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• Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go 白川郷

Ono-gun, Gifu-ken

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Visit a fairy-tale village of traditional thatched-roof houses and step back to a bygone era

• Staying overnight in an authentic Japanese farmhouse
• The traditional gassho-zukuri style houses, which were used to produce much of the silk in the Hida region

How to Get There

Shirakawa-go is best accessed by bus from Takayama.

From Nagoya and Gifu take the JR Takayama Line to Takayama. Buses to Shirakawa-go leave from the Takayama Bus Center and take around 50 minutes.

Start at Ogimachi

Shirakawa-go Ogimachi is the largest hamlet of gassho-zukuri style houses in Japan. The name gassho-zukuri literally means "like praying hands."

Each house is a masterpiece of carpentry. They are built without nails—every beam slots neatly into the next. The structure is so sound that these houses have stood since the 1800s, even in this earthquake-prone nation.

Slip into the past

The existing gassho-zukuri houses serve as museums, explaining the history of the region, the special architectural style, and features, and some of the key industries of Shirakawa-go. Several of these homes are guesthouses that offer lodging.

The gassho-zukuri village will transport you back to pre-modern Japan. Climb up to the Shirayama observatory, look out over the village, and take in views of a time gone by.

Gassho-zukuri Minkaen

This outdoor museum was built by relocating unused gassho-zukuri houses in Shirakawa-go to recreate the traditional way of life. It features functional buildings such as storerooms and a temple, as well as the ubiquitous houses. Here, you can see demonstrations of local crafts, some of which you can have a go at. There are restaurants and souvenir shops, making it an excellent place to rest weary legs.

Doburoku Festival

Doburoku is a local specialty alcohol. Doburoku is an unfiltered sake—a "home" brew that is illegal to produce in all but a few designated special zones.

In mid-October, you can partake of the drink while watching performances of the Shishi-mai lion dance.

Keeping house

Some of the houses are still residences and are therefore understandably closed to the public. Others, however, are open and are definitely worth checking out.

The Wada House is right by the bus stop, in the center of Ogimachi, surrounded by a perfect Japanese garden.

The Kanda House is believed to be more than 150 years old and contains writing on the roof frame by the original carpenter from about 1850.

The Nagase House was home to a family of doctors and has a display of Edo period (1603-1867) medical equipment that is fascinating and troublesome in equal measure.

Tajima House Museum of Silk Culture

Silk farming was one of the main industries in pre-modern Shirakawa-go, and this museum explains the history and process. The Tajima House is actually dedicated to reviving the traditional silk farming industry.

Myozenji Temple Museum

This former monk's residence next to the main temple has been turned into a museum of the temple's history since 1748. The temple itself is home to a large Buddha, and the bell tower and nearby yew tree are redolent of old Japan.

Glorious four seasons

Shirakawa-go rewards return visits, as the shifting seasons bring out different aspects of the town. From the bright cherry blossom through the verdant summer, the fiery autumn leaves and the silent, white winter, Shirakawa-go always looks splendid.

You can cover Shirakawa-go in a couple of hours, but to really soak in the atmosphere, imagine the timelessness of life in rural Japan, and lose the stress of contemporary living, you will need longer. Staying overnight in one of the lodging houses is highly recommended, but you will need to book in advance.

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Shirakawa-go: What To Do, When To Visit? Complete Guide

Shirakawa-go, meaning White River Old District is a popular village set in the Gifu prefecture of Central Japan. It features traditional thatched houses called the Gassho-Zukuri that are believed to have been built in the late 17th century.

Inspired by the build of the steep roofs, Gassho-Zukuri means “constructed like hands in prayer” as the locals believe that these homes resemble how Buddhist monks put their hands together when praying. In 1995, the Gassho-Zukuri houses were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage list for their history and uniqueness.

The best time to visit Shirakawa-go is in autumn. This time of year is perfect as the temperature isn’t hot and the village isn’t too busy. The locals also hold festivals during fall so there are always activities to do for people of all ages.

Of late, Shirakawa-go earned a name for itself thanks to its picturesque sights with lush greenery and mountains surrounding the narrow streets of the village. They’re also famously known for their acres of rice paddy fields, all of which fully grow in between spring and summer.

At Shirakawa-go, the locals lead a quaint and quiet lifestyle, creating a relaxing atmosphere for the tourists who visit.

It’s the ideal vacation spot if you’re looking to escape the regular hustle and bustle of city life and perhaps stay for a few days to recharge your soul before heading out again.

How do I get to Shirakawa-go?

Despite its countryside location, making your way to Shirakawa-go isn’t too difficult.

Depending on where you’re coming from, a trip to Shirakawa-go would typically take between 1 to 3 hours. This makes the village an ideal stop to visit even if you’re just looking for a day trip, although there are plenty of guesthouses and inns that would welcome you for a night’s stay.

If you’re heading to Shirakawa-go from Tokyo, the easiest way is to hop on the Hokuriku Shinkansen that takes you to Toyama for ¥13,000 per way. This journey will take approximately 150 minutes.

Once you’ve arrived at the Toyama station, you can then transfer to a bus that will take you to Shirakawa-go for ¥1,730 per way. This ride will take approximately 90 minutes and stops in the heart of the village.

From Kanazawa

A journey from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go only takes 75 minutes via the hourly highway buses from the Nohi and Hokutetsu Bus operators.

Each of these rides would cost ¥2,000 for a one-way ticket, or a round trip ticket for ¥3,600. You may however have to pre-book your tickets as seats are numbered and limited.

To make your way to Shirakawa-go from Kyoto, you will have to first make your way to Kanazawa. The JR Thunderbird takes you from Kyoto to Kanazawa in 2 hours and costs between ¥6,490 to ¥7,000 per way.

However, if you have a Japan Rail Pass, these costs are fully covered by the pass. From there, you’ll just have to hop on the highway buses and be whisked away to Shirakawa-go in 75 minutes.

While there are no direct ways for you to reach Shirakawa-go from Osaka, a quick transfer at Kanazawa will take you there. To kick-start this journey, you’ll just have to take the JR Thunderbird for approximately 2.5 hours from Osaka to Kanazawa.

This ride will cost between ¥7,260 to ¥7,500 but is completely covered by the Japan Rail Pass if you are a pass holder. Once you have arrived Kanazawa, simply take the highway buses that leave every hour and you’ll be in Shirakawa-go in the next 75 minutes.

What’s the best time to visit Shirakawa-go?

With Shirakawa-go, there isn’t a specific “best time” to visit as it’s beautiful year-round. Instead, you might want to plan your vacation around what you would most like to see when visiting. Here’s what you can expect to see across the seasons in Shirakawa-go:

• Spring: Spring in Japan typically stretches across March to May. It is one of Japan’s most popular seasons as you’ll be able to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Pack up for a picnic and enjoy a session of “hanami” or flower viewing as the locals do at the local park. You’ll also be able to visit the rice paddy fields in full growth and watch as rice harvesting takes place.
• Summer: Come summer in June to August, you’ll be welcomed to Shirakawa-go through its lusciously green trees that line the streets. With warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, a summer in Shirakawa-go is ideal for anyone looking to spend their days in the sun.
• Fall: Between September to November, you’ll get to watch as the leaves turn into a bright golden-yellow. Streets will be lined with fallen leaves, and festivals crowd the public parks around. In my opinion, you’ll get to experience Shirakawa-go at its best as it isn’t too hot or too cold for a town walkabout.
• Winter: In the winter, snow blankets the villages and sights of Shirakawa-go, turning the village into an unforgettable winter wonderland. As temperatures dip between December to February, you’ll also see rivers freeze so it’s best to tread the streets with care.

If you’re looking to explore the village with other tourists, the months of May, August, September, and October are the most popular.

The village is however open year-round, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowd, you should make your plans away from those months.

What to wear when visiting Shirakawa-go?

As the seasons change, so does the fashion in Shirakawa-go.

Typically, I would always encourage you to dress comfortably and bring along a light jacket in case of rain.

The only exception to Shirakawa-go’s fashion happens in winter when the temperature can dip below zero. I recommend that you bring along a thick, wind, and rainproof jacket if you’re visiting between the months of December to February.

Snowfall is also expected across the village in winter, and this could cause slippery road conditions for first-time visitors. To avoid any unwanted accidents, it’s best to bring along shoes or boots with good grip that could keep your feet warm.

Where do I stay in Shirakawa-go?

Thanks to its fame as a tourist attraction, more and more homes at Shirakawa-go have since been transformed into places you can stay at. One of the best experiences that I can recommend is to book a night (or two!) at any of the Gassho-Zukuri homes in the village.

Gassho-Zukuri

Many of the Gassho-Zukuri houses around Shirakawa-go are now family-run minshukus or hostels. Through a night’s stay, you’ll get to experience life as the locals do such as sleeping on futons at night and sitting on tatami mats in the day.

You may have to share the bathrooms and toilets with the other guests or even the hosts, but the experience is as authentic as it gets.

Most stays would also include a specially prepared Japanese dinner and breakfast, made with locally sourced ingredients according to what’s fresh for the season. Prices are usually charged per person and can start from $75 and up, depending on your host for the night.

Tousukenoyu Fujiya

Tousukenoyu Fujiya is a traditional guesthouse located in the heart of the village.

There are 3 different room types to pick from including a large room to accommodate family stays.

Down by the bath, you’ll be pampered by the natural sulfurous hot springs that flow into a Japanese cypress tub.

If you prefer something a little more private, a personal open air-bath area can be arranged with the guesthouse staff.

With room rates starting from $180 a night, Tousukenoyu Fujiya is a guesthouse that promises a peaceful stay with an unforgettable Japanese atmosphere.

Shirakawa-go no Yu

If you’re looking to further relax and unwind during your visit to Shirakawa-go, why not book yourself a stay at the local hot spring inn?

Shirakawa-go no Yu is a bathhouse and inn that’s located in the world heritage area for your convenience. Featuring tastefully designed rooms, Shirakawa-go no Yu dons heaps of cypress wood for a relaxing atmosphere inside and out of the inn.

Day visits are also available at Shirakawa-go no Yu, so you may occasionally bump into non-residents while you’re out and about.

A stay at Shirakawa-go no yu starts from $100, although you may have to pre-book your stay months ahead as they have limited rooms available.

Shiroyamakan

Established in 1884, Shiroyamakan is slated as one of Japan’s most important historical buildings.

Owned by locals of Shirakawa-go, there is a limit of 4 groups per night at the Shiroyamakan Inn so you can rest easy with little disturbance.

Down by the basement, guests would also be pampered by the naturally clear spring water accessible through the year.

A night’s stay at Shiroyamakan typically starts from $180.

Ant Hut is the perfect spot if you’re looking to travel on a budget. With rooms starting from $36 a night, you’ll be provided with necessities such as complimentary toiletries and WiFi across the whole guesthouse.

Do note however that you may have to share the bathrooms and toilets with the other guests who are staying the night.

If you need any tips on making the most out of your trip to Shirakawa-go, feel free to ask the friendly staff.

What is there to see or do in Shirakawa-go?

Although it is located far out from the bustling cities such as Tokyo or Osaka, Shirakawa-go still features an abundance of places to see and things to do.

With its laid-back vibes and old-time charm, Shirakawa-go is one village in Japan you need to have on your list of the next place to visit in Japan.

Tourist Information Center

For first-time visitors, you’ll want to visit the Shirakawa-go Tourist Information Center for insider tips on the village.

Finding it is easy, as you’ll simply have to spot the Gassho-Zukuri house that’s located beyond the river past Shirakawa Kaido Street.

Here, you’ll be able to learn more about the history of Shirakawa-go and seek help if you need any.

Shirakawa Kaido Street

The Shirakawa Kaido Street is a tourist haven with souvenir shops aplenty.

If you’re feeling hungry, there are also make-shift stalls along the street offering local snacks prepared fresh daily. I especially recommend the Hida beef skewer if you come across it, as you’ll be treated to a melt-in-your-mouth beef skewer for approximately ¥500. This is thanks to Hida beef’s naturally high-fat content, allowing for an unforgettable meal when you arrive at Shirakawa-go.

The Shirakawa Kaido Street is also known as the main street, making it a good meet up point for visitors in case anyone is lost. At the end of the street, you’ll find the public hot spring in the Shirakawago no Yu.

Gassho-zukuri Minkaen

The Gassho-zukuri Minkaen is an open-air museum capturing the life and times of locals who lived in Shirakawa-go in the past. It features a total of 26 buildings within the space, with 9 of the buildings being listed as an important cultural asset to the Gifu prefecture.

Here, visitors would be taken through a historic journey of ancient Japan while being cradled in a relaxing natural environment.

A watermill, shrine, and temple hall can also be found nestled within the Gassho-zukuri Minkaen. If you’re feeling tired, then be sure to drop by the soba restaurant offering hand-made soba within the museum or pop into any of the shops within the open-air museum to bring home a souvenir or 2.

A small fee is required per entry, with discounted tickets available for children.

Shiroyama Viewpoint

Located north of the village center, the Shiroyama Viewpoint offers a bird’s eye view of the Shirakawa-go village and its farmhouses.

The entrance to the viewpoint on a regular day is free. During the special Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up event, however, visitors will have to pay ¥1,000 per person and pre-book their spot at the Shiroyama Viewpoint.

This is to prevent overcrowding and to provide visitors with the best experience possible.

The Shiroyama Viewpoint is reachable on foot via a trail up 15 to 20 minutes from the village center.

Subsequently, you may hop on a shuttle bus that stops by the Wada-ke House, although you’ll be expected to pay a small fee to do so.

Wada-ke House

The Wada-ke House is the largest Gassho-Zukuri there is in Shirakawa-go and once belonged to the Wada family .

Inside, you’ll be able to see the life that the Wada family had once led, with the original fittings of this Japanese home still in one piece.

There is a ¥300 entrance fee per person and the house is reachable through a shuttle bus that starts from the village center.

Myozenji Temple and House

If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the culture of Shirakawa-go, then the Myozenji Temple and House is a spot you can’t miss .

Unlike regular temples with tiled roofs, the Myozenji Temple features a thatched roof, much like the Gassho-Zukuri around the village.

Next to the temple, you’ll also find the Myozenji-ke farmhouse that doubles as the priest’s home.

A small fee is required to enter the temple and farmhouse, with much of the proceeds being used for the upkeep of the establishment.

For anyone feeling particularly adventurous, you could consider a hike up Mount Haku. Also known as Hakusan to the locals, Mount Haku is a volcano offering beautiful views of the region.

Open for hikes year-round except in Winter, a hike up to the summit of Mount Haku regularly takes 7 hours up and down and is a satisfying way to add some extra excitement to your trip in Shirakawa-go.

Hanging out on a volcano is something that freaks me out, but it’s hard to experience for most people outside of Japan so why not give it a shot?

Winter special: Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up

For visitors dropping by Shirakawa-go in the winter, watching the Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up is a must-do.

Happening on selected Sunday and Monday evenings, this light-up event sees most of the village’s Gassho-Zukuri lit from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm.

Amid the snow background, this winter light-up creates a postcard-perfect view for tourists to remember the village by.

As the light-up event has become increasingly popular over the years, it’s recommended that you pre-book your visit to ensure your spot in entering the village. This is as the locals wish to control the number of visitors in the village, allowing for a safer and better experience for everyone.

Top 10 things to buy in Shirakawa-go

Aside from picturesque places to visit, Shirakawa-go is also home to numerous handcrafts that make for a great souvenir.

You can often see them available for sale in gift shops that line the streets of Shirakawa-go’s villages.

In case you need a guide on what’s available to buy however, here are some of my top picks on what to buy in Shirakawa-go:

• Ota-san-chi no Soba: Loosely translated as Mr. Ota’s buckwheat noodles, these noodles are made with buckwheat grown from the village itself. They’re mixed with plain flour sourced from Japan before being packaged beautifully, making them an ideal gift from your time at Shirakawa-go.
• Rice flour waffles: Waffles from Shirakawa-go are made using a type of rice flour called the Koshihikari rice flour and are freshly baked by hand daily. They complement well with a scoop of ice-cream or with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
• Yuigokoro sake: While there isn’t a sake brewery located in Shirakawa-go itself, the Yuigokoro sake prepared in Hida City is actually made from sake rice and spring water sourced from the village. It’s smooth to taste and easy to drink, making it an ideal starter’s sake for anyone looking to begin their journey of sake enjoyment.
• Shirakawa-go Yamitsuki Noko Cheesecake “Yui”: The cheesecake from Shirakawa-go is truly a community effort as it’s a product created after months of testing and feedback from the locals. The result is a rich and moist cheesecake and the Japanese character “Yui” that brands the product represents the relationship of the locals helping each other.
• Shiso Monaka: The shiso monaka or perilla wafer cake is a dessert that boasts a history of over 50 years. It features rice wafers made locally sandwiching a red bean paste with perilla leave kneaded inside, making it a unique dessert that every tourist should try.
• Onkochishin.com Handicrafts: These handicrafts are said to have been a Shirakawa-go tradition, featuring weaving and handicraft techniques from the Edo era. Items such as flowers recreated from old kimono cloth and other everyday life necessities make these handicrafts worthy of a purchase.
• Tofu: Made by soaking beans and allowing them to harden, there are various popular renditions of tofu that you can bring home from Shirakawa-go. These include the Ishi Tofu that is ideal for soups, Shirakawa Gassho Age or fried tofu that can be eaten as is and the Miyama Komo Tofu that is boiled using an old recipe seasoned with a secret seasoning.
• The Woodwork of Kokichi Hori: Made by a local of Shirakawa-go, these woodwork handicrafts are made with strong woods that are native to the village. Bring home a piece for your display, or if you’d like, they also make for a great souvenir to your family and friends.
• Hida Shirakawa-go Specialty Rice Ramen Noodles: Bring home a taste of Shirakawa-go with you with these locally produced rice ramen noodles. Made with fresh Shirakawa rice from the rice paddies and water sourced from Mt. Hakusan, these rice ramen noodles are gluten-free and chewy to bite when prepared properly.
• Shirakawa-go Emaki: Available across the village, these traditional postcards feature paintings by artists born and raised in Shirakawago. They make great reminders of your escapade at Shirakawago or if you’d like, you can even mail them home from the local post office that’s set in the heart of the village.

So, is Shirakawa-go worth visiting?

With lots to do, tons to eat, and much more to see, Shirakawa-go of the Gifu prefecture is definitely a place worth visiting. While the commute into the village may feel long, you’ll be treated to picturesque and unrivaled views along your way.

If you’re not keen to stay the night, Shirakawa-go is also an ideal spot to spend your day although you may have to be extra picky on the attractions you want to see.

If you feel uncomfortable traveling alone into the village, you could always hire a tour guide who could provide you plenty more insider tips to enjoy the legendary Shirakawa-go.

Just your average irresponsible human who spends most of his free time and money traveling Japan. Love the food, culture, and sights but not a huge fan of anime until I used it for studying purposes. Can't decide which is better out of ramen or pizza.

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Gifu Prefecture. Shirakawago sightseeing. Event information

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Shirakawago Gassho-zukuri Village, which is registered as a The World Heritage Site, has over 100 large and small-size of Gassho-zukuri building, and it is known as a village where people are live their lives and continuing existence the traditional way of life. In addition, there are many hidden gem and sightseeing spots around where you can experience the traditional wisdom and skills , and the magnificent nature that you should visit, such as "Hirase Onsen"

See Shirakawa-go attraction

You can choose variety inns near Shirakawago. Please enjoy your stay.

You can enjoy the local dishes using local ingredients, including Hida style crafts and products.

You can thoroughly enjoy the culture of Shirakawa-go by visitting the historical buildings.

Shirakawago is surrounded by nature, mountains and river. Come to refresh yourself here.

Supporting each other, Hometown of people's hearts

Shirakawago (ogimachi village) in Gifu Prefecture is known as a village of Gassho style house. More than 100 large and small-size of Gassho style building are remain and people are still live in there . In 1995 it was registered as UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's said that not only for its buildings and landscapes which was registered but also the activities of mutual assistance rooted among the residents as well. It is a place where you can feel Japan's traditional scenery back in the good old days of Japan, and a place where you can deeply feel the ural culture way of life.

STAY Spend quietly times in unexplored areas Hirase Onsen/World Heritage Site stay You can relax in Shirakawa-go, where you can feel the traditional's atmosphere. Variety choices of accommodation, including the traditional Gassho-style house and the popular inns.

EXPERIENCE An experience which is possible in Shirakawa-go Feel the nature in spring, summer, autumn and winter You can experience the magnificent nature of Shirakawa-go in four seasons. We have a wide variety of activities and tours, please come to enjoy the nature experience.

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Shirakawa-go: A lesson on true human connection and ideology referred as Yui

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Nestled in a remote valley and flanked by the mountains of Gifu, Shirakawa-go is the type of place where it’s very easy to forget the rest of the world exists. Mountainous forests occupy almost 96% of the village’s area, and while it’s a stunning place to be, it’s easy to imagine that life here—especially generations ago—would be difficult. But it’s a life I’m soon to discover was made possible by a powerful philosophy which the locals call ‘yui’.

This pocket of the nation is recognized as one of the snowiest places in Japan, each year an average of 10 meters of snowfall coat the village and it’s not uncommon for snowbanks to hit the two-meter mark. The combination of isolation and harsh climate means it takes a certain type of person to call Shirakawa-go their home.

Shirakawa-go people need to be resilient and resourceful but also active community members, team players with an innate understanding of their land, and a passion for educating others. While this land was once considered part of the Hida Province, following the post-Meiji restoration (1868), the area became part of Gifu’s Ōno District. Not long after, in 1897, Shirakawa-go was formed.

While the exact origins of the gassho-zukuri are shrouded in a little mystery, historians estimate these thatched-roof homes were constructed around 250 to 300 years ago. Cut off from the rest of the world for long periods, the people of Shirakawa-go managed to survive by cultivating mulberry trees and constructing the now iconic houses’ gassho-zukuri roofs, which served multiple economic purposes.

