# Nagara River Cormorant Fishing

> A traditional form of fishing on the Nagara River in Gifu city, in which fishermen use trained cormorants to catch sweetfish, watched from viewing boats on summer evenings.

- Prefecture: Gifu
- Type: Attraction
- Address: Gifu, Japan
- Official site: https://www.ukai-gifucity.jp/

The Nagara River cormorant fishing, or ukai, is a traditional method of catching sweetfish (ayu) on the Nagara River in Gifu city. Fishermen called usho handle trained cormorants on long leashes from wooden boats lit by burning baskets, and the birds dive to catch the fish. The practice has a history going back many centuries and its fishermen are employed under the Imperial Household Agency. It is held every night during the season, from May 11 to October 15, except on the night of the harvest moon and when the river is high. Spectators watch from viewing boats that set out onto the river in the evening. The boarding office is by the Nagarabashi bridge, a short bus ride from Gifu Station.

## FAQ

### How do I get to the Nagara River cormorant fishing viewing boats?

From JR Gifu Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station take a Gifu Bus bound via Nagarabashi and get off at the Nagarabashi or Kawaramachi stop, about a one-minute walk from the boarding office.

### When is the cormorant fishing held?

It is held every night from May 11 to October 15, except on the night of the harvest moon and when the river level is high.

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Source: Nagara River Cormorant Fishing — Japan Voyage