Gifu

The Sekigahara Battlefield became a pivotal setting in Japanese history on September 15, 1600, when the Eastern Army led by Tokugawa Ieyasu and the Western Army led by Ishida Mitsunari battled for political power following the demise of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Today, various historic sites related to the monumental battle still remain in the town of Sekigahara, including nine government-designated historical sites.

Okuhida Hot Springs is a term encompassing five hot springs nestled in the Northern Alps - Hirayu, Fukuji, Shin-Hirayu, Tochio, and Shin-Hotaka. The area attracts many local and international tourists who are seeking out high-quality hot springs surrounded by abundant, changing seasonal nature of the mountains, with fresh greenery in early summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snow in winter.

Gero Hot Springs in Yunoshima, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture, is one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs. While you can’t go wrong staying the night in the area, it’s also a great place to enjoy a day trip. There are also free foot baths and public baths, allowing visitors to casually enjoy bathing as they stroll around. The area is well-connected, and easily accessible by train. The silky-smooth, high-quality waters of Gero Hot Springs have long gained its many fans. You could stay over in...

Magome-juku is a former post town where travelers on the Nakasendo Route could rest at night, located in the present-day city of Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture. Wanderlust-evoking cobblestone streets wind along the sloping terrain, lined with old-fashioned cafes and souvenir shops to snack and shop in as you immerse yourself in the Edo-period townscape. A 7 km hiking path to Tsumago-juku is one of the most popular areas along the Nakasendo walking trail.

A culinary tour is one great way to enjoy Hida-Takayama, in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Dine in various eateries serving local Takayama delicacies that line the streets while looking for a souvenir. You could treat yourself to Hida Beef as part of your lunch and sample sake at local breweries. Take in the traditional atmosphere of the streets of Hida-Takayama as you enjoy its local delicacies, and you’re sure to leave with both your hunger and your mind satisfied.

Mount Norikura stands at the southern tip of the Northern Japan Alps. Although rising at the 3,000-meter level, the mountain range offers fun and easy trekking for beginners and families as well. A bus ride from Hida Takayama to the Tatamidaira bus stop at 2,700 meters takes just 90 minutes, and shuttle bus services are available every day during in-season. There is a bounty of beautiful nature to see, including the snow grouse, designated as a Special Natural Monument, and the exotic...