‘What does gassho-zukuri mean?’ You may wonder, well in Japanese, the term ‘gassho’ (合掌) translates to ‘praying hands,’ while ‘-zukuri’ (-造り) is a suffix taken from the verb ‘tsukuru’ (-造る) which means to build or manufacture. Essentially, if you put them together, the name is a reference to the houses’ steep roofs that resemble a Buddhist monk’s hands in prayer.

While thousands of guests visit throughout the year, drawn by the houses, as I was, many are surprised to learn that Shirakawa-go isn’t just some outdoor, open-air museum. It’s not just a relic of the past, but a fully functioning village, where locals continue to live just as their parents did and their parent’s parents before them.

Exploring the interior of one of the houses in Shirakawa-Go that’s open to the public, the architectural ingenuity of the building blows me away. As well as being visually impressive, the angle of the roofs was built just so to ensure that during winter, the heavy snow wouldn’t pile up and jeopardize the structural integrity of the house.

The top loft-like section of the home was used—and still is occasionally—mainly for display purposes or for the rearing of silkworms, an agricultural technique known as ‘sericulture.’ Because the surrounding climate was less than conducive for crop production, locals had to create new sources of income for the village.

These wriggly house guests were especially valuable pre-World War II, in the 1920s to 1930s, before the invention of nylon, when the country produced a large supply of silk stockings. Silkworm dealers would make the arduous journey to supply Shirakawa-go with the worms which would then be cared for and cultivated by the owners of the house, where they flourished as little squirming symbols of the Shirakawa-go’s ingenuity.

Some of the houses are museums open to the public but many others are private residences, meaning they’re still lived in, just as they have been for generations, seemingly unphased by the outside world. Arguably the most famous house in the area is Wada House, which is both. One of the biggest houses in the Shirakawa-go and the most visited, this home is presided over by Mr. Masahito Wada, who inherited the house from his parents.

Mr. Wada is a man with an infectious—and seemingly permanent—smile, warm and welcoming, and so well versed in the history of the village, he’s the perfect ambassador for Shirakawa-go. Born in 1960, Mr. Wada was born locally and was raised in Wada House, but spent a large portion of his younger life working as a teacher, away from his beloved home village. Clearly a born educator, he now also participates as a lecturer as well as local historian.

“When I was a teacher, I worked outside Shirakawa-go. I transferred to a lot of different places,” he explained to me as we sat by the irori, an indoor fire pit used in traditional Japanese houses. But after traveling and working across the map, ultimately, there was only one destiny for him: “In the end I wanted to move closer to my parents, raise children here, and focus on village and house matters.”

Wada’s role as one of the village’s most famous faces can be traced back to a pivotal moment in 1995. It was this year that the village of Shirakawa-go was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a location of great importance to the culture of Japan. During this time, the board responsible for the recognition requested the Wada family to open their family house to the public as it’s an excellent representation of the culture. “Two years after the request,” Mr. Wada said, “in 1997, my parents opened it to the public.”

Turning your house, one that’s been in your family for countless generations—for context, Mr. Wada estimates that he’s the 20th-generation homeowner—into a display for the public, one where strangers can wander through day in and day out would be unfathomable to most. But for the Wada family, this act of generosity was a no-brainer. It was an act for the village’s common good and an action motivated by an ideology referred to as ‘yui.’

‘Yui’ is as synonymous with Shirakawa-go as ‘wabi-sabi’ is to the tea ceremony. It’s the local’s raison d’etre and, explained in the most basic of ways, it’s the spirit of community, closeness, and supporting one another. When asked about his theories of the local evolution of ‘yui’, Mr Wada, with a smile, explained matter of factly, “the harsh natural environment of Shirakawa-go means that without embracing the ethos of ‘yui’, it would be difficult to survive.”

Mr. Wada relays his experience of moving to Tokyo as a university student and how it put his home village into perspective. “I was living in an apartment, not knowing the people around me was a very different experience. Having to only worry about yourself was easy. But if something were to happen, where would I be? That weighed on my mind. That kind of living would be unthinkable here.” You could say in many ways that while Shirakawa-go is isolated in terms of geography, it’s far less isolating than Tokyo, one of the most well-connected cities in the world.

Everything in Shirakawa-go is a team effort, from educating the children about the history of the area to refurbishing and reconstructing the roofs of the gassho-zukuri houses and protecting their homeland from disaster including fire. Since they also learn disaster prevention, it’s one of the reasons why the village is still able to exist the way it does. The homes here are still proudly family-owned. When it comes to the future of these priceless homes, there’s a local motto “don’t sell, don’t lend, don’t destroy,” and as Mr. Wada tells me, outsiders have to marry into the family or become a son or daughter of a gassho-zukuri homeowner to have the honor of one day owning such a home.

“There’s a Shirakawa-go and Ogimachi Natural Environmental Preservation Committee,” Mr. Wada explained “all the people who live here are members of that committee. The committee meets every month to discuss changes to the area.” The preservation of Shirakawa-go is as rooted in the future as much as its past. “We realized that if we work hard to preserve the natural environment, it will continue to be a place where people would continue to come,” Mr. Wada believes.

There’s no arguing that in recent times it’s become a popular tourism destination. The local passion for cultivating and maintaining the authenticity of the culture meant that it’s been relatively immune to quick-money making and mass-market tourism. As a result, those who visit are gifted with a deeper experience, just as I was. Shirakawa-go is more than a beautiful backdrop for some travel selfies.

While many just visit for the day and leave before late afternoon, locals are encouraging guests to stay in one of the authentic gassho-zukuri houses, as not only does it help fund the village directly, but also offers real insight into how the locals live and how Shirakawa-go functions.

I was lucky enough to spend the night in a gassho-zukuri minshiku (guest house), and while the novelty of spending the night in such a meticulously maintained traditional home was exciting, it was the little details that really made it a simply unforgettable experience. From the incredible homestyle dinner spread to the piping hot private bath and kind, almost motherly hospitality, staying the night in one of these local accommodations is far more than just having a place to rest, it’s a lesson in classic Japanese omotenashi kindness.

When asked about the best and most challenging aspects of his work, Mr. Wada—who may I add still lives in the Wada House himself—ponders for a while. “I think preserving the houses and scenery of the traditional countryside is the biggest challenge,” he says, “a lot of hard work goes into the preservation.”

And the best part? That’s easy. “Being able to show guests about the local culture and lives of those who live in the village.” Explaining further, he says, “when people come here, not just to look but to learn about the village, its history and culture; it’s my job to showcase that.” He’s a man who loves to give: a true Shirakawa-go local, “I guess ‘yui’ is part of my DNA,” he says with a smile.

The next day I meet up with a man by the name of Yuta Kuroki. Mr. Kuroki is one of the people responsible for keeping the village’s stunning houses in perfect condition; he’s a roof thatcher.

“Until I was 30 I was working in construction,” he explains, he switched professions after feeling inspired to help restore the legacy of his home. For five years now, he’s been working to repair the gassho-zukuri, as well as spearheading a word-of-mouth initiative to encourage the area to start growing and cultivating the grass used to create the roofs.

“Most of the grass we use now is from Shizuoka,” Mr. Kuroki explains, “but it was once all grown on the mountains that surround us.” Members of the village once each owned a portion of the mountains that surround Shirakawa-go. On those pieces of land, traditionally, the homeowners would grow and harvest the grass, which was later used to repair the roof of their home. It was the ultimate in self-sufficiency. With modern times, as transport became more convenient, it was easier to ship in the grass from areas with less harsh climates. Today many of the mountains are now home to kaya tree plantations.

“Currently, about 90% of the grass we use is from outside the prefecture and 10% is from here,” Mr. Kuroki estimates. Today some of the roofing in Shirakawa-Go houses is made from the locally grown grass, but it is more challenging to grow, you also can’t just use any grass. It has to be specially groomed. That said, if they were to use local grass, Mr. Kuroki thinks it would be “more affordable,” “but,” he clarifies, “that’s not the point, the reasoning for my push, I want to keep true to the spirit of the village.” “It’s still a dream,” he says, “but something I hope to achieve.”

Being a roof thatcher isn’t an easy job. For one roof, it takes about a month to complete, and most houses require a roof restoration every 20 years or so. To do this job, you’ve got to be fit, not afraid of heights, willing to work in harsher climates, well trained, and knowledgeable about the biggest threats to the straw that’s woven to create the roof—which, according to the local builders, is snow (thanks to weight and the potential for rot).

Across the nation, temples, shrines, and other construction-style jobs are facing a shortage of younger, able workers. So, I was stunned to notice that most of the men working on the roof repair site were relatively young, especially by modern Japanese standards. According to Mr. Kuroki, “there are a lot of people from the village that want to become thatchers, but surprisingly there are not enough homes in Shirakawa-go to fill the job demand.” So how does someone make the cut to become a thatcher? “Well, everyone who works here has their own thatched roof, so they have some background,” he explains.

I asked Mr. Kuroki why he thinks it’s a popular job, his answer connects back to yesterday’s ‘yui’ discussions with Mr. Wada; “we teach the local children about their village’s history. We visit the schools and try to inspire the students. As a result, many of the kids think what we do is pretty cool.”

After speaking with Mr. Wada and Mr. Kuroki about Shirakawa-go’s driving force of ‘yui’, I feel like I’ve been handed a new perspective on how to view my relationship with the world. It’s fascinating how ancient philosophies, ones built on the human instinct for survival in a time of great isolation, still carry so much weight today.

While we may think that our present world is more ‘connected’ than it’s ever been—both physically via roads and infrastructure and in communication through technical advances—there’s a lot we can still learn about the true human connection from a place like Shirakawa-go.

Shirakawago Charter Car Tour (Takayama departure) with English-speaking Driver

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Shirakawa-go Half day tour (UNESCO World Heritage near Takayama)

Takayama & Shirakawago 3 days tour

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Shirakawago Village

Traditional thatched roof houses at this unesco site, things to do in shirakawago village.

Gassho-style Houses in Shirakawa-go

Quaint Village Shirakawa-go

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Summertime in Shirakawago

About shirakawago village.

In the northwest corner Gifu nestled in the Ryohaku Mountains shadow of Mount Haku, one of Japan's sacred mountains, is Shirakawa village. Shirakawa villages hosts the site of Shirakawa-go, a small traditional village showcasing rice-stalk style roofed buildings called gassho-zukuri. Together with its neighbor Gokayama in Nanto, Toyama, it was designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Because of its heavy snow and temperatures, the gassho-zkuri homes were created. Gassho-zukuri is a house built of wooden beams combined to form a steep thatched roof that resembles two hands together. The house face north and south, to minimize wind resistance. They are also built for be comfort in both summer and winter. The houses stand in a certain direction to adjust the amount of sun in order to keep the room cool in the summer and warm in the winter. With the shape of the Hakusan National Park mountain ranges as a background, these sites are major tourist attractions.

The Shirakawa Folklore museum shows life in the village, construction of the buildings and the jobs of the people in the area. Some homes in the area operate as minshukus and ryokans while others are stores and museums. The Wadake home is the largest of these houses and located right inside the downtown limited vehicle area.

Shirakawa is also known for its local sake called doburoku. This is unfiltered white sake or nigori sake. Unlike other sake which has been filtered and made clear, doburoku still has rice bits floating around. Before serving, the bottle is shaken to mix the sediment and turn the sake white or cloudy. But by Japanese law doburoku is actually not "sake". It is strong at 14 to 17% alcohol by volume but smooth and worth a taste. The best time to try Doburoke is at the Nigorizake festival held on October 14th and 15th at Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine.

Besides the historical sites and unique sake, Shirakawa village has raw, wild natural beauty. Any season is a great time to visit as each one changes the face of the town and surroundings. Shirakawa village is 95% mountainous forests so visitors can hike the Hakusan Rindo, Amau Pass, famous for its fall colors, and the Koso wetlands.

Due to its isolation it's is only accessible by car or bus. Buses leave Takayama station several times a day. Give yourself time to get there but once you are there, you may not want to leave.

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15 Memorable Things to Do in Shirakawa-go, Japan (+ tips & photo spots!)

Home » Blog » Japan » 15 Memorable Things to Do in Shirakawa-go, Japan (+ tips & photo spots!)

Shirakawa-go is perhaps Japan’s most famous traditional village. If you’re planning to visit, this guide will tell you everything you need to know, including insider tips and fun things to do!

You may have seen the picture-perfect Shirakawa-go on Instagram. I’m pretty sure that’s the first place I ever saw this jaw-dropping Japanese village . 

And when I say jaw-dropping I’m not exaggerating. The first time I set eyes on the thatched roof homes set in the Japanese Alps , my mouth hung agape. It’s as if this scene has been plucked straight out of a fairytale or a movie set.

If you’re planning a trip to visit this iconic Japanese landmark , you’re probably wondering if it’s worth the hype (spoiler alert: it is!). 

You’re also likely wondering how to get there and what to do once you’ve arrived. And probably a slew of other questions.

Lucky for you, we’ve got all the answers!

We visited Shirakawa-go in the fall and had the best time, so we rounded up all our tips and things we learned so that you can have a wonderful experience.

Let’s dive in and start planning the perfect visit to the villages of Shirakawa-go!

Shirakawa-go Travel Guide

If you know what you’re looking for, click one of the links below to get right to the answers you need. If you’re still in the planning stages of your trip, we recommend scrolling down so you can see all sections, as we have tons of helpful information!

Things to do in Shirakawa-go

• 1 day itinerary
• Where to eat
• Where to stay
• How to get there
• Best time to visit 
• Tips for visiting

Shirakawa-go FAQs

• Places to visit nearby
• What to pack

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Shirakawa-go overview

• Location: Google Maps location
• Prefecture: northwest Gifu
• Cost to visit: Free
• Parking: There are a few lots in town that cost a fee (usually around 1,000 yen). However this parking lot is free and where we suggest parking!
• Season: you can visit year round
• Takayama (50 km / 50-minute-drive)
• Kanazawa (75 km / 70-minute-drive)
• Toyama (85 km / 80-minute-drive)
• UNESCO World Heritage site (since 1995)
• Elevation: 7,200 feet / 2,200 meters

Situated high in the Japanese alps in northwest Gifu prefecture, Shirakawa-go is known for its clusters of thatched roof homes nestled in the countryside. 

It is one of the most popular traditional Japanese villages to visit, and for good reason. Not only is it stunning, but there is actually quite a bit to do while you’re here.

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama (typically just referred to as Shirakawa-go) actually consists of three distinctly different villages:

This is the “main village” and as such is the most popular for visitors. It is the most crowded , but it also has the most to see and do . 

When most people refer to Shirakawa-go , they are talking about this village alone and may not even know there are two other villages that comprise the area.

Good to know: Most things on our list of “things to do” are in Ogimachi. We’ve included Suganuma and Ainokura at the bottom of the list.

With only 9 of the traditional farmhouses , Suganuma is notably smaller than Ogimachi. For this reason, it tends to be quieter and does not attract the crowds or tour buses of its more popular neighbor. 

If you’re looking for great photo spots and the chance to avoid crowds, you may want to check Suganuma out for a short visit. 

The most remote of the three villages, Ainokura is kind of like Goldilocks – smaller than Omigachi but bigger than Suganuma . Just right!

Home to roughly 20 farmhouses , Ainokura feels more like a working village than Ogimachi and draws fewer crowds. This is a great place to take your camera out and get shots sans tourists.

Want to see Shirakawa-go right now?! Check out the live cam !

Gassho style farmhouses 

The villages that comprise Shirakawa-go are most well-known for their gassho-zukuri-style farmhouses . In other words, the thatched roof homes you see on Instagram!

In fact, it is this unique architectural style that earned these villages UNESCO World Heritage Status in 1995.

At first glance, you may just think they are beautiful, but a deeper dive into the culture of this region will tell you that these homes were designed in this way for very practical reasons :

• Sloped roofs: The high pitch of the roofs helps them withstand heavy snowfall , for which this region is well-known. 
• Large attics: Another notable difference between these gassho style houses and other traditional Japanese homes is that there are large attic spaces . These were originally designed to house and breed silkworms , as silk production was historically one of the largest industries in this region. 
• Large space for living and working: These farmhouses were not just homes, but served as workshops as well to allow their residents to continue working through the harsh and snowy winters.

Learning Japanese: The term satoyama can be used to describe a place where nature and humans coexist. It often refers to rural villages surrounded by the natural world (rice fields, mountains, forests, and ponds) and can certainly be used to describe Shirakawa-go.

Alright, we’re all in agreement that Shirakawa-go is stunning, right? So what is there to do once you’re there?

Surprisingly, there’s more to do here than I thought!

We’re sharing the best things to do in Shirakawa-go, along with our personal tips.

1. Photograph Ogimachi from above 

The village of Ogimachi is stunning, and many of the photos you’ll see online of it are taken from above.

Ogimachi Castle Observation Point is the best (free!) spot to view the town and take photos overlooking all the iconic farmhouses. As the name implies, this was the former site of Ogimachi Castle, and it boasts beautiful panoramic vistas over the village.

This vantage point gives you a unique perspective to capture the traditional thatched roofs as well as the mountains in the distance. When we visited in the peak of autumn, we saw a light dusting of snow on the distant hills and foliage in the foreground, which made for pretty cool photographs. 

From this viewpoint, you can follow the path downhill to the village, which will take 10-20 minutes , depending on where you’re going. 

For those with mobility issues, there is a shuttle bus that runs from the observatory to the Wada House (in the village) and costs 200 yen per person (pay in cash on the bus). It runs every 20 minutes between 10 a.m. and 2:40 p.m. every day (with an hour-long break from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.).

Personally, we’d recommend walking if you’re able, as you’ll see more this way and it’s not a long or difficult path. 

Insider tip: Being that you will likely go to this viewpoint, we recommend parking here . This lot is free, unlike the lots in town which cost a fee (usually 1,000 yen). Plus, you can start and end your time in Ogimachi with the best view in town and you’ll hopefully catch it with different lighting, making for two distinct photo opportunities.

2. Tour a gassho farmhouse

That’s right – you can actually go inside some of the traditional houses in Ogimachi.

This doesn’t mean you can just step inside any house – some of them are private residences ( how embarrassing would that be?! ).

However, there are designated farmhouses in Ogimachi that are open to the public to tour. 

I will say that while it is neat to see the traditional style architecture, there isn’t much to these “museums” and touring won’t take very long. 

This is the largest farmhouse in the village and also one of the most significant (designated  Important Cultural Property). 

The Wada family resided here during the Edo Period (1603-1868). They were traders of silk and gunpowder, as well as the head of the village. 

This farmhouse remains a private residence to this day, but visitors can tour the 2nd and 3rd floors during their open hours. 

• Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
• Admission price: ¥300 for adults and ¥150 for children
• Google Maps location

Kanda House

Visitors are welcome to explore this 4-story farmhouse.

Nagase House

At five stories high, this is the tallest farmhouse in Ogimachi.

Our advice: Unless you’re very much into history and traditional architecture, we think visiting one of the farmhouses is sufficient, as they are all pretty similar and each charge admission fees.

3. Cozy up with coffee 

If you need a little pick-me-up or just want to take your time and enjoy your day at a slower pace, there are a few charming coffee houses in the village that make a wonderful place to stop for a cuppa.

• Kyoshu : This would be our top pick , as it has absolutely stunning views of the surrounding rice field and a charming atmosphere. Unfortunately for us, this shop was closed on the day we were visiting. 
• Ochiudo : This cozy farmhouse has been converted into a cafe where you can enjoy coffee, tea, or even a simple meal. Beware that it does get extremely busy and there was a long wait when we were visiting. 
• Coffee Shop Hina : Located outside the touristic village center , this coffee shop sees far fewer visitors than elsewhere in town, but it is very cute and a good alternative if the others are too busy. The older gentleman who owns this shop is super friendly, and the atmosphere is lovely. They don’t serve coffee to go, but it is a nice place to relax for a bit (maybe with a slice of cake!) without the crowds of the rest of the village. 

4. Buy a local souvenir 

Shirakawa-go is the perfect place to buy a souvenir in Japan as there are a handful of small shops selling local goods that you can’t find elsewhere in the country.

You’ll find local foods and snacks, wooden items, and silk products in the shops around town. But the most interesting item (in my opinion!) that this region is known for is sarubobo dolls .

These dolls are red with a black handkerchief head covering and have no facial features. They are good luck charms and are given for 3 reasons:

• to protect from bad things
• for a happy home and a good partnership
• having an easy childbirth

Sarubobo dolls come in all sizes, from keychains to very large. 

When we were wandering around Shirakawa-go, Juniper kept pointing and saying “red baby” which was cute enough to convince us to buy her one!

Good to know: You can also find sarubobo dolls in Takayama.

5. Sample local street food

You won’t have to look far to see vendors selling a variety of handheld foods. Sample as many as you have room for!

Hida beef is a regional specialty , and therefore you’ll find many vendors selling it (it’s also a staple on all the restaurant menus in town).

Street foods to try in Shirakawa-go

• Hida beef skewers: high-quality cuts of beef, grilled over charcoal on a skewer
• Beef korokke: this is a Japanese croquette of sorts made with ground beef that has been stuffed inside mashed potato and deep fried.
• Gohei mochi: regional specialty of skewered sticky rice cake coated with a sweet-and-salty glaze of miso, soy sauce, and walnuts, then grilled over charcoal
• Steamed bun: filled with ground Hida beef

Japanese etiquette lesson: In Japan, it is frowned upon to walk while eating. So stop and enjoy your street food at a standstill, then continue on your journey! Read more about Japanese etiquette before your trip!

6. Indulge in award-winning pudding

Even if you don’t consider yourself a “pudding person” (yep, me neither), I’d still recommend making a quick stop at Purin no le pudding house when in Shirakawa-go. This tiny shop often has lines, but don’t worry, it moves quickly. 

