Gujo Hachiman

Gujo Hachiman (郡上八幡, Gujō Hachiman), a small riverside town in Gifu Prefecture, is known for its pristine waterways and distinctive summer dance festival, Gujo Odori. The town was established in the 16th century after the construction of Hachiman Castle. Gujo's waterways function in much the same capacity as they did in the 1600s. While walking through the town visitors can see many of the canals, fountains, and waterways that are still used for washing vegetables, laundry, rice. The townspeople cooperate to keep the canals clean and the water fresh; as a result of their efforts, Gujo's drinking water is a source of local pride.

Gujo Odori is the name of the large summer dance festival held in Gujo Hachiman. The festival started over 400 years ago and continues today. It spans over a period of thirty-one nights between July and September. During the four days of Obon, a festival honoring the spirits of your ancestors in mid-August, dances continue throughout the night. Gujo is known as a leading producer of food replicas in Japan. Many of the food replicas, used by restaurants to decorate their windows and inform patrons of their dishes, are produced here. There are workshops where visitors can try their hand at creating their own wax shrimp tempura.

Things To Do in Gujo Hachiman