Nagara River Ukai 2026: 1,300 Years of Cormorant Fishing in Gifu
Chubu · GifuTraditional
Master fishermen in ancient dress work trained cormorants by firelight on the Nagara River, a ritual unbroken for over a millennium.
Overview
Ukai, or cormorant fishing, on the Nagara River in Gifu is a living tradition roughly 1,300 years old. Master fishermen known as usho, wearing traditional grass skirts and working from wooden boats lit by hanging fire baskets, handle teams of trained cormorants that catch sweetfish (ayu). The usho here hold an official imperial appointment, and visitors watch from viewing boats that glide alongside. It is one of Japan’s most atmospheric traditional spectacles.
When & Where
The 2026 season runs nightly from 11 May to 15 October, with fishing usually starting around 7:45 pm, apart from nights of high water and the harvest-moon night. It takes place on the Nagara River near Nagara Bridge (Nagarabashi) in Gifu City. Viewing boats board in the evening before the fishing begins. Nearest hubs: JR Gifu and Meitetsu Gifu stations, then a bus to the riverside.
Getting There
Gifu City is a short train ride from Nagoya (about 20 minutes by JR to Gifu Station). From the station, take a bus toward Nagarabashi (around 15–20 minutes) to reach the boarding area by the river. Because the fishing happens after dark, plan your return transport in advance or stay locally at a riverside inn.
What to Expect
From the viewing boats you see the fishermen manage up to a dozen cormorants each on hand-held cords, the birds diving repeatedly in the glow of the fire baskets. A finale called sougarami brings the boats together to drive fish in unison. Some plans include a boat meal beforehand; the pace is unhurried and deeply traditional rather than a fast show.
Tickets & Access
Watching from a viewing boat requires a paid ticket and, especially in peak summer and on weekends, advance reservation. Prices vary by boat and plan; check the official site to book. Riverbank viewing from certain spots is possible but the boats offer the closest experience.
Tips for Visitors
Reserve your boat well ahead for summer dates, and bring a light layer as the river turns cool after dark. Fishing is cancelled in high water, so keep an eye on the weather. Combine the evening with Gifu Castle on Mt. Kinka and the riverside hot-spring inns.
Access and Map
| Dates | Nightly 11 May – 15 October 2026 (except high water and the harvest-moon night) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Nagara River near Nagara Bridge, Gifu City |
| Access | JR/Meitetsu to Gifu, then ~15–20 min bus to Nagarabashi |
| Admission | Paid viewing-boat ticket; reservation recommended |
| Official site | Visit Gifu (official tourism) |
Source: Visit Gifu (official tourism)
Image: Photo: Damien McMahon from West Yorkshire, England / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 (license)
