Shirakawago

PICTURESQUE VILLAGE NESTLED IN THE VALLEY, FILLED WITH HISTORY AND TRADITION

FREE

Close to: 3hr drive from Nagoya

Duration: Full day

Useful Kanji: 白川郷 - Shirakawago

合掌造り - gassho zukuri - style of thatched roof house
 LIKE A FAIRYTALE
Shirakawago is a magical, underrated village nestled
in the mountains of the Hida region in Japan. The
traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, known as
"gassho-zukuri," have been designated as a UNESCO
World Heritage Site, and provide a unique glimpse
into the past and make you feel as though you’ve
stepped back in time.
 It's said that these houses have been
standing for over 300 years! Smoking and
open flames are strictly prohibited in the
area and it's no wonder why.
 SEASONS
Shirakawago really shines in all seasons. The
crystal clear waters of the nearby river, the
ever changing hues of the rice fields and
blooming wildflowers makes this town a year-
round hit. Winter is a popular season as the
village is blanketed in snow, reflecting the lights
from the houses in a way that can only be
described as magical.

Take your pick!

 THINGS TO DO

Walk around town and

check out the
traditional thatched-
roof houses, rice fields
and souvenir shops.
Don't miss the fish
swimming in the clear
water “gutters”.

Grab a gohei mochi

stick which is sticky
rice, coated with a
sweet/savoury miso
soy sauce.

If you have a bit of

sweet-tooth, enjoy a
soft serve ice cream in
sake flavour! Regular
vanilla is also delicious.
 GETTING THERE
There’s a parking lot with all-day parking for ¥1000
or you could catch the bus:

TAKAYAMA
TRAIN STATION
SHIRAKAWAGO

Bus 50 mins GO TO
BUS
¥2,600 TIMETABLE

Reservation may be
required in busy seasons 16+ buses a day
(Aug 13-15th and Dec 29-Jan 3rd)

SHIN TAKAOKA
TRAIN STATION
SHIRAKAWAGO

Bus 1hr 25 mins

GO TO
¥1,800 BUS
TIMETABLE
Points of Interest
Gassho-zukuri Minkaen Museum
A museum featuring traditional gassho-
zukuri farmhouses, a temple, a watermill,
and a café, all in an open-air setting.

Wada House
A historic gassho-style house, located on
a working farm and still occupied, which is
open to the public for viewing.

Tenshukaku Observation Point

A scenic viewpoint just a short walk
away, offering beautiful views of the
valley below. Especially beautiful in
winter.

Shirakawago Three Houses

A popular photo op of the famous three
houses, sitting perfectly alone just a
short walk from the town centre.

Kyoshu Traditional Coffee Shop

Take a break and enjoy a ¥500 coffee in
this idyllic old coffee shop. Most seats
face the window with views of the town
allowing you to enjoy it while relaxing.
Nearby
HAKUSUI LAKE
Pictured below. Uncharacteristically blue lake at the base of Mt
Hakusan.

AMOU MARSHLANDS
Beautiful walk through a bio-diverse landscape.

AMATSUTOGE HAKUSAN MOUNTAIN OBSERVATORY

Roadside stop with beautiful views over the valley and a nearby
waterfall.

AINOKURA GASSHO-ZUKKURI VILLAGE

Like a mini Shirakawa-go but much less popular.

FUKUBEDANI GARDENS OBSERVATORY

A lovely 20-mins walk to incredible views of the alps.