Gifu Prefecture is a land-locked region in central Honshu, Japan's main island. About 40 minutes' drive from the capital, Gifu City, in the southwestern corner of the prefecture, lies the town of Ibigawa.

Ibigawa Town is where the Ibigawa River, a big river that flows into Ise Bay, meets the Kasu River, which is known for its excellent water quality. About 19,000 people live in the town, which has a warm climate and is surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Farming thrives in this area, with its rich water supply and fertile land. Ibigawa is famous for its rice and for the tea that grows there. The vast green carpet formed in early summer by the fields of tea is a breathtaking sight. Half of the town's 46.32-square-kilometer area is covered with trees and plants. The townspeople always have something delightful to look at throughout the year, such as the bright green new leaves of spring and the reds and browns of autumn.

The town of Ibigawa has a long history. At the top of the mountain Jodaisan are the ruins of Ibi Castle, which was built in the fourteenth century. Today Jodaisan is a beautiful park where residents love to come to relax. There is an area for watching the wild birds that live in the park's woods and thickets and the fireflies that light up the park in summer. People also enjoy walking on footpaths surrounded, according to the season, by blooming flowers. On the other side of the Ibigawa River is Asadori Park, which in summer plays host to many families who come to enjoy camping and other outdoor activities.