2026 Seki Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in March)

Real traveler experiences and travel guides for Seki in March, 2026

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Monet's Pond, located in Gifu Prefecture, is famous for its high transparency and the beautiful scenery of koi swimming in it. The best times to visit are early summer when the water lilies bloom and the autumn foliage season. I visited during the peak of the autumn foliage. The most popular view is shown in Photo 1, and the colors change depending on the time of day. Photo 1 was taken around 9:30 AM, and Photo 2 was taken around 12:30 PM. If you like a dreamy atmosphere, early morning is the best time to visit. If you prefer vivid colors, afternoon is recommended. However, in the morning, when the water temperature is low, the koi do not come out much from under the bridge, so it is easier to capture the scene of the fish swimming after 11:00 AM. But the downside is that more people start to arrive, making it harder to take photos without people in them. If you can't find a time without people, you can take photos from the top of the bridge to ensure no one is in the shot (Photos 3 and 4). The area under the bridge is particularly beautiful, making it an ideal photo spot for capturing clear water, koi, and autumn foliage. By the way, this pond is located next to the torii gate in Photo 5, and it is not very large, so you can walk around it in about five minutes.

A nameless pond (commonly known as Monet's Pond) in Itadori, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture It is located in a place rich in nature, and the nearby river is also beautiful Address 501-2901 Itadori Shiratani, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture Fee Free Access [Car] Mino IC → National Route 156 → Prefectural Route 81 → National Route 256 → Itadori Shiratani, Seki City Register the facility in front of the pond, "Flower Park Itadori," in your navigation system [Transportation] From JR Gifu Station, take the Gifu Itadori Line to "Horado Kiwi Plaza" Take the Itadori Fureai Bus to "Shiratani Hydrangea Garden" and walk 150m to arrive

Monet's Pond is just over an hour's drive from Nagoya 🐠 As you climb up the mountain, you'll find a free parking lot and it's easy to spot as there are a lot of people there! A short walk away is the pond 🙆🏻‍♀️ The weather was nice, so the water was crystal clear. I heard it's even more beautiful in the summer, so I recommend going in the summer 💯 (I went in the fall) You should definitely go! #Monet'sPond #Nagoya #Gifu #Koinobori

A visit to Monet's Pond, a popular spot in Gifu Prefecture The pond itself is small, but it is much clearer than it looks in the photo, which is impressive. The photo was actually taken the day after it rained, so I think it is even more beautiful in real life. The vivid red and black carp and the sunlight shining into the pond were very beautiful. I recommend stopping by during your leisurely trip around Gifu. #GifuTrip

#SummerWeekendTrip Since it's close to Aichi Prefecture, I went to Monet's Pond for a drive 👏 Apparently its official name is 'Nameless Pond'. There were many edited photos from reviews on other sites, so I was skeptical about whether it was really that beautiful, but even up close, the water was very clear and there were beautiful carp swimming around, so I was surprised! 😂 If you're visiting Gifu Prefecture, please stop by 👏

This is a super public bath attached to a shopping mall in Seki City. There are three types of bedrock baths, as well as a sauna and loyly. There are many different types of baths, including silk baths, carbonated springs, and baths that change daily. The rest areas and dining areas are also spacious, so you can spend the day relaxing.

Location: Mountain village in Gifu Prefecture Accommodation: Hiyado no Yado Shinmei Onsen Yumoto Sugishima Address: 4838 Itadori, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture Budget: About 25,000 yen The mountain village cuisine and Hida beef eaten around the hearth are incredibly delicious 😆❗ I recommend eating less for lunch because you'll be full anyway 🍴 It seems like you can enjoy seasonal dishes. You walk to the private bath, but it feels like a walk in the mountains. The hot spring water that you reach is thick and delicious ♨️ Feels great ✨ A secluded hot spring inn where you can experience a worldview like a Japanese folk tale ✨ There is a tourist spot, Monet's Pond, on the way 💕 Information for October 2021. #gourmet #couple trip #gourmet #hot spring #Gifu Prefecture

