Nagaragawa Onsen, located in Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, is a popular hot spring destination renowned for its scenic riverside setting and the traditional cormorant fishing known as ukai, a practice with a history spanning approximately 1,300 years. Held annually from May 11 to October 15, the fishing season attracts visitors eager to witness this fascinating Japanese tradition.
The hot spring area has also earned recognition as one of Japan’s popular hot spring destinations, having been selected for five consecutive years in the Top 100 Hot Springs in Japan, a ranking published by the Kanko Keizai Shimbun tourism newspaper.
Nagaragawa Onsen is known for its iron-rich spring water, which contains iron and radon. The water emerges from underground as a clear, colorless liquid but gradually turns reddish-brown when exposed to the air, creating the area’s characteristic copper-colored, cloudy appearance.
The hot spring water is classified as a simple iron cold mineral spring with a neutral pH and low mineral concentration. It is traditionally associated with relaxation and relief from conditions such as neuralgia, joint pain, and fatigue.
The nearby Nagara River is renowned for its exceptionally clear water and has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Remarkable Waters, a recognition of its outstanding water quality.
Approximately seven hotels and traditional Japanese inns line the Nagara River near the northern foothills of Mount Kinka, where Gifu Castle stands. Many accommodations offer beautiful river views, allowing guests to enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons while soaking in the hot springs.
Local cuisine is another highlight of a stay at Nagaragawa Onsen. Visitors can enjoy freshly prepared ayu (sweetfish), a specialty of the Nagara River, as well as healthy medicinal herb dishes inspired by traditional food culture. Advance reservations may be required for certain meals.
The popular Gifu Nagaragawa Onsen Ukai Package combines an overnight stay with the experience of traditional cormorant fishing. During the fishing season, guests may be able to watch the glowing fishing torches reflected on the river from their hotels or traditional inns.
Cormorant fishing on the Nagara River is one of the area’s most celebrated attractions. This traditional fishing method involves trained cormorants catching fish under the guidance of skilled fishermen known as ushō.
The earliest surviving documentary record of ukai in this area dates back to 702. Over the centuries, the tradition received protection and patronage from influential historical figures and authorities, including Oda Nobunaga and the Tokugawa shogunate. The famous haiku poet Matsuo Bashō also left records of experiencing cormorant fishing.
After dark, the fishermen’s flaming torches illuminate the river, creating a dramatic scene against the deep blue night sky. The combination of traditional wooden boats, glowing flames, flowing water, and centuries-old techniques offers a memorable glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage.
The northern side of the Nagara River historically developed as a residential area for boatmen and cormorant fishermen. Narrow lanes connecting the residential streets to the river are still used today, preserving the atmosphere of a traditional riverside community.
The southern side of the river once prospered as a district for paper and timber wholesalers. Today, the area is commonly known as Kawaramachi, where traditional streets lined with wooden buildings and lattice-fronted facades preserve the character of old Gifu.
Some historic shops, including timber merchants specializing in fine wood, continue to operate in these traditional buildings. Walking through the neighborhood offers visitors an opportunity to appreciate the architecture, craftsmanship, and atmosphere of the area’s commercial past.
With the clear waters of the Nagara River, the forested slopes of Mount Kinka, and Gifu Castle overlooking the surrounding landscape, Nagaragawa Onsen offers a relaxing escape close to the city center. Visitors can combine a soothing hot spring bath with regional cuisine, historic streets, and the unforgettable experience of traditional cormorant fishing.
Whether visiting for a day or staying overnight, Nagaragawa Onsen is an excellent destination for experiencing the natural beauty and cultural traditions of Gifu.