2025 Gujo Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

Option 1: By Train and Bus (Most common way) 1. From Nagoya Station, take the JR Tokaido Main Line to Gifu Station • 🚆 Duration: about 20–30 minutes • 💴 Fare: around ¥470 2. At Gifu Station, walk to the Meitetsu Gifu Bus Terminal (about 5 minutes) 3. Take the Gifu Bus (高速八幡線) toward Gujo Hachiman • 🚌 Destination: 郡上八幡城下町プラザ (Gujo Hachiman Castle Town Plaza) • ⏰ Duration: about 80–90 minutes • 💴 Fare: around ¥1,500 • 📝 Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance. It doesn’t run frequently. ⸻ Option 2: By Highway Bus (Direct bus from Nagoya) 1. From Meitetsu Bus Center (next to Nagoya Station), take the Gifu Bus bound for Gujo Hachiman (郡上八幡) • 🚌 Direct Bus Name: 「郡上八幡行き 高速バス」 • ⏰ Duration: about 2 hours • 💴 Fare: around ¥2,200 • 📍Get off at: 郡上八幡インター (Gujo Hachiman Interchange) or 城下町プラザ (Castle Town Plaza)#郡上八幡

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 The statue of Kazutoyo Yamauchi and his wife is located on a lawn below the Hachiman Castle in Gujo. Kazutoyo Yamauchi was a military commander during the Azuchi-Momoyama period and the early Edo period of the Japanese Warring States Period. His career flourished after he married a virtuous wife. Chiyo was not only good at needlework but also good at writing. Legend has it that when Yamanouchi Kazutoyo was still a low-ranking samurai, he fell in love with a horse but had no money to buy it. When his wife Chiyo learned about it, she privately pawned her dowry to buy the horse. Later, Yamanouchi Kazutoyo was appreciated by his lord Oda Nobunaga for his meritorious service in battles riding this horse and thus rose to prominence.

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 Gochikuin Temple is located in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. Below is the famous Anyangji Temple. Gochikuin Temple was founded in 1521 and is an ancient temple of the Caodong sect. It has been passed down to the 22nd generation. In 1881 (Meiji 12), the temple became the fire prevention center of Gujo City. The temple also attracted the cross-sectarian faith of local residents who called it "Akihabara-sama". There are Yotoku-do, Toyokawa-do, Taishi-do, Jizo-do, etc. in the temple. The environment here is quite quiet and there are no other tourists to be seen. Above the temple is the Gujo Happo Castle and below is Anyang-ji Temple. It is very comfortable here and you can slowly appreciate every corner of the building without being disturbed.

In Japan's self-driving tour, you often need to take the highway. This time, on the way from Nagoya to Takayama City, I passed the vehicle rest area of ​​Haugano Plateau🚘 In addition to seeing the snow-capped mountains, there are also shops to buy souvenirs and snacks. There are also restaurants where you can replenish your stamina midway! The washrooms were also very clean! Japan's road planning is well done, from Nagoya to Takayama City, it takes about 2 hours☺️ #Japan #Takayama City #Driving Tour #Shigano Plateau #Snow Mountain #Japan Attractions

1. Address: Kiyomi-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture - Meiho, Gujo City Recommended points: Hida Mino Seseragi Highway is a 64km drive away where you can enjoy autumn leaves, and the difference in altitude makes it a famous spot for long-term viewing of autumn leaves. The broad-leaved trees along the road, such as oak, beech, larch, rowan, and maple, change color beautifully. The leaves start to change color in mid-October, and it is a popular spot where you can enjoy the autumn leaves for about a month and a half. Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ #autumntrip #autumnleaves #luckydogtrip

People say you never get tired of visiting Japan because the snow in winter is so beautiful. When you come to this unique hot spring attraction, you can fully experience the beautiful scenery of nature. In addition to being able to soak in the hot springs and take beautiful photos, the most special thing here is that there is a snow basin where you can play It is also a very fun and suitable snow basin for adults. It's not just the kids who are having fun, adults are definitely going crazy too The mountains behind are really beautiful. This place is really great. A rare sight in Japan It's really worth playing #Japan #Ski Resort

