A Beautiful Cycling Experience Along One of Japan's Clearest Rivers

Explore peaceful country roads along the pristine Nagara River

Cyclists and nature lovers have long been drawn to the beautiful nature and scenery of Gifu Prefecture. At Gujo City, hop aboard a rental bicycle for a cycling tour that will take you through a pastoral country setting alongside the Nagara River, named one of the clearest-flowing rivers in Japan.

Your 22-kilometer tour begins at Gujo-Hachiman Station of the Nagaragawa Railway, a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destination nestled in Gifu's verdant mountains. Breathe in the clean air and attune your ears to the sound of the rushing stream waters, the singing of the birds, and the humming of insects. Admire a striking and ancient Japanese cedar, take a picture along the scenic local railway, visit a charming shrine, and enjoy a delightful daifuku sweet rice cake—a local specialty. Your tour will conclude at Minami Kodakara Onsen, a hot spring resort where you can soak and soothe your body after a day's cycling.

The local tour guides are ready to welcome you to their home and show you the warmth and hospitality of rural, untouched Japan. If you want to explore the area further, they also offer an Old City Tour exploring the town of Gujo and historic cultural sites such as temples, shrines, and tea houses. See how people go about their daily lives in the Japanese countryside, and take a glimpse into a world that goes unseen by most tourists.

Access: From Nagoya Station, walk to the Meitetsu Nagoya Station, then take a limited express train to Meitetsu-Gifu Station and transfer to the Gifu Bus to the Hachiman Eki-mae stop. Walk about one minute to Gujo-Hachiman Station.

Nagara River Bike Tour (Nagara River Cycle Cruise)