🗺️ Shirakawa City, Shiramine白山市白峰

In the Shirakawa area of Hakusan City, which once recorded nearly 4 meters of snowfall in winter, unique architectural styles characteristic of Japan's top heavy snowfall regions are preserved, designated as a national important traditional building preservation area. From the large, earthen-colored walls and long, straight windows of the grand farmhouse "Yamagishi-ke" to the lined-up houses built during the Edo to Meiji periods, the area showcases its rich heritage. Within the Shirakawa area, there are several dining establishments and shops converted from wooden houses. Visitors can enjoy local specialties such as grated radish udon, botan rice cakes, and homemade red shiso juice at cafes, as well as shops offering the famous Shirakawa "Tochi Mochi," "Tochigi Fruit Senbei," and traditionally made "Kentaofu," making for a delightful stroll. Every February, local residents create various sizes and types of snowmen, filling the area with these whimsical figures. After sunset, lights are illuminated on the snowmen, immersing the entire town in a dreamy atmosphere. During the "Snowman Festival," food stalls featuring Shirakawa specialties set up throughout the area, adding to the fun of walking around and searching for delicious treats. Additionally, a "Street Walking Geography Tour" (reservation required) is held to unravel the mysteries of the heavy snowfall area of "Shirakawa." Participants can walk the streets with a guide to learn about the lives and wisdom of the people in heavy snowfall regions. The tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, starting at the Shirakawa Onsen Main Bath. Travelers wishing to participate must make a reservation with the Hakusan City Tourism Association by the evening before. The fee is 5,000 yen, accommodating 1 to 5 people (Hakusan City Tourism Association phone: 076-259-5893).

On the streets lined with historical buildings, you can experience traditional crafts and local cuisine. Every February, a large number of snowmen are made for the "Snowman Festival." The "Silk Skin Bath," which leaves the skin smooth after soaking, is very popular, and the hot spring facility is called "Shiramine Onsen Sōtō."