Ena City in Gifu Prefecture is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets, blending scenic nature, rich history, and traditional culture.

To make our visit smooth and memorable, we’ve gathered all practical details—ticket prices in USD, opening hours, transport costs, accommodations, dining options, best seasons, and insider tips.

Whether we’re planning a day trip or a two-day adventure, this guide will help us enjoy every corner of Ena without guesswork.

Ena Gorge (Enakyo): Nature at Its Best

- Highlights: Ena Gorge is famous for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations along the Kiso River, with reflections in the water creating stunning photo opportunities. Spring offers cherry blossoms, while November brings brilliant autumn foliage.

- Tickets: Boat rides cost grown-ups ~$11 and kids ~$6. Shuttle buses to the terminal are ~$2 per person.

- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily; last boat around 3:30 PM.

- Transport: 15-minute bus ride from Ena Station or taxi (~$20–25).

- Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and bring water and a camera. Autumn colors are best mid-November.

Iwamura Castle & Historic Streets

- Highlights: Known as one of Japan’s historic mountain castles, Iwamura Castle ruins feature stone walls and scenic views. The surrounding old town retains Edo-period streets and merchant houses.

- Tickets: Free entry to the castle ruins; small museums nearby charge ~$3–4 per person.

- Opening Hours: Museums 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; streets are open all day.

- Transport: Bus from Ena Station, ~30 minutes ($3 per ride).

- Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for walking up hills and explore local shops selling souvenirs. Spring and autumn are ideal for blooms and foliage.

Taisho Village: Step Back in Time

- Highlights: A cultural village themed on the Taisho era (1912–1926), featuring retro buildings, exhibits, and workshops where we can try traditional crafts.

- Tickets: General admission ~$6, kids ~$3.

- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, closed Wednesdays (except holidays).

- Transport: Akechi Railway from Ena Station (~20 minutes, $5).

- Tips: Sample local snacks in the village and participate in hands-on workshops for a unique cultural experience.

Agigawa Dam & Lake

- Highlights: A scenic dam with a small museum, park, summer water shows, and walking trails. Perfect for photos, picnics, or a peaceful afternoon.

- Tickets: Free entry.

- Transport: Drive via Ena IC or take a bus from Ena Station (~$2–3).

- Tips: Sunset is the best time for photography, and we can bring our own snacks or buy treats nearby.

Dining in Ena City

Local specialties:

- Gohei Mochi (grilled rice cake with sweet sauce) ~$2–3 each.

- Kuri Kinton (chestnut dessert) ~$5 per serving.

- Set meals in local restaurants ~$10–15 per person.

Tips: Most restaurants accept credit cards, but having $10–15 in cash is helpful for street food or small markets.

Accommodation Options

- Hotels: Standard hotel rooms ~$70–100 per night.

- Traditional Ryokan with Onsen: ~$120–150 per night.

- Budget Guesthouses: ~$40–60 per night.

- Tips: Book early during peak cherry blossom (April) or autumn foliage (Nov) seasons. Some ryokan offer meals included, which can be convenient and cost-effective.

Getting Around Ena City

- From Nagoya: JR Chuo Main Line to Ena Station, ~1 hour, ~$10.

- City transport: Walking or bicycle rental works for most attractions.

- Buses: ~$2–3 per ride.

- Taxis: ~$20–25 depending on distance.

- Tips: IC cards are convenient for bus and train rides, but small cash is needed for local markets or boat rides.

Best Seasons to Visit

- Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms along rivers and historic streets.

- Summer (June–August): Warm weather for outdoor activities, lake visits, and amusement parks.

- Autumn (September–November): Vibrant foliage in Ena Gorge and surrounding mountains.

Travel Tips for Ena City

- Plan Transport Wisely: Walking and cycling cover most attractions, but buses ($2–3 per ride) and taxis ($20–25) are convenient for longer distances. IC cards make payments easier.

- Attraction Tips: Buy boat or museum tickets in advance when possible to avoid queues. Early mornings are less crowded for Ena Gorge and Taisho Village.

- Dining Tips: Street snacks cost ~$2–5, while set meals range ~$10–15. Carry some cash for small vendors.

- Accommodation Tips: Hotels and ryokan vary from $40–150 per night. Book ahead during cherry blossom (April) or autumn foliage (Nov) seasons. Consider staying near Ena Station for easy transport.

- Seasonal Tips: Spring and autumn are best for scenery. Summer is great for outdoor activities, but bring water and sun protection.

- Packing Tips: Comfortable shoes, light jacket, camera, and a small backpack with snacks and water will make the day more enjoyable.

Wrapping Up Our Ena Adventure

Lykkers, Ena City is a perfect combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and authentic local culture. From tranquil boat rides in Ena Gorge to wandering Edo-period streets in Iwamura, every experience feels unique. With clear pricing, accessible transportation, and multiple dining and accommodation options, we can plan a stress-free 1–2 day trip. Let’s explore this hidden gem together and make unforgettable memories in Ena City!