A Tapestry of History and Culture

Immerse Yourself in Japan's Rich Cultural Heritage in Gifu

Discover Gifu's treasures on this 3-day, 2-night itinerary, with Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki Hotels as your base. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go's gassho-zukuri village, and experience intangible cultural heritage like Mino washi papermaking and Gujo Odori dance.

Gifu, Fairfield by Marriott Michi-no-Eki Hotels

Hida Takayama: Experience the Tranquil Higashiyama Temple District

Just a 10-minute walk from the old townscape that retains the charm of the Edo period, you’ll find a quiet area of temples on the eastern hillside of Shiroyama. Here, you can explore cultural heritage sites and enjoy the beautiful seasonal landscapes of Takayama.

Takayama

Explore Suwa Taisha: A Shrine Steeped in Japan’s Ancient Traditions

Enshrouded in the mystical atmosphere of Japan’s rich history and culture, Suwa Taisha—one of the country’s oldest shrines—awaits your visit. With its four sanctuaries encircling Lake Suwa, the shrine offers a serene escape. Complement your spiritual journey with a sake brewery tour, a relaxing hot spring bath, or an invigorating outdoor adventure.

Suwa Taisha

Nagoya Castle: A Feudal Lord's Masterpiece

Crowned with gleaming golden Shachihoko ornaments, Nagoya Castle stands as a pinnacle of early modern Japanese fortress architecture. Marvel at the opulent Honmaru Palace and its formidable stone walls. You might even encounter the Nagoya Omotenashi Busho-tai®, a group of costumed warriors ready to welcome visitors.

© Nagoya Convention & Visitors Bureau / ©2009 Nagoya Omotenashi Busho-Tai Secretariat

Nagoya Castle

Inuyama Castle: A Fortress that Withstood the Test of Time

One of only five castles designated as National Treasures, Inuyama boasts Japan's oldest surviving wooden keep. Perched atop a hill, the top floor offers breathtaking panoramic views that transport visitors back to feudal times.

Inuyama Castle

Osu Shopping Street: A Melting Pot of Commerce and Culture

Often called Japan's most vibrant shopping area, Osu is a lively mix of diverse stores and eateries. This eclectic district buzzes with energy year-round, hosting numerous festivals and events.

© Nagoya Convention & Visitors Bureau

Osu Shopping Street

Ise Jingu: The Spiritual Home of Japan for Two Millennia

Among Japan's 80,000 shrines, Ise Jingu holds a place of unparalleled reverence. Don't miss the sublime beauty of its cypress wood sanctuaries, embodying 2,000 years of Japanese spirituality.

Photos courtesy of Jingushicho

Ise Jingu

Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku: Time-Capsule Post Towns on an Ancient Highway

At the gateway to the rugged Kisoji, these well-preserved post towns offer a glimpse into Edo-period Japan. Stroll through their historic streets and feel as if you've stepped back in time to a bygone era of Japanese history.

Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku

Ninja Museum of Igaryu: Thrilling Ninja Shows in an Authentic Setting

Step into a world of secrecy and stealth at this ninja house, filled with clever defensive tricks and traps. Rent a costume, try your hand at shuriken throwing, and watch yourself transform into a shadow warrior.

Ninja Museum of Igaryu

Takayama Festival: Timeless Beauty, Globally Honored

Held biannually in spring and autumn, the Takayama Festival is renowned as one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals. Witness ornate floats and processions of participants in exquisite traditional attire parading through the streets.

Takayama Festival

Kumano Kodo Iseji: Rare World Heritage Routes

This Edo-period pilgrimage route, with its preserved stone pathways, offers a mystical hiking experience through diverse landscapes. It's one of the few pilgrimage routes recognized as a World Heritage site.

Kumano Kodo Iseji

Hirugami Onsen: Soak Under Japan's Best Night Sky

Hirugami Onsen, with its nostalgic charm, is dotted with riverside inns and hotels. Popular activities include the Tenku no Rakuen (Paradise in the Sky) Night Tour, and don’t miss the bustling morning market held daily.

Hirugami Onsen