Photo/Illutration Usho” cormorant handlers use bonfires to illuminate the surface of the Nagaragawa river and hunt for “ayu” sweetfish in Gifu in May 2023. (Asahi Shimbun file photo)

GIFU--Restrictions on passenger numbers for cormorant fishing viewing boats will be lifted with the May 11 start of the fishing season on the Nagaragawa river here.

The steps were put in place during the pandemic. 

All 39 boats that can seat between 10 and 50 passengers will be allowed to operate at maximum capacity, Gifu city officials said.

The city government is also strengthening its efforts to attract inbound tourists.

The official website has been updated to accept reservations in English as well as credit card payments.

While reservations can be made at the Gifu City Cormorant Fishing Observation Boat Office, bookings by phone are no longer accepted as part of streamlining efforts.

The number of boats installed with long benches has been increased to two because passengers can get on board with their shoes on, making it popular among non-Japanese visitors.

Also, starting from this year, the office will charge a 30-percent fee for trips canceled the day before, a 50-percent fee for same-day cancellations and a 100-percent fee for no-shows. 

“We intend to increase efficiency in the operations of viewing boats by active use of the new reservation system, while focusing our efforts on improving customer service quality,” said Mayor Masanao Shibahashi.

The cormorant fishing season runs until Oct. 15.

For more information and reservations, visit the official website at (https://www.ukai-gifucity.jp/e/).

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