Discover the mountain villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, featuring gassho-style houses.
In the remote Hida Highlands, the villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama offer architectural delights. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, these two remote communities are best known for their gassho-style architecture. Featuring steeply pitched thatched roofs, this fascinating part of Japan is the only place visitors can encounter these charming farmhouses.
With the region set high in the mountains, it remained relatively isolated from much of Japan until the 1950s. This separation gave rise to a unique building style that responds to the natural environment and provides insight into the local economy.
Today, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama offer a great opportunity to indulge in slow travel in Japan. Leaving behind the city, exploring these traditional villages provides a distinct change of pace. Book your journey and discover a unique location preserving an incredible aspect of Japan’s cultural heritage.
INDEX
The allure of Japan’s hidden villages
The art of slow travel in Shirakawa-go
Must-see sites in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
Experience traditional Japanese culture in Shirakawa-go
When to visit Shirakawa-go for the best experience
Practical tips for visiting Shirakawa-go
Set in a remote valley surrounded by mountains, Japan’s hidden villages make for a fascinating adventure spanning the Gifu and Toyama Prefectures. Set across three major settlements – Ogimachi in Shirakawa-go and Ainokura and Suganuma in Gokayama – these communities date back to the 11th century and hold immense historical significance.
Perhaps the most important aspect of these traditional villages is the emergence of authentic gassho-style architecture. Also known as gassho-zukuri farmhouses or 'praying hands' construction, this style uses steep thatched roofs that can easily withstand heavy winter snowfall while allowing snow to slide down the side once it melts.
Described as one of Japan’s rarest forms of architecture, some gassho farmhouses are over 400 years old. Meanwhile, this clever design also captures some of the unique economic qualities of the region. Featuring multiple large divisions, each home's interior space was used to store mulberry leaves and cultivate silkworm beds – the major agricultural products available to the community.
With each of these Japanese rural villages immaculately preserved, they offer a rare opportunity to experience a traditional way of life. Best of all, it’s not just the architecture that has remained much the same. The surrounding landscape has also changed little over the decades, allowing visitors to experience the Sho River’s nearby canals and forests without compromise.
Remaining unique to Japan until the 1930s, gassho-style architecture was eventually spread to other parts of the world by renowned German architect Bruno Taut. After being introduced to this design style during his time in Japan, Taut was inspired to share and explore this construction method further once he returned to Europe.
The difference between city and rural life in Japan is stark. While the likes of Tokyo and Osaka are incredible destinations, it’s easy to feel a little rushed between the sprawling shopping malls and the narrow streets lined with busy restaurants. However, adopting a slow travel philosophy makes perfect sense when visiting the stunning Japanese countryside.
Rather than feeling the need to see every landmark on offer, making the conscious decision to embrace a slow travel mindset makes it easier to forge deeper connections with the area’s nature and history. Though you might see fewer destinations on your trip, spending more time in each place will help foster profound experiences and memories.
Slow travel in Japan is also great for enhancing cultural immersion. For example, local food and traditional customs can date back centuries. Allowing yourself to become immersed in these experiences means you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for what makes them special. Instead of just observing these traditions, you’ll have the time and mental space to meaningfully engage.
There’s no shortage of rewarding activities that encourage this slower approach. For instance, a peaceful wander around a rural farmhouse might help you learn about local agriculture. Taking a calligraphy class, a lacquerware painting session, or attending a serene tea ceremony are also considered experiences that help increase mindfulness.
Slowing down is also wise for reducing the stress of traveling. Instead of rushing from one place to the next, savoring the journey at a more relaxed pace allows travelers to soak up the experience and engage more with their surroundings. In places as historic and beautiful as Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, this change in approach can only be a good thing.
Ready to make the most of your visit to Shirakawa-go and Gokayama? These are the must-see sites that not only present the best examples of historic gassho-style houses but also incredible vistas and a traditional way of life.
The main attraction in Shirakawa-go, Ogimachi, is home to the largest settlement of gassho-style farmhouses. With over 59 properties to explore, most date from the late Edo period to the late Meiji period. Running parallel to the Shō River, these captivating houses make for a picturesque scene as you explore one of Japan’s most iconic rural villages.
No matter the time of year, Ogimachi looks like something out of a fairytale. In the warmer months, lush grass, lily ponds, and soaring trees immerse the houses in greenery against the mountainous backdrop. Meanwhile, the heavy snow in winter makes for a completely different but no less dreamy visit.
Getting up close to these historic houses is undoubtedly a special experience. However, the Shiroyama Viewpoint offers the chance to soak up a different perspective, delivering breathtaking panoramic views. Though the walk to the top of this soaring viewpoint is a little steep, it only takes about 15 minutes to reach the summit.
As your reward, you’ll receive unmatched views over the entire village of Shirakawa-go. The summit is also home to a charming cafe serving coffee and ice cream, so you can enjoy a refreshing treat as you admire the vistas. Explore at your own pace, whether visiting Shirakawa-go in winter or summer.