Now, we’re not talking pudding like the ultra sweet chocolate Snack Packs that used to be a school lunch staple. The pudding in Japan is much less sweet, has a firmer texture, and is more akin to creme brulee .

The flavors are all in Japanese, so you’ll either need to whip out your Google Translate app or ask the staff (who speak a bit of English) about their flavors. There’s a pretty good variety, including some seasonal flavors and those that are year round staples.

We asked the friendly woman at the counter which was her favorite, and without hesitation she said “sweet potato”. Not gonna lie, sweet potato didn’t sound that appealing to me but since she had recommended it we got one of those as well as coffee and their signature flavor that had a sign boasting lots of awards.

She was right, the sweet potato was amazing ! Don’t hesitate, just order it. The coffee was also very good. Their signature flavor (it had a layer of clear pudding) was just alright in my opinion, and didn’t have as much flavor as the other two.

Insider tip: The pudding comes in small glass jars that you can return to the shop where they have a recycling box, or you can keep them as a souvenir.

7. Have lunch in a farmhouse

One of the best things to do in Shirakawa-go is to have lunch. There are a handful of wonderful restaurants, some of which are situated inside traditional farmhouses.

Most menus highlight Hida beef , which is a regional specialty.

Insider tip: We’d highly recommend making a lunch reservation ahead of time because this is such a small town and without reservations you may be turned away.

Personal experience:

We personally ate at Hiiragi , which is a little outside the main center of the village. We ordered the beef sukiyaki and the Hida beef skewer lunch sets, both of which were great and very reasonably priced at around 2500 yen.

If you go here, make a reservation through their Instagram account . The owner is friendly and very passionate about cars, which you’ll see pictures of hung everywhere in the restaurant.

8. Visit Myozen-ji Temple & Museum

This is another building you can enter, and it’s the largest in the village. The designated Important Cultural Property is made up of a main hall and kuri (monk’s residence) which now houses a museum showcasing traditional life in Shirakawa-go.

In front of Myozen-ji stands the Shoroman Gate, a bell tower with a thatched roof. The gate is flanked by a 200-year-old yew tree and a cherry tree.

• 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (April – November)
• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (December – March) 

Admission: 

• Adults: ¥400 
• Children: ¥200 

Good to know: This has a similar feel to the farmhouses you can tour (#2 on this list). Unless you’re a huge history or traditional architecture buff, we think you’d be fine choosing just one building to tour.

9. Find the best photo spots in town

Wandering the paths and getting a bit lost is part of the fun of exploring Shirakawa-go. 

The village is very small so you’ll never be too far off the main road, but walking the small streets and getting up close to the traditional buildings is very cool. 

Play around with different angles and shots, as this village has some incredible photo opportunities .

While we already shared that Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck has the best view overlooking town, here are some spots in the village to aim for if you want some more good photo ops:

• Three Houses Viewpoint : Nice vantage point of traditional gassho style farmhouses
• Ogimachi Suspension Bridge : Nice view of the river and the town’s suspension bridge
• Gassho-zukuri Minkaen : Open air museum on the opposite side of the river from the main part of town. This features a water mill, traditional farmhouses, and a cafe. It costs a small fee to enter this area.

10. Soak in the village onsen

If you’re visiting on a rainy day or in the wintertime, you may want to pop into the village onsen to warm your bones after walking around town .

You can visit even if you’re not staying at the onsite hotel. 

Good to know: I read in one review that they do not allow visitors with tattoos (though their website does not confirm it), so keep this in mind if it applies to you.

Important information:

• Adults: ￥800 
• Children 6+: ￥400
• Children 5 and under: free
• Towel rental:￥300
• Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily (last entry at 8:30 p.m.) 

11. Visit Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine

Believed to have been founded between 708 and 715, this Shinto shrine is just a short walk from the main street but doesn’t get as many visitors as some of the other attractions in the village.

The wide stone steps, weathered torii gate, and surrounding forest make for a picturesque setting. The site is also known for a cedar tree believed to be 200-300 years old that locals consider a natural treasure.

In October, Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine hosts a festival where offerings of Doburoku (a type of sake) are given in hopes of peace.

12. Visit Shiramizuno Falls

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This breathtaking waterfall in Hakusan National Park plunges straight down over a rough cliff face into a turquoise pool surrounded by lush greenery. In autumn, the surrounding forest becomes a vibrant tapestry of reds, yellows, oranges, and evergreens.

According to Google Maps, it’s a 36-minute drive from Shirakawa-go, but reviews also say the road is narrow and it’s difficult to see oncoming traffic, so use extra caution if you’re driving this route.

13. Marvel at Ubagataki Falls and soak in the onsen

Speaking of waterfalls, this one looks absolutely dreamy! It sort of reminds me of the iconic “sticky waterfall” near Chiang Mai , which is one of my favorites.

This waterfall is quite off the beaten track, so it doesn’t tend to get very crowded. Getting to Ubagataki Falls is roughly a 1-hour drive from Shirakawa-go , on a road that is said to be one of the most scenic drives in Japan. (You should only plan to go here if you are renting a car. ) 

The waterfall itself is stunning, but the best part (in my opinion) is the onsen , or hot soaking pool, at its base .

Once I saw a photo of Ubagataki Falls and its onsen, I knew we needed to include this in our day trip to Shirakawa-go, but there was one major problem… 

The road to get here closes down each year in the fall in preparation for the winter season, as this area gets lots of snow. Unfortunately for us, the road closed mere days before our visit, so we couldn’t go. I may have shed a tear.

If you are visiting in the late spring, summer, or early fall and are driving yourself, please get to this waterfall so I can live vicariously through you! (And send me a picture!) 

How to get there: Here is the Google Maps location that you’ll drive to. Remember, you will not be able to get here in the late fall and winter seasons. From the parking lot, go down the steep set of stairs that will bring you to a path. Walk on this for about 10 minutes until you reach the waterfall and soaking pool. Check out this guide to Ubagataki Falls for all the details you’ll need. 

14. Visit the “other” villages

While Ogimachi is undoubtedly the most famous part of Shirakawa-go and the village most people visit, there are two other villages that technically are also part of it as well.

If you have the time and are self driving, include a stop at the other two villages to get an experience that most visitors skip.

One thing to note is that the other two villages are quite a drive from Ogimachi, so you’ll need to plan your day accordingly. Suganuma is on the way to Ainokura.

• Ogimachi to Suganuma: 25 minutes (with tolls) or 30 minutes (without tolls)
• Suganuma to Ainokura: 8 minutes

Good to know: If you are staying in Kanazawa, Suganuma and Ainokura won’t be too far out of the way and would be easy to tack on. However, if you’re staying in or around Takayama (like we were), it will add an additional 1.5 hours of driving round trip.

Home to roughly 20 farmhouses , Airnokura feels more like a working village than Ogimachi and draws fewer crowds. This is a great place to take your camera out and get shots sans tourists.

Personal experience: I really wanted to visit Ainokura and planned to make a quick stop in Suganuma since it’s on the way. However, we didn’t want to rush ourselves in Ogimachi and by the time we were ready to leave, we didn’t have enough daylight for the other villages. Womp womp. If you do get to visit the other two, we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Why not stay in Ainokura? The accommodation here is far less expensive than in Ogimachi, and it is more peaceful. 

• Minshuku Goyomon : traditional style accommodation that serves dinner and breakfast, earns rave reviews, and is reasonably priced for what you get.
• Gokayama Base : this accommodation is modern and clean, very budget friendly, and earns excellent reviews

15. Stay in a traditional farmhouse

While you can tour the traditional farmhouses, this region is a great place to actually stay in one. It is such a unique experience that you can’t have just anywhere, and it will surely be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

While there are a handful of farmhouses that have been converted into accommodation, they are popular and book up well in advance. 

You won’t find any of these listed on Booking.com (at least not yet!), and booking them requires a bit of effort.

You can check this website to inquire about booking a farmstay in Shirakawa-go.

Alternatively, if you’re not tied to staying in Shirakawa-go, but would like to experience staying in a traditional style Japanese home, we’d highly recommend Tanekura Inn . 

We stayed in this lovely Airbnb in the countryside just outside Takayama and had a wonderful experience. The sweet host cooked us a meal over the traditional fireplace and we did a soba noodle making class . We used Tanekura Inn as our base for exploring both Takayama and Shirakawa-go as day trips.

1 day in Shirakawa-go itinerary

Want your day planned for you? We’ve got you covered:

• Park here as it is free and the best viewpoint overlooking the village
• After taking photos from above, follow the path and walk into the village (10-20 minutes) 
• Have coffee at Kyoshu or Ochiudo
• Wander the streets and take photos
• Have lunch 
• Get pudding at Purin no le
• Tour a farmhouse
• Shop for souvenirs
• Try some street food

If you have more time:

• Visit the other villages, OR…
• Go to a waterfall

Read through our whole list of things to do and add in anything else that strikes your fancy!

Where to eat in Shirakawa-go

For a small village there are quite a few options of places to eat. That said, since there are many visitors each day, you may find yourself waiting. We’d recommend making reservations if possible.

• Hiiragi : a bit outside the village, the meal sets are delicious and reasonably priced
• Make reservations by messaging them on Instagram
• Ochiudo : curry rice bowl in a farmhouse with a traditional fire cooking pit
• China beef or wild vegetable udon
• Shirakawago Restaurant Irori : regional dishes with vegetarian options in the center of the village

Where to stay in Shirakawa-go

You can certainly visit Shirakawa-go as a day trip (that’s what most people do!), but if you’d like to go at a slower pace and not feel rushed, you may be curious about staying overnight.

There are a few different options for accommodation in the villages themselves and nearby Shirakawa-go.

Stay in Ogimachi

Staying right in the main village of Shirakawa-go would allow you to have some quiet time before all the day trippers arrive.

• Shiroyamakan : arguably the best accommodation in Shirakawa-go with exceptional dining and an overall incredible experience, this is a splurge stay but guests rave about it. Book in advance because it sells out.
• Onyado Yuinosho : Ryokan style accommodation just north of Ogimachi village
• Guesthouse Shirakawa-go Inn : The only budget accommodation in Shirakawa-go. The rooms are very basic, but the location is great.
• Way Shirakawa-go : Apartment-style accommodation very close to the village

Alternative: You can check this website to inquire about booking a farmstay in Shirakawa-go.

Stay in Ainokura

The accommodation in this Shirakawa-go village is far less expensive than in Ogimachi, and it is more peaceful. 

• Gokayama Base : this accommodation is modern and clean, very budget friendly, and earns excellent reviews.

Alternative: If you’re not tied to staying in Shirakawa-go, but would like to experience staying in a traditional style Japanese home, we’d recommend Tanekura Inn . We stayed in this lovely Airbnb in the countryside and had a wonderful experience. The sweet host cooked us a meal over the traditional fireplace and we did a soba noodle making class. From here, we visited Shirakawa-go as a day trip.

Stay in Takayama

Just a 45-minute drive by car , Takayama is incredibly charming and has a lot to see and do. Plus, there’s a lot of great accommodations to choose from.

• Auberge Hidanomori (our top pick): We personally stayed here and loved it!
• Takayama Ouan : The rooftop onsen here is reason enough to stay
• Wat Hotel & Spa : This is a great budget-friendly pick
• Countryside Airbnb : This cottage in the countryside just outside of Takayama looks stunning and luxurious. We almost stayed here but opted for a more unique stay at this traditional Japanese home .

Stay in Kanazawa

At just over an hour by car from Shirakawa-go , Kanazawa is an interesting mid-sized city on the ocean.

• The Square Hotel : We personally stayed here and think it is a great budget pick
• UAN Kanazawa : Beautiful blend of Western comforts and Japanese style with a great location and reasonable rates

Personal Note: You can also stay in Toyama, but we’d suggest Takayama or Kanazawa instead as they are closer to Shirakawa-go and have more things to do (we’ve personally stayed in all three).

How to get to Shirakawa-go

The easiest way to get to Shirakawa-go is by driving . It is pretty straightforward to get here in a car. 

Below are the approximate driving times from the three nearby cities to Shirakawa-go’s main village of Ogimachi.

• Takayama to Ogimachi: 45 minutes
• Kanazawa to Ogimachi: 1 hour, 5 minutes
• Toyama to Ogimachi: 1 hour, 20 minutes

Good to know: If you are coming from Takayama, you will drive through a tunnel that is 11 km (7 miles) long, which feels like it goes on forever!

Once you get close to the village, there will be crossing guards that direct you to a parking lot, as vehicles are not allowed to enter the village. Most parking lots closest to the village cost about 1000 yen. We’d recommend going straight to this parking lot (which is free).

Psst! We have a guide to renting a car in Japan (packed with lots of driving tips you won’t want to miss!).

Getting to Shirakawa-go via bus

However, if you are not renting a car in Japan, no worries. You can still visit Shirakawa-go* using public transportation. 

Trains do not come here , but you can catch a bus in the following cities:

From Takayama

An express bus runs from Takayama Nohi Bus Center to Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal. It takes about 50 minutes and costs ¥2,600.

From Kanazawa 

The express bus from Kanazawa Station (West Gate) to Shirakawa-go takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes and costs ¥2,600.

From Toyama 

Catch the express bus at Toyama Eki mae to Shirakawa-go (1 hour 20 minutes, ¥2,400).

*When saying “Shirakawa-go”, we are referring to the village of Ogimachi.

Guided day trip to Shirakawa-go

If you aren’t into the idea of navigating the buses yourself and you’d like a tour guide, it is possible to do a guided day trip to Shirakawa-go.

This tour starts and ends in Takayama and has great reviews.

Best time to visit Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go makes a great year round destination, and each season has its draws. 

We personally visited in the fall and loved seeing the village surrounded by colorful foliage, but the winter looks absolutely lovely as well.

Psst! We have an entire guide to the best time to visit Japan , so if you’re still in the planning phase of your trip, be sure to check that out!

Shirakawa-go in the spring

Comfortable temperatures and a handful of blossoming trees make spring a great time of year to visit this village. 

Good to know: There aren’t all that many flowering trees in the village so keep this in mind if you’re specifically looking for cherry blossom photo spots. Here’s more tips on visiting Japan in the spring .

Shirakawa-go in the summer

With longer daylight hours , the summer can be a great time to pack your days full with lots of exploring before the sun sets. 

The drawback to this season is that it can get incredibly hot and humid . Dress with this in mind.

Visiting in summer? Check out our guide to Japan in the summer .

Shirakawa-go in the fall

We visited Shirakawa-go in autumn, and flanked by orange and gold mountains, it was stunning. 

The colorful foliage gave the village a warm, moody vibe.

It was rainy when we visited, but with the right shoes and an umbrella, we still had a wonderful time.

Visiting in autumn? Check out our guide to Japan in the fall .

Shirakawa-go in the winter

This looks like perhaps the most beautiful time to visit Shirakawa-go (in my opinion!). 

This region of the Japanese Alps is known for getting massive amounts of powdery snow, creating a magical winter wonderland!

The most notable event in the wintertime is the winter light up , during which the farmhouses are illuminated during Sunday evenings of some weekends in January and February. Check this link for the dates and important information for visiting.

Visiting in winter? Check out our guide to Japan in the winter .

Tips for visiting Shirakawa-go

After visiting Shirakwago ourselves, we want to share our top tips with you so you have the best experience possible.

1. Get off the main walking street

Even just walking a few minutes off the main drag will lead you to much quieter, more peaceful vistas.

2. Decide your route ahead of time

It can be easy to miss some of the best spots in town, so have an idea of the route you’ll take before you go. (Jump here for our recommended route!) 

All this said, if you see a cool hidden street, by all means take it and get a little lost!

3. Make lunch reservations

Often, I feel like I only need to make reservations in big, busy cities. But I’d suggest making lunch reservations for your time in Shirakawa-go as well because many of the restaurants get very busy and they don’t have that much space.

If you’re a last-minute traveler, don’t worry. There are stands selling street food, so in a pinch you can always get a bunch of snacks for lunch!

4. Come early 

If possible, get to Shirakawa-go early, as it gets more and more crowded as the day goes on. 

You could also stay later than most other day trippers, but this might mean driving in the dark or having trouble getting a bus back to your accommodation.

5. Don’t let bad weather deter you

We visited on a rather rainy fall day, and I was thinking about skipping it altogether.

The rain came and went all day, but the village was beautiful even in the gloom. In fact, when the sun came out I realized I actually preferred my photos taken in the clouds and rain.

6. Bring layers

Speaking of weather, bring plenty of layers, sun protection, an umbrella, and anything else you think you’ll need. Other than restaurants and a few shops, there aren’t many places to hang out indoors. 

Since you’ll be spending most of your time outside, make sure you’re prepared for all weather.

7. Wear comfortable shoes

You’ll be doing lots of walking in Shirakawa-go, so be sure you’re wearing shoes that’ll be comfortable.

Still have questions about planning a visit to Shirakawa-go? We’ve got answers!

How much time do I need?

You can see Shirakawa-go in half a day, but I’d recommend setting aside the entire day so you have plenty of time to get there and you don’t feel rushed. 

You could also get up to the other 2 villages that make up Shirakawa-go or see one of the nearby waterfalls.

Is Shirakawa-go crowded?

Yes. There’s no sugar-coating it, Shirakawa-go is a popular tourist spot and it does get busy . 

That said, it wasn’t nearly as crowded as I was expecting. We went on a rainy day in the fall, so perhaps the weather kept some people away, but it really didn’t feel overbearingly crowded, like parts of Kyoto .

On a sunny day or during festivals, this may be different.

It is somewhat challenging to get to if you don’t have a rental car, so it won’t be as crowded as more easily accessible spots.

The main walking street and popular photo spots tend to have the most people congregating, but if you walk off the main paths, you can definitely get away from the crowds.

Is visiting Shirakawa-go worth it?

It took us 3 trips to Japan to finally make it here, and I can wholeheartedly say it was worth it. (As long as you know what to expect and how to plan your time!)

I’ll be honest, the reason we avoided it on our first two trips is that I worried it would be a tourist trap. Crowded and just a photo spot.

I’ve learned over the years that this isn’t my type of travel. And I just assumed that Shirakawa-go, while stunning, was overhyped.

But we really enjoyed our time there and would recommend visiting if you have the time. 

Just keep in mind that it gets busy (especially around midday), and it can be a bit of a hassle to get there if you don’t have a car of your own. I think we liked it so much because we were able to get there early and explore at our own pace without worrying about catching transportation back. 

FYI We have a guide to driving in Japan if you are interested in checking it out! You could even rent a car for just a couple of days out of Kanazawa or Takayama to explore this region (where the driving is pretty easy and the countryside is beautiful).

Places to visit near Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is somewhat remote and while definitely worth seeing, we wouldn’t recommend coming to this region only to see this village. 

There is so much more to do and see in this general area! Here are some of our personal favorites:

Known for seafood and immaculate Japanese gardens, this is a fun oceanside city to add to your Japan itinerary.

With a charming historic old town and excellent dining options, we love Takayama!

This is a nearby seaside city that you may pass through on your way to Shirakawa-go. If you are looking for a good place to base yourself, we personally prefer both Kanazawa and Takayama over Toyama.

This national park is stunning and a haven for hikers. Discover mountain vistas and a tranquil river valley.

Nagano 

While not next door by any means, Nagano is a good next stop (or previous stop!) on your itinerary. We love this area of Japan because it is a wonderful place to experience nature and tranquility.

Alpine Route

If you love nature, the Tateyama Alpine Route is such a cool experience. You take several modes of transportation to some of the most stunning vistas in the region. It seems popular with Japanese tourists, but we hardly met any other foreign travelers when we did this.

What to pack for Shirakawa-go

What to pack for a visit to Shirakawa-go will depend on the time of year you will be visiting (jump here for our opinion on the best time to visit). Regardless of the season, make sure you bring the following:

• comfortable walking shoes (waterproof is best)

Be sure to check out these super helpful guides full of  packing hacks and tips for traveling in Japan  that you won’t find anywhere else:

• Our  Japan packing guide  lists all the essentials (many of which you might not think about), as well as what you should NOT pack for a trip to Japan.
• This article on  what to wear in Japan  will help you create a perfect capsule wardrobe for every season and let you in on some cultural taboos so you can be sure to dress appropriately.
• With this  FREE Japan packing list PDF download , we’ll send checklists straight to your inbox for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra stuff you may want to have on-hand just in case. Click the image below to get your free copy!

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Everything You Need to Know About the JRail Pass Train Ticket
• Crazy & Fun Things to Do in Japan
• Most Beautiful Places in Japan You Need to See for Yourself
• Best Japan Travel Apps to Download Before Your Next Trip

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We want to hear from you!

Have you ever been to Shirakawa-go? We would love to hear about your experiences, especially if you’ve visited Suganuma or Ainokura!

Are you planning a trip to Shirakawa-go and still have questions? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

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Could u drop the location pin of the free parking again as the one in the article is not working?

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Shirakawa-go

Traditional thatched roofs villages.

Shirakawago is a gathering of historical Japanese villages located in Shokawa Valley, in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture in central Honshu. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Area, the traditional houses with steep thatched roofs in gasshô-zukuri style are the region's main touristic attraction, only reachable by bus or by car.

The term Shirakawa-go is often used to name as a whole the historical village nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, however the region’s geography is slightly more complicated:

• Shirakawa itself is an area encompassing several villages including Ogimachi (the most famous) and Hirase Onsen   ♨️ ;
• It is often (rightfully) compared to Gokayama , that encompasses smaller villages such as Suganuma and Ainokura . located a few kilometers away in the north, along Shogawa River.

Surrounded by high mountains , rice fields and endless woods, these hamlets are only reachable by road. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, they are famous for their 合掌造り gasshô-zukuri architecture: traditional local secular houses, with steeply thatched roofs that can support heavy snowfall during winters.

In these historical homes , entire families lived on several floors, heated by fireplaces located in the center of the ground floor (both to spread the heat and to limit the risk of fires  🔥 ). On the top floor, under the rafters, the family worked together in silkworm rearing. The covering straw on the roofs must be changed every twenty years, at which time you can see craftsmen work on these roofs.

