
Winter Wonderland Destinations in Gifu, Gifu, Japan
1. Gero Onsen
Experience traditional hot springs surrounded by snow-covered landscape.
- Thermal Spa: Relax and rejuvenate in the warm waters of Japan's oldest open-air onsen.
- Historical Atmosphere: Enjoy the tranquil ambiance of an onsen that has been welcoming visitors for over 1,300 years.
- Scenic Beauty: Bask in the breathtaking winter wonderland views while soaking in the onsen.
2. Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine
Visit a picturesque shrine adorned with thousands of ice sculptures.
- Ice Festival: Marvel at the intricate and beautiful ice sculptures created by master craftsmen.
- Historical Significance: Pay respects to Emperor Go-Toba at this ancient shrine, dating back to the 12th century.
- Winter Ambiance: Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of a winter wonderland shrine.
3. Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen-koen)
Observe wild snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs.
- Wildlife Experience: Encounter these unique creatures up close and enjoy their playful antics.
- Scenic Beauty: Explore the stunning winter landscapes, made even more enchanting with the presence of snow monkeys.
- Hot Spring Observation: Witness these special moments as the snow monkeys relax and bathe in the hot springs.
4. Gujo-Hachiman Castle
Discover the beauty of Japan's largest snow lantern festival.
- Snow Lantern Festival: Be amazed by thousands of glowing snow lanterns illuminating the castle grounds.
- Historical Castle: Walk through the halls of this ancient castle, dating back to the 16th century.
- Community Event: Experience a unique cultural event that brings together locals and visitors alike.
5. Midoro-no-taki Waterfall
Admire the stunning turquoise waterfall blanketed in snow.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking sight of a waterfall with emerald-green waters.
- Winter Wonderland: Enjoy the enchanting atmosphere as snowflakes dance around you.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photographs of this picturesque waterfall, especially under a blanket of snow.
6. Takayama Festival Floats (Yatai-bune)
Experience the grandeur of these ornate festival floats in a snowy setting.
- Festival Floats: Admire the beautiful and intricate details on these historic festival floats.
- Winter Atmosphere: Enjoy the tranquil winter wonderland as you explore these floats.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about local history and traditions associated with these festival floats.
7. Hida-Takayama Snow Festival (Snow Mikuriyaki)
Participate in a unique snow mikuriyaki (snow melted over hot stones) experience.
- Unique Experience: Enjoy the warm, delicious taste of melted snow cooked over hot stones.
- Winter Atmosphere: Experience the joy of this traditional event set against a winter wonderland backdrop.
- Cultural Experience: Participate in a cultural activity that has been practiced for centuries by local residents.
8. Owari Hachiman Shrine
Witness a beautiful snow-covered shrine illuminated by hundreds of lanterns.
- Illumination Festival: Be enchanted by the thousands of lanterns lighting up the snowy landscape.
- Historical Significance: Visit a shrine with a rich history dating back to the 8th century.
- Spiritual Experience: Reflect and find peace in the tranquil winter wonderland atmosphere.
9. Kakusenkei Gorge
Stroll through a beautiful snow-covered gorge, surrounded by tall cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the stunning vistas of this winter wonderland landscape.
- Winter Atmosphere: Enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by the enchanting beauty of snow-covered cliffs and waterfalls.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture breathtaking photographs of this winter wonderland wonder.
10. Hida-Furukawa Ice Festival
Admire the stunning ice sculptures created by master craftsmen.
- Ice Sculpture Festival: Be amazed by the intricate and beautiful ice sculptures on display.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about local history and traditions as you explore the festival.
- Winter Wonderland Atmosphere: Experience the magic of a winter wonderland festival.
11. Gero Bessho-no-Yu Onsen
Relax and unwind in a luxurious hot spring resort with breathtaking winter views.
- Luxury Spa Experience: Indulge in a spa experience that will rejuvenate your body and soul.
- Scenic Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking winter views as you soak in the hot springs.
- Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Leave your worries behind and find peace in this tranquil winter wonderland setting.
12. Kagami-Ike Pond
Visit a stunning frozen lake surrounded by beautiful snowy mountains.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking sight of a frozen lake nestled in the snowy mountains.
- Winter Atmosphere: Experience the peace and tranquility of this winter wonderland location.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photographs of this beautiful frozen lake and surrounding mountains.
13. Kanazawa Bunko Art Museum
Explore a museum dedicated to the arts, showcasing beautiful winter-themed exhibitions.
- Art and Culture: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese art and culture.
- Winter-Themed Exhibitions: Discover exhibits that celebrate the magic of winter.
- Historical Building: Explore a beautiful historical building, designed in the traditional Japanese architecture style.
14. Gero Onsen Owakudani
Enjoy a scenic walk through a volcanic valley covered in snow.
- Scenic Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking winter wonderland landscapes.
- Volcanic Atmosphere: Explore a valley with active hot springs and volcanic fumaroles.
- Hiking Opportunities: Take a leisurely walk or enjoy more challenging hikes through the snowy landscape.
15. Shirakawa-go
Visit a picturesque village with traditional farmhouses covered in snow.
- Traditional Architecture: Marvel at the beautiful and unique architecture of the gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
- Winter Wonderland Atmosphere: Experience the enchanting beauty of a snowy village.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about local history and traditions as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.