Gifu

Gifu

Vibrant koi fish swims serenely in lush underwater paradise. Photogenic
Chubu

Monet’s Pond: Where Waterlilies and Koi Live Together

Crystal-clear water, waterlilies and koi carp: dive into Monet's Pond, a hidden gem in the heart of Gifu Prefecture.

Waterlily Bloom
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Cherry blossom bridge, Miyagawa River, Japan Easy walk
Gifu

Among the Groves of Takayama

I had the chance to live in Takayama for three weeks. So, of course, I can share my experience with you.

Some crowds
Half day for the old town (Sanmachi) and Miyagawa River stroll; 1–2 days if using Takayama as a base for nearby trips (e.g., Shirakawa-go, Okuhida, Gero, or the Nakasendo towns like Tsumago/Magome).
Weathered Urban Alleys Industrial Remnants Easy walk
Autumn

In the Maze of Kinkotsu Meguri

Stroll through this district of sprawling alleyways ... at your own risk!

Quiet
2–3 hours (up to half day if you want to wander slowly and take photos)
Snowy Magome-juku: Preserved Japanese Post Town Charm Easy walk
Autumn

Magome for All Tastes

Discover the picturesque little village of Magome at all seasons. Whatever the weather, this place isn’t lacking in charm!

Some crowds
Half day (2–4 hours) for the village; full day if pairing with a Nakasendo walk (e.g., toward nearby post towns).
Charming cobblestone street in historic Hida-Furukawa town, Japan. Lively
Gifu

In the Alleyways of Hida-Furukawa

This traditional township in the heart of Gifu prefecture comes alive every spring for the hadaka matsuri festival ...

April Festival
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Discover Super-Kamiokande: Neutrino Observatory Marvel in Kamioka. Off the map
Gifu

Super-Kamiokande: The Neutrino Detector

Located in the cool depths of a mine, in the heartlands of central Japan, the design of this neutrino detector is mind-boggling.

Difficulty
Risk
Snowy Shirakawa-go: UNESCO village with enchanting gassho-zukuri houses in Japan. Luminous
Chubu

A Winter in Shirakawa-gō

The Shirakawa-go town is only illuminated on select evenings in winter so don’t go there without looking into it beforehand!

Winter Illumination
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