Gifu

Welcome to Gifu! This prefecture is steeped in centuries of history and tradition. Having been served as the historic crossroads of Japan, Gifu Prefecture was a long-term residence of Oda Nobunaga and Saitō Dōsan, two influential figures of Japanese history in the Sengoku period, spawning the popular phrase of “control Gifu and you control Japan” in the late Medieval era. Life moves on since then, but traditional streetscapes have survived in these towns. Gifu is an ideal destination for curious travelers who want to dig a little deeper into Japan’s rich culture.

Destinations

Best known for the thatched-roofed ancient houses like Shirakawa-go and Okayama, Gifu Prefecture is also notorious for its centuries-old crafts such as Washi paper, indigo dyeing, Hida woodcraft, ceramics, and most importantly, Japan’s greatest swordsmith–the Seki blades. In Gifu, the knowledge and aspirations of the previous generations are still alive and part of day-to-day life. Experience the centuries-old lifestyle only in Gifu.

Group Meals

We arrange a wide array of meal choices for you, from Japanese traditional set meals, all you can eat, to local and seasonal specialties. Join us in exploring the taste of Japan!

For more group meals click here

Local Specialty

Different regions have their own traditional recipes and agricultural farming system. Many of the regional dishes can only be tasted in the original area they came from.

Hida Beef

One of the finest quality varieties of beef known for its beautiful marbling and a flavor that melts in your mouth. Hida beef cattle are raised in the clean air and pristine water of Gifu prefecture. As a result, it differs Hida beef from other wagyu due to its beautifully tender meat and marbling that is woven throughout all cuts.

Ayu Sweetfish

Ayu, or sweetfish, is a freshwater fish that is caught from late spring to early autumn. It can only live in the cleanest of rivers. These wild sweetfish have been fished in Gifu Prefecture, more specifically the famed Nagara River, for over 1,300 years. The Nagara River is one of the cleanest rivers in Japan. The cleaner the water, the better tasting the Ayu, therefore Ayu has been the pride of the locals, and an ultimate Gifu food.

For more local specialty click here

Experience

Whether this is your first time visiting, or returning, make sure to participate in these unique activities, that cannot be done elsewhere!

Food Replica Workshop

Food replicas are the wax or plastic representations of dishes that many restaurants in Japan put on display to entice customers. These replicas are said to have originated in Gujo City, and even today 60 % of all replicas are made here. For a small fee, you can make your own drool-worthy food replica! (Image via Visit Gifu)

Washi Papermaking

In the city of Mino, the traditional craft of washi papermaking has been passed down for generations. Washi paper is a cultural asset; known for its thinness and durability that said to last for 1000 years or more. Today it is used for different products such as envelopes, postcards, business cards, sliding doors, umbrellas, paper lanterns, and many more! (Image via ANA Cool Japan)

For more tourist activities click here