Gifu Castle is a renowned historical site associated with the legendary warlord Oda Nobunaga. It offers visitors the rare opportunity to enjoy both rich history and breathtaking views. From the mountaintop, you can take in a panoramic vista of the Nagara River and Gifu City. The castle is easily accessible via ropeway, making it an ideal destination even for those with limited time.
This guide provides all the essential information you’ll need before your visit, including how to get there, suggested itineraries, and seasonal highlights.
Contents
How to Get to Gifu Castle
By Train
From Tokyo Station
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approx. 1 hour 40 minutes).
Transfer to the JR Tokaido Main Line and ride to Gifu Station (approx. 20 minutes).
From Gifu Station, take a Gifu Bus on either the “N Line” or the “City Loop Line (Left Route)” and get off at the “Gifu Park / Gifu Castle” stop (approx. 15 minutes).
From the bus stop, walk about 3 minutes to the Mt. Kinka Ropeway base station.
Take the ropeway to the mountaintop station (approx. 4 minutes), then walk about 8 minutes to reach Gifu Castle.
From Shin-Osaka Station
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approx. 50 minutes).
Transfer to the JR Tokaido Main Line and ride to Gifu Station (approx. 20 minutes).
From Gifu Station, take a Gifu Bus on either the “N Line” or the “City Loop Line (Left Route)” and get off at the “Gifu Park / Gifu Castle” stop (approx. 15 minutes).
From the bus stop, walk about 3 minutes to the Mt. Kinka Ropeway base station.
Take the ropeway to the mountaintop station (approx. 4 minutes), then walk about 8 minutes to reach Gifu Castle.
From Nagoya Station
Take the JR Tokaido Main Line to Gifu Station (approx. 20 minutes).
From Gifu Station, take a Gifu Bus on either the “N Line” or the “City Loop Line (Left Route)” and get off at the “Gifu Park / Gifu Castle” stop (approx. 15 minutes).
From the bus stop, walk about 3 minutes to the Mt. Kinka Ropeway base station.
Take the ropeway to the mountaintop station (approx. 4 minutes), then walk about 8 minutes to reach Gifu Castle.
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
Recommended Itineraries
Half-day tour of classic sights
09:00 – Gifu Park
09:30 – Mt. Kinka Ropeway
10:00 – Gifu Castle
11:00 – Mt. Kinka Observatory
12:30 – Kawaramachi
Top Attractions and Things to Do
Japan-China Friendship Garden
A Chinese-style garden offering tranquil scenery that changes with the seasons.
Inaba Shrine
One of Gifu’s most prominent shrines, known for blessings related to warding off misfortune and bringing good luck.
Nawa Insect Museum
The oldest insect museum in Japan.
Nagaragawa Ukai Museum
A facility where you can explore the traditional culture of cormorant fishing.
Shobo-ji Temple and Great Buddha of Gifu
Home to one of Japan’s largest seated wooden Buddha statues.
Best Local Foods to Try
Gifu Castle is surrounded by an array of local delicacies unique to the area. You can enjoy Gifu’s culinary culture in the atmospheric castle town setting.
Nobunaga Dote Don – A rice bowl topped with beef tendon and pork offal simmered in rich Gifu miso.Hida Beef Yakiniku Bento – A premium grilled meat bento featuring A5-grade Hida beef.Chilled Tanuki Soba – Cold soba noodles topped with crispy tempura bits and sweet-savory fried tofu.Hida Beef Croquette – Crispy croquettes packed with the flavor of juicy Hida beef.
Where to Stay
Hotels near Nagaragawa Onsen and within walking distance of Gifu Station offer excellent access to local attractions like Gifu Castle and Kawaramachi. Ideal for smooth sightseeing and transit.
Luxury
Juhachiro Hanare Yado Ito – About 15 minutes by car from Gifu StationUsho no Ie Sugiyama – About 15 minutes by car from Gifu StationNagaragawa Onsen Gifu Grand Hotel – About 15 minutes by car from Gifu Station
Mid-Range
Miyako Hotel Gifu Nagaragawa – About 10 minutes by car from Gifu StationNagaragawa Onsen Hotel Park – About 15 minutes by car from Gifu StationDaiwa Roynet Hotel Gifu – About 7 minutes’ walk from JR Gifu Station
Budget
Comfort Hotel Gifu – About 2 minutes’ walk from JR Gifu StationHotel Resol Gifu – About 5 minutes’ walk from JR Gifu StationHotel Endea Gifu – About 5 minutes’ walk from Meitetsu Gifu Station
FAQ
How long does it take to tour Gifu Castle?
Including the ropeway round trip, plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Touring the castle interior takes around 30 minutes.
Does the ropeway operate in the rain?
It runs as usual except in severe weather. On rainy days, visitors can enjoy the museum exhibits instead of the views.
Is it possible to hike up to Gifu Castle?
Yes. There are trails suitable for experienced hikers, taking about 2 hours round trip. Recommended for those who enjoy hiking.
Do I need a reservation to visit Gifu Castle?
No reservations are required for the ropeway or castle admission. You can visit on the same day.
What is a recommended sightseeing route for Gifu Castle?
A popular route includes: Gifu Park → Ropeway → Castle Tower → Gifu Castle Museum → Squirrel Village → Park surroundings.
Can I view the night scenery from Gifu Castle?
Yes. During summer and on special dates, night view operations offer spectacular evening panoramas.
Are there dining options near Gifu Castle?
Many restaurants serving local cuisine can be found around Gifu Park and Kawaramachi.
Conclusion
Gifu Castle is a rare tourist destination where you can experience both history and stunning views in one visit.
Start planning your journey now with Gifu Castle as your central destination.
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