Shirakawa-go and Gokayama Travel Tips

Shirakawa-go (白川郷, Shirakawagō) and neighboring Gokayama (五箇山), nestled in the mountains of Gifu and Toyama Prefectures, are a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with some structures over 250 years old. These farmhouses, named for their "prayer-hands" steep thatched roofs, are designed to endure heavy winter snows, creating a unique and charming rural landscape. The spacious attics within these houses were traditionally used for silk cultivation, adding a touch of historic charm to the experience.

The largest village, Ogimachi, makes for a perfect day trip from Takayama or a scenic stop between Takayama and Kanazawa. To fully embrace the tranquil atmosphere, consider staying overnight in one of the farmhouse minshuku. Gokayama, less accessible but equally enchanting, offers a more intimate experience with villages like Suganuma and Ainokura, untouched by modernity and rich in history.