About
Gifu is a historic city in the Chubu Region of central Japan, set in a part of the country that is often passed through on the way between larger destinations. It is a place to visit for its cultural heritage and its long-standing traditions rather than for any single landmark.
What draws visitors
Gifu is best known for cormorant fishing on the Nagara River, a traditional method in which trained birds are used to catch fish. The practice is closely tied to the city's identity, and watching it is one of the most distinctive things to do here. The city is also associated with traditional crafts, which give visitors a chance to see the kind of workmanship that has been passed down locally over generations.
Planning a visit
- Allow time for the riverside, where the cormorant fishing takes place.
- Look for traditional crafts, which are a central part of the local culture.
- Consider Gifu as a stop in its wider region of central Japan, where it fits naturally into a journey of historic towns and countryside.
Gifu suits travellers interested in older Japanese customs and in seeing a city that keeps its traditions visible in daily life. Those looking for large modern attractions may find it quieter, but those drawn to heritage and handcraft will find it rewarding.
