Partners Information: Gifu Prefecture has been selected by Green Destinations for their Top 100 Stories Destination Sustainability Stories for the second consecutive year. Green Destinations, an international certification organization for sustainable tourism, holds this annual competition to showcase sustainable tourism stories and good practices from destinations around the world.
Gifu Prefecture is steeped in history and is known for its world-class traditions and abundant nature. The selection by Green Destinations of Gifu's Shirakawa-go and Nagara River Basin in 2020 and 2021, respectively, is recognition of the efforts to preserve these landscapes, natural resources and traditions for future generations.
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakwago-go is a historic village nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains. Famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses that date back some 250-300 years, the charming village is also home to a custom of mutual support called yui that has been handed down since ancient times. Shirakwago-go’s good practice story highlights the village’s efforts to manage overtourism to create a safer, more sustainable and more positive experience for both visitors and local residents.
The life, economy and culture of the people of the Nagara River Basin have been deeply connected to the river. Considered one of Japan’s clearest rivers, the Nagara River has nurtured traditional craft industries such as Mino washi, Seki blades and Gujo honzome dyeing. Nagara River Basin’s good practice story illustrates the area’s efforts to conserve the local environment, promote local industries and culture, and support the preservation of traditional techniques and knowledge.
