Gifu City, Nobunaga Festival and Kinkazan

Gifu Castle, towering atop Kinkazan in Gifu City, is known as the castle where Oda Nobunaga declared 'Tenka Fubu' (spreading martial rule across the realm). When you ascend to the summit by ropeway, spectacular views of the Nagara River and Nobi Plain spread before you. Inside the castle, a museum allows visitors to learn about Nobunaga's achievements, and every autumn the 'Nobunaga Festival' features samurai processions and demonstrations of matchlock gun firearms. Gifu Park at the base of the mountain is also packed with sights to see.