Ogimachi: Shirakawago’s touristic sample village

Our own visit is focused on Ogimachi , which is well maintained, "complete," and very popular (nearly a million and a half visitors every year), and also less confidential. With about sixty gassho houses , most of which are now restaurants, minshuku (twenty-five guesthouses) and ryokan (fourteen traditional inns). It is the most furnished compared to other villages.

Visitors are welcome to take a very pleasant stroll starting from the bus exit north of the village. It is fully possible to walk all along the paths, but some bus shuttles also operate from the city center. The day usually starts from Shiroyama Observation Deck , located on the ruins of Ogimachi Castle   🏯 , which offers that famous "postcard" panoramic view (see photo above).

Shirakawa-go's traditional houses allow visitors to learn more about their specific architecture, as well as the historical lifestyle of its inhabitants thanks to period objects and testimonies. Although Wada or Nagase are worth mentioning, the one you should pay attention to is Myozen-ji , for its magnificent (but very narrow) temple next to it. In addition, visitors can tour Minka-en , a real open-air museum of about twenty gassho-zukuri houses, expressly moved there to avoid their demolition.

For fans of Japanese animation, who wish to embark on a seichi junrei pilgrimage, Ogimachi possesses references to the anime Higurashi no naku koro ni , which is set in the fictional haunted village of Hinamizawa, largely inspired by Shirakawa-go.

Wonderful, yet too popular, winter light-ups

Only on some Sundays and Mondays at the beginning of the year, the region hosts an impressive winter light-up : gorgeous night lighting that accentuates the heavy snowfall and their white coat both on the houses and on the ground. More and more renowned each year, it has become too populated for the municipality, which has decided to reduce the access to the village starting from 2019. Those willing to go there at this time will have to book in advance . The happy few are then selected through a lottery system granting an overnight stay and/or the opportunity to admire Shiroyama's night view.

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Shirakawago Travel Guide-Complete Guide to Shirakawago, Japan

Welcome to the enchanting world of Shirakawago, a hidden gem nestled deep within the Japanese countryside. Prepare to be transported to a place where time seems to stand still, and tradition and natural beauty intertwine in perfect harmony. Shirakawago, with its iconic thatched-roof farmhouses and serene rural landscapes, offers a captivating escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone in search of authentic cultural experiences, this picturesque village has something truly special to offer. In this Shirakawago Travel Guide, I’ll be going over the best things to see and do, how to get there, how to get around, tips for visiting and much more!

Find a hotel in Shirakawago for your visit on Expedia!

Table of Contents

The Complete Shirakawago Japan Travel Guide

Why visit shirakawago.

Shirakawago is a destination that effortlessly weaves history, nature, and culture into a tapestry of enchantment. With its iconic Gassho-zukuri farmhouses, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s architectural and rural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning landscapes, immersive cultural experiences, or the warmth of its people, Shirakawago promises a truly unforgettable journey that blends tradition with natural beauty in the most captivating way.

Best Things to Do in Shirakawago

Book an unforgettable tour through Shirakawago and beyond on Viator!

In Shirakawago, you can immerse yourself in a variety of captivating experiences:

• Ogimachi Village: Explore the UNESCO-listed village of Ogimachi, with its iconic Gassho-zukuri farmhouses featuring steep thatched roofs.
• Shirakawago Open-Air Museum: Learn about local history, architecture, and culture through interactive exhibits and traditional tools.
• Shiroyama Viewpoint: Hike up to this viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the village and the surrounding Japanese Alps.
• Wada House: Visit the Wada House, a preserved Gassho-style farmhouse turned museum, to gain insight into the daily life of the region’s inhabitants.
• Myozenji Temple: Explore the serene surroundings of this historic temple, nestled amidst lush greenery.
• Shirakawago Illumination: Experience the magical winter illumination when the village’s thatched roofs are beautifully lit up.
• Local Cuisine: Savor traditional dishes, including Hida beef specialties, at local restaurants and inns.
• Gokayama Ainokura Village: Extend your trip to this nearby Gassho-zukuri village to delve deeper into the region’s culture.
• Nature and Hiking: Take advantage of the scenic hiking trails, picturesque rivers, and lush forests in the area, especially during the warmer months.
• Local Craft Shopping: Purchase handmade crafts, textiles, and pottery as meaningful souvenirs to commemorate your visit to this charming village.

Where to Stay in Shirakawago

Choosing where to stay in Shirakawago is a delightful decision, with options that offer both comfort and immersion into the village’s unique charm. If you’re seeking an authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional Gassho-zukuri farmhouse turned guesthouse.

Book your stay at a hotel, guesthouse or more in Shirakawago at Expedia!

These accommodations provide a glimpse into rural life while offering cozy rooms and warm hospitality. On the other hand, you’ll find modern inns and hotels in the vicinity, offering comfortable amenities and easy access to the village’s attractions. Regardless of your choice, each option allows you to wake up to the serene beauty of Shirakawago, making your stay as memorable as the destination itself.

How to get to and around Shirakawago

Getting to and around Shirakawago is straightforward, ensuring your visit is hassle-free. To reach this picturesque village, you can take a direct bus from major cities like Kanazawa, Takayama, or Nagoya. The bus ride itself is a scenic journey through the Japanese countryside, adding to the overall experience.

Once you’re in Shirakawago, the village is small enough to explore on foot. The main attractions, including Ogimachi Village and the Open-Air Museum, are within walking distance from each other. However, if you plan to visit neighboring areas or Gassho-style villages like Gokayama Ainokura, local buses are available. Just keep in mind that bus schedules can be limited, so it’s a good idea to plan your travels accordingly. With convenient transportation options, you can make the most of your time exploring the beauty and culture of Shirakawago.

Tips for Visiting Shirakawago

Visiting Shirakawago is a delightful experience, but here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:

• Check the Weather: Shirakawago experiences heavy snowfall in winter. If you’re visiting during this season, be prepared for cold weather and check for any travel advisories or road closures.
• Book Accommodation Early: Shirakawago is a popular destination, and accommodations can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. It’s advisable to book your stay well in advance.
• Arrive Early or Late: To avoid crowds, consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Day-trippers often visit during mid-morning, so arriving at different times can provide a more serene experience.
• Respect Local Customs: When visiting Gassho-zukuri farmhouses or temples, remember to remove your shoes before entering. Additionally, be courteous and avoid loud conversations in residential areas.
• Stay Overnight: While day trips are possible, staying overnight allows you to experience the village during the quieter evening hours and enjoy the enchanting illumination of the thatched roofs in the winter.
• Pack Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be exploring the village on foot. Layers are a good choice, as the weather can vary throughout the day.
• Cash and Cards: Some smaller shops and eateries may only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to carry both cash and credit cards.
• Visit the Open-Air Museum: The Shirakawago Open-Air Museum provides valuable insights into the local culture and history. Consider starting your visit here to gain a deeper understanding of the village.
• Get Connected- Use Airalo e-SIMS for reliable and affordable cell phone data with an easy to use interface while in Shirakawago.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your visit to Shirakawago and fully appreciate its unique charm and culture.

Shirakawago Travel Guide Conclusion

As we bid farewell to Shirakawago, we reflect on the timeless beauty and rich culture that make this village truly extraordinary. From the iconic thatched-roof farmhouses to the serene countryside, Shirakawago offers a glimpse into Japan’s past like no other place. Whether you’re captivated by its architecture, immersed in its traditions, or simply awed by its natural landscapes, this charming village leaves an indelible mark on your heart. So, as you journey onward, remember the warmth of its people, the serenity of its streets, and the magic of its seasons, and know that Shirakawago will always welcome you back with open arms. Until next time, farewell and safe travels!

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Shirakawago and Gokayama villages: Travel Guide

Shirakawago and Gokayama villages: Travel Guide

October 1, 2021

Picture a quaint village embanked in snow. Icy whiteness covers the ground and clings to the roofs of the traditional Japanese farmhouses like icing on a gingerbread house. Streets and windows become golden torches as the sun begins to set.

The Historic Villages of Shirakawago and its neighboring village, Gokayama are one of central Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites .  They hold a serene natural beauty as well as a unique architecture.

The homes have uniquely steep thatched roofs known as gassho-zukuri in Japanese, meaning “constructed like hands in prayer.” Many of the houses were built in the late 1600s and were designed to withstand heavy snow, and the large attic space provides an area for silkworm cultivation.

How to get to Shirakawago

Shirakawago and Gokayama are situated in a valley in Gifu prefecture, 50 km northwest of Takayama. These villages are surrounded by high and rugged mountains which receive particularly high snowfall in winter.

Using your Japan Rail Pass , you can reach the Shirakawago area from Tokyo, Osaka or Nagoya. Buses are available from many other popular locations.

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From Tokyo to Shirakawago

From Tokyo Station or Ueno Station , take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Toyama Station. Then take the bus to Shirakawago (90 minutes, 1700 yen one way). You can check the timetables and make your bus seat reservation at Japanbusonline.com .

From Kanazawa to Shirakawago

The Nohi Bus and Hokutetsu Bus lines operate hourly between Kanazawa and Shirakawago. Seat reservations are required, and the JR Pass is not valid. However, other tourist passes may be accepted.

From Takayama to Shirakawago

Hourly buses operate between Takayama and Shirakawago. The JR Pass is not valid on these buses, and some require seating reservations.

From Nagoya to Shirakawago

From Nagoya Station, you can take the Hida Limited Express to Takayama , and then proceed as explained above.

Besides, several Gi fu Buses operate daily between Nagoya and Shirakawago. The JR Pass is not valid on this bus, and online reservations can be made.

From Osaka to Shirakawago

From Osaka , you can take the JR ThunderBird Limited Express  to Kanazawa . From Kanazawa, take the Nohi or Hokutetsu Bus to Shirakawago.

Alternatively, you can take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Nagoya Station. Then, take the Gifu Bus from Nagoya to Shirakawago.

Shirakawago village

Shirakawago is divided into two area s. In Gifu, it is known only as Shirakawago . In Toyama Prefecture, it is called Gokayama . Villages in both areas have been listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1995.

The village of Shirakawago is the most famous in the Shirakawago region , as it is home to most of the traditional gassho-zukuri houses , which are based on their own building structures according to their regions characteristics.

Gokayama village

Gokayama is located 10 kilometers north of the village of Shirakawago . Its name means “five valleys” in Japanese, describing its position between mountains. Gokayama is famous for gunpowder production. Today, it offers a pristine and untouched environment to travelers lucky enough to find it.

Gokayama is home to two gassho-zukuri style villages . About 60 people still live in the 23 houses of Ainokura Village. There, you can eat a meal and learn to make paper. The Suganuma Village is home to nine gassho-zukuri houses, the Ensho-no-Yakata gunpowder production museum, and the Shinmeisha Shrine.

Between these villages, you will find the largest gassho-zukuri house, the Murakami House . You can enter the house and view over a thousand artifacts. Catch a meal at the nearby Jippensha, where you can sample Gokayama’s famous soba noodles and tofu bean curd.

Best times to visit Shirakawago

Shirakawago is a beautiful destination any time of the year and no matter the weather. In the spring, the area is crowned with clouds of sakura cherry blossoms .

In summer, the rice fields paint the terrain bright green. In autumn, its mountains and hills create a stunning backdrop for koyo autumn leaf viewing. And in winter, the area is thickly blanketed with snow, as described at the outset.

Best things to do in Shirakawago

Shirakawa Kaido Street features souvenir shops and snack stalls. On one end of the street is a hot spring facility known as Shirakawago no Yu. Beyond the river that runs parallel to the street, you will find a Tourist Information Center that also inhabits a gassho-zukuri house.

Also, if you are looking for an excellent view, check out the Ogimachi-jo Castle Ruins Observation Deck or the Tenshukaku Observation Deck.

Winter Light-up Festival

Each year, during the months of January and February, Shirakawago’s gassho-zukuri houses are illuminated at night. This event is so popular that advance reservations are required. Please check the official website for schedules and lates information.

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SHIRAKAWA-GO TRAVEL GUIDE (ITINERARY + BUDGET)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Mar 2, 2019 | Itinerary , Japan , SHIRAKAWA-GO , Travel Guide | 0 comments

Here’s a detailed Shirakawa-go itinerary + travel guide blog with budget breakdown.

Rightfully famous for its Gassho-style houses, Shirakawa-go has scenery rich in contrasting colors and real character. It was spring when we visited, cherry blossoms sprinkled around the farmland and the soaring tree-studded mountains blanketed by morning fogs add up to its dramatic landscape. Shirakawa-go village in Gifu, Japan has held onto its old-fashioned traditions, appearance, and character, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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ABOUT SHIRAKAWA-GO

The most distinct feature of a Gassho-style house in this Shirakawa-go village is the roof, which resembles 2 hands in prayers.  This style of roof makes the houses here well-suited for its weather – the heavy snowfall during winter and the humid weather during summer. The roofs face the west and east to get sunlight that also helps in melting the snow rapidly and drying the roofs, this is also why the Gassho-style houses here are facing the same direction, to prevent the houses from being knocked down by the wind blowing from the Sho-river.  Also, since the attic of the Gassho-style houses in Shirakawa-go are usually used for sericulture, an alternative source of income for the locals, the sunshine and wind help in growing the silkworms.

Interestingly, the construction of the thatched roof requires Yui – the villagers  who volunteer to help build the roof. The roof must be completed in one day. Once it is completed, the Yui eat dinner together to celebrate.

Here’s a Shirakawa-go travel guide with itinerary and budget to help you plan your visit here.

SHIRAKAWA-GO PRE-TRAVEL GUIDE

When is the best time to visit shirakawa-go.

Winter: The best time to visit Shirakawa-go is winter, which falls on December to January. During this season, the village peppered with Gassho-style houses that turns into a winter wonderland. The winter illumination is also held every night during winter.

Spring : One of the best times to visit Shirakawa-go is during spring – March to May.  During this season, the village is sprinkled with cherry blossoms. You may even catch the snow-peaked mountains in the early weeks of spring.

Autumn: For many tourists, autumn in Shirakawa-go is also a best time to visit.  This season lasts from September to November.  Shirakawa-go turns into a colorful village as the leaves of the trees turns into red, orange, and yellow.

Summer: June to August is summer in Shirakawa-go. The village turns green and flowers starts blooming.  

JAPAN VISA:  Philippine Passport holders are required to have a Japan visa to travel to Japan.  Click here:    JAPAN VISA REQUIREMENTS AND APPLICATION PROCESS.

JAPAN TIME ZONE : Japan time zone is GMT+9,it is 1 hour ahead of Philippines.

SHIRAKAWA-GO CURRENCY AND MONEY EXCHANGE : As in the rest of Japan, Japanese Yen is the currency here.

Load up cash (Japanese Yen) before visiting Shirakawa-go as there are limited ATMs here. Also, most restaurants and shops only accepts Japanese yen cash. For money exchange, there’s a money exchange machine at Smart Exchange near the Shirakawa-go Bus terminal. Open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

SHIRAKAWA-GO MODE OF PAYMENT:   Most of the establishments here accepts Japanese yen cash, so stack up cash before visiting.

SHIRAKAWA-GO ELECTRICITY:   Like the rest of Japan, the electrical socket used in Shirakawa-go is type A and type B. Best to bring a universal adapter. The standard voltage is 100 V and the standard frequency is 50/60 Hz.

SHIRAKAWA-GO WI-FI AND SIMCARD:  There’s a “SHIRAKAWA-Go Free Wi-Fi” at different locations in Shirakawa-go.  However, if you are traveling beyond Shirakawa-go, best to purchase a local sim card or rent a pocket Wi-Fi.

SHIRAKAWA-GO TRAVEL GUIDE

How to get to shirakawa-go, manila to nagoya.

If coming from the Philippines, there are regular flights from Manila to Nagoya (Chubu International Airport) and JETSTAR airline offers the cheapest rate I’ve seen so far. You can book your flights at Jetstar.com .  Jetstar flies 4 times weekly from Manila to Nagoya, they offer one of the cheapest airfare to Japan.

This post was made possible by Jetstar Asia.

Chubu Centrair International Airport to Nagoya City Center

1.Make your way to Centrair Japan International Airport Station.

2.Board the Meitetsu Line to Nagoya. Travel time if about 33 minutes and fare is ¥ 1,230 ( ₱584)

3. Alight at Meitetsu Nagoya.

NAGOYA TO SHIRAKAWA-GO

Option 1: By Day Tour Package from Nagoya

If you only have a limited time in Nagoya to do the Shirakawa-go trip, best to just join a group tour. The tour already includes guide, plus a visit to Takayama.

Takayama + Shirakawa-go Day Tour from Nagoya: RESERVE HERE .

Option 2: By Highway Bus

If you prefer a DIY Travel to Shirakawa-go, you can follow the steps below. However, to save on the bus fare, I recommend using the Shoryudo Highway Bus Pass. Even if you don’t intend to stay in this region for 3 days, the pass is still worth it because it includes a transfer to or from Chubu Airport.

1.Make your way to Nagoya Station.

2. Walk to Meitetsu Bus Center. This bus station is located at the Men’s building of the Meitetsu Department Store on the 3 rd and 4 th floor, it is next door to the main building of the Meitetsu Department Store. It should take about 5 minutes on foot. For directions, refer to Google Maps.     You can take the escalator next to the giant Nana-chan mannequin statue to the entrance of Meitetsu Bus Center.

3. Buy a bus ticket. Take the Gifu Bus on the Shirakawa-go Express

Line, fare is JPY 3,900. It is highly recommended to book in advance as Shirakawa-go is a pretty popular destination. You can reserve a month before by calling the Meitetsu Highway Bus Center Reservation at 052 582 0489, if International phone call contact +81 52582 0489.

You can also BOOK SHORYUDO HIGHWAY BUS PASS HERE .  It’s way cheaper! This will save you 35% from your travels around Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa. And you can also use this for a 1 way train trip using Meitetsu Line between Nagoya Station and Chubu Airport. You can choose between a 3-5 day pass starting at ¥ 3,334 ( ₱1,584) .

*Important: Going back, make sure you don’t miss the last bus.

Here’s the bus schedule for the Gifu Bus from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go and vice versa:

Gifu Bus Fare:

Adult : ¥3,900 (₱1,893,$35, €31, SGD 48,MYR 144)

Kids: ¥1,950 (₱926,$17,€16,SGD24,MYR 72)

Travel time: Approximately 3 hours

* Schedule may change without prior notice.

Board your bus to Shirakawa-go. There are 8 boarding points in Meitetsu Bus Center. Buses to Shirakawa-go are usually parked at Boarding Point 7. Check your bus ticket or ask the staff. Show your ticket to the driver before boarding the bus. Travel time to Shirakawa-go is about 3 hours.

Alight at the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal.

Make your way to Shiroyama Viewpoint. From the bus stop, you can walk for about 20 minutes to the popular Shiroyama Viewpoint that offers a scenic view of Ogimachi Village. Alternatively, you can also hop on a shuttle that can take you to the viewpoint for ¥200 (₱95).

Make your way down to Ogimachi Village in Shirakawa-go. It will take about 20 minutes on foot or ride the shuttle bus going down for ¥200 (₱95).

Explore Shiraka-wago on foot. Visit the Wada House, the Heritage Museum, craft and souvenir shops, the Deai-Bashi Suspension Bridge, etc.

TAKAYAMA TO SHIRAKAWA-GO

If you are coming from Takayama, follow the directions below.

1. Head to Nohi Bus Center.

2. Take the Nohi Bus on the Shirakawa-go/Kanaza Line. Fare is ¥2,470 (₱1,173) . If you have a Shoryodu Highway Bus Pass ( RESERVE HERE ) , you can use it here.

3. Get off at the Shirakawa-go Bus Stop (Ogimachi) .

Nohi Bus Fare:

One Way – ¥2,470 (₱1,173,$23,€20,SGD31,MYR92)

Roundtrip – ¥4,420 (₱2,100, $40, €35,SGD54,MYR163)

Travel time: Approximately 50 minutes

For Nohi Bus Reservation (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM), call:  +81 577 32 1688

Here’s the Nohi bus schedule from Takayama to Shirakawa-go. Those with *R means reservation is required. If you have a Shoryudo Highyway Bus Pass , you can call Nohi Bus Center to reserve your set. Or just go for the bus schedule without required reservation.

KANAZAWA TO SHIRAKAWA-GO

1.Go to Bus Stop #2 of Kanazawa Station at East Gate Terminal.

2. Take the Hokutetsu Bus to Shirakawa-go. Travel time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Fare is ¥1,850 (₱879) one-way. Roundtrip fare is ¥3,290 (₱1,563).

3.Alight at Shirakawa-go Bus Stop.

OSAKA, KYOTO, OR TOKYO TO NAGOYA TO SHIRAKAWA-GO

For a detailed guide on h ow to travel from Osaka, Kyoto, or Tokyo to Shirakawa-go, READ HERE .  

GETTING AROUND SHIRAKAWA-GO

The largest village and the main tourist attraction of Shirakawa-go village is the Ogimachi Village, peppered with Gassho-style houses.

The best way to get around Shirakawa-go is by walking, since the Shirakawa Highway is closed to vehicles from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Shirakawa-go Bus Stop (Ogimachi Bus Stop) . If you are taking the public bus, you will get off here.

Seseragi Park . If you are on board a tourist bus or private vehicle, you will park here.  It I located near the Main Information Center and the Deai-bashi Suspension Bridge.

TIP: Best to get a map first from the Information Center or refer to Google Maps for help in exploring the village.

Here’s the approximate time to reach the following attractions on foot from the Shirakawa-go Bus Stop and Seseragi Park.

Alternatively, there’s also a shuttle bus going to Shiroyama Viewpoint from the bus terminal. Fare is  ¥200 (₱95), one-way. Here’s the bus schedule:

Ogimachi Village (Shirakawa-go) to Shiroyama View Point Bus

First trip is 9:00 AM, last trip 3:40 PM, departs every :00, :20, and :40 of the hour.

