Top Gifu Art & Culture

Discover the best of Gifu City on this exciting half-day tour packed with history, breathtaking views, and traditional charm. Start your journey at JR Gifu Station before heading to Shobo-ji Temple to marvel at the awe-inspiring Gifu Great Buddha. Next, ride the Kinkazan Ropeway and ascend to the iconic Gifu Castle, where you’ll step into the world of samurai and learn about the castle’s fascinating history, including its ties to Oda Nobunaga. Don’t forget to capture stunning views from the mountaintop! End your adventure in Kawaramachi, a picturesque historic district brimming with traditional shops, handmade umbrellas, and unique souvenirs. This tour is perfect for those looking to dive into Gifu’s rich culture and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Visit skilled artisans whom you normally wouldn't have the chance to meet and learn about traditional crafts. Afterward, enjoy a hands-on experience painting your favorite design on a Gifu Lantern or a mini Gifu Japanese Umbrella made by the artisans. The finished piece will be an unforgettable souvenir from your trip.

Gifu Castle, a historic mountain fortress, showcases the ingenious defensive design characteristic of Yamajiro (mountain castles). Unlike many mountain castles, it offers easy access via a scenic ropeway. At the top, visitors can explore the reconstructed Tenshukaku (main keep), which houses exhibits highlighting the achievements of Oda Nobunaga, one of Japan's greatest unifiers. The displays also provide a glimpse into the castle's former grandeur during Nobunaga’s reign. Perched on Mount Kinka, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, making it not only a site of historical significance but also a rewarding destination for nature and history enthusiasts alike.

Discover the profound connection between Seki’s centuries-old swordsmithing tradition. In this unique tour, experience the seamless blend of Seki’s swordsmithing heritage and the timeless art of Iaido. Learn the History and Craft of Samurai Swords Begin your journey at a traditional museum where you will learn about the rich history of Samurai swords and the intricate process of them from a master blacksmith. Train with a Qualified Master Receive direct instruction from a qualified Samurai master. This training emphasizes not just physical skills but also the discipline, focus, and ethical principles that define the Samurai way of life. It is an immersive journey into the heart of Samurai culture, offering a profound appreciation for the values and skills of these legendary warriors. You will gain a deeper understanding of the sword as more than just a weapon—it is a symbol of Japan’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, infused with the soul of the swordsmith.

Japanese Cutlery Factory Tour Embark on a fascinating journey of the most advanced kitchen knife factory tour. You can see the highest technology, offering you an in-depth look into the history and technology of Japanese cutlery, rooted in the rich tradition of Samurai sword craftsmanship. Craft Your Custom Pocket Knife Under the expert guidance, you will create a pocket knife tailored to your preferences. This hands-on experience allows you to delve into the meticulous process of knife-making. Discover Samurai Sword History Learn about the legendary history of Samurai swords and how their craftsmanship has influenced modern Japanese cutlery. Explore Advanced Japanese Cutlery Technology Witness the highest level of Japanese cutlery technology, a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Join us for a tour that promises not only the creation of a unique pocket knife but also a deep appreciation for the enduring legacy and advanced technology of Japanese cutlery craftsmanship.

The meeting point is JR Gifu Station, which is about 30 minutes by train from Nagoya Station. The guide will recite the prayers at shrines and the sutras at temples, so even if you don't speak Japanese or know the texts, you won't have to worry. (Your guide will also provide candles and incense for the temples.) The golden Shrine-Torii (that is a gate) at (Gifu) Kogane Shrine makes for a great place to take Instagram-worthy photos. The Gifu Great Buddha is considered one of Japan's three greatest Buddha statues. During the lunch break, you can browse a variety of Japanese foods at Rakuichi Rakuza (market). And you can buy the food or souvenirs if you like.

Visit the historic town of Seki, renowned for its blade craftsmanship, and explore the 700-year history of swordsmithing at the Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum . Then, tour the sword production factory at Noshudo, admir e valuable Japanese swords, and enjoy an iaido (sword-drawing) experience.

Visit Seki City, one of the world’s top three blade-producing regions, and discover 700 years of swordsmithing history at the Seki Blacksmithing Tradition Museum. Afterwards, visit the Fukuda Cutlery Industry factory and experience the latest technology by touring the cemented carbide knife brand "KISEKI:" and m aking a pocket knife. After the experience, enjoy seasonal cuisine at a traditional Japanese restaurant involved in the development of "KISEKI:" products.