Gifu
岐阜
Gifu
Gifu Prefecture, located practically in the center of Japan, is the seventh largest prefecture in the country with an area of approximately 16,621K㎡. It is also one of the few inland prefectures surrounded by seven prefectures of Aichi, Mie, Shiga, Nagano, Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui.
Abounded in nature and tradition, there is so much to see and do in Gifu, starting with the World Heritage sites, famous onsens [hot springs], outdoor activities, nostalgic and beautiful townscapes and fully manipulated traditional handicrafts skills of artisans.
The Hida region in the north of Gifu has a series of mountains towering 3,000 meters above the sea level. Meanwhile, the Mino region in the south has three rivers (Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi) flowing through the Nobi Plain, where the middle reaches of the Nagara River have a beautiful clear stream rated as one of the "100 Best Waters in Japan".
The climate of Gifu varies greatly from area to area, due to the difference in elevation, so, the locals fully leverage the complex topography and climate to grow a variety of agricultural products. Due to the warm climate, rice cultivation thrives in the plains of the southwest of the prefecture, 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, farming industry (mainly of cattle) takes place in the mountainous areas. Aquaculture of freshwater fishery industry, on the other hand, mainly of Ayu [sweet fish], rainbow trout and Amago trout in the river areas.
Also, manufacturing has been the backbone of economy of Gifu for a long time. The distinctive local industries are fashion, ceramics, furniture, woodworking, cutlery, paper, and food.
Getting there and around
Gifu Prefecture, located practically in the middle of Japan, generally accessible by train or highway bus from Central Japan International Airport (Centrair) via Nagoya Station.
Places of Interest
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 Village (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