Ukai, or cormorant fishing, on the Nagara River near Gifu City is one of Japan’s most spectacular living traditions, practised for roughly 1,300 years, in which master fishermen (usho) in traditional grass skirts guide trained cormorants to dive for ayu sweetfish by the light of blazing baskets of fire hung from their boats. Held on summer nights, the fishing is watched from passenger viewing boats that drift alongside, and the usho of the Nagara River even hold a special imperial appointment, underlining the cultural importance of this atmospheric nighttime spectacle.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Nagara River, Gifu City |
| Hours | Evening, roughly mid-May to mid-October |
| Admission | Viewing boat tickets vary; reservation recommended |
| Time needed | Around 2 hours in the evening |
| Best time | Summer season (mid-May–mid-October) |
What to See
- Trained cormorants catching ayu by the light of hanging fire baskets.
- Master fishermen (usho) in traditional grass-skirt dress.
- The spectacle watched from passenger viewing boats alongside.
- A roughly 1,300-year-old tradition with imperial appointment.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Ayu Sweetfish , the fish being caught.
- Pair with Gifu Castle atop Mount Kinka above the river.
- Read our Gifu overview .
Getting There
- By train: JR to Gifu Station, then a bus to the Nagara River boarding area.
- By car: parking available near the riverside boarding area.
Tips
Book viewing boat tickets in advance, especially in peak summer and on weekends, as this is a popular and limited experience. The fishing takes place after dark, so bring a light layer for the evening on the water, and note that the exact schedule depends on the season and weather, so confirm dates when reserving.
