【Shirakawa-go】The Charm of Japan’s Hidden Gem

Japan’s Traditional Beauty Highly Praised Both Domestically and Internationally

In 1995, Shirakawa-go was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, along with Gokayama in Toyama Prefecture, as “an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history.”

Particularly highly valued are the tall Gassho-style houses and the beautifully maintained rural landscapes. Many people still live in Shirakawa-go, embodying the symbol of Japan’s traditional rural culture and lifestyle. When you visit Shirakawa-go, often referred to as “Japan’s hometown,” you might find yourself feeling nostalgic, almost wanting to say “I’m home.”

The Majestic Original Landscape Viewed from “Shirakawa-go Castle Tower Observatory”

Upon visiting Shirakawa-go, first, take in the scenery of the Gassho-style houses lined up in the village. There’s a recommended spot in the village, “Shirakawa-go Castle Tower Observatory,” where you can enjoy a panoramic view of this Gassho-style landscape.

With the desire to “share this grand original landscape with many people,” the observatory was established in 1978 on a hill as “Shiro-yama Castle Tower.” Now, it’s a popular spot where you can enjoy country cuisine using ingredients from Hida and the local area, and there are souvenir shops selling sweets made in Shirakawa-go, folk crafts, and local limited products. You can enjoy meals while overlooking the village. The view from the observatory is breathtaking, with the landscape of Gassho-style houses with thatched roofs, devised to endure harsh winters and heavy snow, being particularly stunning.

Additionally, you can enjoy the scenery of each season: the fresh greenery of spring, the lush green of summer, the golden rice fields of autumn, and the snowy white landscape of winter. No matter how many times you visit, you will be moved by the landscapes spread before your eyes. It’s one of the most popular spots in Shirakawa-go and a great place to fully experience the charm of the area.

Deepen Your Understanding of Shirakawa-go’s History and Culture

In the village, a culture of mutual support, or “Yui no Kokoro” (spirit of bonding), is deeply rooted, developed to overcome the harsh winters by helping each other. This spirit has been passed down to the present day, preserving the beautiful Gassho-style landscape.

In Shirakawa-go, you can actually visit these Gassho-style houses. They are constructed by interlocking timbers at the top, resembling hands coming together in prayer, and are characterized by their steep thatched roofs. You can observe these houses both from the outside and inside, learning about their structure and history.

Particularly recommended are the “Wada House,” one of the largest Gassho-style houses in the village, and the “Tajima House Sericulture Exhibition Hall,” which opened in 2023. The “Wada House” is the only building in the village designated as a national important cultural property and flourished as an important hub during the Edo period. It is still inhabited today, but you can tour the first and second floors. The “Tajima House Sericulture Exhibition Hall” is the only museum in the village dedicated to sericulture, offering a rare glimpse into silk farming and its process.

There are many other facilities to visit, including those displaying valuable artworks and everyday items used in the village. These places offer a unique opportunity to learn about the history of Shirakawa-go and Gassho-style houses from the people who actually live there. Most facilities require an admission fee, so please check the official Shirakawa-go Tourist Association website for details.

Recommended Gourmet & Sweets in the Village

Gourmet food in Shirakawa-go is another attractive feature. At “Hida Beef Nigiri Place Okesa,” you can enjoy “Shirakawa-go Yui Umami Pork Nigiri” made with rice harvested in Shirakawa-go, and “Hida Beef Nigiri” using one of Japan’s leading Wagyu brands raised in Gifu Prefecture. They serve freshly made nigiri rice balls, which have a surprisingly short shelf life of just three minutes! These are a must-try, only available in Shirakawa-go.

For souvenirs, don’t miss the sweets. Especially the “Shirakawa-go Pudding,” made by a local owner who has lived in the village. This pudding, which won the first Grand Prize at the Japan Pudding Awards, is handcrafted with attention to detail. The “Water Pudding” is particularly noteworthy, made with spring water flowing in Shirakawa-go and known for its smooth texture. There are also puddings inspired by local cuisine and seasonal fruits. The puddings come in original jars that can be used as souvenirs after you’ve finished eating, adding to the enjoyment.

The village is also full of shops selling folk crafts and local gourmet food, so be sure to enjoy shopping when you visit Shirakawa-go.