Shiroyama View to Ogimachi Village (Shirakawa-go)

First trip is 9:10 AM, last trip is 04:10 PM, departs every :10, :30, and :50 of the hour.

SHIRIKAWA-GO TOURIST SPOTS

Shiroyama viewpoint (shiroyama tenshukaku tenbodai observatory).

Entrance Fee: FREE

Open Hours: 24 hours

The picturesque photos of Gassho style houses in Shirakawa-go that you see online were most likely taken at Shiroyama Viewpoint.  This viewing deck located near the parking lot offers a stunning view of Ogimachi village cut by a river where most Gassho style houses are concentrated.

Entrance Fee: Adult: ¥300 (₱143), Students: ¥150 (₱171)

Open Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The biggest Gassho style house in Shirakawa-go to date.  This place is owned by the prominent Wada Family and is open to the public. The first floor has a total of 8 rooms, and the ambience here is reminiscent of the ancient Japanese way of life. The official documents of the Wada House shows that it was home to an official who dealt with silk. In fact, if you climb the 2 nd floor of the house, you will encounter tools and materials used for silk production.

Other Attractions:

The folk museum of the old toyama family.

Entrance Fee:  Adult: ¥300 (₱143), Students: ¥150 (₱171)

Open Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Wednesday, Dec 31  – January 3)

This Gassho style house turned museum was designated as an Important National Asset in 1971.  This massive traditional house also houses equipment used for sericulture (silk farming).

Doburoku Festival Museum

The place to be if you want to learn about the Doburoku Festival. You can also taste a doburoku sake here for free.

SHIRIKAWA-GO SIDE TRIPS

RESERVE HERE

Another great side trip when visiting Shirakawa-go is Takayama, a well-preserved city with Edo-style streets.  It can be done as a side trip when visiting Shirakawa-go.  You can check out my detailed Shirakawa-go and Takayama itinerary below, or you can book a Takayama and Shirakawa-go day tour from Nagoya below.

WHERE TO STAY IN SHIRIKAWA-GO

While a couple of Gassho-style houses turned hotels  in Shirakawa-go are available, they come with a hefty price tag. But don’t fret because there’s a handful of budget guesthouses in the village to. See list below. If you only have a limited time, it is possible to do a Shirakawa-go day tour from Nagoya. I also listed below some Nagoya budget hotels if you like to stay in the city center.

HOTELS IN SHIRIKAWA-GO 

Shirakawa-go Guesthouse Kei

Location: Shirakawago, Japan

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

Guesthoust Ant Hunt

  Toyota Shirakawa-go Eco-Institute

Shirakawa-go Terrace

NAGOYA BUDGET HOTELS

If you are just doing a day tour to Shirakawa-go from Nagoya and don’t plan on exploring other villages and town nearby, here are some of the budget hotels in Nagoya.

Nagoya Liberty Hotel

Location: Near Nagoya Station, Nagoya

Meitetsu Inn Nagoya Ekimae

Meitetsu Inn Nagoya Nishiki

Location: Near Sakae Station, Nagoya

Hotel Cent Main Nagoya

Where to Eat in Shirakawa-go

Location: Google Maps 

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Food price: up to ¥1,620 (₱769)

We had lunch at Irori, a traditional Japanese sunken hearth. I really enjoyed the traditional home-made food here, which was prepared using a traditional cooking method of the Hida people. It is super delicious because it uses fresh vegetables and edible wild plants.  Try the Hida beef pottery baked food, the Ichirari set meal set with stone cucumber as ingredients or the Hinada Miso set menu.

Kita-no-sho

Location: Google Maps

Open Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Food Price: up to ¥1,620 (₱769)

This is another popular restaurant in Shirakawa-go because it is set in a 250 year-old Gassho style house with a view of the Shogawa River.

Ippukuchina

Open Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Food price: up to ¥1,000 (₱475)

Try their specialty food – the Hidagyi croquette and Doburoki (unfiltered rice wine) pudding.

SHIRIKAWA-GO ITINERARY

Here are sample Shirakawa-go itineraries, good for a day tour and 3 days stay in this region. Best to use the Shoryudo Bus Pass to save a lot on transportation. You can use a 3 day to 5 day pass. RESERVE HERE

Shirakawa-go Day Tour Itinerary  (1 Day) with Budget      

This DIY Shirakawa-go itinerary is good for 1 Day and if your hotel is in Nagoya.

TRAVEL TIP: Best to use the Shoryudo Bus Pass to save on the cost of transportation even if you will be using it for 1 day only, the 3 day Pass for ¥ 3,334 ( ₱1,584) is still cheaper than the regular roundtrip bus fare for ¥ 3,900 ( ₱1,853) x 2= ¥7,800 ( ₱3,706).

*If you are using a Shoryudo Bus Pass, your estimated expenses for 1 Day if you follow the above Shirakawa-go itinerary is ¥ 5,654 ( ₱ 2,686) .

Shirakawa-go + Takayama Itinerary (1 Day)

This is the sample Takayama + Shirakawa-go itinerary if you join a group tour. RESERVE HERE .

Shirakawa-go + Takayama Itinerary ( 3 days 2 nights) with Budget

Here’s a sample DIY Shirakawa-go itinerary including a side trip to Takayama.

TRAVEL TIP: It’s best to use a Shoryudo Bus Pass if you plan on doing this so you can save. Only ¥ 3,334  for unlimited rides for 3 days within Nagoya, Shirakawa-go, Takayama, and Kanazawa.

*Hotel, souvenirs, drinks, and snacks not included in the sample budget above.

SHIRIKAWA-GO TRAVEL TIPS and REMINDERS

There are lockers at Shirakawa-go Bus Stop. Fee is JPY 500. But in case it’s already full, you can leave your bags at the manned counter at another building, a few meters away from the bus station. Fee is ¥800 ( ₱380) .

Stack up cash before visiting Shirakawa-go as most restaurants, shops, and guesthouse only accepts yen cash payments.  There’s limited ATM in this village and ATM only works during business hours on business days.

Don’t enter a private property, do not peer into houses, or open doors or windows without permission.  Always ask permission if you want to take a photo of the house interior.

Do not pick plants, flowers and herbs.

Smoke only in designated areas.

Avoid bringing flammable materials as the houses in Shirakawa-go village are built from flammable traditional materials.

Use the public toilet.

Bring a flashlight if you will be walking at night.

Using drone in Shirakawa-go is frowned upon, as the village is a residential area.

In Japan, you show appreciation by eating everything.

NAGOYA TRAVEL GUIDE

Nagoya itinerary, tokyo itinerary, osaka itinerary, kyoto itinerary, nara itinerary, osaka, nara, kyoto itinerary, sapporo travel guide.

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VISIT SHIRAKAWA-GO AND GOKAYAMA [ULTIMATE JAPAN GUIDE]

WHAT TO SEE IN SHIRAKAWA-GO? HOW TO GET TO SHIRAKAWA-GO? IS SHIRAKAWA-GO WORTH VISITING?

Shirakawa-go is a picturesque village located in the Gifu Prefecture of central Japan, known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These farmhouses are characterized by their steep thatched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snowfall during winter.

Shirakawa-go is famous for seeing and visiting gasshō-zukuri houses, an architectural style unique to the region listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

Shirakawa-go and its neighboring Gokayama region were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1995, highlighting their cultural significance and the importance of preserving the unique architectural style.

These two villages have the particularity, because of their geographical isolation far in the Japanese Alps , of having preserved a traditional style unique in Japan.

Both villages are beautiful. Our visit to Shirakawa-go and Gokayama was one of the highlights of our road trip through Japan .

Key Takeaways from a visit to Shirakawa-go

– Shirakawa-go and its neighboring Gokayama region were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1995, highlighting their cultural significance and the importance of preserving the unique architectural style. – Both villages are located near the famous and beautiful town of Takayama , another must-see in Japan. – Apart from the architecture, Shirakawa-go is famous for its beautiful landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons. – It took us almost a full day to visit Shirakawa-Go and Gokayama.

HERE IS A SNEAK PEEK ABOUT SHIRAKAWA-GO:

WHAT TO SEE IN SHIRAKAWA-GO?

1. discover the gassho-zukuri architecture, typical of the japanese alps.

The gassho-zukuri style houses, typical of the Japanese Alps region , are large wooden houses with very steep thatched roofs to withstand the thick layer of snow that falls in winter.

They were inhabited at least until the mid-nineteenth century by artisans specializing in the breeding of silkworms. Most houses were built over 250 years ago.

Today, if the village of Shirakawago is still inhabited, the region lives mainly from tourism. No less than 1.5 million tourists go there every year.

Note: these are the same houses as those presented at the Hida Folk Museum in Takayama or in Gero at the Gassho-Mura , except that in Shirakawa-go, the houses are inhabited (110 gasshō-zukuri houses and about 600 inhabitants).

You will therefore visit a place full of life and will be able to exchange with the inhabitants. It is a magnificent place not to be missed if you plan to visit the Japanese Alps region!

2. Visit the Kanda family house-museum

Some of the houses were transformed into a museum at Shirakawa-go.

We recommend the Kanda family home , where you can discover objects dating from the 15th century and you will learn in particular why the roofs of the houses in the area have gradually taken on this very particular shape

• Admission: ¥300 with a tea.
• Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: here

• Website: here

3. Check out the Gasho Folk Museum

Cross the bridge to visit the Gasho Folk Museum, a reconstructed village that includes several Gassho-Zukuri style houses dismantled and rebuilt next to each other.

• Admission: ¥600.
• Open from 8.40 a.m. to 5 p.m. (9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from December to February), closed on Thursdays from December to March.

4. Make sure to go at Shiragawa-go viewpoint!

Reach the Ogimachi Castle Observatory to have the most stunning view of the village.

On foot allow 40 minutes walk uphill.

The best option is to take the shuttle which takes 10 minutes to get you up the viewpoint. It costs 200 yen one way/per person. From there we recommend going back to the village on foot or taking the shuttle bus back.

The shuttle bus departs from here .

• Location of the viewpoint: here

5. Visit Myozenji temple

This unique-looking temple in the historic town of Shirakawa-go is a must-see.

It was built almost similarly to the traditional gassho houses of the town. The temple also has a bell tower/torii gate of the same design.

6. A little further visit Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine

This is a beautiful shrine located towards the edge of the village. Worth a visit if you are visiting this part of Shirakawa-go.

7. Enjoy the local food

There are lots of great local restaurants around the village of Shirakawa-go as well as many stands serving ice creams, coffee and other yummy snacks.

The area where Shirakawa-go is located is famous for its beef, called Hida Beef . Therefore you will find all sorts of restaurant serving the famous beef.

If you don’t eat meat, no worries, there are lots of soba noodle shop as well as udon places.

Gohei mochi is another famous snack from the region. It is made from rice with grilled peanut sauce served on a skewer! A must-try in this part of Japan!

8. Stay overnight in Shirakawa-Go for the ultimate experience!

Staying overnight in Shirakawa-go is a unique experience! Most tourists come for a day trip, so after 5pm you will have pretty much the village to yourself!

A dozen of traditional houses have been transformed into minshuku (Japanese family inn).

However, it gets full very quickly as there aren’t many rooms. So we highly recommend booking as early as possible to enjoy this unique experience in Japan.

How to get to Shirakawa-go?

Getting to Shirakawa-go by bus

From Takayama : Nohi bus company, 1 hour trip, ¥2470 (or ¥4420 round trip). From Kanazawa : Nohi bus company, 75 minutes, ¥3290.

All buses arrive and depart from Shirakawa-gō Bus Station. This is located a few minutes walk from the entrance to the village. We highly recommend booking your bus tour in advance, as Shirakawa-go attracts millions of visitors every year!

Getting to Shirakawa-go by car

Direct access to the village by car is forbidden. However, there are a few car parks around the village. We took our car to get there and it was super crowded to enter the parking! We waited at least 20min before we could park our car. So do come early to avoid the wait!

Private tour

For more convenience, you can also book a full private tour. The tour will take you to Shinakawa-go but also its beautiful surroundings. If you are a group of people, this is one of the best options to visit Shinakawa-go. Check it out here .

Visit Gokayama near Shinakawa-go

Gokayama is a set of rural villages in Japan with preserved ancient architecture, located in the Shokawa Valley in the southwest of Toyama Prefecture.

Ainokura, the largest village in the region, is home to twenty-three traditional houses with gassho-zukuri style thatched roofs, listed as UNESCO heritage sites. On-site, you can taste the daily life of the inhabitants as well as the excellent local food.

It takes 30min by car to reach the Gokayama villages.

1. Start your visit at Ainokura Village

Located far down the valley, Ainokura is the most remote village in the Gokayama region. It is also the largest of the villages with almost 20 gassho-zukuri farms.

Some of them are private residences, while others have been transformed into restaurants, museums and minshuku.

Being less developed and less accessible than Shinakawa-go, Ainokura is quieter and has much fewer tourists.

So if you have enough time during a trip to Japan, you will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at Ainokura compared to Shinakawa-go.

BOOK: Day trip to Shinakawa-go and Gokayama

2. Suganuma Village

Suganuma is one of the main attractions in Gokayama and it is divided into two areas: Suganuma Village and Gokayama Gassho no Sato.

Pleasant to visit on foot, the two areas are linked together by a tunnel. From here, through an elevator, you can also reach the car park on the hill above the village.

Suganuma Village, and nine of its gassho-zukuri, were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, along with Ainokura and Ogimachi in 1995.

Several gassho-zukuri have been converted into restaurants, minshuku and museums that depict daily life, paper washi and the gunpowder industries.

How to get from Shinakawa-go to Gokayama

If you have a car, then it will be very easy. It’s a 30min drive up north from Shirakawa-go.

There is also a local bus leaving Shirakaw-go to Gokayama villages. It takes about 1 hour.

However, if you are visiting Gokayama without a car, we rather recommend joining a tour which will make it much easier to visit both places in a day.

You can check different options here.

Best time to visit Shirakawa-go?

Shirakawa-go can be visited all year round. However, the most scenic period to visit the village is during winter when the entire place is covered with a thick layer of snow.

Every season has its particularity when visiting Shirakawa-go. Even in summer, you will be able to see the green rice fields surrounding the village! Absolutely stunning.

Is Shirakawa-go worth visiting?

Although it gets very crowded with too many tourists at time, the village of Shirakawa-go is really beautiful and worth the hype! If you stay after 5pm when most tourists leave, you will actually get the village almost all to yourself.

Hence staying overnight wouldn’t be a bad idea either!

If you prefer to totally escape the crowd, then head to Gokayama first. Ainokura and Suganuma villages are much less touristy and often completely skipped by tourists.

Enjoy your trip!

What else to see near Shirakawa-go?

If you are visiting Shirakawa-go, chances are that you have also inlcuded Takayama in your itinerary! And you did right! Takayama is another great place to visit in Japan, located only 1 hour away from Shirakawa-go.

There are many things to see in Takayama such as the historical center of SANMACHI SUJI , TAKAYAMA JINYA Residence or HIDA KOKUBUN-JI temple.

READ: 15 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN TAKAYAMA

If like us you are planing a road trip through Japan, then Kamikochi should be on your bucket list ! Kamikochi is classified as Natural Heritage of Japan .

Kamikochi is a 15 kilometer forest valley located along the Azusa River in the heart of the Japanese Alps in Nagano Prefecture. The site offers a delightful walk that can be done in one day, embellished with magnificent landscapes in spring and autumn.

The Kamikochi plateau is between 1,400 and 1,600 meters above sea level, with peaks reaching over 3,000 meters for the surrounding massifs.

The view from the valley is absolutely stunning!

From Takayama you can reach Kamikochi by bus or by car (1h).

READ: FULL GUIDE TO TRAVEL TO KAMIKOCHI

Located in the heart of the Chubu region in Gifu prefecture, between Nagoya and Takayama, Gero Onsen has developed on a transparent alkaline hot spring whose properties have been touted for nearly 1000 years.

Gero is located a little over 1000 meters above sea level. Thanks to an ancient volcano, Gero Onsen is gifted with rich water.

Today Gero Onsen is a great place to rest in the Japanese mountains. Make sure to also visit the Gero Onsen Gassho Village !

READ: DISCOVER GERO ONSEN, ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ONSEN TOWNS IN JAPAN

Related posts

• 15 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN TAKAYAMA
• EXPLORE KAMIKOCHI IN THE JAPANESE ALPS
• BEST THINGS TO SEE IN THE JAPANESE ALPS
• WHAT TO SEE IN GERO ONSEN
• GUIDE FOR A VISIT TO NARAI-JUKU
• HIKE ALONG NAKASENDO [TRAVEL GUIDE]
• GUIDE TO TSUMAGO ALONG NAKASENDO
• 15 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN HAKONE NEAR MT. FUJI
• 15 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO SEE AT LAKE KAWAGUCHI
• OBUSE, A BEAUTIFUL TOWN IN JAPAN WORTH A VISIT
• 10 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN MATSUMOTO
• FULL GUIDE FOR VISITING HAKUBA IN JAPAN

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Great article! I’ll be planning on going to Kanazawa, Shirakawago and Takayama later this year and this article helped me plan out places to see and work out transportation!

Awesome ! So glad this helps. Enjoy your trip, this part of Japan is stunning!

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Things to do in Shirakawago: A Complete Travel Guide

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Keep reading below the Shirakawago travel guide on how to plan your trip to Shirakawa-go. This includes transportation to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and things to do in Shirakawa-go .

Located in Gifu Prefecture,  Shirakawa-go (白川鄉) is a popular travel destination to visit in central Japan.  It is one of the must-go bucket lists for many travelers to Japan. Listed in UNESCO Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go is known for its Gassho-style traditional houses which feature steeply pitched roofs surrounded by lush nature. It’s like a Japanese version of a fairy tale town with its charm.

In this Shirakawago travel guide , we will introduce you to this quaint historic village with a unique architectural building. So read on!

Table of Contents

How To Get To Shirakawago

First of all, it is not so straightforward to get to Shirakawa-go. Nestled in a valley and geographically remote from other habitation, there is no direct train that can get you to Shiragawago. However, Shiragawa-go is still accessible by several types of transportation. It is advisable to make your way to its nearest town such as Takayama, Kanazawa, or Toyama. Then, transfer to a bus to Shirakawa-go.

Getting to Shirakawago by bus Bus probably is the most budget way. Nohi bus (濃飛巴士) is running between Shirakawago, Takayama, Kanazawa, and Toyama. The traveling time from Takayama and Kanazawa is about 40 minutes. While the Toyama is required 80 minutes. Reservation is required to board the Nohi bus.

Getting to Shirakawago by self-driving Probably the best option to get to Shiragawago. Renting a car to visit Shirakawago is the best way to travel at your own pace, especially for families with kids and the elderly. Parking is available with fees applied. We recommend using RentalCars.com to reserve your car as they have the best selection and prices.

Read also : Tips on how to rent car in Japan

Getting to Shirakawa-go by train Again, Shirakawago is not accessible by train. Depending on which city you’re coming from. You need to transfer to the nearest city and then ride the Nohi bus to Shirakawa-go. If you are coming from Tokyo or Osaka, consider going to the Kanazawa or Takayama via Shinkansen which is covered by Japan Rail Pass . The train ride normally takes around 2 to 3 hours.

Day Tour to Shiragawago

Shirakawa-go can be explored by public transport but if you prefer a hassle-free visit then consider taking a day tour. Klook provide day trip to Shirakawago with transportation and a professional guide. Therefore, an easy way to help you explore Shirakawago without worry on too much.

Best Time To Visit

Shirakawago is best to visit any time of year and each season has its charm. Similar to many places in Japan, Shirakawa-go is filled with sakura in full bloom during spring. In summer, the village is surrounded by green and flowery rice fields and plants growing. Moreover, it gets painted with colorful autumn leaves in the fall.

But one cannot deny, that Shirakawago is extremely beautiful during winter . The scene is like walking into a fairy tale when the Gassho house is thickly blanketed with white snow. Truly one of the most picturesque places and best scenes in Japan.

Where To Stay in Shirakawago

For a unique lodging experience, consider spending one night at Gassho-zukuri houses in Shirakawago . Most of the guest houses are run by owners. Enjoy the intimate and authentic experience of living in a traditional Japanese home. Have a taste of home-cooked meals at low tables and tatami floor with the host family. While there is only a limited guest house around the Ogimachi village, please make sure to book in advance, especially during peak season. You may check on the availability of guesthouses in Shirakawa-go at Japanese Guest Houses.

Alternatively, consider staying in accommodation nearby Shirakawa-go and walking to the village after the day-tripper leaves.

Shirakawago Guest House Kei is only 600 meters from the village. This accommodation has a dormitory room, private double, and quadruple Japanese room for your best stay in Shirakawago.

Onyado Yuinosho is a cozy ryokan that perfectly bled in traditional and modern facilities. Featuring with mountain view, guests can access to the sauna and hot spring. One of the best places to stay in Shirakawa-go.

CURIO Shirakawago is a newly open accommodation in the village. The location is superb and just a step from the Shirakawago heritage site. Good sizing room and clean. Everything is clean and perfect for a relaxing stay in Shirakawa-go.

Besides, Takayama is the best place to stay if you are planning for a day trip to Shirakawa-go. It has many unique Ryokan, hotels, and hostel in different price ranges and budgets. During my visit to Shirakawa, I was staying in Country Hotel Takayama and had a wonderful day trip to Shirakawago by Nohi bus.

What Is So Special About Shirakawa-go?

Shirakawa-go is a serene historical village that sits in a beautiful river valley. It is UNESCO’s cultural heritage with a unique architectural design that is preserved today.

The located mountainous village, Shirakawago is developed independently from Japanese society, resulting in a unique culture and lifestyle. The most well-known is their Gassho-zukuri which is made of woof without a single nail. The roof is characterized by a steep slanting thatch roof with praying hands construction style. As a result, its unique design is exceptionally strong to withstand heavy snowfall and wind.

