Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Nagara River Cormorant Fishing is a demonstration of the traditional fishing method, "Ukai," held every spring and autumn on the Nagara River that flows through Gifu City. Cormorant fishermen use cormorants to swim around the river's surface at night, catching fish that gather around the lit bonfires (bonfires on the cormorant fishing boats). Cormorant fishing on the Nagara River has a history of approximately 1,300 years, and the techniques and fishing methods of the cormorant fishermen have been passed down from generation to generation. The spectacle of the bonfires lit on the river at night, the fishing activities, the traditional costumes, and the synchronized movements of the cormorant fishermen and their cormorants is very emotional and attracts many tourists from both Japan and abroad.
Highlights
- The synchronized movements of the cormorants and the skillful boat handling techniques of the fisherman are a must-see. The cormorants catch fish, and the fisherman guides them back to the boat.
– The bonfires flickering on the Nagara River at night and the traditional costumes of the cormorant fishermen create a picturesque scene.
- The boat-maneuvering techniques and calls of the cormorant fishing boats, and the trust between the fishermen and the cormorants. Seeing it up close is both impressive and tense.
– There are different viewpoints to view from a boat (sightseeing boat), the riverbank, or the opposite bank. It is also suitable for taking photos of the illuminated area and reflections on the water surface (flash photography is prohibited in principle).
- You can enjoy sightseeing plans that combine the tour with the surrounding night view (such as the illuminated Gifu Castle).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
– Train + walking:
– From JR Gifu Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station, take a bus or walk (about 20-30 minutes) to the Nagara River area. Gifu Park and the area around the Nagara River are the best viewing spots.
- Bus:
– Take the Gifu Bus and get off at Nagarabashi or Gifu Park History Museum. There is an information desk and ticket counter near the cormorant fishing viewing boat dock.
– Car:
- Approximately 30 to 50 minutes from the Meishin Expressway "Gifu Hashima IC" or the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway "Gifu Kakamigahara IC" (depending on traffic conditions). On viewing days, surrounding roads and parking lots will be congested, so it is recommended to use public transportation.
– Viewing location:
- You can view the festival from sightseeing boats (reservations are often required), viewing seats on the riverbank (both free and paid seats available), or from restaurants and hotels along the coast.
- Advance confirmation:
– The event period and start time vary from year to year, so please check the Gifu City Tourism Association or the Nagaragawa Cormorant Fishing official website for the latest information and ticket information before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing of cormorant fishing only: Viewing time is usually about 45 minutes to 1 hour (both on board and from the shore). Including round-trip travel, the total time is estimated to be about 2 hours.
- Combining viewing with meals (such as cormorant fisherman's cuisine) and sightseeing in the surrounding area (Gifu Castle, Gifu Park): Half a day to a full day.
- Schedule with ample time: Considering the crowds on the day and travel time, it's a good idea to plan for 3-4 hours with ample time.
Nearby spots
- Gifu Castle (Inabayama Castle) / Kinkazan Ropeway: A symbol of Gifu City. The scenery is different during the day and at night, so we recommend climbing during the day and returning in the evening.
– Gifu Park and Nagara River riverbed: An area perfect for strolling and resting.
– Nagaragawa Onsen and accommodation: Convenient for staying overnight and relaxing after viewing the sights.
– Restaurants and riverside restaurants around the Nagara River: You can enjoy local cuisine while watching the cormorant fishing.
– Kawaramachi (Old Town): A strolling area where you can enjoy souvenir shops, cafes, and traditional craft experiences.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Advance reservations: The number of seats on the sightseeing boats is limited and they fill up quickly on weekends and during the summer (Obon), so we strongly recommend making a reservation in advance. Check your tickets at the official ticket office or a travel agency.
- Check the event period and time: The event may be canceled or changed depending on the season and weather (flooding, lightning, strong winds). Please check the official information immediately beforehand.
- Manners: Cormorant fishing is a traditional event, so please be considerate of the cormorants and the cormorant fishermen. Please refrain from using flash photography or shouting, and follow the instructions of the staff. Do not touch the cormorants or the boats.
- Photography: It may be difficult to take photos at night due to the low light levels. The use of tripods and flashlights is often prohibited or restricted, so please follow local rules.
- Insect protection and clothing: It can feel cool at night along the river, even in summer, so it's convenient to bring a light jacket. It's also a good idea to bring insect repellent.
- Barrier-free access: There are many steps along the riverbank and at the dock, so viewing with a wheelchair or stroller may be restricted. Please inquire in advance.
- Traffic congestion: After the viewing, traffic will be heavy on the way back. Please check public transport schedules and whether there are shuttle buses, and plan accordingly.
lastly
Nagara River Cormorant Fishing is a valuable tourist attraction that allows you to experience firsthand the traditional scenery of the cormorants floating on the river at night. Please check the event information and make reservations in advance, and enjoy a tasteful evening while observing good manners.
