While Gifu's savory dishes often steal the spotlight, the prefecture's dessert scene offers equally compelling reasons to extend your culinary exploration. From traditional Japanese wagashi using local chestnuts to innovative creations born from hot spring culture, Gifu's sweets tell their own delicious stories.

These desserts aren't just afterthoughts—they're integral parts of Gifu's food culture, reflecting the region's agricultural bounty and creative spirit. Here are 5 sweet treats that deserve a place on your Gifu food itinerary.

1. Kurikinton (栗きんとん) - Sweet Chestnut Gold

Kurikinton - a traditional sweet made from chestnuts and sweet potatoes, symbolizing wealth and prosperity

Kurikinton's beautiful golden hue comes from the natural color of chestnuts, and its smooth, slightly dense texture makes it a satisfying treat. The balance between the chestnuts' earthy flavor and the sweet potato's mild sweetness creates a dessert that's rich without being overwhelming.

2. Gero Pudding (下呂プリン) - Hot Spring Indulgence

Gero Pudding - served in a unique sento (public bath) themed cafe with creative presentations

More than just a dessert, Gero Pudding offers a complete experience. Served in a creatively designed cafe that mimics a traditional Japanese sento (public bath), this pudding comes in various flavors and presentations that make it as fun to look at as it is to eat.

3. Matcha Gelato from Supernal Tea Garden - Sky-High Flavors

Matcha Gelato from the Supernal Tea Garden, surrounded by breathtaking terraced tea fields

This isn't just any matcha gelato—it's an experience that combines Gifu's agricultural heritage with breathtaking natural beauty. The tea fields' unique terracing creates a microclimate that produces exceptional matcha, resulting in gelato with a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.

4. Ayu Gashi (鮎菓子) - Sweet Fish-shaped Treats

Ayu Gashi - adorable fish-shaped sweets that make perfect edible souvenirs

These charming fish-shaped sweets pay homage to Gifu's famous ayu (sweetfish). Typically made from sweet bean paste wrapped in a light, cake-like exterior, ayu gashi are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. The attention to detail in the fish design makes them popular souvenirs.

5. Dojo Hachiyagaki Persimmons (道場八屋柿) - Nature's Candy

Dojo Hachiyagaki Persimmons - naturally dried persimmons with intense sweetness and chewy texture

These aren't your ordinary persimmons. Dojo Hachiyagaki represents a traditional drying method that transforms fresh persimmons into concentrated, candy-like treats. The slow drying process develops deep, complex flavors while preserving the fruit's natural sweetness.

The Art of Japanese Sweets in Gifu

What makes Gifu's dessert scene particularly special is how it bridges tradition and innovation. While respecting centuries-old wagashi techniques, local artisans also create new desserts that reflect contemporary tastes and Gifu's unique characteristics.

Planning Your Gifu Dessert Tour

A Sweet Conclusion to Your Gifu Journey

Gifu's desserts offer more than just sugar—they provide insight into the region's culture, history, and connection to nature. From the prosperity symbolism of kurikinton to the playful creativity of Gero Pudding, each sweet tells a story.

As you explore Gifu's culinary landscape, save room for these delightful finales. They're not just endings to meals, but memorable experiences that complete your understanding of this diverse and delicious region.