Built in the late Edo period, the Wada House is the largest and best-preserved gassho-zukuri house in Shirakawa-go. Once owned by the Wada family – the largest landowner in the village – this large three-story house symbolizes their considerable wealth. Today, the Wada House is open for tours, where visitors can admire the architecture and learn about traditional rural life.
Although some parts of the house are still used as a residence, visitors can explore several rooms and the vast attic. Inside, you’ll encounter exhibits featuring authentic tools and equipment used to construct the thatched roof. Meanwhile, everyday items like tableware and kitchen utensils provide a glimpse of life in the village as a wealthy homeowner.
Peaceful serenity is virtually guaranteed when you make the trip to Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. However, there’s more to do than just wander the landscape. Featuring numerous opportunities to explore traditional Japanese culture, add some of these activities to your Shirakawa-go travel guide and create the best possible itinerary.
While being welcomed into a historic gassho-zukuri farmhouse is incredibly special, there’s also the chance you can stay overnight. In fact, numerous farmhouses in Shirakawa-go offer family-operated stays, providing a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture through futon-style beds, tatami mats, and shoji sliding doors. Plus, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the town during the peaceful mornings and evenings.
Taking part in local craft workshops is another way to feel immersed in the history of Shirakawa-go. One of the most storied traditions involves ‘Sarubobo dolls’ – a colorful, faceless figure said to bring good fortune. With various colors symbolizing prosperity, professional success, good health, and more, creating a Sarubobo doll could be the ideal souvenir to remember your trip.
Shirakawa-go is also home to numerous seasonal festivals, which make the most of the changing landscape around Japan’s hidden villages. For example, the Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up event sees the village’s streets and homes illuminated against the night sky. Meanwhile, the Doburoku Festival offers visitors the chance to sample doburoku – traditional unrefined sake – from late September to October.
Planning a trip to Shirakawa-go and Gokayama is exciting all year round, but depending on the sites you want to enjoy, timing your visit with a specific season could be the perfect choice. Here’s what to expect when exploring these Japanese rural villages.
Following the winter snow, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama burst to life with lush greenery covering the villages and the surrounding landscape. What’s more, spring is the season of cherry blossoms, with a full bloom making your visit even more picturesque. The fine weather also invites traditional events and mild temperatures primed for walking tours.
While Japan can be hot and humid in summer, Shirakawa-go’s highland setting helps keep the temperatures more comfortable. With the scenery at its brightest and most lush, now is the ideal time to plan a walking tour through this peaceful community. Expect to encounter a program filled with workshops and community events.
Autumn is certainly one of the most beautiful times to visit Shirakawa-go. As the green landscape gradually gives way to red, gold, and orange foliage, the surrounding hillsides offer myriad fascinating colors to admire. You can watch the town prepare for winter, with the houses covered in a thick layer of rice stems and straw.
Despite the frosty conditions, winter is one of the most popular times to visit Shirakawa-go. With the snow-covered houses and hills looking like something from a fairytale, this magical atmosphere is unforgettable. There are also numerous special winter events to enjoy, such as the Silkworm Festival or the Snow-dyeing Ceremony.
Before departing on an adventure to Shirakawa-go, it’s wise to learn a few practical tips that will make your trip even better. From packing the right clothes to booking ahead, follow this advice to benefit from an incredible journey.
Book early: Peak seasons like summer and winter tend to be the most popular times to visit Shirakawa-go. If you’re hoping to stay overnight in a gassho-style farmhouse, be sure to make a booking early.
Dress for the weather: Shirakawa-go’s highland can experience a huge amount of snow, so packing warm gloves, snow boots, and snow jackets is essential. For summer, light clothing is vital to navigate the heat.
Be respectful: Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are living villages, meaning locals reside in the houses throughout the year. When you visit the community, show respect for their privacy and remove shoes when entering homes.
Take rubbish with you: While these rural Japanese villages are popular with tourists, they are still real communities. As trash bins are rare, make sure you take your rubbish with you to help maintain the region’s beauty.
While the villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are situated in remote highlands, the journey from major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto is simple.
Departing Tokyo: Fly from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) to Komatsu Airport in about 1 hour and 5 minutes. Then, catch the Komatsu Airport Limousine Bus to Kanazawa Station before changing to the Express Bus bound for Shirakawa-go. The journey should take about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can catch a taxi from the airport to Shirakawa-go in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Departing Nagoya: Catch the Gifu Bus from Meitetsu Bus Center next to Nagoya Station bound for Shirakawa-go. The journey takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Departing Tokyo: Fly from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) to Komatsu Airport in about 1 hour and 5 minutes. Then, catch the Komatsu Airport Limousine Bus to Kanazawa Station. Next, catch the Nohi Bus service to Gokayama. The journey should take about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, catch a taxi from Komatsu Airport to Gokayama in around 70 minutes.
Departing Nagoya: Board the "Kito Kito Liner" at the Midland Square located next to Nagoya Station. This direct bus service will take you to the Gokayama Inter-guchi bus stop in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. From the bus stop, it's a short 300-meter walk to Suganuma Village.
Excited to explore the Shirakawa-go World Heritage Site? Book your journey with JAL to experience a hassle-free adventure filled with traditional culture, outstanding cuisine, and vibrant festivals.
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