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Nagara River cormorant fishing 長良川鵜飼

ukai

Checked October 2026 · next check January 2027 · On our list

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Visiting Nagara River cormorant fishing today

  • What it is: Night fishing by firelight, with master fishermen in traditional dress guiding trained cormorants, watched from boats. A tradition of about 1,300 years.
  • When: Held every year 11 May–15 October, except at the mid-autumn full moon and during high water. The 2026 season has ended; check 2027 boat bookings.
  • Where: Nagara River in central Gifu. Bus from JR Gifu Station about 16 minutes (¥230) to Nagara-bashi, then 1 minute to the boat landing.
  • Watching: Fishing starts about 19:30–19:45. Shared boats ¥3,200–3,500 adults, ¥1,800 children, by course and day.
  • Tip: Course A boats board at 18:15 and allow you to bring food and drink for a riverside dinner before the fishing starts.
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Season 11 May–15 October; no fishing at the mid-autumn full moon or when the river is high.

Checked against: Gifu Nagara River Ukai – Gifu City tourism (Gifu CVB) · Gifu Nagara River Ukai (official boat office). Check opening times and prices before you go.

Nagara River cormorant fishing on Shibuya246

We haven't been yet, so there are no photos here. The notes above come from official sources and are checked every quarter. Our own photos and story will appear here after we visit.