Nagaragawa Cormorant Fishing: Gifu's Traditional Fishing Method Boasting 1,300 Years of History

Cormorant Fishing Under Imperial Household Agency Management

Nagaragawa cormorant fishing has been practiced for over 1,300 years on the Nagaragawa in Gifu City, currently conducted as "Goryo-ukai (imperial cormorant fishing)" managed by 6 Imperial Household Agency cormorant fishermen. The "ayu (sweetfish)" used in cormorant fishing are given as gifts to the Imperial Household Agency and dignitaries.

How to View Cormorant Fishing

Nagaragawa cormorant fishing is performed at night May 11 to October 15 (excluding the full moon night). It can be viewed close-up from viewing boats on the river, with fantastical scenes illuminated by torchlight captivating viewers. Ryokan and hotels in Gifu City offer viewing boat packages.

Cormorant Master Techniques

Cormorant masters handle 10-12 cormorants, catching sweetfish while controlling them with ropes called "tanawa." Skillful techniques inherited across generations are registered as Japan's Intangible Folk Cultural Property.