Hida City Travel Guide: Things to do in Hida City, Gifu

A land of master artisans, historic villages, and unspoiled countryside

Hida City, situated in Gifu Prefecture in central Japan, lies amid the scenic mountains of the Chūbu region. With a history dating back to the Edo period, the city offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Today, Hida’s rich cultural heritage remains evident in its well-preserved temples and shrines, as well as its renowned woodwork and joinery craftsmanship, which continue to thrive as symbols of the region's enduring legacy from its Hida no takumi (master craftsmen).

Among its most picturesque areas is Hida Furukawa, a historic district known for its white-walled storehouses, scenic canals, and deep-rooted artisan traditions. The town is also home to the Furukawa Festival, a UNESCO-recognized celebration featuring intricately designed festival floats, dynamic taiko drum performances, and an electrifying nighttime parade.

Hida City is equally renowned for its natural wonders, including the nearby Japanese Alps, which offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring hot springs. The region’s rich culinary scene is another highlight, with Hida beef being one of Japan's most prized delicacies. From its unique activities to its serene countryside, Hida City provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience away from busy cities.

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Upcoming events

Culture
Fox Wedding Festival 2026
Late Sep
The unique Fox Wedding Festival (Kitsune-bi Matsuri) tells the revival of fairy-tale “Sunshower” and is held on the 4th Saturd..

Culture
Moving of the Seto Canal Carp 2026
Mid Oct
Hida embraces the arrival of winter by organizing an event to remove carp from the canal. The labor-intensive and—perhaps time..

Free Entry
Culture
Furukawa Festival 2026
Apr 19th - Apr 20th
The Furukawa Festival, or Furukawa Matsuri, is an annual event of Hida Furukawa’s Kata Wakamiya Shrine. During the two-day spe..

Free Entry

Where to eat in Hida City

Food
Ajidokoro Furukawa
Japan Travel
Ajidokoro Furukawa is a large machiya-style restaurant in the city center, located just over the road from Festival Square and its..

Food
Kaoru: Hida Beef Yakiniku
Japan Travel
Kaoru is an excellent spot to enjoy the exquisite flavor of Hida beef at reasonable prices. The restaurant is a short 15-minute..

Food
Fukuzenji Soba
Japan Travel
The Fukuzenji Soba restaurant serves authentic, handmade soba noodles made using buckwheat flour sourced from the local Hida Nagareha..