All Gifu Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Discover the intriguing legacy of Seki, a city renowned for its exceptional sword-making craft that has evolved over centuries. This immersive tour delves into the history of Japanese swords, exploring the traditional forging techniques that have shaped both samurai swords and contemporary cutting tools. Participants will gain insight into the artistry behind Seki blades, from their historical significance to their modern adaptations in kitchen knives and other tools. Conclude the tour by browsing a diverse selection of locally crafted items, with expert guidance available for those looking to find the perfect blade for their needs. - Explore the rich history of Japanese sword-making in Seki - Learn about traditional forging techniques and their modern applications - View and compare a variety of Seki-made blades and tools - Receive expert advice on selecting the right knife or tool for your needs

Discover the authentic nightlife of Gero Onsen on this guided bar hopping tour. Experience the charm of local bars and eateries where Gero residents unwind over drinks and conversations. Tailored to your preferences, the tour adapts to your tastes, whether you prefer beer, sake, or light snacks. Visit two unique bars, each offering a distinct atmosphere, with a food and drink allowance of 1,500 yen per venue, so you can enjoy the local cuisine without worry. Gain cultural insights from your guide and connect with the warm hospitality of this quaint hot spring town. - Guided tour exploring two local bars in Gero Onsen - Personalized experience based on your drink and food preferences - Enjoy up to 1,500 yen allowance for food and drinks at each venue - Learn about local customs and bar culture from your guide

Step into Japan's rural past with a guided tour of Gero Onsen Gassho Village, a unique open-air museum showcasing authentic thatched-roof houses. Nestled above the famous hot springs, this village highlights the traditional lifestyle of the Hida region, where gassho-zukuri homes flourished in snowy climates. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the village, explaining the significance of its architecture and the customs of the local people. Discover the ingenuity behind the steep roofs designed for heavy snow and learn about farming and daily life in mountain communities. - Explore the historic Gero Onsen Gassho Village, an open-air museum - Guided tour with insights into traditional Hida culture and architecture - View authentic gassho-zukuri houses relocated from Shirakawa-go - Gain knowledge about local customs, tools, and the rural way of life

The main aim is not for sightseeing, but getting benefit from God, Buddha, and Kannon. The shrine and the temples are little-known power spots, but spiritualists say Horakuji Temple is the strongest spiritual power temple in the Kansai region and some people had a mysterious and unbelievable experience. The next persons get benefit or have a wonderful experience may be you. Note (important): If the starting point is Gifu-Station, stating time is 7AM. But, if you want to start at Minami-Tanabe station, it is possible and the stating time is 10:45. Please inform "stating at Gifu Station (7AM)" or "starting at Minami-Tanabe Station (10:45)" to the guide in advance. [Travelers can customize.]

Step into the forest and experience nature from a completely different perspective—high above the ground. This tree-top adventure lets you climb, balance, and move between trees on exciting obstacle courses set in the beautiful Takayama countryside. It’s a perfect activity for those looking to create unforgettable memories in Japan!! The duration of this activity depends on your physical fitness. It typically takes just under an hour for the average person, but participants who take too long may be asked to withdraw partway through. Please review the following precautions carefully before signing up. ・People who are under 110 cm tall or weigh 95 kg or more are not permitted to use this facility. ・People under the age of 8 & 59 more older are not permitted to use the facility. ・Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. ・if you have long hair, please tie it back.

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.

Discover the rich heritage of Hazama Brewery in Nakatsugawa City, where over a century of sake craftsmanship unfolds. Start your visit at the historic Sake Gallery “Shuyukan,” a beautifully preserved wooden structure that has housed the brewery's legacy for around 140 years. Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of the gallery, showcasing tools and memorabilia that tell the story of sake production. The highlight is a guided tasting of three signature sakes, each offering unique aromas and flavors shaped by local ingredients and brewing techniques. This experience is perfect for both sake novices and aficionados alike, providing insight into the artistry behind each sip. - Visit the historic Sake Gallery “Shuyukan” in Nakatsugawa City - Enjoy a guided tasting of three signature sakes from Hazama Brewery - Learn about the brewing process and local culture surrounding sake - Experience the diverse flavor profiles crafted over generations

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.

Ninja Cafe Takayama is a facility where visitors can have an authentic samurai/ninja experience in the conveniently located historical city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. The store displays historical helmets, swords, and tea utensils that are important for learning about old Japan. Why don't you don a ninja costume, experience authentic ninja training, and learn about the natural history of Japan and the role of the ninja? Ninja Cafe Takayama is a facility that both adults and children can enjoy. Please come to Ninja Cafe Takayama when you visit Nagoya, Gifu, or Takayama to create memories of your trip to Japan.

