Discover Gifu: Hands-on Pottery, Riverside Castle Towns & Takayama Charm

Independent Suggested Itinerary – 3 days

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Day 1 – Nagoya → Tajimi → Gifu City

Tajimi:

Tajimi, located in eastern Gifu Prefecture, is one of Japan’s leading pottery towns and the heart of Mino ware—a ceramic tradition spanning over 1,300 years. The city offers pottery studios, galleries, and museums, along with hands-on experiences where you can create your own piece. Tajimi blends deep-rooted craftsmanship with a modern, creative vibe.

Access: About 30–40 minutes by train from Nagoya.

Minoyaki Pottery & Green Tea Retreat

Experience Tajimi’s traditional Minoyaki pottery in a hands-on workshop. Create your own ceramic piece, savor a delicious lunch, and enjoy matcha green tea served in handcrafted pottery. Stroll along Oribe Street to explore local galleries and immerse yourself in the city’s rich craft culture.

Duration: Approx. 5 hours 30 minutes

Gifu City:

Gifu Castle & Mount Kinka
Ride the Mt. Kinka Ropeway from Gifu Park to Gifu Castle for sweeping city views. Explore Gifu Park, home to the ruins of Nobunaga’s former residence, and visit Shobo-ji Temple to see Japan’s largest lacquered Great Buddha. Seasonal cherry blossoms and autumn foliage add extra charm.

Kawaramachi District
Stroll through historic riverside streets lined with traditional shops, cozy cafés, and local craft boutiques—a perfect spot for souvenirs and photography.

Gifu Cormorant Fishing & Luxury Dinner Cruise

From May to October, witness the centuries-old tradition of cormorant fishing on the Nagara River. Visit the Ukai Museum and a master fisherman’s home, then enjoy a luxury dinner cruise featuring a multi-course meal. Watch the torchlit spectacle unfold as night falls, with English guidance provided.

Duration: Approx. 5 hours 30 minutes

Stay: Gifu (Nagaragawa Onsen)
Stay at a riverside hotel for easy access to downtown and hot springs.

Access: About 35–45 minutes by JR Chuo Line from Tajimi to Gifu City.

Day 2 – Gifu → Gujo Hachiman → Takayama

Gujo Hachiman:

This historic castle town is famed for its pristine waterways, Edo-period streets, and cultural heritage. Known for Gujo Odori—Japan’s longest-running summer dance festival—the town offers a charming atmosphere with traditional shops and cafés.

Access: The most convenient way to reach Gujo Hachiman is by highway bus from Gifu (approx. 70–80 min).Rental cars are also available.
Note: Although the Nagaragawa Railway from Mino-Ota station also connects to Gujo Hachiman, trains run infrequently.

Gujo Hachiman Guided Walking Tour

On this guided tour, visitors can explore the town in depth with activities that bring local culture to life. Highlights include a food replica workshop, a Gujo Odori dance demonstration, and tasting regional specialties. The tour also visits traditional shops and museums, giving a hands-on introduction to the town’s heritage.
Duration: Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes

Stay: Takayama

Travel from Gujo Hachiman to Takayama by Nohi Bus (approx. 2 hours 30 minutes).

Day 3 – Takayama → Nagoya

Takayama:

Hida-Takayama is a picturesque city in northern Gifu Prefecture, known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, traditional merchant houses, and vibrant morning markets. Start early at one of Japan’s famous markets: the riverfront Miyagawa Market and historical Jinya-mae Market. Browse fresh produce, seasonal crafts, pickles, and Hida specialties, all while chatting with local farmers. Visitors can enjoy local crafts, sake breweries, and Hida beef, as well as seasonal festivals such as the famous Takayama Festival in spring and autumn.

Hida-Takayama Experiences

Various guided tours and hands-on experiences are available in Hida-Takayama.

1 – Traditional Takayama Townhouse Cooking & Cultural Experience

Step inside a 200‑year‑old townhouse to learn and prepare seasonal Takayama dishes, enjoy the meal together, and hear stories about local history and customs from your English‑speaking host.
Duration: Approx. 4 hours

2 – Hida Regional Cuisine Cooking Class

Learn to cook regional Hida dishes like gohei‑mochi, hoba miso, and onigiri under the guidance of a local cook, then enjoy your creations with traditional sweets.
Duration: Approx. 3 hours

3 – Historic Takayama Walking Tour

A guided stroll through Takayama’s historic streets, visiting landmarks such as the Nakabashi Bridge and Takayama Jinya, while learning about local culture and history.
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes

4 – Traditional Japanese Wedding Photoshoot in Takayama

Couples can enjoy a wedding photoshoot in traditional attire around scenic historic sites, with　makeup and a photographer included.
Duration: Approx. 5 hours 30 minutes

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