Gifu Prefecture is best known for the World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go and the historic "Samurai Road" winding through Magome-juku. Yet beyond these icons lies a treasure trove of outdoor adventures set against pristine streams, deep gorges, serene lakes, and countryside satoyama landscapes. Just a short trip from Nagoya, Gifu is the ideal summer escape to soak in grand nature while staying cool by the water and beneath lush forest canopies.
This time, the author visited and covered top outdoor spots recommended by Gifu locals. Based on firsthand experiences, we introduce stream climbing in Gero City, Tsukechi Gorge, SUP at Agigawa Dam, and the zipline at Gifu Seiryu Satoyama Park. We also highlight must-try Gifu gourmet foods for your trip, alongside recommended accommodations to serve as a base for sightseeing in Nakatsugawa.
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Not Just Shirakawa-go or the Samurai Road! Why Gifu Prefecture Is Perfect for Outdoor Travel
When it comes to sightseeing in Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go and the "Samurai Road" through Magome-juku are world-famous. However, the prefecture is also home to vast forests, crystal-clear streams, waterfalls, and highlands, making it perfect for a summer outdoor trip.
Abundant outdoor spots enveloped by nature, featuring starry skies and "Japan's Town with the Most Waterfalls.
Covering a forest area of about 861,000 hectares, Gifu Prefecture ranks fifth largest in Japan for forest coverage. The prefecture is dotted with nature-rich outdoor spots. Maze in Gero City is known as a "village where clear streams and forests are in harmony," with the Maze River, famous for ayu (sweetfish) fishing, flowing through the area.
The Fujimidai Highlands in Nakatsugawa City are located on the opposite side of the mountains from Achi Village in Nagano Prefecture, which is famous for "Japan's best starry sky." Because of this, it is also celebrated as a place where you can enjoy "another best starry sky in Japan."
From outdoor activities to romantic starry skies, Gifu is a highly recommended getaway for couples too.
Direct Access from Nagoya via Limited Express "Hida"! Convenient Transportation
If you take the Limited Express "Hida" from Nagoya Station, it takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Gero Station, the gateway to your trip. From there, you can travel by rental car or bus. It is easy to combine with city sightseeing in places like Nagoya, Kyoto, or Osaka, and is highly recommended for those who want to experience Japan's nature a little further off the beaten path.
4 Recommended Outdoor Spots in Gifu Prefecture! Try Stream Climbing, SUP, and Ziplining
Here are recommended outdoor spots where you can fully enjoy Gifu Prefecture's abundant nature, including clear streams, valleys, lakes, and forests.
Stream Climbing | Experience Gero/Maze, Where Beautiful Clear Streams and Forests Are in Harmony
Maze in Gero City is a dream destination for ayu (sweetfish) fishing fans, renowned as a village of forests and clear streams with the Maze River running through it. One of the most popular activities here is "stream climbing," where you walk along the stream and climb over rocks.
Wearing a wetsuit and helmet, you plunge into the clear stream with a guide. At first, the water feels chilly, but once you are submerged up to your shoulders, the coldness becomes pleasantly refreshing.
You’ll continue to enjoy experiences that make you feel at one with nature, such as climbing upstream while being splashed by waterfalls or jumping into waterfall basins.
Along the way, there are also thrilling moments such as climbing cliffs and navigating between rocks. You may worry, "Can I really climb this impressive rock wall?" But you can rest assured, as the guide will select routes and support you according to your physical strength. Even the writer, who is not confident in their fitness, made it all the way to the end.
At the end of the course awaits a powerful 21-meter-high waterfall. As you float in the waterfall basin, the gentle rustling of the surrounding trees makes you feel as if time has stopped. Don’t forget to take a group photo while floating together holding hands! If you visit as a couple, it will surely deepen your bond.
The required time is about 3 hours. Participants must be at least 120 cm tall and weight under 110 kg. Elementary school children must be accompanied by an adult.
👉Details and reservations:https://www.mt-life-hida.com/en
Tsukechi Gorge | Explore the Crystal-Clear Streams and Waterfalls of "Tsukechi Blue"
Located in Nakatsugawa City, Tsukechi Gorge is one of the most scenic spots in the prefecture and has been selected as one of the “Top 100 Forest Bathing Forests in Japan.” In spring, you can enjoy fresh greenery; in summer, cool valleys and camping; and in autumn, colorful foliage—each season offering a unique side of nature.
The Tsukechi River is so clear that it is also known as the “Blue River.” Sparkling emerald green in the sunlight, the water is called “Tsukechi Blue” and is so beautiful you’ll feel instantly drawn to it.
