grounds have a solemn atmosphere. Many people visit during events. #Shrine #Gifu

Hida Takayama is located in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture, near Toyama Prefecture. It is famous as a town in the mountains that retains its old streetscape, and is visited by many tourists. Walking around the town, you can feel the history as buildings that were likely built around the Edo, Meiji, and Taisho periods remain. In the autumn foliage season, the townscape becomes beautiful with the autumn leaves. #retrotownscape #autumnfoliage #HidaTakayama

Kiso Sansen Park in Kaizu City, Gifu Prefecture This park is a national park, and both the entrance fee and parking are free. In autumn, many cosmos flowers bloom, and the lemon yellow cosmos are rare and very beautiful. National Kiso Sansen Park Center 255-3 Abushima, Kaizu-cho, Kaizu City, Gifu Prefecture #Free Spot

The Tulip Festival at Kiso-Sansen Park in Gifu Prefecture. It is held from late March to early April. It is a national event, so you can enjoy the park and parking for free. There is also a grassy area where families can enjoy themselves by setting up picnic sheets and small tents. There is a tower, and there is a fee to climb it. Kiso-Sansen National Park Kiso-Sansen Park Center 255-3 Abushima, Kaizu-cho, Kaizu-shi, Gifu Prefecture #Free Spot

The size, scale, and presentation of the stalactites are the best in Japan The inside is quite spacious and there are almost vertical stairs along the way, so you need to wear clothes that you can move around in, lol Also, the average temperature inside the cave is about 12℃, so it's dangerous to go in light clothes😂 Also, in the cave, "cave low-temperature storage" is carried out to take advantage of the low temperature🍻 It seems that alcohol tastes better when stored at low temperatures for a long time🤔 #JapanGenkiProject2021 #SummerShortTrip #SummerResortIWantToKeepItSecret #AmazingNature

Hana Festa Memorial Park, Kani City, Gifu Prefecture Hana Festa Memorial Park in Kani City, Gifu Prefecture. It is one of the largest rose gardens in the world, and many types of roses bloom in the rose season. There are other flowers besides roses, and the garden is very large. Seasonal flowers such as nemophila, cosmos fields, and sunflowers are also in bloom, so you can see beautiful flowers any time you go, but the rose season is especially recommended. Address: 1584-1 Seta, Kani City, Gifu Prefecture #Flower Spot #Japan Genki Project 2021 #Summer Trip#Breathtaking View

When I went to Monet's Pond in Gifu Prefecture, I looked up if there was anything else nearby, and found out that it was famous for its hydrangeas, so I looked into it and went there. Hydrangeas bloom along the road called Hydrangea Highway, and there were many hydrangeas blooming in 21st Century Forest Park. I recommend visiting Monet's Pond as well. 21st Century Forest Park 2340 Itadori, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture 501-2901 #Flower Spot #Japan Genki Project 2021

On the way back from Monet's Pond, we went to a famous local Japanese sweets shop. Most of the sweets are made in the back of the shop, so they are very fresh. We bought the shop's specialty, cream daifuku. They are frozen, so we let them thaw a little in the refrigerator before eating. Our friends were also happy with the cool souvenirs. #sweets #souvenirs #tourismsupport #gourmettrip

#springitinerary If you’re cruising through Japan in spring, Shirakawa-go is a total must-visit. This place looks like it jumped straight out of a storybook, with those iconic gassho-style thatched roofs surrounded by fresh green hills and cherry blossoms popping everywhere. Spring totally transforms the village into a dreamy wonderland, way less crowded than winter, too, so you can actually chill and enjoy the vibe. Walking around the narrow streets, you get this cozy, old Japanese countryside feel that’s super relaxing. Don’t forget to snap pics from the lookout spots, the views are seriously next level with all that spring greenery. There are some cute local shops and little cafes to explore too, perfect for grabbing a snack after wandering. Shirakawa-go in spring is basically the perfect mix of chill, charm, and stunning nature. Trust me, it’s worth the trip!

#springitinerary For a chill spring day trip near Takayama, Furukawa and Hida no Sato are seriously underrated spots you’ve gotta check out. Furukawa is a small town with peaceful streets and old wooden houses that give off major nostalgic vibes. In spring, the cherry blossoms and fresh greenery make everything feel extra cozy and calm, perfect for a slow, easy stroll without crowds. Then there’s Hida no Sato, an open-air folk village just a short ride away, where you can wander through traditional farmhouses and get a real feel for how people lived back in the day. The fresh spring air, blooming flowers, and cool old buildings make it easy to just kick back and enjoy the vibe. If you want a combo of history, nature, and springtime chill, Furukawa and Hida no Sato are absolute winners for your trip!

#springitinerary Magome in spring is pure postcard material. This little mountain town is all cobblestone paths, wooden houses, and flower boxes bursting with color. It’s got that peaceful, slow-living energy where you just wanna stroll with a snack and take it all in. The views? Unreal. Mountains in the background, cherry blossoms in bloom, and old Edo-era charm everywhere you look. The main street is on a hill, so yeah, you’ll get a bit of a leg workout, but it’s totally worth it. You’ve got cozy cafés, little shops selling handmade stuff, and the smell of fresh baked treats drifting through the air. It’s super walkable, no cars in the main stretch, and not overly crowded. If you’re looking for a relaxed day of wandering, snacking, and vibing with nature and history, Magome in spring is a total win. It’s like a peaceful time capsule with killer scenery.

