Nagaragawa Ukai Museum
Discover the ancient art of cormorant fishing at this interactive museum, offering a deep dive into a unique Japanese tradition.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the live cormorant fishing
Nagaragawa Ukai Museum
Best Time
Witness the live cormorant fishing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the ancient art of cormorant fishing at this interactive museum, offering a deep dive into a unique Japanese tradition.
"A beautifully and thoughtfully made museum, thoroughly enjoyed by adults for its playful exhibits."
Visit before the show
Understand the tradition better by visiting the museum before watching the evening cormorant fishing demo.
Translate with your phone
Most info is in Japanese, but phone translation apps work well.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Exhibits
Museum Interior
Engage with playful displays that explain the intricate art of cormorant fishing. Fun for all ages!
Cormorant Fishing Videos
Museum Theater
Watch captivating videos that detail this unique fishing method, with English subtitles available.
Stamp Collection Activity
Various Stations
Collect unique stamps at different points within the museum for a fun, interactive souvenir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Ukai Tradition
Best Time for Live Viewing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit before the show
Understand the tradition better by visiting the museum before watching the evening cormorant fishing demo.
Translate with your phone
Most info is in Japanese, but phone translation apps work well.
Family-friendly fun
Interactive exhibits and stamp collecting make it engaging for kids.
Book a return visit
Many visitors find it so engaging they want to come back for more.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit before the show
Understand the tradition better by visiting the museum before watching the evening cormorant fishing demo.
Translate with your phone
Most info is in Japanese, but phone translation apps work well.
Family-friendly fun
Interactive exhibits and stamp collecting make it engaging for kids.
Book a return visit
Many visitors find it so engaging they want to come back for more.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum for its thoughtfully designed, interactive exhibits that make learning about cormorant fishing engaging for all ages. The museum provides excellent context for the live fishing demonstrations, though some wish for more readily accessible English information beyond QR codes. Overall, it's considered a worthwhile and enjoyable cultural experience.
"This is beautifully and thoughtfully made museum. As an adult I thoroughly enjoyed how playful the exhibits were.
You can collect stamps at different stations.
You can also read the books in the book cabinet on the top floor. However, please be sure to take care of the books and return them to the cabinet. If you love photographs and history they’re a real treat to flip through.
I didn’t get to see or meet any of the plan masters due to the time but I hope to meet/see them next time I go. It’s worth another visit for sure!"
Sara
"I had watched comorant fishing in Uji as I didn't realise you could also watch it in Gifu. What's great here is you get a really great understanding of how this technique is practised and why. Lots of info in Japanese which you can easily translate via your phone. There is also a 10min video played with english subtitles.
Easy to reach by bus, and takes about an hour to go around. If you're planning to watch the fishing demo in the evening, then it's really worthwhile to visit the museum beforehand."
Seema Patel
"Gifu has ukai in the summer. You can gather on the river bank and see the fisherman set off at night. I saw the real thing last year, and now I come to the museum to understand this tradition better.
Great if you like birds, boats - or like me want to learn about Japanese culture."
Rasha Drapleck
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is easily accessible by bus from Gifu City. The journey typically takes about an hour.
Information on parking availability can be found on the museum's official website or by contacting them directly.
Yes, regular bus services connect Gifu Station to the vicinity of the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum.
Gifu is well-connected by Shinkansen (bullet train) from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, making it a convenient destination.
Yes, the museum is located near the Nagara River, where you can witness the live cormorant fishing demonstrations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official museum website for the most up-to-date information.
Admission fees are generally reasonable, with special exhibitions sometimes having separate charges. Check the museum's website for current pricing.
While advance booking might not always be necessary for the museum itself, it's recommended for popular events or during peak seasons.
The museum often offers discounted rates for children, students, and seniors. Please verify on their official site.
Inquire about any city passes or regional tourism discounts that might cover admission to the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about an hour to an hour and a half exploring the exhibits and watching the videos.
While many exhibits are in Japanese, English translations are available via QR codes or in a short video with subtitles.
Absolutely! The interactive displays and stamp collection make it a fun and educational experience for families.
Photography policies can vary; it's advisable to check for any restrictions on flash photography or specific exhibit areas.
Ukai is a traditional method of fishing using trained cormorants, practiced on the Nagara River for centuries.
📸 📸 Photography
The interactive displays offer unique photo opportunities. The exterior views of the Nagara River are also picturesque.
Photography is generally allowed during the evening fishing demonstrations, but be mindful of others and avoid using flash.
A versatile lens for both indoor and outdoor shots would be ideal. Consider a tripod for low-light evening photography.
The stamp collection points and the model displays of the fishing boats offer fun, thematic photo moments.
Drone usage is often restricted in public areas and near waterways. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the educational value, as the museum clearly explains the unique tradition of cormorant fishing. The short videos with English subtitles are also helpful for younger visitors who might not be fluent in Japanese. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children to fully enjoy the interactive elements without feeling rushed.
📚 Culture and History Enthusiasts
Explore the extensive collection of historical photographs and documents, and take time to browse the books in the library. The museum provides a unique window into a practice that has been passed down through generations, offering insights into traditional Japanese livelihoods and their connection to nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Cormorant Fishing (Ukai)
Through interactive exhibits, detailed displays, and informative videos, the museum brings this fascinating practice to life. You can explore models of the traditional fishing boats and learn about the different types of cormorants used. The museum also highlights the cultural significance of Ukai, which has been patronized by the Imperial family and is considered a vital part of Gifu's heritage.
For those planning to witness the live cormorant fishing demonstration on the Nagara River, a visit to the museum beforehand is highly recommended. It offers context and a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication involved, making the evening spectacle even more meaningful.
Museum Experience and Exhibits
Beyond the interactive elements, the museum houses a collection of photographs and historical documents related to Ukai, offering a deeper look into its past. Visitors can also enjoy short videos that explain the fishing techniques, with English subtitles available to ensure accessibility for international guests. The museum also hosts special exhibitions, such as the 'Kabutomushi no Mori' (Rhinoceros Beetle Forest) event, showcasing local flora and fauna.
Many visitors appreciate the thoughtful design of the museum, finding it both informative and enjoyable. The opportunity to read books in the library on the top floor, which often feature local history and culture, is another highlight for those seeking a more in-depth experience.
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