Gifu
岐阜
Gifu
Gifu Prefecture is located almost in the center of Japan, with an area of approximately 16,621 square kilometers, making it the seventh largest prefecture in the country, and one of the few inland prefectures surrounded by seven prefectures (Aichi, Mie, Shiga, Nagano, Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui).
Abound in nature and tradition, Gifu is full of attractions such as World Heritage sites, famous hot springs, nature experiences, nostalgic and beautiful townscapes, and traditional handicrafts in which artisans' skills are harnessed to the fullest.
The Hida region in the north of Gifu boasts a series of mountains towering 3,000 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, the Mino region in the south, has the three Kiso Rivers (Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi) flowing through the Nobi Plain, and the middle reaches of the Nagara River feature a beautiful clear stream ranked as one of the "100 Best Waters in Japan."
Gifu's climate varies greatly from region to region due to the significant difference in elevation, and inhabitants fully leverage the complex topography and climate to grow a wide variety of agricultural products. Rice cultivation thrives in the plains of the prefecture's southwest due to the warm climate, while vegetables are grown in the mountains and highlands of the Chuno, Tono, and Hida regions, taking advantage of the cool summer climate. In addition, beef cattle are raised in the mountainous areas, and the freshwater fishery industry centering on Ayu (sweetfish) fishing and aquaculture of rainbow trout and Amago trout are conducted.
On the other hand, Gifu has long been active in manufacturing, which has been the backbone of its economy since long ago. Its distinctive local industries include fashion, ceramics, furniture, woodworking, cutlery, paper, and foodstuffs.
Getting there and around
Gifu Prefecture is located almost in the middle of Japan, and all parts of the prefecture are accessible by train or highway bus from Chubu Centrair International Airport via Nagoya.
Top Destinations
Gifu
Although Gifu City is the capital of Gifu Prefecture, it is a city rich in nature, with the pristine Nagara River flowing through its center and the lush Mt. Kinka towering above it. Gifu City is also known for its deep tradition, including the Nagara .....
Takayama
Takayama City is located in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (Hida region) and has the largest area of any municipality in Japan. With the Hida Mountains to the east and the Ryohaku Mountains to the west, the central city is located in ......
Shirakawa-mura
Located in northwestern Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa Village is known for its beautiful gassho style houses and natural environment, and was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 along with Gokayama (Toyama Prefecture) as ......
Nagoya Travel Guide