Step into the timeless mountain town of Takayama on this private, fully guided day tour led by a government-licensed guide, with your own private vehicle and driver. Tucked in the Hida region of the Japan Alps, Takayama is famed for its superbly preserved Edo-era streets, sake breweries and lively festivals. Begin at Takayama Jinya, Japan's last surviving Edo-period government house, then wander the dark-timbered merchant lanes of Sanmachi Suji and the bustling Miyagawa morning market. Explore the open-air farmhouses of Hida no Sato, visit the forested Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, and admire the gilded floats at the Festival Floats Exhibition Hall. Stroll the peaceful Higashiyama temple trail and pause at the photogenic red Nakabashi Bridge over the Miyagawa River. With hotel pickup, a flexible customizable route and an expert local guide, you'll uncover the best of Takayama at your own relaxed pace.

Experience the magic of Gujo Hachiman, the heart of Japan’s most enduring summer dance tradition. This private tour takes you through the charming, water-filled streets of this historic castle town, leading to an exclusive, English-guided Gujo Odori lesson. Unlike standard tours, you won't just watch; you will learn the authentic steps and the deep cultural meanings behind the movements from a local expert. This immersive experience is perfect for culture enthusiasts, families, and travelers seeking a deep, rhythmic connection with Japanese folk heritage in an intimate setting. - Join a 400-year-old Bon Dance tradition alongside local people - Private experience for your group — from couples to families up to 6 - Introduction to the history and music of Gujo Odori - Dance practice session - Get dressed in a yukata and geta clogs - Walk through the historic castle town of Gujo-Hachiman at night

Experience our Full Day Private Tour in Takayama Old Township and Shirakawago! Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of Japan as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Takayama and Shirakawago. Travelers to this region can experience the natural beauty and traditional Japanese culture by visiting The Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and the Ogimachi Castle Old Site Observatory. They can also explore the must-see attractions of Takayama town and learn about the local culture and history with the assistance of a well-trained and organized English-speaking driver as a guide. We'll greet you directly at the city center or hotels and ensure you return with ample time to relax and relish your day. Leave the details to us as we escort you on an extraordinary adventure, crafting memories that will stand the test of time!

Embark on a serene adventure to the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Norikura. Starting from Takayama Station, this one-day journey takes you through the pristine beauty of the Alpine Flower Fields and to the summits of Mt. Mao and Mt. Fujimi. From vibrant flora to panoramic mountain views, this tour is perfect for nature lovers and explorers looking to experience the tranquil majesty of the Japanese Alps. Enjoy a day of effortless travel and discovery as you immerse yourself in the wonders of Norikura’s alpine environment. Discover the unique charm of each destination, culminating in an unforgettable exploration of the region’s most picturesque trails and scenic viewpoints.

How about spending a day experiencing the traditional culture and craftsmanship of Takayama? Your Licensed Guide Interpreter will meet you at your accommodation in Takayama and accompany you on this private tour using public transportation and walking. See the magnificent festival floats at the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall and explore streets where Hida Shunkei lacquerware, woodcraft, and woodcarving traditions are still alive. At the Hida Takayama Town Experience Center, make your own Sarubobo, Takayama’s traditional good-luck doll, as a special souvenir of your visit. Stroll through the atmospheric Sanmachi Historic District, admire traditional townhouses, visit a local sake brewery for a tasting, and browse shops offering locally made crafts and specialties. This tour is perfect for those interested in Japanese craftsmanship, local traditions, and hands-on cultural experiences. As this is a private tour, the itinerary can be adjusted to your interests.

Experience tea ceremony without the need to kneel or follow intimidating formalities. At ChaYou, your English-speaking tea instructor will demonstrate the preparation of matcha, introduce the utensils and seasonal setting, and explain the hospitality, aesthetics, and consideration for others expressed through each gesture. Enjoy a Japanese sweet before preparing your own bowl of matcha at the table. Choose the tea ceremony alone or extend your experience with a customizable tour led by the same host, who is also your local guide. Select the places you want to visit in advance or discuss your interests during the tea experience, then explore Takayama with an itinerary designed around you.

*Yes! It is a 'Pay as you wish' tour; ¥449 will be refunded to you in person* Step off the train and dive into Takayama’s soul with a guide so obsessed he moved here. This is no ordinary heritage stroll—it’s a 5-senses feast across 10 must-see spots: from the bustling Morning Market and iconic Takayama Jinya, to a serene shrine famed for its festival, plus the charming Old Town. Taste local bites, hear the river’s flow, see Edo-era architecture, smell crisp mountain air, and touch timeless crafts. Perfect for short stays, gain insider stories and ideas to explore beyond the surface. Ask anything—from small-town life to big-city Japan—and leave ready to dive deep into this mountain gem. Highlights: - 10 sights, not 1 or 5 - Taste my favourite street food - Hear what it’s like living here as a foreigner - See Takayama & Japan, through fresh eyes IMPORTANT notes: - Tour starts with min.8pax - max.15pax, keeping tours intimate and warm-hearted - Recommended tip: ¥4000–¥5000 per pax