A restaurant in the nature-rich city of Gujo! The restaurant has lots of windows and natural light, making it a pleasant and bright place! They serve Hida beef stew and other popular local dishes, so it's great for sightseeing too 🤲💓 The food is delicious, the service is great, and I'd love to come back! [Ogatama] Address: 164 Tsurugi, Yamato-cho, Gujo-shi, Gifu Prefecture Roadside Station Kokin Denju no Sato Yamato #Retro spot#Photogenic spot #Recommended for a date

It is located in Gujo, a town where nature remains peacefully🙆‍♀️ At the adjacent roadside station "Kokin Denju no Sato Yamato", you can enjoy foot baths and local gourmet food, and enjoy the beautiful scenery and cityscape food unique to Japan😻💓💓 The staff are polite and the rooms are clean✨ I felt very relaxed~🙌☀️ [Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo] Address: 200-1 Tsurugi, Yamato-cho, Gujo-shi, Gifu #Staying at home #Gourmet trip #Breathtaking views #Hot springs

This hotel is convenient for sightseeing in Mino and Hida! I was able to see the castle town from my room and the natural scenery unique to Japan in every season, which was very refreshing 🌿 Recommended for a stay-at-home stay 💓 [Gujo Hachiman Hotel Sekisuien] Address: 511-2 Ichinohira, Yanagimachi, Hachiman-cho, Gujo City #stay-at-home

At the nearby roadside station "Kokin Denju no Sato Yamato," you can enjoy foot baths and local gourmet food, and you'll feel very relaxed in the nature 🌱 There is a lot of greenery in the surrounding area, so you can enjoy the traditional Japanese scenery, and the rooms are very clean and beautiful 🤲 [Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo] Address: 200-1 Tsurugi, Yamato-cho, Gujo-shi, Gifu #Staying at home

Today's lunch ramen goes to "Sugimoto" in Aoba Ward, where he was a disciple of Minoru Sano, who is famous for ramen demons. A line of about 20 people arrived just at 12 o'clock. After waiting for about 30 minutes, the clerk guided me to the store. I had two choices, soy sauce and salt, and my younger brother chose soy sauce, so I ordered salt. Donburi in about 10 minutes. First of all, soup. Salt of chicken stock without any unpleasant taste. It's quite delicious, but I had the first bite of soy sauce soup, but the soy sauce tasted better. The noodles are thin noodles straight. To be honest, I think the noodles don't go well with salt. However, the soy sauce ramen was amazingly delicious. Next, I would like to have soy sauce. Personal evaluation ★★★★ ☆

Located in Hachiman-cho, Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture, Gujo Hachiman Castle is a mountain castle built at the end of the Muromachi period. From its mountaintop perch, Gujo Hachiman Castle offers a panoramic view of the town of Hachiman, stretching along the valley formed by the Yoshida River. Hachiman retains its charming, old-fashioned castle town atmosphere, with a wide variety of shops and restaurants, as well as numerous museums and archives. Admission Fee: Adults (high school students and older): ¥400 Children (elementary and junior high school students): ¥200 Discounted tickets for multiple facilities are also available. [Access] 35-minute walk from Gujo Hachiman Station on the Nagaragawa Railway. Take the express bus from JR Gifu Station or Meieki Bus Center to the "Gujo Hachiman Castle Town Plaza" stop, then a 20-minute walk. #DomesticTravel #ChubuRegion #Japan #CastleTour #GifuPrefecture #Gifu #GujoCity #Asia

#SeptemberDestinations2025 Mokuka no Sato, located in Gifu Prefecture, is a themed ranch that combines nature and animals, perfect for families. Upon entering, you can get up close and personal with alpacas, sheep, and rabbits, experience feeding them, and participate in activities like milking and horseback riding, creating a fun and educational experience. The park boasts expansive lawns and fresh air, where many families enjoy picnics, creating a relaxing atmosphere perfect for children. The scenery changes with each season, allowing visitors to slow down and enjoy the company of nature and animals. It's a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and relax.

