Shirakawa-go
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Gassho-Zukuri Village of Shirakawa-go
Nestled in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a traditional gassho-zukuri village, recognized as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in 1976 and designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1995. Characterized by their steeply pitched thatched roofs for shedding heavy snow, these traditional houses were built from the mid-17th century to the early 20th century, stretching from Shirakawa Village to the Gokayama region in Toyama Prefecture. Some of the oldest houses are said to be around 300 years old, evoking the charm of a bygone era.
Shirakawa-go offers breathtaking scenery in every season: fresh greenery in spring, lush rice fields in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and snow-capped landscapes in winter. Illuminated by special light-up events, winter nights create a magical atmosphere and make the village a favorite destination for travelers worldwide.
