A complete guide to Shirakawa-go that even beginners can enjoy!

introduction

Overview and History of Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is a traditional Japanese village located in Shirakawa-mura, Ono-gun, Gifu Prefecture, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. The area is known for its unique Gassho-zukuri houses, which feature thatched roofs and are designed to withstand the heavy snowfall of harsh winters. This architectural style has been passed down for hundreds of years.

Why is Shirakawa-go a popular tourist destination?

Shirakawa-go attracts many tourists with its beautiful scenery and historical value. In particular, the scenery changes with the seasons, offering different charms every time you visit. The cherry blossoms in spring, the fresh greenery in summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy landscapes and illuminations in winter leave a deep impression on visitors. The view of the rows of gassho-style houses also brings back a nostalgic feeling, as if you have traveled back in time.

1. Access to Shirakawa-go

How to get to Shirakawa-go from Tokyo

Shirakawa-go is very easy to get to, with many transport options available from Tokyo.

How to use trains and buses

You can get to Shirakawa-go from Tokyo by Shinkansen, limited express train, or bus. First, take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagoya Station, then transfer to the Hida limited express to Takayama Station. From Takayama Station, take the Nohi bus directly to Shirakawa-go, arriving in about 50 minutes. This route is also recommended for sightseeing, as you can enjoy the scenery along the way.

Access by car

If you want more freedom of movement, we recommend accessing Shirakawa-go by car. It takes about five and a half hours from Tokyo to Shirakawa-go using the Chuo Expressway and the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway. There is a parking lot near the entrance to Shirakawa-go, and you can access the village on foot from there.

How to combine your visit with other nearby tourist attractions

After visiting Shirakawa-go, you can also enjoy the surrounding tourist attractions, such as the old town of Takayama and Gokayama (Toyama Prefecture). By visiting these spots in addition, you can experience the history and culture of Gifu Prefecture in greater depth.

2. What to see in Shirakawa-go

Gassho-style houses

The biggest attraction of Shirakawa-go is the Gassho-style houses. These houses have steeply sloping thatched roofs, designed to prevent snow from accumulating. Many of the houses are still preserved today, offering a glimpse into life in the old days. Some houses can be toured from the inside, allowing you to experience traditional life for yourself.

Spectacular view from Shirakawa-go Observatory

Shirakawa-go Observatory is a popular spot from which you can get a panoramic view of the entire village. In particular, the autumn leaves and winter snowscapes are spectacular, attracting many tourists. You can access the observation deck on foot or by bus and enjoy the view from there.

Wada family

The Wada House is one of the largest gassho-style houses in Shirakawa-go and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. Inside, old daily necessities and agricultural equipment are on display, giving visitors an insight into life at the time. The view from the Wada House’s garden is also beautiful, making it a great place for taking photos.

A stroll through the Shirakawa-go Gassho-style village

There is much to discover just by strolling around the village of Shirakawa-go. You can feel the history as you walk along the roads lined with thatched-roof houses. You can also enjoy traditional cuisine and souvenirs at local shops and restaurants.

3. How to enjoy Shirakawa-go

How to enjoy each season

Spring cherry blossoms and fresh greenery

In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in full glory and the season of fresh greenery arrives. The contrast between the Gassho-style houses and the cherry blossoms of Shirakawa-go is very beautiful, attracting many tourists.

Lush summer scenery

In summer, you can enjoy the lush greenery and refreshing scenery. The cool mountain climate is also comfortable, making it the perfect season for walks and hiking.

Autumn leaves

In autumn, the leaves turn red and the whole of Shirakawa-go is enveloped in beautiful autumn colors. The view from the observation deck is particularly spectacular, attracting many photography enthusiasts.

Winter snow scenery and illumination

In winter, the snowy scenery spreads all around, and the sight of the Gassho-style houses covered in snow is truly spectacular. In addition, the houses are lit up for a limited time, creating a fantastical landscape.

Photo spots and tips

There are many photo spots in Shirakawa-go. In particular, the panoramic view from the observation deck and the row of gassho-style houses are recommended. A tip for taking photos is to take them in the soft light of early morning or evening to take beautiful photos.

Traditional culture and experience programs

Shirakawa-go also offers a wide range of programs where you can experience traditional culture. For example, you can experience making washi paper or making soba noodles, allowing you to get in touch with local culture. Through these experiences, you can feel the charm of Shirakawa-go even more deeply.

4. Recommended spots around Shirakawa-go

Takayama (Hida Takayama)

Takayama is a historic town located about an hour’s drive from Shirakawa-go. You can stroll through the old streets that still retain the atmosphere of the Edo period and the area lined with traditional merchant houses. Takayama Jinya and the morning market are particularly popular, where you can enjoy local specialties and crafts. Local delicacies such as Takayama ramen and Hida beef are also not to be missed.

Gokayama (Toyama Prefecture)

Gokayama, located in Toyama Prefecture, is an area dotted with Gassho-style houses, just like Shirakawa-go. There are two villages in Gokayama, Ainokura and Suganuma, both of which are registered as World Heritage Sites. By visiting both the area and Shirakawa-go, you can feel the charm of the Gassho-style houses even more deeply.

Hakusan Shirakawago White Road

Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road is a mountain tourist road that connects Shirakawa-go with Ishikawa Prefecture. This road passes through Hakusan National Park, where you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery. Many tourists visit in particular during the autumn foliage season. Since you can enjoy the scenery while driving, it is a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Local gourmet food and places to eat

There are many spots around Shirakawa-go where you can enjoy local cuisine. In particular, dishes using Hida beef and country cuisine using local vegetables are popular. There is also a wide selection of traditional Japanese sweets and souvenirs, so it’s a good idea to stop by between sightseeing. Recommended gourmet spots include restaurants and cafes that use gassho-style houses.

5. Practical Information

Opening hours and admission fees

Each facility has its own opening hours and admission fee for visiting the Gassho-style houses in Shirakawa-go. For example, the Wada family is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the admission fee is 300 yen for adults. Other facilities also have different opening hours and fees, so we recommend checking before visiting.

Barrier-free Information

Shirakawa-go is located in a mountainous area rich in nature, so it cannot be said that the area is barrier-free overall, but some facilities have been made barrier-free. There are wheelchair-accessible routes and barrier-free toilets, so it is a good idea to check before visiting.

Souvenir shops and recommended items

There are many souvenir shops in Shirakawa-go. You can purchase traditional crafts and local specialty products. Miniature replicas of Gassho-style houses and handmade washi paper products are especially popular. We also recommend sweets and seasonings made with local ingredients. Be sure to buy one as a memento of your visit.

Nearby accommodation

There are various accommodations around Shirakawa-go. You can choose from Gassho-style guesthouses, traditional inns, and hotels to suit your travel style. Gassho-style guesthouses in particular offer local home cooking and warm hospitality. It’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance.

summary

The charm of Shirakawa-go lies in its beautiful scenery and historic gassho-style houses. Use this article to plan your visit to Shirakawa-go and have a wonderful time. We have provided detailed information on access, highlights, and ways to enjoy the area so that even beginners can enjoy it, so we hope you will make use of it. You can also fully enjoy the charms of Gifu Prefecture by visiting the tourist spots around Shirakawa-go. Your next trip to Gifu is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

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