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck Togakushi Shrine 🌲✨ This shrine, over 2,000 years old, is nestled amidst a forest of giant, centuries-old cedar trees, lined with majestic, almost fantasy-like trees. 🌳💚 Togakushi Shrine actually consists of five shrines (Hokosha, Hinomikosha, Chusha, Kuzuryusha, and Okusha) scattered along the mountain paths. However, the most popular route to Okusha (the inner shrine) is through a breathtaking tunnel of giant cedar trees. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a true sense of nature. ⏰ Opening Hours: The shrine grounds are open all day, but daytime visits are recommended for safer hiking trails and the best views. 🛤️ Access: From Nagano Station, take the Nagaden Express Bus to Togakushi (about an hour). From there, walk to each shrine along the paths. #nagano #traveljapan #togakushi

Stroll through the old town, enjoying the slow life and crystal clear water. 💧Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture, Chubu Region #TravelJapan #Gujo Gujo City (郡上), a town with a mountain backdrop of "Gujo Hachiman," the name of the old town surrounding this wooden castle, is known as the "City of Water." From the drinking water of the Japanese, it's a city where ever you turn, you can hear the sound of flowing water. The slow-paced atmosphere is perfect for a relaxing stroll and taking photos. Even the drainage pipes surrounding the town are filled with carp. If you venture outside the old town, you'll find flower gardens and numerous camping spots. There are also seven onsen within the town. It's a perfect place to relax during the summer. It's very autumn. . 📌Recommended sightseeing spots in Gujo City ・Gujo Hachiman Castle Town Plaza (The world's most famous people) ・Gujo Hachiman Castle (郡上八幡城) ・Yanakamizu Path・(やなか水のこみち) ・Gujo-Hachiman Hakurankan (Maintaining the world's largest economy) ・Igawa Lane (いがわ小径) ・Hirugano plateau (ひるがの高原) ・Bokkanosato (牧歌の里) ・Gujo Hachiman Kyu-chosha Kinenkan (Malaysia is the world's largest economy.) ・Shimizu Bridge・Gujo (清水橋・郡上) ・Shinbashi Bridge・Gujo (新橋・郡上) ・Shinbashi Tei (新橋亭) ・Ootaki Cave (大滝鍾乳洞) ・Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort (It's a lot of things.) ・Natural hot spring・Manten no Yu (Once upon a time) ・Pastoral village Onsen・MakiHana (Vegetable Hot Spring・Vegetable Garden) ・Yunohira Onsen (Hot Spring) . ・Access: Chubu Centrair International Airport is the closest! Take the train from Gifu Station to Gujo-Hachiman Station, or take the bus from Gifu Ekimae to Gujo-Hachiman Ekimae. Travel time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. (From the airport, it takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.) .

#holidayitinerary Nestled in the forests of Nagano, Togakushi Shrine is a spiritual sanctuary with over 2,000 years of history. Surrounded by towering cedar trees and crisp mountain air, the shrine complex is dedicated to Japanese mythology and offers visitors a serene escape into nature and tradition. Experience: Walk along the famous cedar-lined path leading to the Okusha (Inner Shrine), where ancient trees rise majestically above you. Explore five shrines scattered across the mountain, each with its own atmosphere. Don’t miss trying Togakushi soba, a local specialty closely tied to the shrine. Transportation: From Nagano Station, take a 1-hour bus ride bound for Togakushi. The journey itself offers scenic mountain views. Address: Togakushi, Nagano, Japan Opening Hours: Generally 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours may vary by season) Average Cost: Free entrance; meals or local experiences around ¥1,000–2,000 per person

