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Shirakawago lies in the Shogawa River Valley in the remote mountains of Gifu prefecture. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawago is well known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old.
Gassho-zukuri means “constructed like hands in prayer”, as the farmhouses’ steep thatched roofs resemble the hands of Buddhist monks pressed together in prayer. The architectural style is designed to withstand the large amounts of heavy snow that falls in the region during winter, and was developed over may generations. The roofs, provided a large attic space used for cultivating silkworms, and are made without nails.
Ogimachi is the largest village and main attraction of Shirakawago. The village is home to many well preserved gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old.
The farmhouses are designed to withstand the harsh winters while providing a place to work and live, and are beautiful either covered in snow or surrounded by green fields. Many of the farmhouses are now restaurants, museums or minshuku, which are similar to a bed and breakfast where you can stay overnight.
More than a dozen gassho-zukuri farmhouses in and around Ogimachi are now functioning as minshuku, family run, Japanese style lodgings. An overnight stay at one of these farmhouses is a highly recommended experience, as it is a great way to experience a traditional Japanese family home and get more intimate with gassho-zukuri buildings
The only nationally-designated important cultural property in Shirakawa-go, and it is largest gassho-zukuri house at Shirakawago. The Wada house is said to have been built in the mid-Edo period, and today it serves as a residence. The lacquer ware and sericulture tools, manuscripts, etc. that were used in the Wada house are on display. There are guides who will gladly tell you about the beautiful Gassho houses you will see in this region of Japan, if you apply for one at the entrance. The hearth (irori) that is lit all year round is a great photo opportunity point.
For a birds-eye view of Shirakawa-go, you should visit the observation deck. There is a shuttle bus from the center of Shirakawago to the observation deck. And then you can either take the bus back or walk back to the village.
The open-air museum preserves and exhibits a total of 26 buildings including 9 listed buildings that are designated as important cultural assets of Gifu Prefecture. Structures including a watermill, a shrine, and a temple’s main hall are preserved in their original state. You can relive the culture of ancient Japan, nestled in the surrounding nature. To allow guests to enjoy a relaxing visit while learning about the history and culture of Shirakawa Village, the museum grounds also contain facilities such as a hand-made soba restaurant, a shop, and rest areas (operating periods vary between facilities).
The tour itinerary is adjustable depending on the preference and interests of the guests. Travel with a friendly and experienced licensed tour guide to hear fun facts and interesting stories about Shirakawago and Japan. We will show you all the must-see spots which are good for taking pictures.
Grand Tours
Regional Tours
Winter Tours