This is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting Gifu. Most visitors come by car, but there are plenty of parking spaces so you can easily park. There is no admission fee, so you can relax and unwind. Next to the pond is a shrine and a hydrangea garden, making it a popular photo spot. #QuintessaCampaign

There is a cedar forest in the park, and although it is a bit of a walk, there is a lot of greenery and it is pleasant to walk through. It is full of negative ions. The cedar forest really makes you feel like you have entered the world of Ghibli. It is a wonderful, mysterious place. Seasonal flowers bloom in the park, and this time I was able to see hydrangeas. There is a warning sign that says to be careful of vipers and bees. I think it is a good idea to wear long pants. Also, be careful after it rains as the rocks can be slippery. #QuintessaCampaign

It was a sacred place with a mysterious atmosphere, as if you had wandered into another world. You can take beautiful photos of the greenery and the waterfall, so I recommend visiting during the season when the new leaves are in bloom. You will see a sign for Iwamon Falls on the north side of Prefectural Route 81, and if you drive up there for a while you will find a parking space. From there it is a little over 10 minutes on foot to reach the waterfall. However, the climb is quite steep, so it may be difficult for elderly people and those with weak legs and hips. I checked the Health app and found that I had climbed about 15 floors (about 75 meters). #QuintessaCampaign

I went there by public transport! It took almost a whole day. It was really beautiful, and I couldn't stop taking photos.

Do you know "Monet's Pond" in Gifu Prefecture? 😳✨ Monet's Pond is a pond in the Itadori district of Seki City, Gifu Prefecture, where you can experience the world of the world-famous painter Claude Monet's "Water Lilies" painting! ️✨✨ Tourists from all over Japan flock to the pond for its beauty! Many colorful carp fish swim in the pond! Why not go and see Monet's Pond? #BreathtakingView #Monet'sPond #GifuPrefecture #BreathtakingView#AJourneyToEnjoySpring

Gifu Prefecture Commonly known as Monet's Pond Monet's Pond in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture It's a nameless pond, but it's called Monet's Pond because it looks like Monet's famous painting, the water lilies. I think it's a place that became famous through books about stunning views and social media. By the way, my photos are unedited images. There are a lot of edited photos on social media, so you might be disappointed when you see them in person. It's more beautiful through a camera than with the naked eye ^ ^ When I went there, it was right around the time of the boom, so there was a huge traffic jam on the way there that lasted more than an hour. #stunningview

Three spots in Japan where you can enjoy the "world of Monet," with scenery that looks like a painting: ⸻ ① The original, miraculously clear water 📍 Nameless Pond (Monet's Pond) (Seki City, Gifu Prefecture) 🏠 Address 440-1 Itadori, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture (near Nemichi Shrine) 🌿 Features ・Overwhelming clarity due to spring water ・Water lilies and carp resemble a "Monet painting" ・The original spot that became instantly famous on social media 🚗 Access ・Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway "Mino IC" → Approximately 30-40 minutes 🚃 Public Transportation ・JR Gifu Station → Transfer to bus → Get off at the nearest bus stop + walk ⸻ ② Monet's Pond in Kansai (a hidden gem) 📍 Monet's Pond in Sanda (Sanda City, Hyogo Prefecture) 🏠 Address: Ono, Sanda City, Hyogo Prefecture This pond is located in Ono Park, at the eastern end of Lake Senjoji in Sanda City, Hyogo Prefecture. 🌿 Features • The pond is gradually being restored to its original state through the "Monet's Pond Restoration Project," which involves local residents, students, and businesses. It looks like the pond will become even more beautiful in the future! 🤩 🚗 Access ・Chugoku Expressway "Kobe Sanda IC" → Approximately 15-20 minutes ・JR Sanda Station → Approximately 15 minutes by car. Free parking available. ⸻ ③ The Officially Recognized, Authentic Monet's Garden 📍 Kitagawa Village Monet's Garden Marmottan (Kochi Prefecture) 🏠 Address 1100 Notomo-ko, Kitagawa Village, Aki District, Kochi Prefecture 🌿 Features ・A recreation of Monet's garden in France ・The world's only "officially recognized Monet's garden" ・Encounter a breathtaking view that makes you feel like you're in a painting. 🚗 Access ・Kochi City → Approximately 90 minutes by car ・Nankoku IC → Approximately 70 minutes 🚃 Public Transportation ・Tosa Kuroshio Railway "Nahari Station" → Approximately 10 minutes by bus Admission Fee General: 1,000 yen Elementary and Junior High School Students: 500 yen Children under elementary school age: Free #Must-see tourist spot #Monet's Pond #Nameless Pond #Monet's Garden #Kitagawa Village #Marmottan #Ono Park #Gifu Prefecture #Hyogo Prefecture #Kochi Prefecture #Monet

