Gifu & Ishikawa: Where, How & When to Go!
Gifu and Ishikawa Prefectures have so much to offer, and either region perfectly complements the more commonly visited Tokyo and Kyoto. Easily accessible via bullet train (Shinkansen), these unique prefectures make the perfect addition to a standard Golden Route itinerary for first-time visitors and seasoned Japan travelers alike.
Gifu: How to get there & when to go
Gifu prefecture is located in the heart of Japan, making it easily accessible from popular Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka— in fact it is in between the regions. From Tokyo it is a little over 2 hours by Shinkansen and local train while from Kyoto/Osaka it is a little over 1 hour by Shinkansen and local train. Known as the “Nature Capital of Japan,” something that makes Gifu special is that it is a destination you can visit any time of year depending on what kind of experience you are looking for! Spring brings outstanding cherry blossom viewing. Summer is a terrific time for a wide range of outdoor activities (think climbing volcano-created waterfalls!). Hike the ancient Nakasendo Highway in the Fall and take in the breathtaking views with autumnal colors to rival Vermont. Winter is a truly magical time in Gifu, when the snow covers the charming villages, making it feel as though you’ve stepped into a snow-globe.
Gifu: Top sights
There is no shortage of things to do in Gifu. The place is packed with off the beaten path, authentic experiences that take you deep into the great outdoors or allow you to become steeped in tradition. One of the main draws to the region is Shirikawa-go which actually combines both. It is a village easily recognized for its prayer-hand shaped rooftops surrounded by the Japanese Alps. To absorb rich history and culture you can also visit the city of Takayama whose traditional old town is still very much in tact. Enjoy the great outdoors by soaking in one of the world class Onsens in a hot springs town like Gero, or go hiking and skiing in the mountain ranges of Japan’s Northern Alps.
Ishikawa: How to get there & when to go
Ishikawa Prefecture is easily accessible in less than 2.5 hours by Shinkansen from Tokyo and JR limited express trains from Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya. Like Gifu, it is a destination for all seasons with each one allowing for its own unique experience. Spring brings a cherry blossom season that is on par with Kyoto’s. Ishikawa’s location on the coast location allows for you to add a beach component to your golden route trip during the Summer months. Come in the Fall to experience the Issaki Hoto Festival which is known for its 10-meter-tall lantern floats, and then take a scenic drive along the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road to view the landscape and the changing Autumn leaves. Their are plenty of Winter sports in the Japanese Alps, for those that enjoy skiing/snowboarding, or relax and take in the views of falling snow while soaking in a hot-spring bath outdoors.
Ishikawa: Top sights
Old meets new is the best way to describe the enchanting Ishikawa prefecture. It is the prefecture to visit if you want to experience everything Japan has to offer: contemporary design at the D.T. Suzuki museum, one of the best traditional gardens in all of Japan, Kenrokuen, or take in the dramatic seaside views at the Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces. Rest and relaxation also play a key part in full Ishikawa experience, that can best be found at Kaga Onsen, four villages that make up the prefecture’s largest cluster of hot springs.