Before the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate(江戸幕府), a six-hour battle took place on October 21, 1600. This was called the ‘Battle of Sekigahara'(関ヶ原の戦い), a savage conflict which changed the course of Japanese history forever. A simulation of this war can be seen in the quiet farming village of Sekigahara. The momentous event is recreated in…

Gifu Prefecture is a famous destination because of the village of Shirakawa-go. But did you know that Gifu has a lot more to offer other than this World Heritage Site? Gifu City, the prefecture capital, can show you more of Japan’s historical and interesting places. The good thing about these spots is that it will…

While both picturesque and historic, Gifu, located next to Aichi Prefecture, tends to be engulfed by its more famous cousin. Nagoya City in Aichi is usually the tourist destination of choice for many. Yet Gifu City, a small attractive town only 30 minutes from Nagoya by train, holds some wonderful sights and is ideal for…

Gero Onsen is one of the best hot springs (onsen) in Japan which has been able to retain its special quality since the Edo Period and continues to attract many visitors every year. Also, to really make the most of the hot spring, stay at the nearby ryokan, Kaisekiyado Suihoen, which doesn’t only provide great…

The Seven Lucky Gods of Japan represent good fortune when it comes to Japanese folklore and mythology. Most of them came from India and China and are often seen in many carvings from ancient trees and other representations all throughout the country. You can also see them carved in rows of rice storehouses in Hida…

If you know anything about Japanese history then you have probably heard the name of Oda Nobunaga, one of the country’s most famous warlords. Gifu castle, located atop Mount Kinka was at the centre of his campaign for power in Japan. If you find yourself staying in Gifu city it’s definitely worth your time to…

Yoro is a town located in Gifu Prefecture of Japan. It is a mountainous area filled with local legends and exciting places to visit. One of these places is the Yoro Park which is often described as an “experience park” for showing visitors unexpected things in different places.   It primarily features crazy golf tennis…

Japan is famous for it’s many animal attractions, such as it’s many dog and cat cafes around the country, however one animal spot that’s not so well known is the Squirrel village in Gifu!   /guide.travel.co.jp/ It’s pretty easy to find as it’s just outside the entrance to the upper station of Mount Kinka’s ropeway,…

The Japanese sword or “katana” is one of the most iconic images of Japan around the world and the masters who make these weapons in the traditional way are becoming increasingly rare. In Gifu, however, you can spend the day with a government certified master swordsmith and even try your hand at the forge as…

The prefecture of Gifu in central Honshu offers a lot of enchanting places that one must include in his or her itinerary when planning to visit Japan. One of the must-visit places in Gifu is the village of Shirakawa. Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go is indeed beautiful in all seasons. Although,…