Mount Kinka Ropeway Gifu
Ascend Mount Kinka via a scenic ropeway for stunning Gifu city views, explore historic Gifu Castle, and meet friendly squirrels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene views
Mount Kinka Ropeway Gifu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Mount Kinka via a scenic ropeway for stunning Gifu city views, explore historic Gifu Castle, and meet friendly squirrels.
"A unique way to visit a castle at the top of a hill with beautiful views!"
🎟️ Timed Ticketing System
Purchase tickets in advance for a specific time slot to avoid long waits during peak hours.
🚶 Hike or Ride?
Choose one-way tickets if you enjoy hiking up or down the mountain for a more active experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Kinka Ropeway
Gifu Park to Mount Kinka Summit
Glide up Mount Kinka in a glass-enclosed cabin for breathtaking panoramic views of Gifu City and the surrounding landscape.
Gifu Castle
Mount Kinka Summit
Explore the reconstructed Gifu Castle, offering historical exhibits and stunning vistas from its observation decks.
Kinkazan Squirrel Village
Mount Kinka Summit
Interact with friendly squirrels in a dedicated village at the summit, a delightful surprise for visitors of all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Ticket Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Timed Ticketing System
Purchase tickets in advance for a specific time slot to avoid long waits during peak hours.
🚶 Hike or Ride?
Choose one-way tickets if you enjoy hiking up or down the mountain for a more active experience.
🐿️ Squirrel Encounters
Visit the Kinkazan Squirrel Village at the summit for a unique and adorable interaction.
📸 Panoramic Views
The glass-enclosed ropeway cabins offer stunning 360-degree views, perfect for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Timed Ticketing System
Purchase tickets in advance for a specific time slot to avoid long waits during peak hours.
🚶 Hike or Ride?
Choose one-way tickets if you enjoy hiking up or down the mountain for a more active experience.
🐿️ Squirrel Encounters
Visit the Kinkazan Squirrel Village at the summit for a unique and adorable interaction.
📸 Panoramic Views
The glass-enclosed ropeway cabins offer stunning 360-degree views, perfect for photos.
🍦 Souvenirs & Snacks
Grab ice cream and souvenirs at the ropeway station before or after your ride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Mount Kinka Ropeway a unique and enjoyable way to reach Gifu Castle, praising the panoramic views and the convenience it offers. The timed ticketing system during busy periods is appreciated for managing queues effectively. While the ride is short, the overall experience, including the castle and the squirrel village, is considered worthwhile.
"This is a one of a kind experience just like in Kobe Nonubiki Herb Garden. The difference is that, you will go with the crowd but it's fun experience. And you can visit Gifu Castle, museum, dine and relax in the panoramic view deck or viewing deck at the top floor of the castle."
Alwin James Arrieta
"You can purchase tickets for the Ropeway (800円 one-way, 1300円 round-trip in April 2025). During busy times they have an excellent system where they sell tickets in advance for a certain time. For example, we purchased tickets around 1PM and they said to come back at 2:30PM, we were able to board at 2:40PM. It was great because we didn’t have to wait around, we could go enjoy the park and come back at our designated time. The car itself is not crowded, and the view looking down is far better. You can also purchase ice cream and souvenirs in the ropeway station."
Sarah Hasselman
"What a unique way to visit a castle at the top of a hill!
You can buy a one way ticket if you want to hike up or down one way, or you can buy a return ticket. Every 15 minutes there is a cable car, and when it's crowded they will have extra. They do not shove too many people in the cars in my opinion. A staff member accompanies you and provides some information (in Japanese). The whole cabin is made of glass, so you can enjoy the view from every angle."
Ilse van Ewijk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mount Kinka Ropeway is located in Gifu Park, at the base of Mount Kinka. You can reach Gifu Park by bus from JR Gifu Station. From the park, the ropeway station is easily accessible.
While there isn't direct parking at the ropeway station, there are paid parking lots available near Gifu Park.
Yes, you can hike up Mount Kinka. One-way ropeway tickets are available if you wish to hike one way and take the cable car the other.
The most convenient way to reach Gifu Castle is by taking the Mount Kinka Ropeway from Gifu Park to the summit.
Yes, local buses operate from JR Gifu Station to Gifu Park, where the ropeway base station is located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As of April 2025, a one-way ticket was 800 yen, and a round-trip ticket was 1300 yen. Prices may vary.
Yes, during busy times, a timed ticketing system is used where you can purchase tickets for a later boarding time, allowing you to explore the park while waiting.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth checking the official website or inquiring at the ticket counter.
The ropeway ticket grants you access to ride the cable car up and down Mount Kinka. It does not typically include admission to Gifu Castle or other attractions.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can visit Gifu Castle, explore the Kinkazan Squirrel Village, enjoy panoramic views from the observation decks, and dine at the castle's restaurant. 
Yes, Gifu Castle offers historical insights and fantastic views. The ropeway ride itself is also a highlight.
Yes, there is a restaurant within Gifu Castle at the summit where you can dine with a view.
You can expect sweeping panoramic views of Gifu City, the Nagara River, and the surrounding natural forests.
Absolutely! The ropeway ride is fun for all ages, and the Squirrel Village is a particular hit with children.
📸 📸 Photography
The ropeway cabins offer incredible panoramic shots. The castle grounds and observation decks also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.
Photography rules inside Gifu Castle may vary. It's best to check signage or ask staff for guidance.
The Kinkazan Squirrel Village offers charming and unique photo opportunities with the resident squirrels.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views from the ropeway and castle. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife if you spot any.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
At the summit, the Kinkazan Squirrel Village is a major highlight, allowing kids to get up close with friendly squirrels. Gifu Castle provides an engaging historical experience, and the open spaces at the top are great for little ones to explore. Consider purchasing round-trip tickets for ease, or one-way if your family enjoys a short hike. 🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
+1 The Gifu Castle itself provides a picturesque subject, particularly against the backdrop of the sky. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the best light and avoiding crowds. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mount Kinka Ropeway Experience
+1 The journey takes just a few minutes, and the frequency of the cable cars is about every 15 minutes, with additional cars added during busy periods to manage demand. Travelers often praise the kind and helpful attendants who accompany each ride, offering information in Japanese.
For those who prefer a more active approach, one-way tickets are available, allowing you to hike up or down the mountain. This offers a different perspective and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
Exploring Gifu Castle and Summit Attractions
The castle also features a restaurant, offering a unique dining experience with a view. A delightful surprise at the summit is the Kinkazan Squirrel Village. This dedicated area allows visitors to interact with numerous friendly squirrels, providing a charming and memorable experience, especially for families.
The presence of these small creatures adds a whimsical touch to the historical site. Beyond the castle and squirrels, the summit area is surrounded by natural forests, offering a peaceful environment to explore. The panoramic view deck and the viewing deck at the top floor of the castle are prime spots for photography and simply soaking in the scenery.
The combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and unique attractions makes the Mount Kinka summit a rewarding destination. 
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