Chubu › Gifu Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
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Buddhist Temple
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Gallery
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Hiking
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History & Culture
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Museum
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Nature
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Religious Place
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UNESCO World Heritage Site
About this Attraction
Tucked away in the scenic Shogawa River Valley between Gifu and Toyama Prefectures, the Shirakawa-go (白川郷) and Gokayama (五箇山) regions offer a glimpse into Japan’s timeless rural heritage. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, these areas are renowned for their gassho-zukuri farmhouses, an architectural marvel named for their steep, thatched roofs that resemble hands pressed in prayer—a design both poetic and practical. Built to endure heavy snowfall, these wooden homes—some over 250 years old—are crafted without nails and feature spacious attics historically used for silkworm cultivation, reflecting the ingenuity of generations past. Shirakawa-go’s main village, Ogimachi, is the most accessible and popular, often visited as a day trip from Takayama or during a scenic bus ride between Takayama and Kanazawa. However, staying overnight in one of its preserved minshuku (family-run inns) offers a truly immersive experience, where guests can enjoy warm hospitality, home-cooked meals, and the rare charm of sleeping beneath centuries-old beams. While Shirakawa-go is stunning year-round—with snow-capped winters, cherry blossoms in spring, and golden hues in autumn—Gokayama remains a tranquil escape for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path journey. Accessible via bus transfer from Ogimachi, Gokayama’s villages—particularly Suganuma and Ainokura—are quieter and less modernized, preserving a deep sense of authenticity and tradition. Visitors can explore folk museums, try local crafts like washi paper-making, and stroll through narrow streets where history seems to whisper from every rooftop. Whether you seek cultural immersion, architectural wonder, or simply a peaceful escape into the Japanese Alps, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama promise an unforgettable journey into Japan’s rustic heart, where nature, tradition, and craftsmanship live in perfect harmony.
Best Time to Visit
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This is at its finest from January to April, providing an ideal setting for unforgettable experiences during these pleasant months.
Required time for Explore this Attraction
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Visitors typically require around 2 hour to explore and enjoy its key highlights.
Highlights
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Accepts Credit Card
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Bike Parking
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Free Entry
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Gift Shop Available
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Onsite Cafe Available
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Parking Available
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Parking Street
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Pets Friendly