Prepare to fall completely in love with Japan's most enchanting secret town! Gujo Hachiman isn't just another destination – it's a living, breathing piece of medieval Japan where crystal-clear waterways dance through ancient streets, traditional crafts thrive, and one of the country's most spectacular summer festivals transforms the entire town into a magical wonderland! 🌟 What Makes Gujo Hachiman Absolutely Extraordinary Nestled in the heart of Gifu Prefecture's mountains, Gujo Hachiman (郡上八幡) is a 400-year-old castle town that has remained virtually unchanged since the Edo period. This isn't a reconstructed tourist attraction – it's an authentic slice of historical Japan where families have been living and working in the same traditional wooden buildings for centuries. The town is famous throughout Japan for three magical elements: the purest spring water you'll ever taste flowing through ancient stone-lined channels, the mesmerizing art of food sample making that looks more real than actual food, and the legendary Gujo Odori dance festival that runs for 32 nights every summer, making it the longest dance festival in all of Japan! 🗺️ Your Complete Step-by-Step Gujo Hachiman Journey Getting There: A Scenic Adventure Itself By Train + Bus (Recommended): Take JR Tokaido Main Line from Nagoya to Gifu Station (20 minutes) Transfer to JR Takayama Line to Mino-Ota Station (30 minutes) Board the scenic Nagaragawa Railway to Gujo-Hachiman Station (1 hour 15 minutes) The train journey through mountain valleys is absolutely breathtaking – sit on the right side for best views! By Highway Bus: Direct bus from Nagoya Bus Terminal (1 hour 45 minutes, ¥1,570) More convenient but you'll miss the stunning mountain scenery Pro Timing Tip: Start early (8:00 AM departure from Nagoya) to maximize your day in this magical town. The journey becomes part of the adventure! Phase 1: Castle and Panoramic Views (45 minutes) Gujo Hachiman Castle - Your First "Wow" Moment Begin your adventure at Japan's most photogenic mountaintop castle! This perfectly reconstructed wooden castle offers 360-degree views that will take your breath away. Climb strategy: The steep 15-minute hike rewards you with incredible photo opportunities at every turn Inside the castle: Four floors of samurai artifacts, armor displays, and historical exhibits about the town's founding Photography gold: The top floor observation deck provides panoramic shots of the entire historic town spread out below like a medieval map Best timing: Early morning (9:00-10:00 AM) for clear mountain views and soft lighting Hidden viewpoint: Don't miss the small shrine halfway up the castle path – it offers a unique side-angle view of the castle that most visitors never discover! Phase 2: The Dancing Water Town Experience (2 hours) Sogi-sui Spring - Nature's Miracle Discover why locals call this "the water that dances"! This natural spring produces crystal-clear water so pure that locals have been drinking it unchanged for over 400 years. Taste test: Fill your water bottle directly from the spring – it's incredibly refreshing and completely safe Photography magic: The stone-lined channels create perfect leading lines through the historic streets Cultural insight: Watch elderly locals collecting daily water in traditional wooden buckets – a practice unchanged for centuries Historic Street Wandering Lose yourself in narrow cobblestone alleys where traditional wooden machiya (townhouses) lean gently toward each other, creating tunnel-like passages filled with history. Architectural details: Notice the intricate wooden joinery, traditional roof tiles, and beautiful latticework windows Living history: Many buildings still house families whose ancestors built them 300+ years ago Secret spots: Duck into tiny side alleys to discover hidden shrines, traditional gardens, and artisan workshops Phase 3: Food Sample Making Magic (1 hour) Sample Workshop Experience - Japan's Most Unique Art Form Gujo Hachiman is the birthplace of Japan's incredibly realistic plastic food samples seen in restaurant windows throughout the country! Hands-on Workshop Details: Cost: ¥1,000-2,500 depending on complexity Duration: 30-60 minutes What you'll make: Tempura, lettuce leaves, or elaborate parfaits that look 100% real Technique: Learn the secret hot wax methods passed down through generations Take home: Your creations become perfect, uniquely Japanese souvenirs Pro tip: Book workshops in advance, especially during summer festival season. The concentration required is surprisingly meditative! Phase 4: Traditional Craft Discovery (1-2 hours) Gujo Hon-zome (Traditional Indigo Dyeing) Witness one of Japan's oldest textile traditions still practiced by master artisans whose families have been dyeing fabric for over 400 years. Workshop opportunity: Create your own indigo-dyed handkerchief or small cloth (¥1,500-3,000) Process fascination: Watch the magical transformation as white fabric emerges