Visiting Shirakawa-go in Japan
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One of the best places to experience a piece of Japan’s unique cultural history is in northern Gifu Prefecture. Tucked away in the mountainous area of northern Gifu is a small village called Shirakawa-go, lined with special gassho-zukuri houses. Shirakawa-go was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, preserving the village’s integrity and value as a cultural asset. If you’re into history and are interested in seeing a lesser known part of Japan, Shirakawa-go should definitely be on your travel list!
1. Reason to visit
Visiting will take you back in time to a simpler Japan, one which thrives on community and revolves around seasonality. Shirakawa-go will also give you a break from the bustling metropolitan areas of Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, while presenting a different side of the country.
2. What to see
Although Shirakawa-go is not large, the special architecture of the traditional gassho-zukuri houses and captivating mountain scenery will leave you in awe. There are small museums, a local shrine, and various shops sprinkled throughout the village, all of which can be explored in approximately four hours.
3. Best time to visit
Early spring for cherry blossoms, late fall for autumn foliage, and winter for the famous village illumination. It is generally quite warm in the summer, which makes it less than ideal for walking around. I visited in early fall, so the leaves were just beginning to change color and the temperature was fairly comfortable.
4. Staying overnight
In my opinion, spending a night in Shirakawa-go is not vital and I would not recommend doing so if you have experienced a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). If you’re open to a more rural environment with few things to do after sunset, then staying overnight could be an enjoyable experience.
5. Access
Car and bus are the most direct ways to access Shirakawa-go. Takayama and Kanazawa are the closest cities, both being about one hour away. Once you are in Shirakawa-go, it is easy to navigate and explore on foot. Learn more about transportation options here.
