Our 15 Favorite Gifu Tours & Experiences

Gifu is a treasure trove for travelers seeking authentic, hands-on experiences and a chance to see Japan beyond the typical tourist spots. Whether you’re pedaling through rice paddies, learning the secrets of samurai swordsmiths, or exploring centuries-old castles, Gifu offers a rich variety of activities that bring you closer to local culture and craftsmanship. We particularly love the Private Afternoon Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa for its relaxed pace and personal touch, and the Create Your Own Pocket Knife in Miracle Kitchen Knife Factory for a hands-on dive into traditional Japanese cutlery.

For travelers who want to combine historical exploration with culture, Gifu delivers options like castle visits, samurai experiences, and local food tours. With a focus on authentic, well-reviewed activities, you’re guaranteed memorable moments whether you have a few hours or a full day to explore.

1. Private Afternoon Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa

At number 1 on our list, this private cycling tour offers an immersive look into the rural areas most visitors don’t see. Pedal at a relaxed pace through Hida-Furukawa, past traditional farming villages, rice fields, and historic streets. The tour is limited to just eight people, ensuring plenty of time for personal interaction and tailored insights into the area’s culture and history. Your guide will share local stories as you soak up the scenery, making it perfect for those who want a peaceful, authentic experience.

Expect about 3.5 hours of gentle riding, ideal for most fitness levels, and the chance to explore away from crowded tourist spots. This tour is highly rated (5.0/5 from 109 reviews), with many praising its friendly guides and relaxed pacing. The cost is around $214.48 per person, offering excellent value for such a personalized experience.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those wanting a calm, intimate introduction to the Japanese countryside with local insights and scenic views.

2. Experience the Soul of the Sword-smith : Samurai Spirit in Seki

Number 2 takes you into Seki, Japan’s renowned cutlery and sword-making capital. This 5-hour tour combines visits to the Seki Blacksmithing Tradition Museum, the Gifu Cutlery Hall, and a traditional tea house, giving you a comprehensive look at Seki’s craftsmanship heritage. You’ll meet master blacksmiths and learn about the centuries-old tradition of samurai sword-making—a craft that still influences modern cutlery.

What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to train with a qualified master in Iaido, a martial art focusing on sword handling. Guests often comment on the deep connection between Seki’s swordsmiths and Japan’s samurai culture. For about $260 per person, this is a rich, hands-on exploration suited for history and craft lovers alike.

Bottom Line: If you want a deep dive into swordsmithing heritage combined with practical skills, this tour offers a truly memorable day.

3. Create Your Own Pocket Knife in Miracle Kitchen Knife Factory

Number 3 offers a 5.5-hour experience that combines modern knife-making technology with a unique hands-on activity. Tour the Fukuda Cutlery Factory in Seki City, where you’ll see cutting-edge equipment used to craft ultra-hard alloy knives—some of the most advanced in the world. Under expert guidance, you’ll make your own custom pocket knife from special steel, which is as hard as diamond and not available anywhere else.

Afterward, enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local restaurant, then visit the Seki Blacksmithing Tradition Museum for more cultural context. This tour is perfect for those interested in knife craftsmanship and craftsmanship innovation, costing around $177 per person. Guests love the opportunity to create a lasting souvenir that represents Japan’s cutting-edge blade technology.

Bottom Line: A fascinating choice for those who want a hands-on craft experience combined with cultural learning and excellent value.

4. Private Samurai Tour: Discover Inuyama and Gifu Historic Heritage

Number 4 is a 5-hour guided journey into samurai culture and historic sites, beginning with a samurai experience at Inuyama Budo-kan. Here, you’ll don traditional attire and learn sword skills from a qualified instructor. Then, explore the famous Inuyama Castle, one of Japan’s original wooden castles and a National Treasure, offering panoramic views of the city and river.

The tour continues through Inuyama Jokamachi, the old town lined with traditional houses, perfect for wandering and lunch. The blend of culture and historic sightseeing** makes this tour stand out. Priced at about $196 per person, it’s ideal for history enthusiasts and those eager for an active, educational experience. One reviewer said, “The katana training was a such a fun and unique way to explore Japanese culture.”

Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those wishing to experience samurai traditions firsthand.

5. Gifu: Yōrō’s Unforgettable Walkable Artwork

This 1.5 to 2.5-hour tour takes you through the Yōrō Site of Reversible Destiny, a large outdoor artwork designed by Arakawa Shūsaku and Madeline Gins. It challenges your perception with disorienting pathways, ramps, and sculptures that encourage physical engagement and sensory exploration.

This experience is great for art lovers and those interested in multisensory environments. The tour can be tailored to about 1.5 hours or extended to 2.5 hours from Ōgaki Station. It’s priced affordably at $57 per person, offering a different kind of cultural insight—one that engages your mind and body.

Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers wanting a unique, interactive art experience that plays with perception.

6. Gifu: Shirakawa-go Tour with a Private Guide

Number 6 is a flexible half-day tour exploring the iconic gassho-zukuri houses of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The private guide ensures you see the hidden details of traditional architecture and learn about local life. You can choose durations from 2 to 4 hours, making it perfect for tight schedules.

Guests love the personalized approach and the chance to discover the village’s authentic charm away from bus crowds. The tour price, about $151, reflects the private service and deep focus on local culture. It’s best suited for travelers who want a focused, intimate look at rural Japan.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a personalized visit to a scenic, cultural site.

7. Gifu: Samurai Legends at Ogaki Castle and History Museum

Number 7 is a 2 to 2.5-hour tour exploring Ogaki Castle and the local history museum. It offers insights into samurai history and the Toda clan’s governance of the region for over 200 years. The tour includes a walk through the historic town and a look at artifacts that illustrate the samurai spirit.