deep blue from the dye vats Cultural significance: Learn how these techniques supported the samurai class and continue to influence modern Japanese fashion Traditional Pottery and Woodworking Explore tiny workshops where local craftsmen create beautiful functional art using techniques perfected over centuries. Pottery studios: Watch masters throw clay and paint delicate designs Wood crafting: See traditional tools and furniture being made entirely by hand Purchase opportunities: Authentic pieces make meaningful souvenirs with real cultural stories 🎭 The Legendary Gujo Odori Dance Festival If visiting July 13 - September 7: You're witnessing one of Japan's most authentic and magical cultural experiences! For 32 consecutive nights, the entire town transforms into a giant dance floor where thousands of people dance traditional folk dances until dawn. Festival Experience Guide: Time: 8:00 PM - dawn (yes, really until sunrise!) Participation: Everyone welcome – locals teach visitors the simple steps What to expect: Four different dance styles, live traditional music, food stalls, and an incredibly welcoming atmosphere Dress code: Yukatas (summer kimono) preferred but not required Cost: Completely free! Cultural significance: This 400-year-old tradition strengthens community bonds and welcomes visitors into authentic Japanese culture Photography opportunities: The lantern-lit streets, colorful yukatas, and joyful faces create incredibly atmospheric night shots. 🍜 Authentic Local Food Experiences Must-Try Specialties Ayu Sweetfish (June-October) These river fish are grilled over charcoal and eaten whole – a local delicacy for over 400 years. The slightly bitter flavor might surprise you, but it's considered a true delicacy. Keichan (Local Chicken Dish) Marinated chicken grilled with vegetables and miso – comfort food that local families have perfected over generations. Mountain Vegetables (Sansai) Wild vegetables foraged from surrounding mountains, prepared in ways that highlight their natural flavors. Where Locals Actually Eat Traditional Restaurants in Historic Buildings: Kawashima Tofu Shop: Family-run for 200+ years, serving the creamiest tofu made with pure spring water Yamato-ya: Traditional inn with multi-course meals featuring local specialties Street food vendors: During festival season, incredible variety of traditional snacks Modern Cafes with Traditional Touches: Coffee shops in converted machiya: Experience modern cafe culture in 300-year-old buildings Local bakeries: Surprisingly excellent bread made with pure mountain water 📸 Photography Strategy for Featured Content Essential Shots for Trip.com Success Cover Photo Option 1: Castle on the mountaintop during golden hour with the entire historic town spread below – absolutely breathtaking and guaranteed to grab attention! Cover Photo Option 2: The crystal-clear water channels flowing through ancient stone-lined streets with traditional wooden buildings reflecting in the water – uniquely Japanese and incredibly photogenic. Cultural Activity Shots: Yourself making food samples with intense concentration Participating in traditional dyeing or pottery Drinking fresh spring water directly from the source Architectural Details: Traditional wooden building details and craftsmanship The contrast between ancient architecture and mountain landscapes Historic streets with lanterns during evening hours Pro Photography Tips Golden hour magic: 6:30-7:30 AM and 5:30-6:30 PM provide the most dramatic lighting Water reflections: Use the stone channels for beautiful reflection shots of buildings Festival photography: If visiting during Gujo Odori, night shots with lantern lighting create magical atmospheres Mountain backdrop: Include the surrounding peaks to show the town's dramatic natural setting ⏰ Perfect Itinerary Planning Day Trip from Nagoya (8-10 hours total) 8:00 AM: Depart Nagoya 10:30 AM: Arrive Gujo Hachiman, head straight to castle 12:00 PM: Historic town exploration and spring water discovery 1:30 PM: Traditional lunch 2:30 PM: Food sample making workshop 4:00 PM: Craft workshop or shopping 5:30 PM: Final photography and souvenir shopping 6:30 PM: Departure back to Nagoya Overnight Experience (Highly Recommended) Stay in a traditional ryokan to experience: Evening town atmosphere without day-trip crowds Participation in Gujo Odori (if during festival season) Early morning photography with perfect lighting Deeper cultural immersion with local families Budget-Friendly Tips Transportation: Consider the scenic train route for the experience value Accommodation: Traditional guesthouses offer authentic experience at reasonable prices Food: Local family restaurants provide generous portions at great prices Activities: Many cultural workshops are surprisingly affordable (¥1,000-3,000) 🌟 Hidden Gems Most Tourists Never Discover Secret Mountain Trail: Behind the castle, a 30-minute hike leads to an ancient shrine with panoramic valley

