In Japan as elsewhere, I’ve found that when a very popular destination is in a certain part of a country, it tends to obscure everywhere around it from all but the most curious eyes. Think of it as the “primate city” effect, but for travel and tourism.
As I write this, I’m thinking of the specific example of the historical city of Takayama vis-à-vis Gifu prefecture, where it’s located. Takayama has become one of Japan’s top second-tier tourist destinations, but the vast majority of tourists pay the rest of Gifu-ken absolutely no mind.
With my new Gifu travel guide, I am to inform you about the highlights of this underrated reach of central Japan—and, hopefully, to inspire you to visit. Shall we get started?
Where to Base Yourself in Gifu
As you might imagine, the greatest number of Gifu hotels is concentrated in Takayama. Takayama Station is likewise the one with the most direct and relatively fast service from elsewhere in Japan, with the Hida Limited Express (which comes and goes several times per day) offering quick connections to Nagoya on the southern end and Toyama on the northern end. Both of these cities, in turn, connect to Tokyo via Shinkansen in less than two hours.
You can of course stay elsewhere—I’m thinking Gujo Hachiman and Gero in particular—though these options have downsides. Gero, like Takayama, is served by the Hida Limited Express, so it’s relatively accessible; however, there are few options, which tend to be both more expensive and lower quality. Gujo Hachiman has both few hotels and a location that requires a ride on an infrequent bus, plus a relatively long walk from the station to town.
What to Do in Gifu Prefecture
Devote at least one day each to Takayama and Shirakawa-go
It should go without saying that you should visit Takayama during your Gifu trip, whether you come in spring or autumn for their respective matsuri or on any other day, and eat Hida beef sushi along Sanmachi Suji. What’s less well-known is that you really need a second, separate day to take a day trip from Takayama to the Shirakawa-go Gassho farmhouse village.
TIP: Although technically in Toyama prefecture, less-crowded Gokayama (which is comprised of Ainokura and Suganuma villages) is a worthy add-on to your Takayama trip.
Onsen hop in Gero
Not all things to do in Gifu are in the heart of Takayama. Heading down the rail line a way’s takes you to Gero, an onsen town that’s a treasure hidden in plain sight. Whether you hop between day spas, hike up to Onsen-ji temple for a panorama or soak your feet in the foot bath along the Hida River, Gero is sure to impress you.
Gain some perspective in Gujo-hachiman
Gujo Hachiman is underrated for a lot of reasons, including its eponymous castle. While not one of Japan’s “original” castles, it is the oldest of its replicas, which should count for something. Moreover, Gujo Hachiman is one of the easiest-to-visit towns in Japan where you can find koi carp swimming through the drains.
Take a stab at the Nakasendo
Walking the Nakasendo Way isn’t (only) something you’d do on a Gifu itinerary, given that the trail extends up into Nagano. Still, you can ride a bus from Nakatsugawa to the charming town of Magome-juku, and maybe even take an afternoon hike as far as Tsumago, without committing several days to the full pilgrimage.
Don’t sleep on Gifu City
The bad news? Contrary to what the main image of this article suggests, the so-called Monet’s Pond near Gifu City is disappointing. It was only beautiful, in my case, because I went first thing in the morning—I was the only one there—and my trip took place in fall. The good news? Gifu is an underrated city, if only because of the fabulous view from Gifu Castle.
How Long Do You Need in Gifu?
How long you need in Gifu depends on two factors: The number of destinations you plan to visit; and how you’ll get around. If you’re fine renting a car, for instance, then you could base yourself in Takayama for 3-5 days and day trip out to other destinations, from basic ones like Shirakawa-go and Gujo Hachiman to secondary and tertiary spots like Gero Onsen and Monet’s Pond, respectively.
If, by contrast, you plan to get around primarily using public transportation? In this case, how many days in Gifu you need can increase dramatically; the utility of taking day trips decreases, and the logistics favor a strategy that sees you split your time between two or even three bases. Travelers who can’t or won’t drive but who want to explore Gifu-ken comprehensively should plan on spending up to a week in Gifu.
Other FAQ About Visiting Gifu
Is Gifu City worth visiting?
Gifu City is definitely worth visiting if you have time, though I wouldn’t sacrifice days or even hours in more exciting reaches of Gifu prefecture for it. Well, unless there’s something particular you want to see. For example, if you’ll be here in mid-March, then the city’s plum garden may be worth a dedicated trip.
Is Gifu Castle worth visiting?
In my opinion, Gifu Castle isn’t very exciting on its own, primarily because it isn’t one of Japan’s “original” castles. With this being said, the view from the top is very impressive, so if you have the time and inclination to ride a cable car up and back down, then I’d say you should go for it!
How to travel in Gifu?
If you plan to base yourself in Takayama, which has access both to the Hida Limited Express train and a vast network of buses operated by Alpico and Nouhi, then you can probably get by exclusively using public transportation. Otherwise, I highly recommend renting a car in order to make your time in Gifu prefecture less stressful.
The Bottom Line
I hope my Gifu travel guide has inspired you to explore underrated Gifu-ken outside of popular Takayama. Though I of course love this city, the reality is that you have to contend with large crowds and high prices when you go. Rather than crossing it off your list entirely, I suggest you use it as a jumping-off point for going slightly more off the beaten path, whether that’s a day trip to Gujo Hachiman or Gero, or a couple of nights in Gifu Ctiy itself. Need personalized help planning a unique trip to central Japan and the Japanese Alps? Commission a custom Japan itinerary, and let me chart a one-of-a-kind course through the country just for you.