📍#Gifu Prefecture You might not have imagined it, but Gifu Prefecture is actually home to tons of photogenic spots! 🫶✨ Today, I'll introduce 6 of my recommended spots! 💕 Save this and use it as inspiration for your next trip to Gifu! ♩ == ① Yoro Tenmei Hantenchi (1st-3rd photos) A photogenic spot known only to those in the know! I had so much fun trying different ways to take photos! I hope you all use my tips as a reference and enjoy this interactive art experience! 💛 ② Shirakawa-go (4th photo) Speaking of Gifu, you can't miss Shirakawa-go, a World Heritage Site! 🥰 The playful scarecrows were adorable! 🫶 (lol) I think it's a beautiful view no matter the season! ③ Hida Takayama Experience Center Sarubobo Workshop (5th photo) Here, you can try making your own Sarubobo! 🐒 You can choose the color of the fabric, write text on the apron, and create your own original Sarubobo! 🤭 Sarubobo are amulets shaped like baby monkeys. 🔮 Because you made them yourself, they're more likely to protect you than regular amulets! 😆 ④ Hida Takayama Teddy Bear Eco Village (6th photo) This 180-year-old gassho-zukuri (traditional Japanese house) is filled with bears! 🧸 The antique accessories and interior decor are so cute, I was totally blown away! 🫰💗 ⑤ Nameless Pond (7th photo) This beautiful pond has water that reminds me of the painting "Monet's Pond." 🖼🎨 There are even koi swimming in it, making it truly picturesque! I recommend going by car! 🚗 ⑥ Tajimi City Mosaic Tile Museum (Photos 8-10) This place features a huge selection of mosaic tiles. The tiles are so adorable, I couldn't stop taking photos! 😭✨ They also have workshops, so if you have the time, I highly recommend them! 💫 I didn't have time, so I bought some tiles as souvenirs and decided to make coasters at home. ☕️❣️ == That's it! ♡ I've included a lot of recommendations, but thank you for reading this far! 😭🫧 If you have any other recommendations, please let me know! . #Gifu #GifuTourism #GifuTrip #TravelStory #HiddenGemsForTravelers #TravelItineraries #InternationalSpots #ArtTour

