Gifu City Rental Area Guide [2026 Edition] — Comprehensive Guide to Livability by Major Area
Comprehensive comparison of major rental areas in Gifu City (Gifu Station surroundings, Yanagidzu, Nagara, Kakamigahara, etc.), rental rates, livability, and access to Nagoya. A practical guide to help you choose an area for single assignments, relocation, or family moves.
Gifu City, the prefectural capital of Gifu Prefecture, stands out as a city offering a calm living environment with affordable rent, yet located just 20–30 minutes from Nagoya by train. The abundant natural surroundings (Kinkazan Mountain and Nagara River), well-developed public infrastructure, and excellent accessibility to the Nagoya region—these factors have earned it support from a wide range of people, including corporate transferees, relocating individuals, and families with children.
This article highlights major rental areas within Gifu City, explaining the characteristics, rental rates, and transportation access of each. Use this as a reference when making area selection decisions.
Gifu Station Area — Prime Location for Maximum Convenience
Gifu Station, the central terminal of Gifu City (JR Tokaido Main Line and Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line), is surrounded by the city's most convenient area. Commercial facilities, supermarkets, and restaurants cluster around the station, making it easy to complete daily shopping and weekend outings within walking distance.
Approximate rent ranges:
•1K, 1DK: approximately ¥40,000–¥60,000
•1LDK: approximately ¥60,000–¥80,000
•2LDK: approximately ¥70,000–¥100,000
Access to Nagoya Station is quick—approximately 20 minutes by Meitetsu express train or roughly 20–25 minutes by JR rapid train. For those commuting to or studying in Nagoya, this is a very practical option. It's popular among corporate transferees and transfer employees, with relatively many newer apartment buildings available.
Yanagidzu and Akanebe Areas — Strong Appeal for Families
The Yanagidzu and Akanebe areas, located in the southwestern part of Gifu City, are accessible to the Meitetsu Gifu Station and the Gifu-Hashima direction, making them well-suited for a lifestyle centered on car transportation. Large shopping malls, home centers, and supermarkets line national highways and main roads, making shopping extremely convenient if you have a car.
As a residential area, it has a peaceful atmosphere, and rental properties with family-oriented layouts (2LDK to 3LDK) are plentiful.
Approximate rent ranges:
•2LDK: approximately ¥60,000–¥90,000
•3LDK: approximately ¥80,000–¥120,000
Elementary and junior high schools and childcare facilities are well-established, making these areas popular with families raising children. Compared to central areas, rent tends to be somewhat lower, making it a cost-effective option for families seeking larger floor plans.
Nagara and Uzura Areas — Balancing Natural and Residential Environments
The Nagara and Uzura areas, which spread along the Nagara River, offer a blend of abundant natural surroundings along a clear stream and a peaceful residential neighborhood. The views overlooking Kinkazan and Gifu Castle are another draw, and these areas remain popular with those who wish to live close to nature.
While somewhat quieter than other areas within Gifu City, the area has most necessary facilities such as supermarkets and medical clinics. Access to Gifu Station is primarily by bus or car.
Approximate rent ranges:
•1LDK: approximately ¥50,000–¥70,000
•2LDK: approximately ¥70,000–¥100,000
This area suits those who enjoy walks along the riverbank and cormorant fishing viewing—or anyone who prefers nature integrated into daily life and seeks a calm lifestyle.
Kakamigahara Area (Neighboring City) — An Option for the Greater Gifu Region
While technically located in Kakamigahara City, which neighbors Gifu City, it often comes up as an option when searching for rentals with the assumption of commuting to Gifu City. The Meitetsu Kakamigahara Line connects Gifu Station with areas in Kakamigahara, making train commuting practical.
Because Gifu Air Force Base is located in Kakamigahara City, there is a certain level of housing demand from Self-Defense Force personnel. Additionally, numerous manufacturing factories and business establishments are situated there, creating demand from corporate transferees as well.
Approximate rent ranges:
•1K, 1DK: approximately ¥35,000–¥55,000
•2LDK: approximately ¥60,000–¥90,000
Compared to central Gifu City, rent levels are somewhat lower, which can be an advantage for those seeking larger floor plans.
Area Selection Based on Nagoya Access
One major reason Gifu City is chosen is its excellent access to Nagoya. Both the JR Tokaido Main Line and Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line operate frequently between Gifu and Nagoya, and the roughly 20-minute commute to Nagoya Station makes it realistic to work in the Nagoya region while living on the Gifu side.
Main transit times:
•JR Gifu Station to Nagoya Station: approximately 20–25 minutes by rapid train
•Meitetsu Gifu Station to Meitetsu Nagoya Station: approximately 20–25 minutes by express train
Compared to Nagoya City rental rates, Gifu City rents are generally lower overall, making it possible to find larger floor plans or better-located properties within the same budget. We recommend considering total commuter pass costs when evaluating areas.
Renting in Gifu City — Area Selection Tips Summary
When selecting a rental area in Gifu City, organizing your priorities around the following points makes comparison easier.
1. Distance to workplace or school
Whether you work or study within Gifu City or commute to Nagoya significantly affects the optimal area. For Nagoya commuters, walking-distance proximity to Gifu Station or locations along transit lines are prioritized.
2. Lifestyle (with or without car)
Gifu City has strong car-dependent characteristics. If you own a car, suburban area options expand significantly. Conversely, if you anticipate car-free living, prioritize searching for properties near stations or along bus routes.
3. Floor plan and rent balance
Areas near Gifu Station, close to downtown, have somewhat higher rent due to convenience. Looking toward the Yanagidzu and Kakamigahara areas can yield larger floor plans at lower rents.
4. Natural environment preferences
Areas along the Nagara River or around Kinkazan suit those who prefer nature woven into daily life.
Gifu City functions as a bedroom community for the Nagoya region while maintaining its own urban functions and natural surroundings, creating a distinctive rental market. Clarify your lifestyle and priorities, then compare multiple areas.
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