Shirakawa

In Shirakawa, a mountain village in Gifu Prefecture, you'll find centuries-old farmhouses with steep thatched roofs rising from the valley floor. Walk through the Ogimachi district to see gassho-zukuri houses built without a single nail, climb to Shiroyama Viewpoint for valley views, or join a cooking class to make doburoku sake. In winter, evening light displays illuminate the snow-covered roofs, while summer brings clear views of the surrounding mountains and rice terraces.

Understanding Gassho-zukuri Architecture

The gassho-zukuri houses demonstrate precise Japanese carpentry techniques, with 60-degree thatched roofs constructed through an intricate system of interlocking wooden beams. The sturdy structure supports several meters of winter snow. Inside, you'll find a ground floor living area and upper floors that once housed silk farming operations. Every 25-30 years, local carpenters climb onto the roofs to replace the thatch using techniques passed down through generations.

Getting Around Shirakawa

You'll find about 100 gassho-zukuri buildings throughout Ogimachi's valley floor. Start your walk at the main bus terminal and head north along the central road. For the best views, take the 15-minute uphill walk to Shiroyama Viewpoint. In winter, arrive at the viewpoint before sunset to watch the village light up during evening illumination events.

Daily Life and Local Customs

Village life revolves around "yui," a community support system where residents help each other maintain houses and conduct fire prevention patrols. You'll see fire watchers making their rounds three times daily to protect the wooden buildings. Many families still live in these houses, carrying out their daily activities as visitors pass by.

Seasonal Activities

Spring brings cherry blossoms that frame the thatched roofs. In summer, temperatures stay mild, making it ideal for exploring the mountain trails. Fall colors the mountainsides in red and gold maples. In winter, snow blankets the village, and on specific evenings, lights illuminate the snow-covered houses, creating distinctive shadows on the white ground.

Local Food and Specialties

The village's remote location has created unique dishes you won't find elsewhere. Stop at food stalls to try gohei-mochi - grilled rice cakes with sweet miso sauce. Look for doburoku, an unfiltered sake made only in designated areas including Shirakawa. Visit during the October Doburoku Festival to taste this rare sake while watching traditional lion dance performances.

Practical Information

Take a bus from Takayama (50 minutes) or Kanazawa (75 minutes) to reach the village. Book accommodations well in advance for winter illumination events. While you can see the main areas in half a day, spending a night in a gassho-zukuri guesthouse lets you experience morning and evening in the village. Remember to keep voices down and ask before taking photos of private homes.