I'm thrilled to share that I'll be heading off on a Gifu Prefecture famil trip from 23–28 July 2026! Ahead of my adventure, I wanted to give you a sneak peek at some of the incredible packages and tours on offer in this beautiful, lesser-known corner of Japan - perfect inspiration for your next getaway.

Samurai History, Swordsmiths & World Heritage Villages

Independent Suggested Itinerary – 4 Days

Journey through the heart of Gifu Prefecture on this immersive 4-day trail, where samurai legends, centuries-old craftsmanship and storybook villages come to life.

Walk the battlefield that shaped a nation at Sekigahara, watch master swordsmiths at work in Seki's historic blade workshops, soak away the day in Gero's soothing hot springs, and wander the Edo-period streets of Takayama before arriving at the fairy-tale thatched rooftops of UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go. It's a journey through old Japan at its most authentic.

This itinerary is provided as inspiration only and is not a packaged tour. Love the idea but want it tailored just for you? Our travel specialists can customise this itinerary into a personalised travel experience to suit your style, budget, and schedule.

Hands-on Pottery, Riverside Castle Towns & Takayama Charm

Independent Suggested Itinerary – 3 Days

Discover a different side of Gifu Prefecture on this creative and cultural 3-day trail. Get hands-on with 1,300 years of ceramic tradition in the pottery town of Tajimi, take in sweeping views from Gifu Castle atop Mount Kinka, and be captivated by the age-old spectacle of cormorant fishing on the Nagara River.

Continue to the postcard-perfect canals and Edo-period streets of Gujo Hachiman, before ending your journey among the historic merchant houses and morning markets of Hida-Takayama. A wonderful mix of craftsmanship, history and small-town charm.

This itinerary is provided as inspiration only and is not a packaged tour. Love the idea but want it tailored just for you? Our travel specialists can customise this itinerary into a personalised travel experience to suit your style, budget, and schedule.

Nagano and Gifu Tour from Australia

6 Days | Self-guided

Nestled in Central Japan, Nagano and Gifu prefectures, known as ‘Shinshū’ and ‘Hida,’ have long served as a cultural crossroads. The region features the Northern Alps, towering mountains offering stunning views, pristine winter landscapes, and renowned hot springs, historically significant for Buddhist ascetic training.

Explore Matsumoto's feudal castle town, venture into the Oku-Hida mountains to experience biodiverse scenery and tranquil onsen, and continue to Hida-Furukawa and Takayama for an unforgettable winter adventure!

Short On Time? We've Got You!

One-Day World Heritage

Shirakawago & Takayama Tour

Discover Shirakawago's thatch-roofed houses and Takayama's historic old town. Enjoy private vehicle transport with drop-off at Takayama Station for connections to Nagoya, Tokyo, or Kyoto.

Shirakawago-Go & Kanazawa

One-Day Bus Tour

Join this full-day Shirakawago and Kanazawa tour starting from Kanazawa Station, and explore the world-famous UNESCO village!