Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
Situated in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture in Japan, Shirakawa-go is an enchanting tourist destination famous for its characteristic white traditional houses, called ‘gassho-zukuri’. These A-shaped roofed houses are built to withstand the harsh weather conditions of the area. Shirakawa-go has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Japan’s cultural highlights.
Here, visitors can admire the fine works of art, local food, traditional Japanese lifestyle and local hospitality. In winter, the snow-covered houses create a magical and breathtaking image. Shirakawa-go is the perfect place to spend a relaxing holiday and experience a unique part of Japanese culture.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
How to get to Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
Shirakawa-go can be reached from Kanazawa or Takayama by Nohi Bus. The journey takes about 50 minutes from Takayama and 75 from Kanazawa and costs 2600 Yen one way. It can also be reached from Takaoka by Kaetsuno Bus in 2 hours and 10 minutes at 2200 Yen. If you have JRP you can arrive by Shinkansen from Tokyo or Kanazawa and get off at Shin-Takaoka.
You can also take a Gifu bus from Nagoya. The bus takes 2 hours and 50 minutes and costs between 3000 and 3500 Yen.
Nohibus website
Takaoka-Gokayama-Shirakawago Bus Timetable
Japan Bus Online site for booking the bus between Kanazawa and Takayama
What to see in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
Overnight stay in a gassho-zukuri house
It is possible to stay overnight in more than a dozen family-run gassho-zukuri (comparable to our farmhouse). These are typical Japanese-style accommodations. An overnight stay in one of these farmhouses is highly recommended, as it is a great way to experience a traditional Japanese home.
One night costs between 8000 and 9000 Yen per person and includes accommodation, dinner and breakfast. In winter there is a supplement of 300 Yen.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Ogimachi Village
Ogimachi is a beautiful village located in the mountainous region of Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. It is a place famous for its charming A-shaped traditional wooden houses, called ‘gassho-zukuri’. These characteristic dwellings have a steep roof to withstand heavy winter snowfall.
Ogimachi is a UNESCO heritage site and attracts many visitors who wish to learn about and experience traditional Japanese culture. Tourists can wander the cobbled streets, observe the local craftsmen and enjoy the beautiful surrounding mountain scenery. Ogimachi is a place to immerse oneself in the authentic rural atmosphere and discover the ancient charm of Japan.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Winter lighting
The main reason for the sloping roofs and massive structure of Shirakawago’s farmhouses is the large amount of snow that falls each winter. Ogimachi village is usually covered by 1-2 metres of snow during the peak of the white season. While it causes some discomfort to the locals, the snow transforms Shirakawago into an idyllic winter landscape. To make it even better, the village organises special lighting events during some Saturday and Sunday evenings in January and February that attract many tourists.
Jordy Meow, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ainokura Village
Ainokura is a charming village located in the mountainous region of Gokayama, Toyama Prefecture, Japan. This village has been declared a UNESCO heritage site and is known for its characteristic traditional A-shaped wooden houses, called ‘gassho-zukuri’. Ainokura is a quiet and picturesque place that attracts many tourists who wish to experience Japanese rural life.
Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional Japanese atmosphere, observe local handicrafts, taste local delicacies and enjoy the mountainous landscape. Ainokura is a perfect place for a relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle of the city and to discover the unique Japanese culture.
ja:User:Minque, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| From the Ogimachi bus stop, take the bus to Ainokura (45 minutes – 250 Yen) |
Suganuma Village
Suganuma is a village located in the mountainous Gokayama region of Toyama Prefecture in Japan. This village is famous for its charming A-shaped traditional wooden houses called ‘gassho-zukuri’. The village has been declared a UNESCO heritage site and is visited by tourists from all over the world for its natural and cultural beauty.
Here, visitors can stroll through the picturesque streets, sample the local cuisine and visit historical sites such as the Suganuma Temple. Suganuma is an ideal place to discover ancient Japanese culture and to spend a holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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Morigen, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Informazioni pratiche
| View location on Google Maps | |
| From Ogimachi take the bus to Suganuma (30 minutes – 840 Yen) |