This series is our collection of selected locations (machi) from all around Japan – places with various different cultures and local specialities, and those with novel customs of some sort. In the last volume we went to Aomori, this time our focus is on Gifu!
Gifu – a prefecture that foreign tourists are paying special attention to.
It is said Nobunaga Oda – a famous historical figure from the Sengoku (warring states) period – named Gifu Prefecture. Gifu has a population of around 2 million people. There are a series of craggy mountains, with the Hida mountain range in the north, and the Nobi Plain spreading to the south. Swords, knives and pottery have been made here since ancient times, and are still a popular option as souvenirs. As an inland prefecture, the place is brimming with well-known natural spots, with crystal clear rivers and deep green forests, providing for gourmet offerings such as Hida beef and ayu (sweetfish). Recently, various places within Gifu have been the inspiration for scenes in anime, and as such many fans regard these areas almost as their holy grounds.
Shirakawa-go - where one can catch a glimpse of the old ways of living in Japan
Shirakawa-go, located on the border of Gifu and Toyama, is home to the unique architectural style called Gassho (traditional style of Japanese architecture with a steep thatched roof), which is unparalleled in other regions. The town was registered as one of UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage sites in 1995. Guests from both within and outside Japan visit to not only see these precious buildings (of which new ones cannot be built), but also to experience the clean air, and beautiful scenery of the mountains.
Being surrounded by the mountains in all directions, and having many water filled rice paddies and water ways around, it’s like the old ways of living in Japan are brought back to life. A walk up to the viewing platform allows one to observe the town – with the differing scenery of spring, summer, autumn and winter all waiting.
Simple access helps support this town as a popular location – with buses leaving from Nagoya, Kanazawa, Toyama, Takayama and Takaoka train stations (among other locations).
Gassho built houses; jam-packed with tradition and knowledge
Gassho built houses are called such as gassho means to put ones hands together, and the houses resemble this shape. Interestingly, all of the thickly thatched roofed houses are built according to the direction of the wind and according to the sun’s light, so they are mostly facing the same direction. Some of the houses offer a viewing of the interior. You can learn some traditional Japanese methods of building – in which hearths and metal nails are hardly used.
Events are held according to the season – such as the rice planting festival, Doburoku festival, village light up and so on. I would like to check these out as well as doing other activities in the area, like skiing and camping. However, tours generally go from 8am to 5pm, so as not to disturb the local residents. Throwing rubbish on the ground and smoking whilst walking around is also prohibited.
World heritage site: Hida Shirakawa-go HP：https://www.shirakawa-go.gr.jp
Nagara River cormorant fishing; A fishing method nationally designated as “important intangible folk cultural property”
Cormorant fishing is conducted in the Nagara River. Cormorants are used to catch ayu, which are attracted by a torch (a fire in an iron basket). This ancient method of fishing has been passed down for 1300 years.
Make no mistake, the appearance and intensity of the uniquely costumed fishermen and 10 plus birds is an impressive sight. Unfortunately the catch is only passed on to the imperial family who in turn offers it to the likes of Meiji and Ise Shrines – it seems it is not available to the general public. The hunting season lasts from May 11th to October 15th. As it’s conducted after dark, it’s a perfect activity for the summer period. By all means, viewing this activity from a boat is an experience I’d like you to try.
Gifu Prefecture Cormorant Fishing HP：https://www.ukai-gifucity.jp/ukai/
Representative of Japan: Gero Onsen
Gero is one of the three famous onsen areas of the Edo period – the other two being Kusatsu and Arima. The water has a soft touch to the skin, and the hot spring water quality gives off a splendid aroma. These qualities have made them to become known as “hot water for beauty”. There are nearly 60 different hotels and ryokans in the town servicing the symbolic local outside baths (which are free of charge), as well as the foot spas and tachiyori-yu found here and there about the place. It’s well enjoyable just to check out some baths other than the one at your accommodation. Having one cup of Japanese sake and then a leisurely stroll around, exploring the outside baths is idyllic.
Fully enjoying conversation while recovering from the day’s tiredness in a foot spa
The area is spotted with free baths to soak in, such as Gero’s first foot spa, Sagi-no-ashiyu, and Gassho-no-ashiyu – which is made using a heap of Japanese cypress wood. Refresh from the tiredness of wandering around, without getting dizzy like when soaking in a large bath for a prolonged period. Then, off to the next destination. This is how to spend your time around Gero’s Onsens. As a place where people gather freely, exchanging information with the
Gero City website HP：https://www.city.gero.lg.jp
Although, for people who reside within Japan Gifu may be considered a fairly minor prefecture, as a tourist location it is highly regarded. The websites of local cities, towns and villages are already available in many different languages, and are set up to be easily accessible for foreigners. The publishing of manuals on how to host foreign guests, the printing of English guidebooks, and the welcoming organizations of local areas will surely contribute to Gifu becoming more well-known into the future.
Edit & Text：K.Sachio
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