Shirakawa-Go: Timeless, Charming Village In The Heart Of Japan
Shirakawa-Go: Timeless, Charming Village In The Heart Of Japan
Shirakawa-Go is a peaceful village nestled in Gifu Prefecture, Japan. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its old-style houses with steep roofs and beautiful scenery.
Walking around Ogimachi Village, the biggest part of Shirakawa-Go you’ll see special houses that look like they’re from a long time ago. Many of them are open to visitors. In particular, one of them, called the Wada House, is very famous for its cool design and history. The buildings here are also famous for their roofs built in gassho-zukuri style. Gassho Zukuri is a word that in Japanese refers to the gesture of joining hands like in prayer, as the farmhouse roofs resemble monks joining hands in prayer.
For the best views, you can climb up to Shiroyama Viewpoint. Especially in winter, when everything’s covered in snow, it looks like a fairytale-like dream.
When hungry, you can try local foods like “gohei mochi” or “hoba miso“. They’re tasty and special to this area.
The village is particularly magnificent in winter when all the wooded houses are covered in snow. On selected nights in January and February, a winter illumination event is held around the town.
Whether you like history, nature, or just want to relax, Shirakawa-Go has something for everyone. You can enjoy the calm atmosphere and friendly people as you explore this charming village.
How to reach Shirakawa-Go
To travel from Tokyo to Shirakawa-Go, you have two main options:
Train and Bus: Take the Shinkansen train from Tokyo to either Toyama or Kanazawa. From there, transfer to a bus that will take you directly to Shirakawa-Go. This route offers a comfortable journey with scenic views along the way.
Direct Bus: Alternatively, you can opt for a direct bus from Tokyo to Shirakawa-Go. This option provides convenience and allows you to relax while enjoying the picturesque landscapes en route. However, buses connecting to the village directly might be infrequent and seasonal.
Things to do in Shirakawa-Go
- Explore Shirakawa-Go village: Take a stroll through the UNESCO-listed town, marveling at its iconic gassho-zukuri houses and immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the region.
- Visit Wada House: Step back in time as you tour the Wada House, a beautifully preserved traditional farmhouse showcasing intricate architecture and providing insight into the daily life of past inhabitants.
- Watch a breathtaking panorama from the viewpoint: Ascend to the Shiroyama Viewpoint for fantastic views of Shirakawa-Go’s picturesque landscape, offering the perfect opportunity for memorable photographs, especially during snowy winters.
- Morning Markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the village morning markets, where you can savor fresh produce, snack on delectable treats, and browse through a variety of handmade crafts.
- Stay overnight in one of the many homestays and enjoy Shirakawa-go rural and quiet life.