Monet's Pond: Gifu's Hidden Watercolor Wonderland 🎨🐟 Tucked away in Seki, Monet's Pond is a dazzling secret spot that feels straight out of a dreamy painting! The crystal-clear water shimmers in shades of blue and green, sparkling beneath pink maple leaves while elegant koi swim lazily below. If natural beauty is your thing, don't miss this gem hiding in plain sight! Recommended Route & Must-Do Experiences: Walk the short scenic trail from the parking area directly to the pond—it's open year-round, so you can visit any time that suits. Stroll slowly and take in the gentle ripples, vibrant fish, and the incredible colors, especially in autumn when the maples are blushing pink. The ponds are full of beautiful koi (carp), so pause and watch their graceful movements. Top Photo Spots: Snap photos of the koi swimming under maple branches for that Insta-worthy Monet effect! Tip: Stand on the small footbridge nearby for a gorgeous wide shot, or crouch close for mesmerizing nature close-ups (daytime light enhances the watercolor feel). Practical Visiting Tips: Arrive early in the morning or just before sunset to avoid the crowds and capture the best soft light. Monet's Pond is tranquil but not very big, so a short visit is perfect. There aren’t any big signboards, so keep an eye on Google Maps & look out for “関市板取白谷.” Key Precautions: Watch your step near the water's edge as rocks can be slippery. Please don’t feed the fish—help keep this pond pristine for everyone. #Gifu #Sekitrip #MonetsPond #OutdoorScenery #NaturePhotography

#falladventures What is this place? This is a journey along Kochi's scenic Doi River Corridor, a series of parks that together create a living canvas. The highlight is Monet's Garden, a breathtakingly accurate homage to the artist's Giverny, complete with a iconic water lily pond, Japanese-style bridge, and willow trees. The experience is complemented by the expansive floral displays of Uchiharano Park and the serene riverfront of Nishikawahana Park. Why this place for a solo escape? For the solo traveler, this is a pilgrimage for beauty and contemplation. At Monet's pond, you can sit for as long as you wish, watching light and color dance on the water, just as the master once did. Without a companion to hurry you, you can fully immerse yourself in this living painting, finding a deep, personal connection to art and nature in one of Japan's best-kept horticultural secrets. Your Perfect Solo Itinerary: · Morning (9:00 AM): Start at the lotus pond in Monet's Garden, capturing the soft morning light on the water lilies. · Late Morning (10:30 AM): Wander through the flower fields of Uchiharano Park, a vibrant contrast to the pond's serene palette. · Afternoon (12:30 PM): Enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch by the river in Nishikawahana Park, reflecting on the morning's beauty. Top Solo Tips: · Rent a Bicycle: The parks are spread out; a bike offers freedom and a lovely ride along the river. · Patience is Key: Wait for the perfect moment when the light hits the pond just right—you have all the time you need. · Visit on a Weekday: Have this incredible scene largely to yourself for a more intimate experience. #SoloLotusGaze Step right into an Impressionist masterpiece. This journey offers a uniquely personal and visually stunning day out, where you can witness the magical meeting of art, nature, and solitude.

Located in Itadori, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture, "Monet's Pond" is officially known as the "Nameless Pond," a small reservoir. However, its crystal-clear water, colorful water lilies, and gracefully swimming koi carp have drawn comparisons to Claude Monet's painting "Water Lilies," earning it the affectionate nickname "Monet's Pond." On sunny mornings, the light reflecting off the water illuminates the pond's bottom, creating a fantastical world. The ever-changing hues, influenced by the movement of the koi and the angle of the light, are breathtaking no matter how many times you see them. 📌 Useful Information Address: Shiratani, Itadori, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture Access: About 40 minutes by car from the "Mino IC" on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway Parking: Available (Free) Nearby Attractions: The clear stream of the Itadori River, Nemichi Shrine A miraculous pond nestled in the mountains of Gifu, resembling a scene straight out of Monet's paintings. Witness the "natural canvas" that changes colors with the seasons for yourself.