Jionzenji Temple 🍁🍂🌿 Jionzenji Temple is an ancient temple in Gujo. It's beautifully designed with a beautiful Zen garden, decorated with ponds, fountains, and numerous maple trees. A waterfall cascades down the center of the pond, surrounded by colorful trees. Enjoy the tranquil and beautiful scenery from the tatami-matted Japanese-style rooms. 📍 Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan 💵 500 yen/person ⏰ 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM #AdventureTrip

Driving north from Nagoya along the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, I made a special stop at one of the most beautiful highway rest stops—Hirugano Kogen Service Area. This place is not just a pit stop but feels like a hidden mini attraction nestled in the mountains. The view is breathtaking, with expansive highland scenery that changes with the seasons: lush greenery in spring and summer, slopes painted with autumn leaves, and a pristine blanket of snow in winter. Beyond basic facilities, the service area features local specialty shops selling souvenirs like Hida beef products and Hoba miso. You can also savor rich ice cream made from milk sourced from nearby farms. 📍 Location Check-in: Hirugano Kogen Service Area (Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture)

[Castle town of water and dance] A trip to cleanse your soul in Gujo Hachiman Gujo Hachiman in Gifu Prefecture is a beautiful castle town known as the "town of water." Clear streams flow through the town, and the sound of water resonates pleasantly wherever you walk. In the summer, the "Gujo Odori" is held, and the traditional festival of dancing all night is a masterpiece 💃🎶 When you actually visit, the view from Gujo Hachiman Castle is spectacular, and the scenery where the townscape and nature are in harmony is soothing. The food sample making experience is also popular and perfect for making memories 🍤 Access is about 2 hours by express bus from Nagoya. The center of town is within walking distance from Gujo Hachiman Station, making it a great place for a stroll. Why not take a trip to cleanse your soul in Gujo Hachiman, where history, nature and culture blend together? Domestic travel #Couple trip #Solo trip #Absolutely free trip #Gujo Hachiman #Gujo Odori #Town of water #Castle town stroll #Gifu trip #Healing trip

In Japan, once the rainy season ends, the hot summer comes quickly. On such hot days, cool off by eating nagashi somen noodles in the countryside. Location: Gujo City

📍Jion Zen Temple 339 Shimadani, Hachiman-cho, Gujo City Admission Fee: 500 yen This temple, established during the Edo period, is a highly recommended travel destination, especially for its stunning garden. Upon entering, the temple staff warmly greets visitors and provides detailed explanations, which can deepen your appreciation of the temple. The garden showcases its beauty throughout the seasons, making it worth visiting at any time of the year. During colder months, the glass doors remain closed, but as the weather warms, they are fully opened, offering an even more breathtaking view. Even the scenery seen through the windows is enchanting. The temple is rarely crowded, allowing visitors to quietly immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of Japan. 🏖️ Ambiance/Facilities: The garden is meticulously maintained, providing a tranquil environment. The temple staff's hospitality adds to the pleasant experience.

Gujo Hachiman, accessible by express bus from Takayama, is a charming town known for its famous Gujo Odori summer festival. This traditional dance festival has even been recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage! True to its nickname as the "Town of Water," Gujo Hachiman features picturesque spots with streams running through narrow alleys and koi fish swimming gracefully. The town also has a tourist information center where you can learn about must-see attractions and shop for souvenirs. One highly recommended item is the Gujo Hachiman Natural Water Soda—refreshingly crisp and perfect for hot summer days! The old townscape exudes a nostalgic charm, making every corner a photogenic spot. The locals are incredibly friendly, often striking up conversations with visitors at various shops, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. 🎵 📍Dango Chaya Address: 1105 Shimadani, Hachiman-cho, Gujo City This shop serves delicious Mitarashi Dango (sweet soy-glazed rice dumplings). 🕰️ Business Hours: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Transportation: About a 3-minute walk from the "Gujo Hachiman Jokamachi" bus stop Miharaya is one of the best-located inns in Gujo, in my opinion. When you open the window of your room, you can see the Yoshida River. Just by keeping the window open, you can hear the soothing sound of flowing water, which feels incredibly refreshing. The river view outside is also very seasonal, and you can even see the old Gujo Hachiman government office building in the distance. At night, when the lights are on, it looks stunning. Miharaya is conveniently close to the "Gujo Hachiman Jokamachi" bus stop and other attractions in the city center of Gujo. Most places are within a 10-minute walk. There are a few restaurants within a 5-minute walk, and if you cross the river and go a bit further, there are even more dining options to choose from. The rooms in the inn feature traditional Japanese tatami mats, and in winter, they even have a kotatsu (heated table)! It's something I've only seen in manga and anime, as business hotels in the city usually don't have them. (Though I later found the kotatsu a bit too warm, so I had to turn it on and off intermittently.) The Japanese-style breakfast provided by the inn is very hearty. I stayed for two consecutive days on two occasions, and the dishes were almost entirely different each day, and they were delicious. Miharaya seems to be run by a family. The owner(s) don't speak much English, but they make a great effort to communicate with guests and try their best to accommodate their needs (like lending umbrellas, cutting fruit, providing ice water/hot water, or even giving rides to the train station). Since it's a traditional Japanese inn, the rooms don't have private bathrooms. Guests need to use the large communal bath on the basement floor. Perhaps because I visited on weekdays, I had the large bath, which is bigger than a double bed, all to myself for all four nights. I highly recommend this place to travelers who want to take their time, enjoy the sound of water, and relax. While the facilities at Miharaya aren't particularly luxurious, the location is excellent, and the inn has a warm and simple atmosphere. I've been there twice, staying two nights each time, and found it incredibly healing. The only downside is that there's no elevator, so you'll need to use the stairs. Those with mobility issues might want to consider this (or request a room on a lower floor from the inn). (Note: I visited during both summer and winter, so the seasons in the photos may look quite different.)

