Gujo Travel Guide

Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide to Gujo, Japan. Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and activities to do in this charming town.


Introduction to Gujo

Located in the heart of Gifu Prefecture, Gujo is a charming town that offers travelers an authentic Japanese experience. The town is known for its pristine waterways that are perfect for fishing and traditional dance performances that take place throughout the year. Gujo is often overlooked by tourists in favor of larger cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, but this hidden gem has a lot to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Gujo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gujo Hachiman Castle: This is a designated national historic site, and it’s one of the must-visit places in Gujo. The castle is known for its beautiful stone walls and breathtaking views from the top.

  • Gujo Odori Kaikan: This is a museum that specializes in the traditional Bon Odori dance. Visitors can learn about the dance’s history and watch performances throughout the day.

  • Hakusan National Park: This park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers stunning views of the Japanese Alps. One of the park’s main attractions is the sacred Mount Hakusan, a popular destination for hikers and climbers.

Natural Attractions of Gujo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nagaragawa River: This river is a popular spot for fishing and offers a relaxing atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. The river is also known for its beautiful clear blue waters.

  • Gujo Hachiman Gorge: This gorge is known for its picturesque views and is a popular spot for hiking and kayaking. The gorge is also home to several impressive waterfalls.

  • Mino Park: This park offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery and is a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can also explore the traditional shops and restaurants located in the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gujo

  • Mount Korei: This mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hikers. The trail to the top of the mountain is well-maintained and offers glimpses of traditional Japanese homes along the way.

  • Gujo Hachiman Circuit Trail: This trail takes visitors through the town’s beautiful waterways and offers stunning views of the countryside. The trail is also a great place to see local wildlife, including birds, deer, and fish.

Best Things to Do in Gujo: Activities and Tours

  • Traditional Dance Performances: Gujo is known for its traditional Bon Odori dance. Visitors can watch performances throughout the year and even participate in the dance themselves.

  • Water Sports: The town’s beautiful waterways offer visitors the opportunity to kayak, canoe, and fish. The clear blue waters are perfect for swimming in the summer months.

  • Local Festivals: Gujo is known for its lively festivals, including the Gujo Hachiman Bon Odori Festival and the Gujo Odori Festival. These festivals are great places to experience Japanese culture and cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gujo

Day Activity
1 Visit Gujo Castle and Gujo Odori Kaikan Museum
2 Hike Mount Korei
3 Explore Gujo Hachiman Gorge
4 Visit Hakusan National Park
5 Participate in a Traditional Bon Odori Dance
6 Go Kayaking on the Nagaragawa River
7 Visit Local Festivals and Explore the Town

Food and Drink Scene of Gujo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hida-gyu: This is a must-try dish for meat-lovers. Hida-gyu is a type of wagyu beef that is known for its tender texture and rich flavor.

  • Soba Noodles: Gujo is known for its locally-produced soba noodles. These noodles are made from buckwheat and have a nutty flavor.

  • Ayu: Ayu is a type of sweetfish that is often grilled and served with a sweet soy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Hida Beer: This is a locally-produced beer that is known for its smooth taste and high-quality ingredients.

  • Sake: Gujo has several sake breweries that produce high-quality sake. Visitors can take tours of these breweries and taste the sake for themselves.

Where to Stay in Gujo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Miyuki: This hotel is located in the heart of Gujo and offers guests a comfortable stay with easy access to the town’s attractions.

  • Kisu no Yado: This traditional Japanese inn offers guests a unique stay in Gujo. The inn features traditional tatami mat rooms and serves delicious local cuisine.

  • Guesthouse Kominato: This guesthouse is located near the town’s waterways and offers guests a peaceful stay surrounded by nature.

What to Buy in Gujo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Gujo Hachiman Dolls: These traditional dolls are handmade by local artisans and are a great souvenir to bring back home.

  • Sake: Gujo’s sake breweries produce high-quality sake that makes a great gift for friends and family back home.

  • Traditional Crafts: Gujo is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery and lacquerware. These make great souvenirs to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Gujo

Gujo is a town steeped in tradition and culture. Visitors should take care to be respectful of local customs, including removing their shoes when entering someone’s home and bowing as a sign of respect. Visitors should also be aware that Gujo is known for its strict adherence to traditional gender roles, and visitors should take care to be respectful of these customs.

Best Time to Visit Gujo

The best time to visit Gujo is from June to September when the weather is mild and the town’s waterways are at their clearest. Visitors can also experience the town’s lively festivals during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gujo

Do:

  • Participate in a traditional Bon Odori dance.

  • Try the locally-produced food and drink.

  • Visit the town’s museums and historical sites.

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes inside someone’s home.

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

  • Litter or damage the town’s natural beauty.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gujo

Gujo is a safe town with low levels of crime. Visitors should take care to lock their doors at night and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.

Health in Gujo

Visitors should have up-to-date vaccinations before visiting Gujo. Mosquitoes are common in the summer months, so visitors should take care to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Getting to Gujo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gujo

The nearest airport to Gujo is Chubu Centrair International Airport, located approximately 120 km away.

Bus Stations Near Gujo

Visitors can take a bus from Nagoya to Gujo. The journey takes approximately two hours.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to Gifu Station and then take a bus to Gujo. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours.

How to Get Around in Gujo

Visitors can explore Gujo’s attractions on foot or by renting a bicycle. Taxis are also available for visitors who prefer not to walk or bike.

Where to Go Next from Gujo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Takayama: This charming town is known for its traditional architecture and is located approximately 70 km away from Gujo.

  • Shirakawa-go: This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its traditional thatched-roof homes and is located approximately 110 km away from Gujo.

Conclusion

Gujo is a town filled with tradition and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking and kayaking to traditional dance performances and festivals. Whether visitors are looking to reconnect with nature or experience traditional Japanese culture, Gujo has something to offer for everyone.

Gujo Hachiman Castle Gujo Hachiman Castle