"Ayaka Nakamura's 10,000-step treasure hunt" is a segment where CBC reporter Ayaka Nakamura walks and investigates the hidden charms of notable areas in the Tokai region.

This time, we will introduce three people, gourmet foods, and outing spots found in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture, which is also known for the summer tradition "Gujo Odori."

Impressive Spot ①: Clear and cool! The clear stream Yoshida River flowing through the center of Gujo Hachiman

The summer tradition "Gujo Odori" is held for about two months from July 11, 2026. During the Obon period, all-night dancing is also held. Nakamura, from Tokyo, was strolling through the old townscape and nature of Gujo Hachiman for the first time when she arrived at a river.

(Ayaka Nakamura)
"Wait, wait, the river is transparent. I want to play in the river. I want to go to the river, it must feel great."

The first impressive spot was a surprisingly clear river, reached in 3201 steps. The Yoshida River, which flows through the center of Gujo Hachiman, has a transparent flow that invites a cool feeling. Nakamura couldn't help but take off her shoes and walk towards the river...

(Ayaka Nakamura)
"It feels good, the opposite of a footbath. Just having cold feet lowers your body temperature. Can I stay here forever?"

Amidst the strong sunlight, people seeking coolness, just like Nakamura-ana, were seen dipping their feet in the water to cool down.

Impressive Spot ②: Gujo's soul food! Impressed by the nostalgic taste of "Gujo-yaki"

After cooling down in the river, Nakamura asked people in the town for information on the next treasure spot.

(Woman)
"(Q: What spots should I visit if I come to Gujo?) Teppanyaki is famous. Izumisaka. Okonomiyaki and Gujo-yaki. Gujo-yaki is delicious, it has green onions."

Nakamura had never eaten "Gujo-yaki" before. With anticipation, she immediately headed to the restaurant. The second impressive spot was Gujo-yaki, a local teppanyaki gourmet dish, reached in 6456 steps. She ordered the famous Gujo-yaki at "Izumisaka," where local cuisine can be enjoyed.

Gujo-yaki is a Gujo-style green onion pancake that used to be cooked at candy stores and the like. A thin layer of batter is spread, topped with plenty of green onions, red ginger, and tempura bits. It's completed by applying a special sauce.

(Ayaka Nakamura)
"I'm eating Gujo-yaki in Gujo City. I really feel like I'm sightseeing. Green onions are so sweet, aren't they? When you bite into them, the sweetness spreads. And then the ginger flavor adds a subtle accent. The batter is thin and chewy, easy to eat, it's the best."

Furthermore, seeing delicious ingredients lined up in the counter's showcase, she also ordered "Hida Beef Hoba Miso Yaki." She savored the sweet melting fat and the rich flavor of the miso.

Impressive Spot ③: Gujo Odori, one of Japan's three great Bon dances! Enjoyed to the fullest by renting a yukata

After eating gelato and strolling through the town, she saw a man and woman in yukata. When she spoke to them...

(Two people, man and woman)
"(Q: You're wearing yukata, where are you going today?) To Gujo Odori. (Q: Did you just get dressed?) I brought my own, and he rented his. There's a cafe called 'tsuyu', and they also rent yukata and do dressing in the back."

Nakamura also wanted to wear a yukata and participate in Gujo Odori, so she went to the cafe they told her about. At "Sandai Ishiyama," there was a wide selection of yukata inherited from a long-established kimono store. Normally, reservations are essential, but by chance, there was an opening, and she was specially dressed. Nakamura chose a blue yukata.

As night fell, she walked towards the sound of the festival music and arrived at a spot where people were gathered. The third impressive spot was Gujo Odori, one of Japan's three great Bon dances, encountered in 10984 steps.

Gujo Odori is counted among Japan's three great Bon dances, along with Tokushima's Awa Odori and Akita's Nishimonai Bon Odori. On the day of the interview, the dance venue was in front of an inn near Gujo Hachiman Castle.

(Ayaka Nakamura)
"This is so much fun!"

She joined the dance circle and fully enjoyed Gujo Odori.

From CBC TV "Chant!" broadcast on August 12, 2026