A highlight is visiting the castle, which played a strategic role during the Battle of Sekigahara. Costing around $71 per person, it is a great pick for history enthusiasts looking for a concise, educational experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in feudal Japan and regional history.

8. Gifu: Experience Ogaki’s Hidden Izakaya and Nightlife

Number 8 offers a 2-hour guided bar-hopping experience, exploring Ogaki’s local nightlife. You’ll sample ¥3,000 worth of food and drinks at two authentic establishments, learning about local culinary traditions and culture along the way.

This tour is ideal for night owls or those keen to see local social life beyond temples and castles. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy authentic Japanese pub culture with a knowledgeable guide.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a casual, immersive night out with a cultural twist.

9. Gifu: Castle, Great Buddha, and Old Town 3.5-Hr Private Tour

Number 9 is an immersive private tour combining visits to Gifu Castle, the Great Buddha at Shohji Temple, and the charming Kawaramachi old town. It’s a compact 3.5 hours, with seamless transport, making it suitable for travelers with limited time.

Expect a mix of panoramic views, cultural sites, and local shopping. The tour costs roughly $188 per person, and reviewers praise its balanced itinerary and well-paced sightseeing.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a rundown of Gifu’s highlights in a short time.

10. Gifu: Calligraphy Workshop with Japanese Masu Box

Number 10 offers a creative calligraphy workshop where you learn about kanji characters and create your own miniature wooden box. The experience combines art and craftsmanship, lasting roughly 2 hours.

Participants enjoy using authentic tools and taking home a personalized souvenir. It’s perfect for arts and crafts lovers or those interested in Japanese culture. The price is about $121, making it a meaningful, affordable cultural activity.

Bottom Line: Suitable for anyone wanting a hands-on cultural craft with a memorable takeaway.

11. Explore Traditional and Modern Blade Techniques Tour

Number 11 is a full day, 5.5-hour exploration of Seki’s blade craftsmanship, visiting the Seki Blacksmithing Tradition Museum and the KISEKI factory. You’ll see 700 years of swordsmithing and even make a pocket knife with top-grade steel.

This tour is ideal for blade enthusiasts and those fascinated by the evolution of Japanese cutlery, with a focus on traditional and modern techniques. It costs about $352.71 but offers an in-depth look at craftsmanship and technology.

Bottom Line: Great for serious fans of cutlery innovation and craftsmanship looking for a comprehensive experience.

12. Cooking Class: Onigiri Making Class with Tasting

Number 12 is a 2.5-hour hands-on class focused on making onigiri, Japanese rice balls. You’ll learn about their cultural significance, customize fillings, and enjoy tasting your own creations. It’s a perfect activity for food lovers wanting an authentic, participatory experience.

While the price isn’t specified, it’s an engaging way to connect with Japanese culinary traditions in a relaxed setting. It’s especially suitable for families or solo travelers interested in food culture.

Bottom Line: For a fun, interactive cooking lesson that leaves you with unforgettable homemade onigiri.

13. Gero: Hot Spring Town Walk and Japanese Onsen Culture

This 2-hour walking tour introduces you to Gero Onsen, famed for its waters and legendary White Heron. You’ll visit the Gero Hot Spring Museum, learn about hot spring science, and stroll at Onsenji Temple.

It’s suitable for those interested in relaxation and local traditions without the need for bathing. The tour starts in front of the Lawson store, providing easy access and a relaxed pace. Ideal for cultural enthusiasts.

Bottom Line: Best for visitors who want a cultural overview of hot springs and their significance in Japanese society.

14. Gifu: Hands-on Japanese Cooking Class with Master Chef

Number 14 features a 3.5-hour class with Chef Shuji Ozeki, where you’ll prepare dishes like dashi, soup, and rice dishes. Using traditional techniques, you’ll gain skills to recreate authentic Japanese cuisine at home.

The class is perfect for foodies seeking a deep culinary immersion and take-home recipes. The experience is best suited for those comfortable with hands-on cooking and wanting to learn from a master chef.

Bottom Line: Ideal for serious cooks or those eager to master Japanese home cooking.

15. Gifu: Sekigahara and Ogaki Guided Tour by Train & Walk

Rounding out the list, this 7-hour tour combines visits to Ogaki Castle, Sekigahara Battlefield, and historic towns. It includes a scenic train ride between Ogaki and Sekigahara, making it a full-day exploration perfect for history buffs.

You’ll learn about the Battle of Sekigahara and see artifacts at the Sekigahara History Museum. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive historical tour with transport included.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in military history and a full-day adventure.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Gifu

When deciding which Gifu experience suits you best, consider your interests, budget, and time. For a relaxed, scenic day, the Private Afternoon Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa offers tranquility and local insights. If you’re passionate about craftsmanship and history, the Experience the Soul of the Sword-smith or Explore Blade Techniques will satisfy your curiosity.

For those eager for interactive cultural activities, the Calligraphy Workshop and Onigiri Making Class provide memorable hands-on experiences. Travelers pressed for time or seeking a rundown might prefer private castle and city tours, like the Gifu Castle & Great Buddha.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities, and consider the level of physical activity involved—some tours involve walking, biking, or physical craft work.

Gifu’s tours span a spectrum from peaceful countryside cycling to intense sword-making, historic castle visits, and lively nightlife. Whether you’re looking for culture, historical insights, or just a fun hands-on activity, this list has a perfect match. Before you book, think about what excites you most—history, crafts, food, or scenery—and choose accordingly. Many of these experiences are limited in size or availability, so planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on the best Gifu has to offer.