Gifu Prefecture in Japan is a treasure trove for anyone interested in authentic Japanese culture and history. Its well-preserved villages, ancient castles, and traditional crafts offer a vivid glimpse into Japan’s past. Among these, Shirakawa-go’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed houses stand out as a must-see for those eager to step back in time. We particularly love the Shirakawa-go Half day tour because it combines a manageable time commitment with an intimate look at one of Japan’s most iconic villages. For history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, these tours offer a satisfying blend of storytelling, scenery, and hands-on experiences.
If you’re planning your trip, you’ll find a variety of options in Gifu—from exploring the legendary samurai stronghold of Ogaki to cycling through the historic streets of Tajimi. Each offers a distinct perspective on the region’s cultural evolution. Below, we’ve selected the best historical tours based on their uniqueness, reviews, and the depth of experience they provide.
1. Shirakawa-go Half day tour (UNESCO World Heritage near Takayama)
Learn more about Japan’s traditional architecture and rural life on this small-group walking tour of Shirakawa-go. The UNESCO-listed village is famous for its thatched-roof Gassho-style houses, designed to withstand heavy snowfall. This tour is perfect for visitors wanting a personalized, in-depth experience—small groups and the chance to ask questions make all the difference.
The itinerary includes visits to the historic villages of Shirakawa-go, viewing the village panorama from a viewpoint, exploring the Nagase House with its traditional cultural displays, seeing the oldest shrine in the area, and walking through rice paddies to understand how residents sustain their livelihood. The tour lasts around 2–4 hours, making it ideal for a half-day adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach—your guide shares insights beyond what you’d find in a guidebook. Plus, private tours can be arranged for a more exclusive experience. Reviewers love how the guide’s explanations deepen their understanding of local traditions, with one calling it “a memorable experience with enchanting scenery.”
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for culture lovers who want a detailed, intimate look at Shirakawa-go’s distinctive architecture and lifestyle in a manageable timeframe.
2. Gifu: Samurai Legends at Ōgaki Castle and History Museum
At number 2, this two-hour guided tour offers a compelling dive into Japan’s samurai past through visits to Ōgaki Castle and the Ōgaki City Local History Museum. It’s a fantastic choice for those interested in feudal Japan and the battle of Sekigahara, which dramatically reshaped the nation’s power structure.
The tour begins at Ōgaki Castle, a site with strategic importance during the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. The castle played a key role as a Western Army stronghold, and visiting it offers a tangible link to this pivotal moment. The guide explains the castle’s military significance and the life of the samurai under the Toda clan, who ruled the area for over two centuries. The artifacts and restored structures bring the past to life, making it clear why this site remains a symbol of samurai strength.
Next, you’ll visit the Ōgaki City Folk Museum, which provides context on the city’s development from wartime to Edo stability. Exhibits include armor, weapons, and historical documents that help piece together regional history.
While there are no reviews yet, the tour’s focus on battle history and samurai culture makes it ideal for history buffs interested in Japan’s martial past.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a compact, educational experience that combines strategic military history with local cultural stories—great for fans of samurai lore and historic battles.
$73.93 per person
3. Cycling Tour at Tajimi Journey Through the History of Mino Ware
For those who prefer an active approach, the Cycling Tour at Tajimi offers 4.5 hours of exploring Mino ware pottery’s roots in the scenic streets of Tajimi. At around $295, it’s a more substantial investment, but it combines culture with physical activity—ideal for travelers who want to see more ground and learn about traditional crafts.
This tour features a visit to the Suigetsugama Kiln, established by Toyo Arakawa, a pioneer of Mino ware. You’ll witness the pottery-making process firsthand—from preparing clay to shaping and firing the pieces—done by artisans with generations of experience. This hands-on element gives a real appreciation for Japan’s ceramic heritage.
Plus, the tour includes a stop at Eihōji Temple, a National Treasure, with two treasured buildings. The visit to THE GROUND MINO also offers insights into local history and contemporary pottery. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic cycling through the charming streets of Tajimi, making it a great mix of culture, history, and exercise.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and want to combine history with outdoor activity. Its higher cost reflects the extensive craftsmanship involved, but it’s a rich and memorable way to understand Mino ware’s significance.
Bottom Line: If you’re into traditional crafts and outdoor exploration, this cycling tour combines history and hands-on art in a way that few other tours can match.
$295.70 per person
How to Choose Your Ideal Historical Tour in Gifu
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, time, and activity level. If you want a deep dive into traditional architecture and rural life, the Shirakawa-go Half day tour is a perfect fit. For history fans eager to explore samurai legends and battlefield stories, the Gifu: Samurai Legends at Ōgaki Castle and History Museum offers a compact, enriching experience. Meanwhile, active travelers interested in crafts and scenery should consider the Cycling Tour at Tajimi, which combines physical activity with cultural insights.
Think about your schedule, budget, and interests: a half-day tour provides a quick cultural fix, while a cycling experience offers a more immersive day. Booking early is recommended during peak seasons like spring cherry blossoms or autumn foliage, when scenery is at its best.
Final Thoughts
From the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go to the samurai history of Ōgaki, Gifu Prefecture offers a diverse array of historical tours that appeal to different types of travelers. For a personalized look at rural Japan, the Shirakawa-go tour hits all the right notes with its detailed storytelling. Fans of military history will find Ōgaki Castle’s tour both informative and engaging. And for those who want to combine physical activity with cultural exploration, the cycling tour at Tajimi is a standout.
No matter which tour fits your style, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these enriching experiences. Gifu’s history isn’t just in books—it’s everywhere, waiting to be explored.