Located near the geographical center of the Japanese archipelago, Higashi-Mino is a region in eastern Gifu Prefecture consisting of six cities and one town: Tajimi City, Toki City, Mizunami City, Ena City, Nakatsugawa City, Kani City, and Mitake Town.

Surrounded by lush mountains and clear rivers, the region boasts beautiful landscapes and a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. These include post towns along the historic Nakasendo, traditional crafts such as Mino ware pottery, and numerous mountain castle ruins dating back to the Warring States period. Together, these assets preserve and showcase Japan's rich history and culture.

Higashi-Mino is also the planned site of the Gifu Prefecture Station (provisional name) on the Linear Chuo Shinkansen. Once the line opens, the region is expected to be accessible from Tokyo (Shinagawa Station) in less than one hour.
Each municipality in Higashi-Mino offers its own unique character, allowing visitors to enjoy a diverse range of attractions and experiences throughout the region.

1. Nakasendo
The Nakasendo was one of the five major highways established during the Edo period and served as an important route connecting Edo (present-day Tokyo) and Kyoto. Post towns were established along the road, and 17 of them are located within Gifu Prefecture, including eight in the Higashi-Mino region.
Passing through mountainous terrain, the route offers stunning seasonal scenery, with forests, valleys, and rivers changing throughout the year. Many post towns still retain their historical atmosphere, featuring remnants such as honjin (official inns), stone-paved streets, masugata defensive road layouts, and traditional merchant houses. Walking the Nakasendo and experiencing its history firsthand is one of the signature experiences of Higashi-Mino.

2. Mino Ware
Pottery has been produced in Higashi-Mino since before the Asuka period. During the Azuchi-Momoyama period, the region gave birth to Mino Momoyama ceramics, including Shino, Oribe, Setoguro, and Kiseto, styles that were highly prized by feudal lords and had a profound influence on Japanese ceramic culture.
Today, the region accounts for approximately half of Japan's domestic tableware production. In addition to everyday ceramics, artisans create a wide variety of products, including mosaic tiles, interior décor items, and accessories. The area continues to attract and support many ceramic artists, maintaining its reputation as one of Japan's leading pottery-producing regions.

3. Mountain Castles
Higashi-Mino is home to numerous mountain castles that tell the story of Japan's turbulent Warring States era. Among them, Iwamura Castle Ruins and Iwamura Castle Town, Mino Kanayama Castle Ruins, and Naegi Castle Ruins have been designated as "Treasures of Gifu" and are recognized among the 100 Famous Japanese Castles and Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles.
These mountain castles offer visitors a unique combination of historical significance, local legends, and magnificent natural surroundings. Exploring the castles scattered across Higashi-Mino provides an opportunity to discover the region's rich heritage while enjoying breathtaking scenery and a sense of adventure. Why not spend a memorable holiday immersing yourself in the romance of history and nature?