About Gifu
Gifu is a captivating destination home to Gifu Castle, once the stronghold of Oda Nobunaga—the legendary samurai warlord who first sought to unify Japan. Alongside UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go and Gero’s hot springs, it offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation.
With the towering Japanese Alps and the crystal-clear Nagara River, Gifu preserves a rich natural beauty. Here, you can escape the crowds and encounter the "True Japan" you’ve been searching for.
Explore Gifu’s hidden gems on this page, including the fairytale village of Shirakawago, the historic charm of Hida Takayama, and the legendary healing waters of Gero Onsen.
Shiragawago
A mountain village where ancient Japan lives on
Deep in the mountains of northwestern Gifu Prefecture lies a place that feels like stepping back in time. This is Shirakawago, a renowned World Heritage site. It’s a place where time slows down, letting you forget the busy city life.
The village is home to 114 "Gassho-zukuri" houses, famous for their steep thatched roofs, where local life continues today. This unique landscape was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995.
Step inside and feel as though you've entered a storybook world. The village is especially magical in winter, when the illuminated, snow-veiled houses create an ethereal landscape. This traditional winter view attracts visitors from around the world.
Hida Takayama
Experience the breath of history and encounter the "Authentic Japan"
Nestled deep within the rugged mountains of northern Gifu, Hida Takayama is one of Japan’s premier historic cities, beautifully preserving the soul of an ancient castle town.
The secret to its global allure lies in the "Old Town," a district so meticulously preserved that time seems to have stood still. Walking through streets lined with traditional dark-wood latticed houses, you can almost feel the vibrant energy of the merchants who once thrived here.
In recent years, more travelers have been drawn to this region, seeking an escape from the frantic pace of Tokyo and Osaka. They come in search of the serene, rural heart of Japan. With its blend of historic elegance and rustic mountain charm, Hida Takayama has become an essential destination for anyone wishing to experience the true essence of the Japanese spirit.
Gero Onsen
A legendary hot spring with a 1,000-year history
Ranked as one of Japan’s three premier hot spring towns, Gero Onsen is a quintessential destination that has captivated poets and travelers for centuries.
The highlight of Gero is its extraordinary water quality. Renowned as the "Water of Beauties," its silky, alkaline waters cling gently to the skin. Once you soak in these famous hot springs, you will instantly feel the "special quality" that sets Gero apart.
Strategically located between Nagoya and Takayama—just one hour south of the latter—Gero is an ideal stopover for refreshment. It also serves as an excellent alternative for those seeking a peaceful stay during the crowded Takayama Festival. Why not add a touch of luxury to your journey through the Hida region by indulging in these world-class healing waters?
Bus Routes
to Gifu