It was blooming beautifully

A French friend recommended it! Not bad #nagoyatourism

🇯🇵 Gifu | Itadori River Renowned for its exceptional clarity, the "Itadori River" in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture, is often referred to as "Japan's most beautiful river." Its emerald green waters, so transparent you can see the riverbed, evoke the charm of a tropical resort. Especially popular in summer as a cool retreat, the area offers a treasure trove of outdoor activities such as river play, camping, barbecues, and stream fishing. Whether you're traveling with family, as a couple, or solo, you'll find rejuvenating natural experiences waiting for you. One highly recommended spot is the "Kaore Valley" area. Surrounded by unique rock formations and pristine forests, the valley's beauty is so enchanting it leaves visitors speechless. The Itadori River also showcases its charm through the seasons, with autumn foliage and winter snowscapes adding to its allure. ⸻ 🌿 Experiences & Useful Information • 📍 Location: Itadori District, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture • 🚗 Access: About 1.5–2 hours by car from Nagoya / Accessible via Gifu Bus "Hodo Itadori Line" • 💧 Recommended Activities: River play, stream fishing, camping, SUP • 🏕 Nearby facilities include "Itadori Campground" and "21st Century Forest Park" • 🍁 Best Season: May–October (Summer is especially popular; autumn foliage peaks around November) ⸻

Gifu Prefecture's Seki City is famously known as the "Town of Blades." While exploring this artisan town, I discovered a tranquil retreat called "Sekiya," where time seems to flow gently. Stepping into its modern Japanese-style space, the warmth of wood and the serene atmosphere instantly soothe the soul. This multi-purpose venue, combining a café, a shop, and a gallery, offers a perfect spot to take a relaxing break during your sightseeing adventures. 🏠 Highlights of "Sekiya" • A gallery space featuring local artists' pottery and crafts. • Carefully selected teas, coffee, and delicately flavored baked goods. • High ceilings and an open, airy ambiance reminiscent of a salon in the forest. 📍 Access Information • Address: 4-6-1 Nishihongodori, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture • Access: About a 15-minute walk from Nagaragawa Railway's "Seki Station" or recommended by car 🚙 • Parking: Available (free) • Hours & Holidays: Check Instagram for updates as they vary 📱 🍁 Recommended Seasons & Ways to Enjoy • Autumn: Enjoy a perfect reading time with the view of colorful trees through the windows 📖 • Rainy days: Embrace the calm and soothing atmosphere ◎ • Nearby attractions: Seki Cutlery Museum and Seki Zenkoji Temple are worth visiting. Seki's charm goes beyond craftsmanship. It’s a place where you can experience the gentle lifestyle and warm atmosphere that underpin its artistry—Sekiya embodies this essence. If you’re planning a trip to Seki City, make sure to stop by this delightful spot along the way 🌱

🎨🌿 [Monet's Pond, Gifu] Go see "paintings floating on the water." Is this really Japan? You can't help but think so at Monet's Pond, a miraculous sight in Seki City, Gifu. The sight of water lilies floating in the crystal clear spring water and colorful carp swimming leisurely is so beautiful it's like a real-life version of Claude Monet's famous painting, "Water Lilies." What's more... There's no admission fee and no time limit. It's not a museum, but a "masterpiece" that you can enjoy for free in nature. 📸 If you want to take photos, we recommend around 10am. The sun shines in, the water sparkles, and even the movements of the carp turn into art. We also recommend having breakfast at Sekiya on your way back! ⸻ 📍Access 448 Itadori, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture (in front of Nemichi Shrine) 🚗 Car: About 35 minutes from Mino IC on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway 🚌 Public transport: JR Gifu Station → Gifu Bus → Get off at Itadori Fureai Bus "Monet's Pond" ⸻ 🔖 #Monet's Pond #Gifu Tourism #Natural Art #Water Lily Pond #Nameless Pond #Domestic Travel #Couple Travel #Couple Travel #Solo Travel #Solo Travel##Absolutely Free Travel ##Seki City ##Gifu Travel ⸻ 💡Tips ・The moist atmosphere after the rain is also recommended ・The best time to see the water lilies is around June to September ・Combine it with the nearby "Itadori River" and "Itadori Onsen" ◎