#cityplaybook Gujo Hachiman is a charming little town tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Known for its crystal-clear waterways, old-fashioned streets, and laid-back vibe, it feels like stepping back in time. You’ll also find historic temples, friendly locals, and quirky food replicas (yes, the plastic ones!). There are workshops where you can make your food replica in a local museum. Whether you're into culture, nature, or just want a peaceful escape, Gujo Hachiman offers a slice of traditional Japan without the crowds. It's cozy, scenic, and super photogenic. Go up to the castle and you can have a 360-degree paramount over the stunning Gufu mountain and nearby towns.

I stayed at Fairfield by Marriott Gifu Gujo on a girls' trip and it was so relaxing...🌿🕊️ The rooms have a wood-like, natural atmosphere. You can see greenery from the large windows, and it's so quiet that it feels like you're in the forest🤍 The shared lounge is spacious and it's nice to be able to relax with a cup of coffee or tea✨ At the adjacent roadside station "Kokin Denju no Sato Yamato," you can get fresh local vegetables and souvenirs, and there is also a foot bath and a ceramic bath with natural spring water, so you can reset your fatigue from your trip in an instant👼 It was great to spend a relaxing time in nature while drinking coffee on the terrace in the morning🫶 The castle town of Gujo Hachiman and the outdoor museum "Kokin Denju no Sato Field Museum," where you can enjoy the world of waka poetry, are also nearby, so there is plenty of sightseeing to do🍸 A stylish hotel stay surrounded by nature made my girls' trip memories even more special🤍🕊️ #trip accommodation report

Kunida Family Moss Phlox 📍414, Kusokudo, Kukuno-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture 509-3225 The Kunida Family Moss Phlox in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, is a spectacular spot where a pink carpet spreads out! The contrast between the blooming moss phlox and the blue sky is sure to make for beautiful photos. Why not spend a special time being soothed by nature this Golden Week? There are also shops in the area where you can enjoy local specialties, making it perfect for a drive or a day trip. Access information About 30 minutes by car from JR Takayama Station. There is also a parking lot, so you can visit with peace of mind. Best time to see it Now is the peak! Don't miss this timing when the moss phlox is blooming at its most beautiful. The Kunida Family Moss Phlox is filled with the beauty of nature and the charm of the region, so be sure to visit and experience the spectacular view! #Domestic travel moss phlox

#Spring0yenTrip When you think of summer in Gujo Hachiman, this is it! Kakigori Kitchen ZEN, which is a hot topic on social media, is a very popular sweets shop where you can enjoy shaved ice that is like a work of art. Fluffy ice is luxuriously topped with homemade syrup and rich cream that is full of fruit, making it an exquisite sweet that spreads happiness with one bite♪ Recommended are "Strawberry Milk", "Matcha Tiramisu", and the seasonal "White Peach", all of which are full of volume and look great. Because each one is handmade, it is surprisingly smooth to the touch, and the deliciousness of the ingredients spreads as it melts...It is truly an "eating sensation" here! The calm interior and the stylish Japanese-style decorations make it perfect for couples and friends to go on a sweets tour. Be sure to stop by not only on hot days, but also when you want to make your trip to Gujo a little more special♪ 📍Basic information (check the official Instagram for the latest information) ✴︎Address: Hashimotocho, Hachiman-cho, Gujo-shi, Gifu Prefecture ✴︎Access: About 15 minutes on foot from Gujo Hachiman Station ✴︎Price: Around 800 to 1,300 yen per cup (varies depending on the menu) ✴︎Opening hours: 11:00-17:00 (irregular holidays, be careful of crowds in summer) You'll be thrilled by the melting ice! Come to Gujo Hachiman and experience shaved ice that will delight all your senses♪