Their community system is very strong. Everyone is helping each other during the planting and harvesting season, and taking care of the natural environment surrounding. One of the perfect examples is the thatched roofs. While the roof can last for 30 years and it needs community effort to change on it. During this time, everyone will be gathered and help with these activities. Villagers are working together to protect their Gassho-style houses and the culture.

Things to Do in Shirakawa-go

Meanwhile, many travelers are visiting Shirakawa-go when getting to Chubu Japan. Most of them are only spent on few hours inside the village. But, there are many things to do and awaiting you to slowly discover.

We will cover all the best things to do in the Shirakawago travel guide including the special event and festivals.

Visit The Gassho-zukuri House

View on village at shiroyama viewpoint.

• Cross the Deai-bashi Bridge

Wandering Around The Historical Village

Pray at shirakawa hachiman shinto shrine.

• Join the Doburoku Matsuri Festival (Fall)
• Witness the Winter Light-Up (Special Winter Event)

Eat the Local Snacks

The impressive Gassho-zukuri houses the top attraction in Shirakawago. It has been well preserved since its establishment in the early 19th century. The cultural structures are made without a single nail. There are three houses open to the public for viewing for a nominal fee. We recommended choosing at least one of the houses to visit.

Firstly, Wada House is the largest and one of the oldest among Gassho-zukuri houses in Shirakawa-go. Constructed in about 1800, Wada House is recognized as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese Government and is perfected preserved. It was the home of the Wada family who was prominent and resided in the village. This 3-story wooden building with the second floor and part of the first floor is open to the public.

Another worth visiting is Kanda House . This is where you can appreciate the ancient architecture of the house from the inside. It is also the only Gassho house that allows visitors to climb up to level 3. Added, there is also a lovely fireplace where you can enjoy freshly made hot wild grass tea. Having a cup of tea on the tatami is like bringing back to the old Japanese Edo period.

Shiroyama Viewpoint is the best place to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Shirakawa-go village. It is an excellent vantage point with an observatory deck above the village. Depending on the season, you can have a beautiful panoramic view of the village clothed in different colors. In winter, it is also the best place to view the world heritage thatch-roof house coated in snow.

While the Shiroyama Observation Deck is located high on a hill. To get there, you need to take a 15 minutes hike by foot from the main village. It is a relatively easy trek with a mild slope. Alternatively, just take the shuttle bus for ¥200 for one way. Do take note that during heavy snowfall periods, the trail to walk up may be closed.

Cross the Deai-Bashi Bridge

The mountain location is surrounded by stunning views with a beautiful landscape. There is a long river running across with suspension Deai-Bashi bridge over the river. It is a delightful and lovely walk across this Deai-Bashi bridge. When the season changes, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery behind with flowing water and fresh air.

This area is also the best place to enjoy the sakura in spring and autumn foliage. However, please make sure to be careful when taking the photo on the bridge. It can be very slippered, especially during winter with snow.

Next, another best thing things to do in Shiragawa-go is freely wandering around the village at no cost. Take your time to walk within the village paths, view the buildings, and explore the character houses.

That is to say, the center town of Shirakawa Kaido Street is the busiest street in the village. It features many souvenirs shops and local snack stalls. It can be crowded and full of visitors during noon. Take a detour and walk through the side valley to experience the simplicity of the village. Clearwater streams through the canals along the roads with possible fish inside. Shiragawa-go is a quaint village with a picturesque view.

One of the local points of interest is the Shirakawa Hachiman Shinto Shrine. It is an important and well maintain shrine in Shirakawa-go. For a long period, Shirakawa Hachiman Shinto Shrine has served the local villagers for many generations. Take some time to pray at Shirakawa Shinto Shrine and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Additionally, it is also the main venue to hold the Doburoku Festival during October every year. During this time, villagers gather here to offer prayers to the local mountain gods for a good harvest and thanks for protection.

Join the Doburoku Matsuri Festival

At Shirakawa-go, there is a yearly festival that takes place in the quaint village. During the Doburoku Matsuri Festival , villagers are gathered in the shrine to conduct sacred processions, pray for the mountain gods and thank them for their protection. There are also lion dances, a parade with songs, and dances by villagers.

Besides, one of the unique things to do during the festival is try on Shirakawa-go’s specialty product, Doburoku sake. It is a home-brewed unrefined sake with white and opaque like rice porridge. Enjoy the vibrant festivity like a local with an unlimited flow of sake with villagers.

Witness the Winter Light-Up

Like a fairy tale come to life, Gassho-zukuri houses in the Shirakawa-go are lit up at night during the winter season. The rustic village is so dreaming with illuminated lights twinkling under the heavy snow.

This exclusive Winter Light Up Event is held between January and February every year. It is very popular among visitors and even locals. Due to overwhelming, the regulations of joining the event are changes with reservations required starting from 2019. Guests are restricted to access the village without permission. Do make sure to plan early and check for information at the official website .

Not to forget to introduce on best food in this Shirakawago travel guide. There are only a few local food restaurants in the village if you are looking for what to eat in Shirakawago . Most restaurants are only serving simple local dishes with limited food selection. For example, a hot bowl of udon with seasonal vegetables or shrimp on top.

Additionally, plenty of food stalls selling a variety of local snacks along the main street. We recommended grabbing some snacks to try on. The Hida beef on a stick is the best in the Takayama region. Another worth recommendation is gohei-mochi. It is a savory sticky rice cake made from pounded rice.

To try on other local delicacies, you can have the doburoku sake ice cream, beef bun, croquettes, or red bean soup . Price is reasonable even in the famous place among visitors.

Overview: Shirakawago Travel Guide

To sum up, Shirakawa-go is the hidden gem in the protective arms of the surrounding mountains. Planning a visit to this rustic village can be easy by day trip with a few hours of visit. But there are many things to do and see in Shirakawago.

Lastly, hopefully, this Shirakawago travel guide can give you some ideas and inspire you to plan for the coming trip. Happy visit to Shirakawa.

Related Shirakawago travel blog:

• Shirakawa-go Itinerary: A Walk Into Cultural Japan Village
• Shirakawago Doburoku Matsuri Festival: An Unique Local Experience

Related Chubu itinerary and travel blog :

• Takayama Itinerary: What To Do and Eat in Takayama
• Where to Stay in Takayama: Best Hotel or Traditional Ryokan?
• Kamikochi Itinerary: One Day Hike in Japan Alps
• Suimeikan Karukaya Sanso: Best Onsen Ryokan Stay

Half Day Trip To Shinhotaka Ropeway Ride

• Kanazawa Itinerary And Travel Guide: Things To Do in Kanazawa

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Day Trip to Shirakawa-go: Visiting the Most Beautiful Village in Japan!

Today, we’re going on a day trip to Shirakawa-go, a charming village situated in the heart of the Japanese Alps, which may very well be the most beautiful village in all of Japan ! 

The Historic Villages of Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama are one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The main draw to Shirakawa-go is a type of construction characterized by its steep thatched roof said to resemble two hands clasped together in prayer. This is known as gassho-zukuri and Shirakawa-go in particular has the largest number of farmhouses in this unique building style, many of which were relocated here from surrounding villages in order to better preserve them. 

Visiting Shirakawa-go is kind of like travelling back in time and also setting foot in a magical world where everything is just so…perfect. 

This was hands down one of my favourite day trips in Japan and well worth the effort to visit, so read on if you’re in need of a little travel inspiration.

How to get to Shirakawa-go

The only way to get to Shirakawa-go is by car or by bus.

We were staying at a ryokan in nearby Takayama, so we took the Nohi Bus from Takayama Nohi Bus Terminal and it was a 50-minute ride. The bus has frequent departures – you can view their timetable here . 

There are also bus links from Nagoya, Kanazawa, Toyama, Gokayama and Shin-Takaoka. 

If you’re coming from Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka , you’ll have to travel by train to either Nagoya or Kanazawa and switch over to a bus line from there. This transportation guide does a pretty good job of explaining how to get to Shirakawa-go. It takes a little bit of effort, but trust me, it’s worth it!

Once you reach the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal you’ll find the Visitor Information Centre in the same building, so you can grab some map or brochures as needed. 

If you don’t want to worry about transportation, you can book this Bus Tour from Takayama that visits Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, or this other Bus Tour from Kanazawa that also visits Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. The great thing about this option is that you get to visit 2 historic towns!

Things to do in Shirakawa-go

There are quite a few things to do in Shirakawa-go, even if you only visit on a day trip, and because the village is quite small, it’s easy to cover a lot of ground over the course of one day.

Here’s a taste of what we got up to:

Enjoy the views from the Tenshukaku Observatory

If there’s one thing you have to do in Shirakawa-go, it’s go up to the Tenshukaku Observatory and see the village from above. This vantage point is where you get those postcard-perfect views of the town.

The Tenshukaku Observatory is located on the ruins of Ogimachi Castle, where the main keep or tenshu of the castle once stood. Ogimachi Castle was a typical medieval mountain fortress erected on the high ground to the northwest. 

From this perch, you can admire the tiny thatched roofs of the village nestled in the mountain range, surrounded by rice fields and forest as far as the eye can see.

It’s every bit as magical as what you’ve seen in brochures in guidebooks.

It’s a 20-minute walk up the viewpoint, or you can hop on a bus for  ¥ 200. The bus stop is just down the street from the main bus terminal.

We took the bus up and then walked down, and we’re glad we did because there are a few cool lookouts as you come down, so we stopped to snap photos. 

Wander down the village’s back streets

The beauty of Shirakawa-go is that you can just wander around without much of a plan and you’ll still end up stumbling upon beautiful places. 

I really enjoyed walking down the side lanes and back streets where we came across rice fields, gardens in bloom, and canals filled with coy fish.

I also couldn’t help marvelling at the natural refrigeration system in use at many of the shops. They have a waterwheel and use the cool water that comes down the mountain to refrigerate the beverages they have for sale.

Tour Wada House and Kanda House

Two of the most famous houses you can visit in Shirakawa-go are Wada House and Kanda House. 

The Wada House is the largest traditional gassho-style farmhouse in the area. It was built in the late Edo period (1603–1867) and it belonged to the Wada family, who were the largest landowners in the village of Ogimachi.

The economy of Shirakawa-go during the Edo period, including the Wada family’s activities, revolved around silk production and gunpowder ingredient trading, which were important income sources for the region. These activities are something that can be seen in the Wada House’s construction. 

For example, the lower floors were used for living, while the upper floors were dedicated to silkworm cultivation. Another interesting aspect of the house’s design is the space under the floor, which was used for the secret production of gunpowder. The business of selling gunpowder to feudal clans was a significant source of income for the family. 

Then you have the Kanda House, which was built around 1850 by the Kanda family, who were known for brewing sake. 

This house is quite large with four floors, including an attic which was originally used for silkworm farming. The ground floor, which remains in its original state, includes a living space and an irori fireplace, a traditional Japanese sunken hearth. It’s a really cool place to explore and they also serve homemade tea to visitors! 

These are two iconic gassho zukuri house in Shirakawa-go you won’t want to miss!

Visit Myozenji Temple & Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine

While walking around Shirakawa-go, we came across the Myozenji Temple.

This happens to be the biggest gassho-zukuri style building in town and it dates back to 1748. The monks’ residence, known as kuri , is a five-story construction built two hundred years ago. It was built without nails or screws but remains sturdy, with its cypress and zelkova pillars.

The temple is open to visitors and there is a small on-site museum exhibiting everyday items from the past. Admission is ¥300.

Just a few steps further, you have the Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine, an ancient shinto shrine founded between 708 and 715 making it one of the oldest shrines in the region.

Sake brewing, using fresh water from melting snow, has been long associated with this shrine. Each year the shrine produces a special type of sake that is served at the Doboroku Festival, known for its stronger and more warming qualities than regular sake.

The Doboroku Matsuri Festival Museum, located right next to the shrine, exhibits items related to the annual festival held on October 14 and 15. The festival features lion dancers and flag parades to announce the arrival of the gods, culminating in the serving of Doboroku sake at the shrine​. 

Cool down with matcha ice cream

We visited Shirakawa-go in the middle of summer, so ice cream breaks were a must! Thankfully, we didn’t have to wander too far before we spotted an ice cream shop.

If you travel to Japan in the summertime , be prepared for extreme heat and humidity. But if you can help it, I’d opt for the shoulder season.

Sam indulged in some matcha ice cream, and I went for the matcha-vanilla blend, which suited me perfectly. 

Ice creams were ¥ 350 each. 

Walk across the suspension bridge

The Deai Bridge crosses the Sho River and is considered the gateway into Shirakawa-go. 

Since vehicles aren’t allowed in the village, tour operators drop off day visitors on the other side of the river and then people make their way into town on foot.

This bridge is a very scenic spot in town where you can enjoy a beautiful panorama of the mountains, the pebbly shores, and lots of greenery.  

Enjoy some cold noodles for lunch

Then it was time for lunch!

We ate at Syokudo and Teishoku Restaurant , which is both a souvenir shop and a small restaurant.

It’s in the small complex just before you reach the entrance to the farmhouse museum.

I got the cold soba noodles with dried seaweed and a mixed tempura platter featuring pumpkin, tofu, eggplant, green pepper, and carrot. The lunch set also came with wasabi, chives, soy sauce, and a cup of green tea.

It’s the perfect type of Japanese cuisine for the hot summer! 

Sam ordered the other lunch set on the menu, which came with cold udon noodles (his had ice cubes!), and a tempura platter just like mine.

We both really enjoyed the meal and it was the perfect place to rest and cool down a bit before continuing our sightseeing around Shirakawa-go.

Tour the Gassho-zukuri village

As I mentioned earlier, many of the farmhouses you see in Shirakawa-go were relocated here in order to better preserve them, and that is the case with many of the structures found in Gassho-zukuri Minkaen .

This open air museum has a total of 26 buildings to visit and each one is unique. When you pay the admission fee to the open air museum, you also get this map with the layout of the place, which highlights each building’s original use. 

It was nice being able to explore the interior of these farmhouses, but prepare to climb lots of ladders!

Admission to the open air museum is ¥ 600.

That pretty much sums up our day trip to Shirakawa-go. Pretty magical, right? Here’s a video of our visit if you want to get a closer look at the place.

Will a day trip to Shirakawa-go be enough time?

If you’ve read this far then you have a pretty good idea of how much we managed to do on our day trip to Shirakawa-go, and we were only there for about 5 hours!

As I’ve mentioned earlier, the town is quite small and it’s very easy to cover on foot. We felt like we had quite a leisurely day visiting the places that interested us most, and we didn’t feel rushed to cover it all.

If you want to spend a full day in town, you can always catch an earlier bus in the morning and leave a bit later in the evening.

Alternatively, you also have the option of staying overnight – more info on that below.

Staying overnight in Shirakawa-go

The charm of an overnight visit to Shirakawa-go is that you can stay in the farmhouses. These stays are known as minshuku and they are family-operated, Japanese-style bed and breakfasts, which typically include a home-cooked dinner and breakfast.

The website Japanese Guest Houses has a list of farmhouses in Shirakawa-go for visitors to choose from.

The thing to keep in mind is that because the farmhouse stays are so popular and in high demand, they only allow a 1-night stay. That means that if you decided to stay for a second night, you’ll need to stay in a different farmhouse.

A few other things to note:

• Check-in is before 5:00 pm as the host family will prepare dinner for guests.
• Payment is cash only and in Japanese Yen.
• Large suitcases are not allowed since space is limited and there are ladders involved.

If Shirakawa-go is fully booked for overnight stays during your visit to Japan, another destination to consider is Ainokura . This is another village with traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, though a bit smaller in size, and it’s located high in the mountains of western Toyama Prefecture.

So now you have options! And whether you come for the day or spend the night, Shirakawa-go should really be added to your Japan itinerary .

Read more about Japan:

• Travel Guide to Takayama, Japan
• Staying at a Ryokan in Takayama
• Top Things to Do in Hakodate, Japan
• Visiting Yuzawa Onsen Town in Niigata Prefecture
• Best Things to do in Nikko
• Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary

This sounds like an awesome trip – so much to do and see!

I always admire the countryside of Japan, a simple life with a beautiful and relaxing views.

This looks like a place out if a story book. Especially loved the look of that match vanilla ice cream. Thanks so much for the guide as well as the great photography. The countryside looks absolutely picturesque.

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15 Things to Do in Shirakawa-go & Where To Stay

The villages making-up Shirakawa-go and Gokyama rank among some of the most popular destinations in Central Japan, which despite their relatively remote locations, are easy to get to from nearby Takayama, Toyama or Kanazawa. On this page you will find the following information:

— Where is Shirakawa-go?

— What to Expect & Why You Should Visit

— Best Things to Do & See in Shirakawa-go

— Best Tours and Itineraries in Takayama & Shirakawa-go

— Where to Stay When Visiting Shirakawa-go?

— How to Get to Shirakawa-go

— Book With Us! Nagano’s No.1 Tour & Charter Operator

When visiting Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, it’s important to note that three villages are included under that grouping. Ogimachi is the largest of the three and is often referred to simply as ‘Shirakawa-go’ in its own right. It has the most to see, attracts the most visitors and is the easiest to get to however depending on what you’re after, heading to the smaller villages of Suganuma or Ainokura – together referred to as ‘Gokayama’ – might be better-suited – see below for details . If you do decide on Ogimachi, you won’t regret it. Allow at least 2 hours and preferably 3 to 4 hours to explore the village. Time enough to wander at a leisurely pace, have a meal and take plenty of photographs and consider combining your visit with other destinations including Takayama, Kamikochi, Toyama or Kanazawa – see below for details .

Based in Nagano and operating all year round, we are the region’s No.1 tour and charter operator . We can arrange transport and tours to any destinations in the region, and as a registered travel agent, we can package transport, accommodation and more together so you save and get the most out of your time in Central Japan – scroll to the bottom for details.

WHERE IS SHIRAKAWA-GO?

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama – often referred to just as ‘Shirakawa-go’ – is the collective name of a grouping of villages afforded World Heritage status in 1995. There villages – Ogimachi, Suganuma and Ainokura – make-up the grouping with Ogimachi being the largest and main village. Located high in the North Alps, Ogimachi lies 75KM / 70-minutes drive to the south-east of Kanazawa, 85KM / 80-minutes drive to the south-west of Toyama, and 50KM / 50-minutes drive to west of Takayama. As such, most visitors heading to Shirakawa-go do so from Kanazawa Station , Toyama Station or Takayama Station where bus services run to the villages. Lying close to the historic old town of Takayama, many visitors combine their visit to the two famous destinations with the option of also heading further into Central Japan and onto Kamikochi , Matsumoto and Nagano . Of course, the journey is just to make in the opposite direction as you navigate your way through the mountainous heart of Japan.

WHAT TO EXPECT & WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

As mentioned above, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama is a World Heritage-listed grouping of three villages – Ogimachi, Suganuma and Ainokura – best-known for their distinctive ‘gassho-zukuri’ farmhouses. Designed to withstand deep snow, the high-pitch of the thatch roofs also provided a large living and working space within each building, allowing families to be self-sufficient through winter. Though the design is a functional one, the farmhouses are also beautiful and set high in the North Alps, combine to offer visitors some of Japan’s most spectacular alpine villages and vistas.

Given the World Heritage status of the villages, thousands of visitors descend upon them each day. Most head to Ogimachi leaving the smaller villages of Suganuma and Ainokura quiet and free of crowds. The villages can be visited at any time of year with each season offering its own reason to visit. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time as the landscape is transformed into a mosaic colour and the first dusting of snow falls on the mountains above. Admission to the villages is free however if you are driving yourself you will have to pay for parking – typically between JPY500 to JPY1,000. Ogimachi is the busiest of the villages with large tours descending upon it each day. While the crowds are something to be aware of, it shouldn’t put you off as most visitors stay around the central area and main street. Walking even 5-minutes away from that area should have you strolling past farmhouses with few people around. If you really want to avoid the crowds, consider heading to Suganuma or the larger village of Ainokura.

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN SHIRAKAWA-GO

For many if not most Japanese, the word ‘satoyama’ conjures imagery of idyllic rural villages and a slower, healthier way of life in which people live in harmony with their environment. Literally translating as ‘mountain village’, satoyama has no better demonstration than in the villages making-up Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. Awarded World Heritage status for just that reason – as examples of human ingenuity and the ability of man to live in harmony with our environment – the villages are hugely popular destinations that can be enjoyed as day-trips from Takayama, Toyama or Kanazawa or overnight visits by staying in one of the farmhouses. This is a destination where you take your time, wander with camera in hand and breathe-in a very different side of Japan – one that is a world away from the hassle and hum of its great cities. Here’s some of things on offer once there:

1 / EXPLORE OGIMACHI (SHIRAKAWA-GO) / all year round

By far the largest of the three villages, Ogimachi is spread over a considerable area with many farmhouses and extensive rice fields. Ogimachi sits around 2,200 meters above sea level in a beautiful alpine valley with mountains rising further above. The village and many of its farmhouses remain homes to local families, meaning that despite its popularity, Ogimachi retains much of its authentic character through continued activity of daily life.

In addition to those homes, many farmhouses are used as restaurants, cafes, shops, museums and guesthouses with a couple of notable shrines and temples. Staying overnight is a tremendous way to enjoy the beautiful setting without the hassle of the crowds in the evening and morning. Easy to get to using the buses from Takayama, Toyama or Kanazawa, allow at least a couple of hours to explore the village with many visitors spending half a day in the area. Admission to the village is free. If driving, expect to pay around JPY1,000 for parking.

Unveil the charm of Ogimachi on our ‘1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go.’ Wander through this enchanting village set amidst alpine beauty, where traditional farmhouses and daily life blend seamlessly.

