Kaizu(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Kakinoki City, the Kaiten Onsen Ryokan stands out as a premier choice for authentic Japanese ambiance. Nestled along the Mikawa River, this historic inn features Edo-period architecture, private outdoor onsen baths, and seasonal kaiseki meals using local ingredients. Guests can enjoy daily tea ceremony workshops and serene garden views. Another excellent option is Kakinoki Municipal Tourist Hotel, offering modern comfort with traditional touches, ideal for travelers seeking both convenience and cultural immersion in Gifu Prefecture.

The Mikawa Riverfront District is the most peaceful and scenic area for lodging in Kakinoki City. Located near the Ogaki Castle Ruins and Kakinoki Town Hall, it offers easy access to historical sites while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere. The surrounding rice fields and forest trails provide natural beauty, and many guesthouses offer free bicycles for exploring. This area is perfect for travelers who value serenity, local charm, and proximity to nature and culture.

Visitors to Kakinoki City should not miss the Mikawa River Festival held annually in summer, featuring traditional taiko drumming and dazzling fireworks. Explore the Kakinoki Folklore Museum to learn about local textile crafts and agricultural heritage. Many ryokans offer hands-on washi paper-making classes using kōzo tree bark, preserving Japan’s intangible cultural heritage. During autumn, join the maple leaf hunting tour through the Hida Mountains, where vibrant reds paint the landscape in breathtaking hues.

For families, Kakinoki Children's Nature House Inn is an ideal stay, featuring a dedicated kids’ play zone, a farm experience, and nighttime stargazing events. Rooms include crib options and safety measures. Another great choice is Mikawa River Family Resort, which offers a mini zoo, water playgrounds, and guided ecological trails. All activities are designed with child safety and education in mind, allowing parents to relax while children enjoy interactive learning in Gifu Prefecture's natural environment.

Hot spring hotels in Kakinoki City are renowned for their natural sulfur-rich waters, drawn from depths of 300 meters. Kaiten Onsen Villa offers private open-air baths with views of the Mikawa River at night. Each room includes tatami flooring and a Japanese garden terrace, enhancing the sense of tranquility. Daily meals feature local specialties like Gifu beef sukiyaki and bamboo shoot chicken stew, creating a full sensory experience of regional cuisine and wellness.

Begin your day at Kakinoki Town Hall, then visit the Ogaki Castle Ruins to explore Edo-era history. Head to the Mikawa River for a bamboo raft ride, enjoying the gentle flow and natural scenery. Stop by Kakinoki Old Street for lunch featuring soba noodles and matcha desserts. In the afternoon, tour the Kakinoki Folklore Museum and participate in a local textile workshop. End your day with a soak in a hot spring bath, returning to your hotel for a peaceful evening under the stars.

For couples, Tsukimiyama Love Inn offers a uniquely romantic experience. Perched on a hill overlooking the Mikawa River, it features panoramic glass terraces, private onsen tubs, and custom candlelit dinners. The inn also provides couples’ meditation sessions and a special cherry blossom night walk during spring festivals. With its secluded location and intimate design, it’s perfect for those seeking privacy and emotional connection in a serene setting.

Must-try dishes in Kakinoki City include Gifu beef—rich and tender from locally raised wagyu—plus Mikawa River sweetfish hot pot, made with fresh fish and mountain yam. Don’t miss Kakinoki soba, hand-rolled and served with tempura sauce. A highlight is the matcha red bean mochi from the century-old shop Senbonya, known for its delicate flavor. During festivals, sample Kakinoki Gion Matsuri dumplings, symbolizing prosperity and unity—a true taste of local tradition.

Photography enthusiasts will love Mikawa River mist wetlands at sunrise for stunning reflections and birdlife shots. Capture the Ogaki Castle ruins at golden hour, when sunlight glints off ancient stone walls. The Hida Mountains autumn trail offers dramatic red foliage in November. At night, the lantern-lit alleys of Kakinoki Old Street resemble cinematic scenes. Bring a tripod for long exposures of the river and starry skies—perfect for capturing the city’s quiet beauty.

Public transport in Kakinoki City centers on city loop buses connecting major attractions like Ogaki Castle Ruins, Kakinoki Town Hall, and the Mikawa Riverfront. Renting a bike is highly recommended for flexible exploration of rural paths and forests. From Nagoya Station, take the JR Takayama Line to Kakinoki Station, a 45-minute ride. Some hotels offer free shuttle services to stations and key sites, ensuring smooth travel throughout your stay in this eco-friendly, well-connected region.