|  |  Cormorant FishingSo you didn't think fishing was a spectator sport? Think again. The spectacular tradition of cormorant fishing has been practised on the Nagara River in Gifu for over 1300 years. Every season, thousands flock to witness this enchanting torch-lit event.Taking place at dusk, this style of fishing (known as ukai) involves the use of tame cormorants to catch river fish.
By the light of burning torches the fishermen, known as Usho, go out in small wooden boats. Possessing a skill that has been handed down through the centuries, they are able to handle more than ten cormorants at once with different calls. The birds then do the work of actually catching the fish; swooping, diving and swimming through the water, finally emerging gracefully from the river with their catch. It is a sight that has enchanted emperors for centuries.
Lantern-lit viewing boats follow the fishermen downstream as they go about their business. Little has changed since the art of cormorant fishing was performed centuries ago for the Imperial family themselves, including the opportunity to taste the delicious "sweetfish" fresh from the river.
This spectacle can also be watched in Kisokawa in Aichi Ken, which can be reached by taking the Meitetsu Private Railway to Inuyamawatari from Inuyama town. |
Event Details:
| Date(s):
Various Dates
May 11, 2010
-
October 15, 2010 *
May 11, 2011
-
October 15, 2011 *
* To Be Confirmed.
Opening Hours:
Start between 7.30pm-7.45pm
Every night except on full moon
Boats depart 6.15pm, 6.45pm & 7.15pm
Cost:
Viewing boats: ¥3000/¥3300; children ¥2600/¥2900
Location:
Gifu City, Chubu, Japan |
Venue Details:
| Venue Name:
Nagara River, between the Kinka bridge and Nagara bridge
Address:
Gifu City Cormorant Fishing Viewing Boat Office, 1-2 Minato-machi
Directions:
By Bus: from JR Gifu Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station to Nagara-bashi (15 minutes). |
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Disclaimer: Although we've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by any person resulting from information published on this site. We recommend that you verify any critical information such as event dates, opening hours and prices before you make plans. | | Weather: |  |
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