At Fudo Park in Tsukechi Gorge, you can stroll along a walking trail that takes about an hour to complete, allowing you to view the streams and waterfalls up close. Step into the forest where sunlight filters through the canopy, and all you'll hear are the sounds of rustling leaves and water slipping between rocks. It’s a place where you’ll simply want to pause and take a deep breath.
The main highlight is Fudo Waterfall. The dynamic waterfall cascades down dark rocks, creating a vivid contrast with the emerald-green basin below. While you feel the power of the rushing water, the view brings a quiet sense of peace to your heart.
After your walk, take a break at the entrance with chilled tomatoes, cucumbers, or ramune soda. The cool taste of summer treats after a stroll through nature is truly special.
SUP | Detox on the Water at Agigawa Dam
At Agigawa Dam, surrounded by the rich scenery of the Kiso River basin, you can enjoy SUP and canoeing on the spacious lake. This time, I tried SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) for the first time, standing on the board and paddling across the water.
After applying sunscreen and receiving instructions on how to hold the paddle and mount the board, it was time to head out onto the lake. At first, every wobble makes your body tense up, and standing up feels a bit scary. However, as you get the hang of balancing your weight, you'll gradually be able to move forward and enjoy the refreshing sensation of strolling across the water.
Compared to the sea, the dam lake has gentle waves and a calm water surface, making it easy for beginners to try SUP. There are several spots around the lake where you can return to shore, which is reassuring, and with the support of a guide, I was able to enjoy the experience at my own pace.
If you stop paddling, all you can hear are distant bird calls and the faint sound of the water. While gazing at the mountains stretching out before you, you can leisurely experience the richness of Japan's nature right from the water.
👉Details and reservations: https://forty-six.jp/
Zipline | A Thrilling Ride Through Satoyama
"Gifu Seiryu Satoyama Park" in Minokamo City is a hands-on park where you can experience traditional Japanese satoyama scenery and lifestyle. There are various activities in the park, but the highlight is the zipline, which is one of the longest in the Chukyo area at 333 meters in length.
The zipline is an activity where you slide down a wire rope high above the ground using a pulley. After gearing up and receiving instructions from the staff, you head to the starting point, which is as high as a three-story building. Looking down, you realize it's even higher than imagined, and you can hear your own heartbeat from the tension right before launch.
As you step off at the signal, your body surges forward. At first, all you can do is shout, but gradually you start taking in the scenery around you and enjoying the wind rushing past. With plenty of time on the ride, you can not only enjoy the thrill but also take in the satoyama landscape from the air—a unique perk of this 333-meter course. Since there are two side-by-side lanes, couples should definitely try it together!
To fully enjoy your adventures in nature, choose accommodation that offers easy access to local spots and lets you fully relax and unwind.
Enjoy the Warmth of Wood and a Local Breakfast at "Oyado Onn Nakatsugawa"
Located along the historic Nakasendo Road, "Oyado Onn Nakatsugawa" is a convenient hotel for exploring outdoor spots and sightseeing destinations around Nakatsugawa.
The interior features warm wooden accents throughout, and each guest room is decorated with unique cypress artwork.
For breakfast, an authentic Japanese buffet is served. You can enjoy a variety of local Nakatsugawa dishes, such as oden and tomato tofu, served in small portions. Feel free to pick whatever catches your interest and savor the rich flavors of the region.
👉 Book here
Head Out on an Outdoor Adventure to Fully Experience Gifu’s Nature!
Gifu Prefecture, famous for Shirakawa-go and the Samurai Road, is also home to many outdoor spots set among clear streams, valleys, lakes, and rural landscapes. After enjoying activities like stream climbing, SUP, and ziplining, you can relax at a café near Tsukechi Gorge, savor local cuisine in Gero, and unwind at "Oyado Onn Nakatsugawa." With easy access from Nagoya, why not take an active trip to Gifu Prefecture for a truly unique Japanese travel experience?
"Gifu is So Much Fun!" Outdoor Tourism Campaign
Gifu Prefecture is running the “Gifu is Too Much Fun!” Outdoor Tourism Campaign. In addition to activities set in the great outdoors across the prefecture, the special website is packed with information on hot springs, gourmet food, and money-saving coupons. Be sure to check out the site and start planning your trip to Gifu!
- Campaign Period: September 1, 2026 (Tue) – February 28, 2027 (Sun)
- Special Website: https://www.kankou-gifu.jp/gifuoutdoor-cp/
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