Gifu Prefecture sits in the mountainous heart of central Japan, a region of valleys, rivers and forested ridges that feels quite different from the big cities nearby. It is a destination for visitors who want to see the older, rural side of the country and to spend time in places shaped by their landscape.
What to see
- Takayama is a historic town known for its preserved old streets, traditional wooden houses and morning markets. It is a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding mountains.
- Shirakawa-go is a village of steep-roofed farmhouses set among the hills. Its distinctive architecture makes it one of the most recognisable sights in the prefecture.
- Cormorant fishing is a traditional practice kept alive on the rivers here. Watching it is a chance to see a craft that has been passed down for generations.
Planning a visit
Because the prefecture is mountainous, travel between places often takes longer than the map suggests, so it helps to choose a few areas rather than many. Takayama and Shirakawa-go work well together for a short trip, and the surrounding countryside rewards a slower pace, with local crafts, food and village life close at hand.
Gifu suits travellers who enjoy history, traditional architecture and the outdoors, and who are happy to trade big-city conveniences for a quieter, more rooted experience of Japan.
