Gifu Summer Festivals and Events

July is the start of the hot summer period in Japan with the end of the rainy season. This is the time to head outdoors and enjoy the numerous festivals and events happening around the country. A few of my favourite Summer Activities in Japan.

Some of the big summer events happening in Gifu this July include:



Gujo Bon Odori (July 14 – Sept 8) 
Where: Hachiman-cho, Gujo-shi, Gifu
When: Weekdays & Sundays from 8:00pm to 10:30pm and Saturday from 8:00pm to 11:00pm

Held over a span of 33 nights, the Gujo Bon Odori is regarded as one of the three best Bon Odori in Japan, and has been performed for over 400 years. It is famous for the all-night dancing where the locals let their hair down for some frenzied dancing. During the four main days of the festival from  August 13 – 16 the dancing goes on through the night. Read about Obon.

Gero Hot Spring Evening Market (July 21 – August 25) 
Where: Shirasagi Bridge, Gero, Gifu
When: Every Saturday from 7:00pm to 10:00pm

This market held in the streets of one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns is not to be missed. Features stalls selling local speciality products, sake and amazing food.

Chunichi Shinbun Nagaragawa Fireworks Festival (July 28th) 
Where: Nagara Bridge, Gifu-shi, Gifu
When: July 28th from 9:00am to 8:45pm 

One of the largest fireworks festivals in Japan featuring over 30,000 fireworks. Held in the skies over the beautiful Nagara River with Gifu Castle as a background this event can’t be missed.

Thanks to Gifu Crossroads - A Guide to Your Journey to Gifu Prefecture