Carefully Selected Famous Spots! 9 Recommended Tourist Attractions in Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture That You’ll Want to Visit

Kakamigahara City is a year‑round destination full of attractions. In spring, you’ll be soothed by cherry blossoms; in summer, enjoy vibrant festivals; in autumn, marvel at the foliage; and in winter, be enchanted by illuminations.

Here we’ve handpicked the top sightseeing spots in Kakamigahara City for whichever season you’re curious about.

1. Cherry Blossoms along the Shinsakaigawa Embankment

In spring, about 1,200 cherry trees bloom in profusion along the Shinsakaigawa River, known locally as the “Hyakujūro Cherry Blossoms.” These Yoshino cherries were planted by the kabuki actor Ichikawa Hyakujūro, a native of Kakamigahara, along the river’s flood channel.

While daytime viewing under the sun is beautiful, the nighttime illumination transforms the river reflections into a truly magical scene.

Drawing some 200,000 visitors each year, it’s the top cherry‑blossom spot in Gifu Prefecture and is included among Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Sites. Once you see it, you’ll understand why it’s Gifu’s number‑one spot!

2. Daianji River Firefly Festival

At early summer dusk, the roughly 1,000 m² biotope at Daianji River comes alive with the glow of Genji fireflies.

Peak viewing is in late June—though even in early June you may see them drifting close by. By late June, the upstream stretch of the Daianji River in Kakamigahara City is ablaze with firefly light, soothing every visitor.

3. Jōmon‑Era Immersion at the Robatake Archeological Site

The Robatake Site preserves a middle‑ to late‑Jōmon period settlement from about 5,000 years ago. Excavations uncovered numerous Jōmon pottery fragments, stone tools, and ten pit‑dwelling foundations—six of which have been reconstructed and are open to the public.

Step inside and you’ll find it pitch‑dark despite the daylight; the craftsmanship of ancient builders is immediately apparent.

As a Gifu‑designated historic site, it offers a hands‑on way to learn about Jōmon life and landscape.

4. Tejikarao Shrine for Victory Prayers

Tejikarao Shrine is famous for prayers of certain victory, drawing visitors from both inside and outside the prefecture. Legend holds that Oda Nobunaga prayed here before attacking Inabayama Castle (modern Gifu Castle). Within the grounds stand the “Matoba Cherry” and “Yumakake Cherry” trees linked to Nobunaga.

Beyond victory prayers, the shrine also hosts rites for warding off evil, Shichi‑Go‑San blessings, and Shinto weddings—even on weekends and holidays.

Don’t miss the main hall’s dramatic dragon carvings—two entwined dragons on the beam—registered as city cultural assets.

5. All‑Season Fun at “Manabi no Mori Promenade”

About 1 km east of JR Naka Station lies Manabi no Mori, an urban park whose Promenade is twinned with the ginkgo and metasequoia lined street of Chuncheon’s “Winter Sonata” filming site. Stretching roughly 300 m, it’s also called “Winter Sonata Street” and is beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Each year from late December to January’s end, a “White Illumination” inspired by Winter Sonata lights the promenade. In autumn, the avenue’s foliage is equally stunning.

In spring, enjoy a gentle stroll; in summer, revel in lush greenery. Manabi no Mori Promenade wears a different face every season—perfect for making memories with loved ones.

6. Naitō Memorial Pharmacy Museum

Founded by pharmaceutical maker Eisai, this museum houses about 50,000 artifacts and 55,000 books tracing the history of medicine that has supported human life.

Rotating special exhibitions showcase items not seen in the permanent displays.

Though a drug museum might sound daunting, nostalgic vintage packaging, retro signage, and packets hanging from the ceiling make it approachable and fun.

Outside, an herb garden cultivates some 600 medicinal plants. Curious minds—especially children—can easily spend a full day exploring.

7. River Environment Park “Oasis Park”

Oasis Park lies within the larger River Environment Park and is accessible from both the highway and local roads. Its landmark is a panoramic Ferris wheel overlooking Aqua Park.

You can explore the Kiso River upstream‑to‑downstream ecosystems in the water garden, learn about local nature at the Nature Discovery Center, or play on 14 different outdoor attractions at the Kakamigahara Outdoor Field.

When hunger strikes, enjoy freshly baked bread or Hida beef skewers on site. Seasonal events like barbecues also foster community interaction.

8. Hidden Night‑scape Spot at “Nihon Rhine Unuma no Mori”

Nihon Rhine Unuma no Mori is part of the Hida‑Kiso River Quasi‑National Park and adjoins Kakamigahara’s urban area, creating a natural oasis. By day, enjoy birdwatching and peaceful walks among lush greenery. It’s also nice to sit on a bench and leisurely read a book.

Also, near Unuma no Mori there are beautiful ponds, and the area is full of natural scenery. By night, it transforms into a famed panoramic night‑view point.

Two observatories—“Summit Observation Deck” and “Hometown View Hill”—offer romantic vistas ideal for a date under the stars.

9. Learn History at the Kiso River Cultural Museum

Successor to the Kawashima Furusato Museum, the Kiso River Cultural Museum showcases the history, culture, and daily life of the old Kawashima Town. A diorama reveals the district’s unique island‑like geography at a glance—spot yourself on the model for fun.

Exhibits include a real sailing boat and displays of river fishing and pebble‑gathering scenes, as well as textiles and sericulture in the “Kawashima Silk” section. Rotating photo and special exhibitions also draw photography enthusiasts.

◎Summary

Whether you love history, nature, or museums, Kakamigahara City offers attractions for every interest and every season.

From cherry blossoms and fireflies to Jōmon‑era dwellings and night views, it’s the perfect backdrop for making memories with friends, family, or that special someone—any time of year.

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