📍Ayukawa 215-1 Horodo Kurihara, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture ⏱Opening hours [June, October, November] 10:00-18:00 (L.O.) [July-September] 10:00-20:00 (L.O.) 🗓Closed November-June (open from mid-June to early November) 🎫Budget ¥2000~ 🌸Recommended points As the name suggests, it's all about sweetfish!! If you want to enjoy sweetfish dishes, this is the place to go🤩💖 Sweetfish dishes are quite rare, aren't they🫣 Here, everything from sashimi to grilled fish, fried fish, kanroni (sweet fish stew) to porridge is made with sweetfish🐟 It's truly a sweetfish heaven🤤🍽 It's surprisingly odorless and refreshing, so I recommend it🎶 #EnjoyJapan

📍 Monet's Pond 〒501-2901 Itadori Shiratani, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture 🚃 Nearest Station Gifu Station 🚶♀️ Access Bus from the station ⏱ Hours None 🗓 Closed Days None 🎫 Admission Fee Free 🌸 Recommended Highlights A magical pond that feels like stepping into a Monet painting 🫣🖼🫧 The high transparency of the spring water, the blooming water lilies, and the graceful koi swimming create a natural masterpiece 🎨🌿. Its beauty is so captivating that you might find yourself lost in time as you gaze upon it ✨. The scenery, reminiscent of Monet's iconic "Water Lilies," is truly worth seeing 🫶. Early summer is the best time to visit, as the water lilies are in bloom during this season 🪷💓.

First of all, you'll be amazed by the beautiful water quality of the Itadori River! The highly transparent river is like a natural jewel, and just looking at the river is soothing to the soul💧. We recommend canoeing or playing in the river while listening to the sound of the clear water, and immersing yourself in a moment of activity🚣♂️. And what you'll want to enjoy along the river is grilled salted sweetfish! The local sweetfish are fresh, and the fragrant aroma will whet your appetite🔥. The taste of the sweetfish, simply sprinkled with salt, is exquisite and in harmony with nature✨. You can spend a luxurious time surrounded by nature while enjoying the sweetfish by the river. 📍Basic Information ✴︎Itadori River ✴︎Address: Itadori, Motosu City, Gifu Prefecture ✴︎Access: About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from JR Gifu Station ✴︎Price: Free ✴︎Opening hours: Always open ✴︎Grilled sweetfish (local restaurant) ✴︎Address: Itadori, Motosu City, Gifu Prefecture ✴︎Access: Served at restaurants along the Itadori River ✴︎Price: Around 1,000 yen (grilled sweetfish) ✴︎Opening hours: 11:00-16:00 🌟Travel Tips Especially recommended in the summer! Salt-grilled sweetfish is seasonal, so if you visit during the sweetfish's delicious season, you can have the best experience🍽️. After enjoying playing in the river, you can taste the delicious sweetfish and feel the blessings of nature! #Spring0yentrip #Domestictravel

First, relax and soak in the hot springs at Shinmei Onsen Yumoto Sugishima to relieve your fatigue. This hot spring, where you can relax in a quiet environment, offers a wonderful view from the open-air bath🌄. It's a perfect moment for hot spring lovers✨. Next, Monet's Pond. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the pond, which looks like a Monet painting🎨. The water lilies floating on the pond and the highly transparent water reflect the scenery like a painting. The scenery reflected on the water surface is fantastic from any angle, making it a perfect spot for photos📸. 📍Basic Information ✴︎Shinmei Onsen Yumoto Sugishima ✴︎Address: Shinmei Onsen, Yamagata City, Gifu Prefecture ✴︎Access: About 40 minutes by car from JR Gifu Station ✴︎Fee: Day trip hot springs available (check the official website for fees) ✴︎Business hours: 10:00-22:00 ✴︎Monet's Pond ✴︎Address: Oyada, Mino City, Gifu Prefecture ✴︎Access: About 20 minutes by bus from JR Mino-Ota Station ✴︎Fee: Free ✴︎Business hours: Always open 🌟Travel Tips If you go to Monet's Pond early in the morning, there are still few people, and you can slowly enjoy the fantastic scenery of the pond. Especially from spring to summer, the water lilies bloom beautifully🌸.