2 / ‘GASSHO-ZUKURI’ FARMHOUSES / all year round

The big attraction in Ogimachi – along with with villages of Suganuma and Ainokura – is of course the ‘gassho-zukuri’ farmhouses. Beautiful in their design, the high-pitched thatch-roofed farmhouses were built to resist heavy snowfall and act as self-contained homes and workshops, for residents to see out the long, testing winter. This ingenuity and the excellent state of preservation of most of the farmhouses is what earned World Heritage-listing for the villages and today, draws thousands of visitors every day.

The term ‘gassho-zukuri’ refers to two hands held together in prayer; an act that many people say the design of the roofs reminds them off. The farmhouses can be enjoyed by simply wandering through the villages with many operating as museums, craft shops, restaurants, cafes and guesthouses. It is important to note that many continue their function as private homes with attached farms, so don’t enter them without first checking that you are invited to do so. Please be respectful when moving around the village and do not enter private homes or properties .

A couple of specific farmhouses are worth visiting. The Wada House – pictured above – is the largest in the village and designated an ‘Important Cultural Property’. During the Edo Period (1603-1868) the Wada family served as the head of village and traded silk and gun powder. While the farmhouse remains a family residence to this day, the second and third floors are open to the public from 09:00 to 17:00 daily. Admission costs JPY300 for adults and JPY150 for children.

The entire Kanda House – pictured above – is open to the public. Visitors can inspect all areas of the farmhouse, from its first to fourth floor, and get a sense of the ingenuity of design that went into building the beautiful buildings. Open daily from 09:00 to 17:00, admission is JPY300 for adults and JPY150 for children.

Nagase House – pictured above – is the tallest ‘gassho-zukuri’ farmhouse in Ogimachi. Open daily from 09:00 to 17:00, visitors can inspect all five floors of this especially beautiful farmhouse. Admission costs JPY300 for adults and JPY150 for children.

Explore the iconic ‘gassho-zukuri’ farmhouses, each a symbol of resilience and ingenuity. Visit the Wada, Kanda, and Nagase Houses to step back in time. All with our [FROM TAKAYAMA/KANAZAWA] Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour.

Private Tour

3 / SHIRAKAWA-GO KAIDO / all year round

The main street of Ogimachi is known as ‘Shirakawa Kaido’. It runs directly through the village therefore you can’t miss it. Along the street, you will find farmhouses, restaurants, shop and stalls including those selling Hida-gyu (beef) skewers and other local snacks including ‘gohei mochi’. Shirakawa-no-Yu hot spring – open daily / Adults JPY700 & Children JPY300 – is located at the end of the street and makes for a relaxing stop after exploring the village. This is the busiest area of Ogimachi. Walking even a few minutes away from the main street should have you into areas with far fewer visitors.

4 / MYOZEN-JI TEMPLE & MUSEUM / all year round

Myozen-ji is the largest temple in the village. The main hall, kitchen and clock tower are constructed using the distinctive ‘gassho-zukuri’ design, making them particularly photogenic. Designated an ‘Important Cultural Property’, the temple is home to largest building in the village. The ‘kuri’ or ‘monk’s residence’ houses a museum profiling the temple’s history and local worship. Open from 08:30 to 17:00 between April and November, and 09:00 to 16:00 between December and March admission is JPY300 for adults and JPY100 for children.

5 / SHIRAKAWA HACHIMAN SHRINE / all year round

Said to have been founded between 708 to 715, Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the local deity and plays host to the ‘Doburoku’ Festival on October 14 th and 15 th every year. The shrine has long played an important role in the life of the village and located a short walk from the main street, you will typically find few visitors in this area allowing you to relax and take some nice photographs. While at the shrine, look-out for an aged cedar tree. Around 200 to 300 years in age, it is considered a natural treasure by local residents.

6 / ENJOY THE LOCAL FOOD / all year round

Let’s talk food! Wandering the village is well-suited to grabbing a snack and eating while you explore. While it’s true that Japanese frown upon walking and eating at the same time, you will find lots of snack stalls on the main street, where you can buy some tasty treats and eat them there before moving-on. The area is known for its local Hida beef, which can be enjoyed as skewers or as a ‘croquette’ (crumbed and fried beef and mashed potato). Many restaurants will also have Hida beef on their menus.

‘Gohei mochi’ is another popular regional cuisine food. Made from pounded rice is coated with a salty-sweet sauce and then grilled on a skewer. The sauce is typically made from ‘miso’ (fermented soy beans), soy sauce and walnuts. Simple but very satisfying, it’s a great snack to enjoy while exploring the village.

7 / BUY LOCAL CRAFT / all year round

Throughout the three villages making-up the Shirakawa-go and Gokayama grouping, you will find a range of stores selling local craft and other goods. Silk production was a traditional industry in the villages therefore you will find many silk products along with ‘sarubobo’ dolls (pictured above), bamboo craft and other rustic goods. The stores are typically found within farmhouses and easy to spot.

8 / OGIMACHI CASTLE OBSERVATION POINT / all year round

Sitting above Ogimachi village, the Ogimachi Castle Observation Point is located on the former site of Ogimachi Castle – p. From the lookout point you can enjoy a view over the village with the mountains behind. It is around 20-minutes walk from the centre of the village or a 10-minute ride of the shuttle bus circulating through the village.

9 / STAY IN THE VILLAGE OVERNIGHT / all year round

Best Places to Stay In & Around Shirakawa-go

The villages making-up Shirakawa-go and Gokyama rank among some of the most…

Several of the farmhouses in the village provide accommodation – a great way to enjoy the village in the evening and early morning, without the crowds. As typical ‘minshuku’ (traditional lodgings), the guesthouses are family-run and offer Japanese comforts such as on-floor ‘futon’ bedding and shared bathrooms. There are no restaurants open in the village at night therefore all accommodation comes with both dinner and breakfast service. Serving a traditional Japanese menu, the experience is very popular meaning that guesthouses usually book-out well in advance and prices can be high. For accommodation listings and other nearby options, see our ‘Best Places to Stay In & Around Shirakawa-go’ page .

10 / EXPLORE SUGANUMA (GOKAYAMA) / all year round

Suganuma is the second of three villages listed under the Shirakawa-go and Gokayama group and is notably smaller than Ogimachi and for that reason, much quieter. It is typically overlooked by large tour groups and a great option should you want to avoid the crowds. Suganuma has only nine ‘gassho-zukuri’ farmhouses with a couple converted to restaurants, museums and guesthouses. There isn’t enough to keep you entertained for more than an hour or two however the village allows for great photography given the absence for crowds. The connected area of ‘Gassho-no-Sato’ is comprised of several relocated houses but they are not open to the public. Admission to the village is free. If driving, expect to pay around JPY500 for parking.

11 / EXPLORE AINOKURA (GOKAYAMA) / all year round

The most remote of the three villages included under the World Heritage listing, Ainokura is home to around twenty farmhouses. Most continue to function as private residences with some converted to restaurants, museums and guesthouses. Much smaller than Ogimachi but notably larger than Suganuma, Ainokura’s remote location means that it is usually quiet and a great option for visitors looking to avoid the crowds but wanting a little more to wander through and explore than is on offer at Suganuma. Photographers will enjoy the absence of other visitors and daily activity of a working rural village. There is plenty to shoot here so take your time and enjoy a couple of hours in the least visited of the three villages. Admission to the village is free. If driving, expect to pay around JPY500 for parking.

12 / VISIT TAKAYAMA / all year round

Most visitors heading to Shirakawa-go and Gokayama usually visit only one village – most typically Ogimachi – before heading-on. Unless you are staying overnight, spending between 3 to 4 hours in the village is a good amount of time of take it all in and enjoy a meal at a leisurely pace meaning that a visit to Shirakawa-go can be combined with another activity. Located less than an hour away, many visitors combine their visit to Shirakawa-go with time in Takayama. Home of one of Japan’s best preserved Edo Period old towns , the historic streets of Takayama are full of museums, galleries, craft stores, restaurants, breweries and more. The excellent preservation of the streetscape allows for fantastic photography while a thriving food scene including the region’s renowned Hida beef and Takayama ramen which draw visitors from all over Japan. Frequent buses run from Takayama to Shirakawa-go, making the journey quick and easy. For suggestions of what to do when there, see our ’25 Things To Do Around Takayama & Where To Stay’ page .

13 / VISIT KAMIKOCHI / April to November

Lying around an hour to the east of Takayama, the alpine valley of Kamikochi is one of Central Japan’s most rewarding experiences. Situated in the Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is a pristine and beautiful alpine valley open to the public from mid-April until mid-November each year. The valley follows the Azusa River while some of Japan’s tallest mountain peaks rise to over 3000 meters above. From the Kamikochi Bus Terminal, walking trails span-out along the valley – suitable to anyone of reasonable fitness – before more advanced hiking and mountaineering trails lead into the mountains. Considered the jewel of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, visiting Kamikochi is one of Central Japan’s most memorable experiences – a truly special place of natural and spiritual importance. For suggestions of what’s on offer there, see our ’15 Things To Do In Kamikochi & Where To Stay’ page .

14 / VISIT TOYAMA / all year round

Sitting to the north of Shirakawa-go and connected by direct bus services, the coastal city of Toyama is located nearby Toyama Bay – a region known throughout Japan for its fantastic seafood. One of the great pleasures of visiting the city is indulging in that seafood, best experienced at the seafood markets on the coast or at one of the many seafood restaurants dotted throughout the city. Toyama is a modern and youthful city worth exploring for a day before moving-on on your journey around Japan. For suggestions of what to do while there, see our ’25 Things To Do Around Toyama & Where To Stay’ page .

25 Things to Do Around Toyama & Where to Stay

The port city of Toyama somewhat lives in the shadow of nearby Kanazawa and…

15 / VISIT KANAZAWA / all year round

As the northern terminus on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line and Limited Express Thunderbird service, Kanazawa is a popular stop enroute from Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka (or the reverse itinerary). Buses run direct from Kanazawa Station to and from Ogimachi making it a convenient location from where to visit Shirakawa-go. One of the most historic and enjoyable cities in Japan, Kanazawa is well-suited to a multi-day visit combining the many attractions of the city with nearby regional highlights. From its historic attractions and districts to its excellent galleries, museums, shopping and dining, visitors tend to fall in love with Kanazawa and wish they’d allowed more time in their schedule to explore all it has to offer. For suggestions of some of the best things on offer there, see our ’25 Things To Do Around Kanazawa & Where To Stay’ page .

30 Things to Do Around Kanazawa & Where to Stay

As the terminus of the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line from Tokyo and Thunderbird …

BEST TOURS AND ITINERARIES IN TAKAYAMA & SHIRAKAWA-GO

Explore the best of what Takayama and Shirakawa-go have to offer with our best tours and itineraries , meticulously designed to showcase the regions’ cultural richness and natural beauty. Delve into the heart of Takayama’s historic charm, wandering through its well-preserved, Edo-period streets, or experience the idyllic tranquility of Shirakawa-go, a village famed for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Our expertly curated experiences provide insightful guided tours, exclusive activities, and a deep dive into the local cuisine, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of these iconic destinations. Whether your passion lies in history, nature, or culture, our wide array of itineraries caters to every interest, offering a personalized journey into the essence of these enchanting locales. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our top-rated tours and itineraries, and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty and enduring traditions of Takayama and Shirakawa-go. To discover the full range of unique adventures we offer, visit our Best Tours and Itineraries in Takayama and Shirakawa-go page.

Best Tours and Itineraries in Takayama & Shirakawa-go

Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Takayama provides a serene ret…

WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING SHIRAKAWA-GO?

Across the three villages making-up Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, multiple farmhouses have been converted to serve as accommodation. Operated by local families, staying in one of the farmhouses offers the chance to enjoy a traditional ‘minshuku’ lodging including dinner and breakfast service. Always popular, guesthouses often book-out well in advance and prices can be high. This style of accommodation won’t be suited to everyone given it is likely to require you to sleep an on-floor ‘futon’ and use shared bathroom facilities with other guesthouses. As such, staying in nearby Takayama offers a larger range of accommodation – including both traditional and Western-style hotels and guesthouses – along with lots of great dining options, while Toyama and Kanazawa are also within easy reach, allowing you to enjoy Shirakawa-go as a day-trip. Our ‘Best Places to Stay In & Around Shirakawa-go’ pag e provides information about the most convenient areas to stay, what to expect and links to accommodation listings.

HOW TO GET TO SHIRAKAWA-GO

Shirakawa-go can be reached using bus services from Takayama, Toyama and Kanazawa or for visitors wanting to drive themselves, is also easy to reach using the expressway. For information on how to get there from those starting points and beyond, see our ‘How to Get to Shirakawa-go’ page .

How to Get to Shirakawa-go

Most visitors to the villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama will use public …

BOOK WITH US! NAGANO’S NO.1 TOUR & CHARTER OPERATOR

Central Japan offers many, many reasons to visit. Operating all year round, we are Nagano’s No.1 tour and charter operator , offering a range of services including group tours, private tours and charters. We can arrange transport including a private vehicle and driver to transport you to, from and between any destinations in the region.

Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified , allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are fitted with a protective screen – separating the driver from passenger and luggage area – and our drivers wear protective masks , allowing you to move between your destinations in comfort and safety.

We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!

Why choose us?

Awarded a 2022 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for our 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour – recognised as one of the Top 10 Experiences in Japan – we have the local knowledge and experience to help you get the most out of your time in Nagano.

Got a question about visiting Shirakawa-go and Central Japan? Click the INQUIRY button below or contact us and let’s get planning together!

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1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go

1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village

1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida's Hidden Gems - Caves, Bears, and the Shinhotaka Ropeway

(Seasonal) 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Alpine Splendor - Shinhotaka Ropeway and Kamikochi

1-Day Tour in Takayama: Immerse in Takayama's Rich History and Temples

1-Day Tour from Takayama: Delve into Hida-Furukawa's Cultural Treasures

1-Day Tour from Takayama: Gujo Hachiman -History, Traditions and Crafts

1-Day Tour from Takayama: Unveiling the Charm of Gero Onsen

1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Takaoka's Temples, Metalworking Experience and Stunning Toyama Bay Views

[START FROM TAKAYAMA] Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour

[START FROM NAGOYA] Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour

[START FROM KANAZAWA] Private Shirakawa-go & Takayama Tour

Takayama Historic Old Town

Shirakawa-go & Gokayama

Shinhotaka Ropeway

Takayama Morning Markets

Takayama Jinya

Matsuri no Mori (Festival Forest) Museum

Hida no Sato (Hida Folk Village)

Okuhida Onsen

Hirayu Onsen

Hida-Furukawa

Gujo Hachiman

Takayama City Area

Okuhida Onsen Area

Hirayu Onsen Area

Shirakawa-go & Gokayama Area

Gujo Hachiman Area

Gero Onsen Area

Takayama Festival

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#SNOWMONKEYRESORTSLOCAL: What is Japan’s ‘Go To Travel’ Campaign?

Explore Central Japan – Using the Tokaido Shinkansen to Reach Nagoya & Beyond!

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9 Places to Visit in Shirakawa-go and Gifu + Things To Do

1. Shiroyama Viewpoint (Tenshukaku Observatory)

Location : 889 Ogimachi | In front of Tenshukaku Restaurant, Shirakawa, Ono District, Gifu, Japan . Save on Google Maps .

A must-visit when in Shirakawa-go! This viewpoint offers a great view overlooking the famous houses, which are built in a unique architectural style known as gassho, surrounding farmland and mountains. The best time to visit is during winter when the triangular thatch-roof houses are covered in snow and in the summertime when vibrant green vegetation covers the fields.

To get to Shiroyama Viewpoint, walk a bit (100m from the “Shirakawa Bus Terminal” to the “Observatory Sightseeing Shuttle Bus Stop.” Shuttles leave every 20 minutes. One-way fare is JPY 200. Tenshukaku Restaurant, which serves traditional gassho style food, is located on top of the hill. If you want to take your time on your way back, consider walking & enjoy the view. It’s downhill so it’s less tiring.

Shirakawago, Ainokura & Gokayama Day Tour from Takayama

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Takayama and Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Nagoya

Shirakawa-go Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Shirakawa-go (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates | Best Reviews  | Home Rentals/Airbnb

Shirakawa-go Tours & Discounts

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See also :   Best Places to Visit in Japan  |  Best Places to Visit in Tokyo | Japan Itinerary .

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my  Instagram feed . Use Instagram’s save feature for quick access to your travel/feed goals.

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2. Shirakawa-go Walking Tour

Shirakawa-go is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are outstanding examples of a traditional way of life perfectly adapted to the environment and people’s social and economic circumstances. The best way to see the gassho-style houses is on a walking tour. Many of the houses are open to the public, so you can have a look inside and learn about the traditional way of life. The main spots include the Wada-ke House ( the largest gassho-zukuri farmhouse in town), Kanda-ke House, Nagase-ke House and Myozenji Temple.

3. Gassho Zukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum

Location : 2499 Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ono District, Gifu, Japan . Save on Google Maps .

Located across the river from Ogimachi village center, this open-air museum is filled with gassho-zukuri farmhouses that have been relocated from the surrounding villages in an effort to save them from destruction. The Gassho Zukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum is set in a peaceful scenic area, perfect for photo-ops. Other structures include a watermill, a shrine, and a temple’s main hall preserved in their original state.

4. Deai Bridge

Location : Ogimachi, Shirakawa . Save on Google Maps .

Passed by this pedestrian suspension bridge on my way between the Gassho Zukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum and the Ogimachi village center. The Deai Bridge is a picturesque vantage point of the Sho River and surrounding mountains.

5. Eat Traditional Shirakawa-go Food

Eating local food is one of the best ways to get a better appreciation of the traditional way of life in Shirakawa-go. During my trip, I enjoyed a nice lunch at Tenshukaku Restaurant (located at Shiroyama Viewpoint) since it was included in the tour packaged that I booked. You can also find a number of restaurants in the main village. The must-tries include home-made soba (buckwheat) noodles, river fish, tofu, fresh vegetables & Hide beef.

6. Try Soba Ice Cream

Buckwheat or Soba is popularly grown in the mountainous areas of Japan. In Shirakawago, you can enjoy not only home-made soba noodles but also soba ice-cream. I had my taste of soba soft-serve at the Gassho Zukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum. It’s perfect while having a break from walking around the village.

7. Ainokura Village

Location : Ainokura, Nanto, Toyama 939-1915, Japan . Save on Google Maps .

Ainokura is one of the three villages with gassho-style farmhouses designated as UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the most remote, so it gets fewer tourists compared to Ogimachi in Shirakawa-go. Ainokura was the first stop of the tour package that I booked. As soon as the bus stopped at the village, I hopped off and followed the 10-minute trail uphill to the Ainokura Observatory, which offered a nice overlook of the area.

8. Gokayama Village

9. Takayama

Takayama was my base when I went to Shirakawa-go village in Gifu prefecture. This town is famed for its well-preserved wooden merchants’ houses dating to the Edo Period and a place to taste delicious Hida Beef. Takayama is also the gateway to the hiking paradise of the Japan Alps.

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Shirakawa-go that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go tourist spots, things to do in Shirakawa-go, where to go in Shirakawa-go & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Takayama

Click below & search recommended Takayama hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

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Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Where to Stay in Shirakawa-go

Click below & search recommended Shirakawa-go hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Shirakawa-go Essentials & Top Discounts

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Home » Travel » Destinations » Shirakawa-go Day Trip Itinerary: A Scenic Guide

Shirakawa-go Day Trip Itinerary: A Scenic Guide

After numerous trips across the Land of the Rising Sun, I can safely say that this Shirakawa-go day trip itinerary was the best travel experience I’ve had in Japan. From the scenic bus ride through the mountains to the steaming bowl of miso ramen that chased the chill from our bones, every moment of our Shirakawa-go journey was pure magic.

I hope this guide makes it easy for you plan your own enchanting escape!

Why is Shirakawa-go worth visiting?

Shirakawa-go is a 1,000-year-old village nestled in a moutain valley of Gifu Prefecture. Thanks to its remote location, the area remained relatively undisturbed during Japan’s long and occasionally destructive history, leaving its beautiful and unique Gassho-style farmhouses preserved to this day.

Along with its neighbor, Gokayama, it was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1995.

While the thatched-roof A-frame buildings are the stars of the show, it’s the stunning landscape as a whole that makes Shirakawa-go worth visiting. Between the towering pine trees, rice paddies, undulating streams, and snowy mountain backdrop, there are few places in the world that rival the village’s “stuck out of time” appearance.

The tricky thing about visiting Shirakawa-go is that there are no nearby train stations. Instead, visitors need to travel by highway bus or drive themselves, which means advanced planning and a bit of courage are required to get here. But I promise–the extra steps are absolutely worth it.

If you want to travel Japan off the beaten path , this is the destination for you!

When is the best time to take a Shirakawa-go day trip?

The village looks lovely in every season, but I’d argue that winter is the best time to visit Shirakawa-go. Receiving over 30 feet of snow annually, it’s the ideal spot to go walking in a winter wonderland.

That being said, plan your Shirakawa-go day trip for early December or late February/very early March to boost your chances of seeing snow AND not getting delayed (or cancelled) due to inclement weather.

We visited the first week of March, and as luck would have it, there was a pristine blanket of snow covering the entire village when we arrived. It was mesmerizing to watch the steam rise from the thatched roofs and see sparkling flakes drift down from the trees whenever a slight breeze blew.

If a winter trip isn’t in the cards, my second choice would be early summer when the rice paddies turn vibrant green and puffy hydrangeas burst into bloom. Thanks to its valley location, it’s the perfect spot to escape the heat that plagues places like Tokyo and Osaka that time of year.

Despite its off-the-beaten-track location, Shirakawa-go village is one of the most famous things in Japan and sees an influx of visitors in late summer and early autumn. Keep that in mind if your goal is to avoid the crowds.

How much time do you need in Shirakawa-go?

You can thoroughly explore the sights of Shirakawa-go in around 5 hours thanks to its compact size. A day trip to Shirakawa-go is enough time to walk the main village, enter multiple Gassho house museums, and get away from the crowds on some of the side roads and overlook spots.