#cherryblossom25

Ryokan style accommodation #Japan Beautiful view with a super hot spring pool by the water 🏔️🌲🇯🇵 "深山荘 (Shinzanso)" This is a traditional Japanese-style accommodation located in the Chubu Sangaku National Park, Takayama City. Let me tell you that this is another accommodation with a great view and atmosphere, surrounded by the Kamada River and Kasadake Mountains. And another highlight of this place is the outdoor hot spring pool by the water. After a tiring journey, come and soak in the hot spring while enjoying the mountain view and listening to the sound of flowing water. Let me tell you that it's very good for the heart. 😍😍 #Shinzanso #takayama #accommodation review #Japanese accommodation #travel in Japan #japan #engineering travel #travel plan giveaway #hotel review #natural attractions #beautiful accommodation review

“Shinhotaka Ropeway” Another viewpoint of the most beautiful Japan Alps!!! 🏔️🌲🇯🇵 This is a tourist attraction in Takayama City that has the only 2-story ropeway in Japan. You can also see a 360-degree view of the Hida Mountains (Northern Alps). Let me tell you that it is very beautiful. Whether you come in winter or spring, it is equally beautiful. This is another tourist attraction that you should not miss.😍😍 📷 : 13/05/2025 #ShinhotakaRopeway #takayama #traveljapan #engineeringtravel #travelplan

Located at the foot of Gifu Castle🏯, an important base for Oda Nobunaga to unify the world, "Gifu Castle Market" combines history and modernity. It is a new landmark where you can enjoy Gifu's history, natural scenery, and food and shopping. There are a variety of unique shops here where you can fully experience the charm of Gifu culture. You can enjoy a cup of coffee while gazing at the magnificent Gifu Castle. You can also enjoy meat sushi 🍣 and other delicacies made with Hida beef. You can also not miss the soft serve ice cream 🍦 topped with sweet honey! Of course, there are also many local souvenirs that you can take home! 【Gifu Castle City】 🕐Business hours: Varies depending on the store 🚃Transportation: Take a bus from JR Gifu Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station and get off at the "Gifu Park・Gifu Castle" bus stop

Shirakawa-gō honestly feels like a fairytale dropped into the Japanese Alps. The air is clean, the skies are wide, and the iconic gassho-zukuri houses peek out from between sakura trees and fresh spring greens like something out of a Studio Ghibli film. I wandered through the quiet village paths, admired the thatched roofs up close, climbed to the viewpoint for that classic bird’s-eye shot — and then, boom, churro time. They even had house-shaped ones, which might just be the most on-theme snack I’ve ever had. The snow-capped mountains in the back reminded me how remote and untouched this place still feels. Just you, the mountains, wooden homes, a couple of sleepy cats, and the occasional churro in hand. Loved it. #Shirakawago #GasshoZukuri #JapanCountryside #FairytaleJapan #HistoricVillages #ChurroWithAView #UNESCOWorldHeritage #SpringInJapan #MountainMagic #TravelJapan #shirakawago #travel #unesco #unescoworldheritage

It was wonderful to experience the cultural beauty and unique dishes in the ancient village of Shirakawa, Japan. The village is surrounded by mountains and rivers covered in snow all year round. Coming to the village on a winter day, I experienced and enjoyed the unique beauty here. A beautiful memory. I really hope to have the opportunity to come back. #wintertravel #japan

#springitinerary Shirakawa-go is straight out of a fairytale. Tucked away in the mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which have steep thatched roofs that look like something you’d see in a picture book. The village is small but packed with charm, especially when the snow falls and everything gets covered in a soft white blanket. Walking around, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The houses are over 200 years old, and there’s something magical about exploring them while surrounded by snowy peaks and the sound of a quiet river. In winter, it’s especially stunning, but even in warmer months, the lush greenery and rustic beauty are incredible. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape to soak in nature, culture, and history, Shirakawa-go is a must. It’s a serene little gem that’s perfect for getting away from it all.

#springitinerary Takayama Old Town feels like you’ve stepped into a different era. Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, this little town is full of traditional wooden houses, quaint shops, and narrow streets that look like they’ve been frozen in time. The vibe is super chill, no rush, no crowds, just a peaceful stroll through history. Walking around here, you can check out old merchant houses, try local snacks, and pop into cozy cafés. The architecture is beautiful, and it’s all preserved in a way that lets you imagine what life was like centuries ago. It’s not just about the buildings, though. The town has a really cool, laid-back atmosphere, with people taking their time to enjoy the simple things, whether that’s shopping for handmade goods or just relaxing by the river. If you’re into old-school Japan with a quiet vibe, Takayama Old Town is the place to be.

#springitinerary Folk Village in Takayama is like walking straight into a time machine, just way more relaxed. It’s this open-air museum with a bunch of super old, traditional Japanese houses, all with thatched roofs and creaky wooden floors. You can actually go inside most of them, poke around, and get a feel for how people lived way back in the day. There are little fireplaces still going in some of the houses, handmade tools lying around, and even a few hands-on craft spots if you're feeling artsy. It’s surrounded by nature, so in autumn or with a bit of snow? Total postcard moment. It’s quiet, super laid-back, and doesn’t feel touristy at all. You just wander at your own pace, take photos, chill by the pond, and maybe grab a local snack on the way out. Honestly, it’s a great way to slow down and soak in some cozy, old-school Japan.

Shirakawago, a traditional village located in Gifu, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To visit this charming place, you can take the Nohi bus. Bus tickets can be purchased at the Takayama bus counter, but it is highly recommended to book in advance through the Nohi bus website as tickets at the counter sell out quickly. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, during which your eyes will be treated to breathtaking views along the way.