Shoji Lake Hotel
Situated along the shores of Lake Shoji, this hotel offers an exceptional location where the lake spreads out before you and Mount Fuji rises beyond it-allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views from guest rooms, the open-air baths, and the observation terrace.
Waking up early to the view of Mt. Fuji and the lake was pure happiness.
Nagoya Castle
One of the largest castles in Japan, built in the early Edo period on the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo shogunate, the five-story castle tower is topped with shining two Kinshachi, one male and one female that has become a symbol of Nagoya.
The most important feature of Nagoya Castle is the two golden shachihoko on the roof. There's a large model on the first floor that you can check out.
Hida Takayama Old Townscape
Hida Takayama Old Townscape is said to be a town where the original landscape of Japan remains, as the streets from the Edo period still remain, and the charming town houses and noren (curtains) of old stores continue to be seen.
If you're visiting Takayama, you definitely have to walk through this old street. There are lots of local souvenirs and small crafts. If you love Japanese vibes, it's worth a stroll.
Shirakawa-go (Historic Village)
Shirakawa-go, a beautiful area where traditional Japanese scenery still exists, is home to the largest number of still-standing traditional “gassho-zukuri” Japanese homes. As of 2016, there are around 100 buildings still standing, both large and small. It is the largest remaining historic settlement in Japan, and it is preserved as a Group of Traditional Buildings in the register of Cultural Properties of Japan.
Head to the Shiroyama Observatory if you want to get a full view photo of Shirakawa-go. Just make sure to give yourself enough time.
Gifu Cormorant Fishing on the Nagara River
"Ukai," or cormorant fishing, is an ancient fishing method in which cormorants are skillfully maneuvered to catch river fish. On "Ubune" boats, the “Usho” fishermen use ropes to control up to 12 cormorants. The skilled techniques that result from the bond between the cormorants and the master, who treats the cormorants like family, can be seen from the observation boats.
I saw a fishing performance like this years ago when I traveled to China. It's entertaining, but honestly, it feels pretty cruel to the animals.