Discover the authentic flavors of Hida through a hands-on Gohei Mochi-making experience at a small local specialty shop in Takayama. Unlike a typical cooking class, this intimate experience introduces you to the region's traditional food culture, particularly egoma (perilla seeds), a distinctive ingredient in Hida cuisine. Under the guidance of a local host, you'll prepare Gohei Mochi from scratch by mashing cooked rice, shaping it by hand, adding a savory-sweet sauce, and grilling it to perfection. Enjoy your freshly made Gohei Mochi, along with another flavor of your choice and a complimentary drink. With a maximum of just three participants, this experience offers a relaxed and personal opportunity to connect with local traditions through food, stories, and conversation. More than just making a local snack, it's a chance to experience Hida's culinary heritage firsthand.

Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate photoshoot by a local English-speaking professional photographer will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories of Japan. We will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

This tour is a simple, fun way to enjoy Takayama’s local ramen scene without worrying about where to go or how to order. Instead of visiting only one shop, you will try two different ramen stops and compare flavors, noodles, toppings, and atmosphere. Your guide will ask about your preferences, then choose suitable ramen shops based on your tastes and the local conditions that day. This makes the tour flexible and personal, rather than a fixed restaurant visit. Takayama ramen is known for its nostalgic local style, often featuring soy sauce-based broth and thin curly noodles. You can enjoy ramen, toppings, or side dishes while your guide helps with Japanese menus and ordering. This is a private food tour for travelers who want a relaxed, local, and satisfying ramen experience in central Takayama.

This tour shows Hida Furukawa from a perspective many visitors miss: the craftsmanship behind its beautiful townscape. Instead of simply walking through scenic streets, you will learn how white-walled storehouses, canals, temples, wooden details, and old townhouses were shaped by daily life, preservation, and the skills of Hida’s master builders. The visit to the Hida Craftsman Culture Museum gives you the background to understand traditional woodwork, joinery, tools, and the “cloud” decorations still seen in the town. After that, your guide helps you find these details in the real streets and temple buildings of Hida Furukawa. This is a compact private tour for travelers who enjoy architecture, craft, quiet historic towns, and local culture beyond ordinary sightseeing.

Experience the serene beauty of Hida’s winter landscape on this immersive snowshoe tour in the mountains of Takayama. Guided by certified experts from the Japan Mountain Guides Association, you’ll trek through quiet snow-covered forests to reach a scenic waterfall area deep in nature. At the base of the falls, your guide—who is also a professional barista—will hand-brew specialty coffee using pure mountain spring water, offering a warm and reflective moment surrounded by winter silence. A light meal featuring homemade soup and sandwiches made with local ingredients is also included. Centered around the theme of “snow,” this tour invites adventure seekers, coffee lovers, and anyone wishing to reconnect with nature through a uniquely Japanese winter experience.

Discover Takayama’s old town through its sake, culture, and history. On this guided walking tour, visit local sake breweries, taste authentic Hida sake, and learn how the region’s cold climate, clean mountain water, and long brewing traditions shape its unique flavors. Along the way, explore charming historic streets and hear stories about Takayama’s merchant culture, festivals, and local life. A relaxed and enjoyable experience for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. Please note that the breweries visited may change depending on the operating status of each sake brewery on the day of the tour. In such cases, we may guide you to other local sake breweries instead.

Explore the rich traditions of sake-making at Okuhida Brewery in Gero City, Gifu Prefecture, established in 1720. This guided experience, available in Japanese and English, takes you through atmospheric corridors filled with original tools and wooden structures that showcase the brewery's historic craftsmanship. Learn about the brewing process from your knowledgeable guide and experience the unique sound of a century-old foot-operated organ that fills the space with nostalgia. This cultural experience is perfect for both seasoned sake lovers and newcomers eager to delve into Japan's sake heritage. Guided experience at Okuhida Brewery, established in 1720 Available in Japanese and English for diverse visitors Discover historical tools, wooden structures, and the brewing process Listen to the unique sounds of a preserved foot-operated organ

Discover Kamikochi on a small-group day trip from the Takayama area with an English-speaking guide. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful alpine scenery while learning about Japan’s nature, history, and local culture. Unlike a standard sightseeing trip, this experience is designed to be flexible: we keep the pace relaxed, stop at scenic viewpoints for photos, and adjust the walking route based on your group, the season, and the weather. Seasonal transportation is included and may be by public bus and/or company vehicle depending on operating conditions. Please wear hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes. Chinese-speaking guide requests are available subject to availability.