We spent close to 6 hours here because of the out-of-the-way (and totally worth it) trek to the village outskirts for a bowl of ramen. It was one of the best bowls of ramen I’ve had in my life, but you can cut that bit from the Shirakawa-go itinerary below to save time.

Regardless of where you’re traveling from, I highly recommend taking the first bus available . The village fills up with tourists as the day goes on, and it can quickly lose its charm if you’re stuck behind the crowds piling out of tour buses near midday.

Getting to Shirakawa-go from Kanazawa

Taking a day trip to Shirakawa-go from Kanazawa is easy thanks to the express bus, which takes about 1 hour 25 minutes minutes each way.

Nohi Bus operates about 9 buses between Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go. You must have an advanced reservation to ride the bus , and I highly encourage you consult the timetable and make your reservation online .

Tickets can be booked up to a month in advance, and if you’re traveling on the weekend or during the busy season, I would buy your tickets as early as possible. When we visited on a Friday in early March, and the attendant said every bus returning to Kanazawa that afternoon and evening was fully booked!

Once you’ve paid the fare, you’ll receive a confirmation email that includes a reservation number and your seat assignments. Make sure you save a copy of this either as a screenshot, PDF, or even print it out, as you cannot board without it.

Kanazawa Bus Terminal is located just outside the station, and all of the stops are signposted in both English and Japanese. The bus for Shirakawago departs from the Number 4 bus stop.

If you’re worried you’re in the wrong place, there will also be a digital display on the side of bus that says “This bus is for Shirakawago”, and it will be announced in Japanese. It’s hard to miss!

If for some reason you’re bringing luggage on your Shirakawa-go day trip, there is room to store it below the bus. However, there is very limited luggage storage once you’re in Shirakawa-go, so avoid it if possible.

Be ready to show your email confirmation to the attendant before boarding, and then head to your reserved seat to enjoy the scenic ride.

Getting to Shirakawa-go from Takayama

Nohi Bus also operates the bus route between Shirakawa-go and Takayama Bus Terminal, which takes about 50 minutes each way.

Because of the short journey time and additional buses that run this section of the route–some of which don’t require an advanced reservation–it’s slightly easier to take a day trip from Takayama to Shirakawa-go vs. the other popular jumping-off points. That being said, it’s the most traveled route to the UNESCO site, so reservations are strongly encouraged!

Check the timetables and fares and make your seat reservations on their official site . Remember to save a copy of your emailed confirmation to your phone or print it out prior to the journey.

The Takayama Bus Terminal is just outside the train station. The signs for each bus stop are labeled in Japanese and English, so look for the sign that says “Shirakawago” (it should be Number 4 but it may change in the future).

Pro tip: If you’re based in/near Takayama, I highly recommend a day trip to Kamikochi for some gorgeous and accessible hiking in the Japanese Alps.

Getting to Shirakawa-go from Nagoya

There are a few different operators that run buses between Nagoya and Shirakawa-go. However, you can use the Gifu Bus website to view all of the timetimes and fares and make the mandatory reservations.

Of the three popular Shirakawago day trip routes, Nagoya has the fewest buses and the longest journey time. It takes around 3 hours each way, and you’re more likely to encounter delays and detours during the snowy season.

Buses depart from Meitetsu Bus Center, which is just outside Nagoya Station.

Can I drive to Shirakawa-go?

Yes, you can drive to Shirakawa-go and park at the Seseragi Park Parking Area . It’s conveniently located next to the Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Minkaen (open air museum).

The fee is 1000 yen for cars (I believe card and cash are both accepted but bring cash just in case). There’s also a tourist information center adjacent to the parking area where you can use the toilet and get English travel info and pamphlets.

What to know before your Shirakawa-go day trip

Before you set off for this remote village, read over these tips to maximize your Shirakawa-go day trip itinerary.

• Total Itinerary Cost: 2000 yen (excluding food and transit).
• Business hours for all the spots on this itinerary are 9am to 4pm or 5pm, which works perfectly if you’re taking public transit.
• Bring pleny of cash with you, as most places don’t take card payment.
• While I always recommend learning a bit of Japanese, nearly every place you’ll visit in Shirakawa-go has English signage, pamphlets, menus, and/or an English-speaking staff member. However, there are a couple smaller (and optional) spots on this itinerary where you’ll need to read or speak some basic Japanese.
• If you’re visiting in winter, bring a pair of boots or waterproof shoes to trek through snowy pathways.
• You’ll need to remove your shoes when entering the Gassho houses, so wear good socks or bring a pair to change into.
• Mountain weather is unpredictable and temperatures change a lot during the course of the day, so bring a rain jacket/umbrella and dress in layers.
• There’s a small building behind the bus information center where you can pay to store luggage. Space is limited and there is a list of loose items they will not accept (ex. bottles of liquid), so it’s best to keep your luggage in a coin locker at the station you’re traveling from or at your hotel or have it forwarded to your next accommodation.
• When leaving Shirakawa-go, you need to go through the bus information center building to line up for departure. There are signs above each exit for different stations/cities. A staff member will point out when it’s time to leave and where to line up your luggage to be loaded.

RELATED: Comprehensive Japan Travel Checklist for First-Time Visitors

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Shirakawa-go Day Trip Itinerary

Note that this itinerary is optimized for travelers arriving by bus. If you’re self-driving to Shirakawago, you could follow this guide in reverse as the last destination is adjacent to the car park. Or, you could follow it as written and conclude your Shirakawa-go day trip with a super short walk back to your vehicle.

Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck

You’ll begin your day of Shirakawa-go sightseeing with a truly spectacular view over the village–and a chance to stretch your legs after the long journey.

Built on top of the former site of Ogimachi Castle, this observation area is a great place to take panoramic pictures of Shirakawa-go against the mountain backdrop. It’s completely free to access and very spacious, so no need to jostle with other visitors to get the best vantage point.

Getting here is easy if you can manage a mild 15-20 minute hike up the well-beaten path. Simply head south from the bus terminal until you reach the fork in the road, where there will be a wooden signpost with directions to turn left to reach the start of the pathway towards the observation areas.

Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck

Before heading back down the mountainside, it’s worth walking a few more minutes up to the Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck. You’ll have a slightly different perspective over the village along with an assortment of vending machines and a small shop/cafe (which may not be open depending on how early you arrive).

After you’ve soaked up the views, head back down the trail and make your way into the village.

Your first stop in the village proper is Wada House, the largest gassho-zukuri style house in Shirakawa-go. This impeccably-preserved home is estimated to be around 200-400 years old, and the interiors offer a glimpse into what life was like in the village during the Edo period.

Visitors can explore the first and second floors where the Wada family’s antiques and silk-making equipment are on display. I especially enjoyed the shoji screens and the views from the upper floor windows.

There are also informational placards in both Japanese and English, so you can get even more details about the history of the place and the local culture.

On your way out, you can buy a lovely set of postcards that feature Shirakawa-go across the four seasons.

Admisison costs 400 yen, and you will need to remove your shoes to enter the house.

Kanda House and/or Nagase House

Like Wada House, both Kanda House and Nagase House are wonderfully preserved Gassho houses from the Edo period. Each building showcases a different trade that the generations of families practiced–gunpowder production for Kanda and doctoring for Nagase.

If you have the time and money, both places are worth a visit. However, you could skip Nagase House and spend more time in Kanda, which is quite large and offers great views from its upper floors. Note that Kanda House is closed on Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.

Entry is 400 yen for Kanda House and 300 yen for Nagase house. There are no shoes allowed inside either homes.

Free Exploring

One of the best things to do in Shirakawa-go is break away from the busy attractions and meander around the little side roads. Some of my fondest memories of our trip were the tranquil walks through the tree-lined pathways leading to old residences and tiny shrines.

While the major show-stoppers are located on the main roads, there are plenty of charming Gassho houses and cozy scenes to enjoy off the signposted tourist track. The narrow forest trail that runs along the village’s eastern edge is a particular favorite, especially on a snowy day.

Despite its remote location, there’s no shortage of places to eat in Shirakawa-go. Whether you’re after a light snack or a more substantial meal, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, and window service stalls along all of the main roads.

As mentioned earlier, many places still operate as cash-only, so be sure to bring yen with you. There are a couple of ATMs along the main road but they may not work with all foreign banking cards.

Luckily, Shirakawa-go’s popularity with international travelers means most places have multi-lingual menus or at least pictures of the food so that you can point to what you’d like to order.

One spot you cannot miss is the small window stall selling mitarashi dango. It’s located on the eastern side of the long central road, not far from Kanda House and the public restroom building. The eldery husband and wife working there are so kind, and the sweet-and-salty taste of the grilled mochi is heavenly.

We chose to make the long trek north of the village center to eat at Zundou, a tiny and traditional ramen shop.

While I had the best bowl of miso ramen of my life here, it’s about a 30 minute walk each way, and according to the reviews, the shop may be closed despite the posted business hours. Also, the menu is written in stylized Japanese and I don’t believe the staff speak English, so you’ll need some basic skill with the language to successfully order.

Shirakawa-go Main Street

You’ll be criss-crossing Shirakawa-go’s main street in the course of this day trip itinerary. However, you’d be remiss if you breezed past the Ghibli-esque treasures that line the village’s thoroughfare.

From water wheels to tanuki statues to bright red postboxes, this road is brimming with charm. And there’s no shortage of places to grab some Japanese souvenirs along the way. Popular souvenirs from Shirakawa-go include wooden owls, wind chimes, and silk-related handicrafts like small purses.

Resume your exploration at Myozenji, the largest shrine in Shirakawa-go village. Established in 1748, Myozenji’s main buildings–the hall, monk’s residence, and iconic bell tower with thatched roof–were constructed around 1800.

The shrine is one of those spots in Shirakawago that exemplifies the Japan’s natural beauty. There’s a massive yew and a cherry blossom tree, and the stone torii gates surrounded by foliage are picture perfect.

It’s free to wander the small grounds outside, and 300 yen to enter the museum and main hall.

Shirakawa-go Three Houses

The group of Gassho-zukuri known as the Shirakawago Three Houses are perhaps the most iconic symbol of the village, appearing in loads of promotional materials and postcards. Unlike Wada or Kanda House, this location is a scenic point only, not a museum.

Although you’ll find images online that show the three house facades perfectly grouped and facing the camera, it’s no longer possible to walk deep enough into the surrounding field to get this vantage point.

There’s a small path that you can follow up to the point where I took the above picture, but the owner of the field has placed a small rope and sign stopping people from walking further. Please be a responsible traveler and respect the sign!

Gassho-zukuri Minkaen

No Shirakawa-go day trip itinerary is complete without a trip through the Gassho-zukuri Minkaen. Situated on the western side of the Shō River that divides the village in half, this large open air museum is a piece of Japanese history frozen in time.

To reach the museum from the Three Houses, head back towards the center of town and turn left at the first intersection. You’ll soon reach the Ogimachi Suspension Bridge that leads you over the river. Follow the walking path and posted signs for the museum entrance.

Within the open air museum, there are numerous Gassho houses, storerooms, water mills, and other buildings essential to village life scattered across a beautiful landscape of greenery and water. And you can enter pretty much every single one to learn about how the people of Shirakawago lived, ate, worked, and celebrated hundreds of years ago.

Admission is 600 yen and comes with an informational pamphlet and map. You’ll need to remove your shoes to enter some of the buildings.

That concludes this Shirakawago itinerary! I hope it gives you the confidence to make the journey to this amazing gem in Japan.

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Shirakawago travel blog — the fullest shirakawago travel guide for first-timers.

Japan tourism is not just about cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka or the ski resorts on the mountains, beautiful hot springs (onsen). Japan is also famous for its small beautiful ancient villages, typically Shirakawa-go, which is located in a small valley like in fairy tale. It is said that the artist who created Doreamon – who was live in this village during the time of drawing the first volumes of a famous comic book once associated with each of our childhoods.

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So, are you planning a trip to the one of most beautiful ancient fairy villages in Japan, Shirakawago? Let’s check out our shirakawago travel blog (Shirakawago blog) with the fullest Shirakawago travel guide (Shirakawago guide) from how to get there, where to stay, best places to visit, top things to do in Shirakawago.. to find out the answer!

Shirakawago travel blog: Overview of the village Shirakawago

Shirakawago is located in central Japan in Gifu Prefecture, the ancient village of Shirakawago is recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. Shirakawago in Japanese means the village of white rivers, perhaps to describe the village when engulfed in snow during the snowy days.

This is one of the oldest villages in Japan with houses built in the style of “Gassho” with roofs forming triangles, slopes and very high. When you first come and looking at these houses perhaps you must be somewhat overwhelmed and interested.

Shirakawago travel guide: The best time to go to Shirakawago village

You can visit Shirakawa-go ancient village all year round, experience all beauties of 4 seasons of the year. However, in order to see a true “fairy” spectacle, people often come here in the winter. The time when snow was thick and covered the roofs and roads in the village. In the evening, standing up from above and see Shirakawa-go shimmering under the lights, reminds me of a beautiful village similar to Zermatt in Switzerland .

In addition, during the winter in January and February, Shirakawa-go also has winter light-up festivals. The whole village will be light up from night till the next morning, ensuring you will see the brilliant Shirakawa-go all night.

Shirakawago guide: How to get to Shirakawa-go

Usually when you make a self-sufficient trip or solo travel, visitors often spend the night in Takayama before taking the bus to Shirakawa-go village. From Takayama, it only takes about 50 minutes to Shirakawa-go for ¥ 2600 by Nohi Bus or Hokutetsu Bus. I also went to Takayama first and asked the hotel to book a bus in advance.

From Kyoto to Takayama, take a express train that takes about one whole morning, free because it was covered by JR Pass. I stayed 1 night in Takayama and early the next morning taking the bus to Shirakawa-go. After visiting Shirakawa-go, I had taken the (pre-booked) bus to Kanazawa at 3:00 pm, which takes about 2 traveling hours for ¥2000. You can refer to the bus schedule here.

How to get from Tokyo or Osaka to Shirakawa-go

From Tokyo or Osaka normally you will have to go to one of the 2 cities closest to Shirakawa-go are Takayama or Kanazawa. Kanazawa is a large city, so you can go by bus or Shinkansen from Tokyo and Osaka (included in the JR Pass).

Alternatively you can take the Shinkansen from Tokyo, Osaka to a farther location is Nagoya. From Nagoya Station, you go to the Meitetsu BC station to catch a bus going to Shirakawago (it takes about 3 hours).

Another transit point you might consider is Toyama. This is a coastal city and has many attractions for you to combine your itnerary to visit Shirakawa-go.

Shirakawago travel blog: Where to stay in Shirakawa-go?

As mentioned above, it is common for tourists to stay in Takayama town before taking the bus to Shirakawa-go. In the town, actually there are not many options for hotels or accommodation, but mostly shops, the houses of local people. You can find more, check rates, availability & book for Takayama hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

I stayed in Takayama and stayed at the lovely little Hostel K’s House Takayama ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) right near Takayama station. This hotel is located in the center of town and has a single room for one person with a pretty good price. Staff are super friendly to help guests with everything you need, also advise me a reasonable itinerary for my trip.

Shirakawago blog: The itinerary and best things to explore in the village of Shirakawa-go

The experience of traveling to Shirakawa-go is that you only needs spend nearly one day to visit this beautiful little village. I arrived at the village quite early at around 9am and wandered around slowly to 2pm to almost see the whole village. And at 3pm, I taken the bus to move to another location.

After arriving at the bus stop in Shirakawa-go, my first thing to do is to send your luggage at the station. They have lockers with variety size for visitors, the price for the extend day is 500JPY, and the next day is 1000 JPY. If you have no coins to put in the locker you can exchange money at the counter. Below are the highlights in Shirakawa-go.

See Shirakawa-go from the Shiroyama Observation deck

This is a place where you can see the whole fairy village from above. Where you can take pictures of the village that you often see on super-cute postcard pictures of Shirakawa-go, just a 10-minute climb from the main village.

As soon as I got out of the bus stop, I walked up to the observation deck because this road was on the way from the bus stop to the village. There are quite a few great photogenic spots but the top is still the best. You should go to early because around 10am there will be a lot of tourists coming here, taking pictures will become more difficult.

Visit the Wada House

These are typical houses and represent the Gassho-zukuri architecture of Shirakawa-go village. From a distance, it seems quite similar to the Rong house in the Central Highlands of Vietnam.

Gassho-zukuri Minkaen Museum

This museum also stores many artifacts on the once-hand-made handicrafts of Shirakawa-go. They have traditional works such as dyeing and weaving.

Opening hours: Mar – Nov 08:40-17:00 / Dec – Feb 09:00-16:00 / Close: Thursday of 4th week in Dec to Mar Admission: Adult: 600 yen / Child: 400 yen

Deai-bashi suspension bridge

The bridge spans a narrow river in the middle of the village, also playing role as a village entrance. This small suspension bridge allows you to enjoy the cherry blossoms covered in the spring, and the panoramic view of Shirakawa-go village.

Shinto Shrine Shirakawa Hachiman

This temple is quite deserted at the end of the village, not many tourists pay attention to it. But this is a great virtual check-in spot, with the singature Shinto shrine torri gate of Japan.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and to Shirakawa-go you can refer to

• A Day in Shirakawa Village and Takayama
• Gokayama Ainokura & Shirakawago Bus Tour
• Takayama and Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Nagoya
• Shirakawago Ogimachi Village Half Day Tour from Takayama
• Shirakawa-go, Takayama, and Kamikochi Day Tour from Nagoya
• Takayama Spring Festival & Shirakawago Tour
• [Klook Exclusive] Shirakawago Illumination Wonderland Trip from Nagoya or Takayama Shirakawago Minkaen Illumination & Festa Forest Museum Round Trip Bus Trip from Takayama
• Shirakawago Day Trip with Exclusive Illumination Winter Event and Round Trip Transfer from Takayama

Are you looking for more Shirakawago travel guide and top things to do in Shirakawago: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Explore 5 things to do in Shirakawa-go — One of the most beautiful Japanese traditional village hidden behind the mountain.

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Ogimachi Village

Ogimachi (����) is the largest village and main attraction of Shirakawa-go . Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1995, the village is home to several dozen well preserved gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old.

The farmhouses are quite amazing structures, designed to withstand the harsh winters while providing a place to work and live, and are best seen either covered in snow or surrounded by green fields. Many of the farmhouses are now restaurants, museums or minshuku , where you can stay overnight , the ultimate way of experiencing Shirakawago.

Furthermore, a number of farmhouses from the surrounding villages have been relocated to an open-air museum across the river from Ogimachi's village center in an effort to save them from destruction. This museum along with the large concentration of farmhouses and attractions in the village and the area's relatively good accessibility make Ogimachi the best place in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama to see gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

Gassho-zukuri Minkaen

Shiroyama Viewpoint

Wada-ke House

Kanda-ke House

Nagase-ke House

Myozenji Temple and House

Shirakawa-go no Yu

Attractions outside ogimachi.

Toyama-ke House

Getting there and around.

Ogimachi is the transport hub of the Shirakawa-go region, where the bus lines from Takayama , Nagoya , Kanazawa , Toyama and Takaoka meet. The Shirakawago Bus Terminal is located at the entrance to the village center. Ogimachi is small and can be easily explored on foot.

How to get to and around Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Shirakawa-go tourist association, shirakawa-go sightseeing guide, minkaen open-air museum, shirakawa village, hotels around shirakawago & gokayama.

• Destinations

Shirakawago: Best Time to Visit

Best View of Shirakawago Village by Season

The historic villages of Shirakawago and Gokayama are UNESCO World heritage sites which is located across the border of Gifu and Toyama prefecture in Central Japan. With its very traditional appearance, now Shirakawago and the surrounding area has became one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. The village can be visited all year round and it displays the stunning scenery in each season. In case you are wondering which season is the best to visit Shirakawago, today, I’d like to briefly introduce the best time to visit Shirakawago with some informations 🙂

Spring (March to May)

Spring is considered as the best time to visit Japan simply because of the symbolic flower of the country, Cherry Blossoms. Here in Shirakawago Village, you can also enjoy charming Cherry Blossoms collaborating with the historic Japanese village from mid April to early May. In the beginning of the spring, the surrounding mountain is still covered by white snow, whereas the village area is slowly turning its colour into fresh green. In mid May, the rice paddies are filled with water, and the planting starts in end of the month.

Average Temperature: High 8 to 20°C/Low -2 to 10 °C

Summer (June to August)

The summer in Shirakawago Village is all about green and flowers. Enjoy the amazing contrast of rich green and the traditional Gassho Zukuri houses in Shirakawago Village. Various colourful flowers flourish around the village during summer. In early to mid July, fireflies come and visit the village and glow magically at night. Also the weather is great in summer around Shirakawago Village area , as it’s slightly cooler than other parts of Japan, and you can enjoy cool and fresh breeze.

Average Temperature: High 23 to 29°C/Low 13 to 19 °C

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is very popular season to visit Japan and colourful autumn leaves are the main attraction of the season. Shirakawago Village is one of the best autumn leaves viewing spots in Japan as the surrounding rich nature turns into warm colours. The temperature starts dropping from September, and you can enjoy colourful leaves through October. In early November, an annual water-discharge drill takes place at the village to prevent from fire, and the village is getting ready for the cold and long winter.

Average Temperature: High 12 to 25°C/Low 3 to 15°C

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Shirakawago is really cold, but it’s considered as the best season to visit there as the whole village turns into a magical snow wonderland. From mid December, snow starts falling down around the village. The thatched roof of the Gassho Zukuri houses are structured especially for the heavy snow, and it displays amazing scenery with the white snow. The illumination event is also held at night in every winter.

Average Temperature: High 2 to 5 °C/Low -2 to -5°C

So which season do you think is the best to visit Shirakawago Village?? Each season offers amazing scenery of Shirakawago Village, doesn’t it?? If you are planning to visit Shirakawago Village, you should also check out these articles, too!

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"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Central Japan
• Shirakawago
• Things to Do