Gifu, Core city in Gifu Prefecture, Japan.
Gifu is a Japanese core city in the prefecture of the same name, stretching along the riverbank and around a forested hill that rises from the plain. Streets run mostly parallel and perpendicular to the river, with historic quarters near the slopes and modern residential and commercial zones spread across the flatter sections.
The settlement became a key military stronghold in the 16th century after a powerful warlord built a castle atop the hill. Later, the town grew into a commercial hub for paper, textiles and metalwork, with control of the river helping to fuel prosperity.
The city's name combines two characters chosen to reflect both geography and political ambition, referencing a mountain in China's Qufu province. Locals often refer to the river by its full name Nagara-gawa, and many small shops around the center sell regional foods such as pickled vegetables and roasted chestnuts prepared using recipes handed down through generations.
Walking along the riverbank offers the clearest view of the landscape and leads to several bridges that provide access to different neighborhoods. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as some paths up the hill are steep and the downtown area is easy to explore on foot.
The hill is home to wild monkeys that often appear on trails near the castle, accustomed to people but still following their own daily rhythms. Some older buildings along the narrow lanes still display traditional wooden lattice screens over windows, once used to allow air in while keeping privacy.
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