Gujo Hachiman: Where Water Flows Through History's Heart

My bags were practically packed! I was traveling to the Hokuriku region. Located just two hours from Osaka, Hokuriku is home to charming towns hidden amidst picturesque mountains and crystal-clear rivers. This area is affectionately known as the "City of Water" for good reason: wherever you wander, you'll encounter an abundance of canals and waterways. With countless activities awaiting, I began exploring! 

As part of my visit, we explored one of the main themes of the 2025 International Exposition, “Empowering Lives,” and discovered how traditional craft experiences not only spark creativity and empower individuals, but also reflect a deep connection between nature and culture.  

Making plates 

I began with a casting workshop at Nousaku Lab in Takaoka, where centuries of copper craftsmanship come alive in a unique way. The hands-on workshops offered an incredible opportunity for me to try my hand at the art of metal casting, guided by skilled artisans. It was perfect for creating a special souvenir for my visit to this historic city. I began by compacting sand to meticulously form the desired mold. Subsequently, molten metal is poured into this custom-crafted sand block, where it's allowed to set and assume the intended shape. Once solidified, the plate can be beautifully adorned by stamping in names or meaningful words. This was my first time creating my own plate, and I was absolutely amazed by how beautifully the metal melted and took shape. 

Stepping back in time at Gujo Hachiman Castle

Then, I found myself nestled high above the charming town of Gujo Hachiman in Gifu Prefecture (Tokai Region), Gujo Hachiman Castle  offers a truly captivating journey into Japan's rich history. This isn't just any castle – it holds the distinction of being the oldest reconstructed wooden castle in Japan, making it a unique and invaluable historical site. As I ascended the castle, I was rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Gujo Hachiman town below. I felt a profound sense of comfort, a deep oneness with nature, and a serene inner peace. All the fatigue from the hike simply melted away. 

Discovering the hidden gems of Gujo City 

I walked into Gujo City, a picturesque town in the heart of Gifu Prefecture, where ancient traditions meet stunning natural beauty. I began exploring by strolling along the quaint streets, admiring the rows of traditional houses and observing the laid-back, friendly local life. The town also has many charming small restaurants, coffee shops, and even a donut shop. Unfortunately, the gelato shop was closed when I visited, which was a shame as I really wanted to try it! 

Finding peace amidst the beauty of Jion-zenji Temple 

During my exploration of Gujo, I happened upon a Jion-zenji temple, which holds a significant place in the town's history and spiritual landscape. It is particularly renowned for its exquisite Zen garden. Designed by a priest, this strolling pond garden is a masterpiece of landscape art, featuring a pond and a waterfall.  

This Igawa Footpath view needs no filter!  

What truly astonished and stayed with me was the opportunity to feed carp in a public waterway, an experience you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Igawa Footpath isn't just a path – it's a living, breathing testament to Gujo Hachiman's unique connection with water.  

A taste of Ayu

I indulged in the local delicacy of sweetfish (Ayu) during my time in Gujo. Fresh from the pristine waters, it was grilled to perfection and incredibly flavorful. This is a must-try when you're in this charming City of Water! 

My stroll through Gujo left me with the distinct impression of a delightful and appealing town. It's an immersive experience that combines stunning natural beauty with a profound sense of heritage. Don't miss the chance to explore this remarkable piece of Japanese history. 

①Fukui Station
②Kyouryukeikoku Katsuyama

③Heisenji Hakusan Shrine

④Traditional Handicrafts Village Yunokuni no Mori

⑤Kanazawa

⑥Nousaku Casting Workshop

⑦Gujo Hachiman

•  

  About the author

  

  Author: Pattarakarn P. 
  Profile: Pattarakarn P. is originally from Bangkok, Thailand. She serves the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, specializing in tourism policy. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and reading.