The 5 best secret experiences in the heart of Japan

From sake tasting in rowboats and traditional bonfire night fishing to surreal artist installation landscapes and ancient samurai sword making, these are Japan’s top 5 secret experiences.

Nestled in Japan’s vibrant core lies Gifu Prefecture, a realm where ancient traditions seamlessly merge with modern marvels.

From the timeless allure of Gifu Cormorant Fishing to the avant-garde wonder of the Site of Reversible Destiny, Gifu promises an exquisite mosaic of experiences.

Join us as we unveil the secrets of Tarui boat rides, partake in a serene sake tasting, witness the intricate craft of Japanese sword making at the Seki Knife Museum, and delve into the delicate art of washi paper making with master Masanori Senda.

A Millennia-Old Dance on the Nagara River

Our odyssey commences along the Nagara River, where the age-old tradition of Gifu Cormorant Fishing unfolds before our eyes.

As dusk descends, illuminated boats glide gracefully downstream, adorned with lanterns, and manned by skilled fishermen.

Cormorant fishing on the Nagara River has played a vital role in Gifu’s history for over 1,300 years. Picture: Nicholas Eagar

The first fish caught each year are sent to the royal family at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Picture: Nicholas Eagar

These custodians of tradition, or “usho,” guide trained cormorants to capture sweetfish, their bond with nature evident in every graceful movement.

Witnessing this mesmerising spectacle invokes a profound connection to Japan’s storied past, a timeless testament to cultural resilience.

A Tranquil Fusion of Craft and Flavor in Ogaki

In the historic enclave of Ogaki, travellers embark on a captivating voyage merging heritage with hedonism.

Initiate your journey by delving into the art of sake box making, a revered tradition spanning centuries.

Under the tutelage of seasoned artisans, intricate techniques of shaping and embellishing these vessels are unveiled, each a testament to Ogaki’s profound legacy.

Sake tasting and a Tauri boat ride is a humble indulgence. Picture: Nicholas Eagar

Following this enriching endeavour, relish the fruits of your labour with a sake tasting aboard a Tarui boat ride along the serene Suimon River.

Drifting past idyllic landscapes and traditional breweries, immerse yourself in the exquisite essence of locally brewed sake, harmonising perfectly with Ogaki’s serene backdrop.

A Surreal Sojourn at the Site of Reversible Destiny

Transitioning from the tranquillity of Tarui, our sojourn leads us to the surreal domain of the Site of Reversible Destiny within Yoro Park.

Conceived by artistic visionaries Shusaku Arakawa and Madeline Gins, this avant-garde sanctuary challenges conventional perceptions of space and reality.

Where art and Instagram meet! Picture: Nicholas Eagar

Traverse through undulating terrains, contorted structures, and labyrinthine paths as you engage with the environment on physical and cerebral levels.

The site’s audacious design beckons introspection and invites visitors to embrace the unexpected, forging an immersive encounter with art and architecture.

Unveiling the Artistry of Japanese Sword Making

Our voyage through Gifu unveils the realm of craftsmanship at the Seki Knife Museum. Nestled in Seki, a bastion of swordsmithing heritage, this institution offers a window into the meticulous craft of Japanese sword making.

Enter the realm of master blacksmiths, where ancient methodologies are meticulously preserved and passed down through generations.

Masters pass their skills down through generations. Picture: Nicholas Eagar

Repeated hammering of the heated steel increases its strength. Picture: Nicholas Eagar

Live demonstrations by skilled artisans unveil the intricacies of forging blades, a testament to the precision and dedication ingrained in this timeless art form.

The museum serves as a testament to Gifu’s rich legacy of sword making, honouring tradition while celebrating the enduring spirit of craftsmanship.

Washi Paper Making with Master Masanori Senda

Our final chapter unfolds in Mino, where the ancient craft of washi paper making flourishes under the guidance of master Masanori Senda.

In his workshop, a synthesis of tradition and innovation permeates as you immerse yourself in the hypnotic process of crafting washi paper.

Washi paper making is both creative and meditative. Picture: Nicholas Eagar

From harvesting mulberry tree bark to shaping delicate sheets, each step epitomises patience and precision.

Senda’s dedication to preserving this delicate art form unveils not just the intricacies of paper making, but also a profound connection to Gifu’s cultural heritage.

Each of these encounters in Gifu is an invitation to traverse through time, a testament to the enduring spirit of Japan’s cultural legacy.