🗺️ Shirakawa-go (Gassho-zukuri Village)

Shirakawa-go, which still retains Japan's original scenery, has over 100 gassho-zukuri houses of various sizes as of 2016. It is the region with the most gassho-zukuri architecture in Japan and the largest gassho-zukuri settlement in the country, designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings. In 1955, Shirakawa-go was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The reason for this designation is that this type of architecture meets the criteria of "representing an important stage in human history, the accumulation of architectural techniques, or an outstanding example of the landscape." The Ogimachi area, located in the northern central part of Shirakawa-go, is the largest gassho-zukuri settlement and a major attraction. Visitors can experience traditional crafts such as plant dyeing, learn to weave straw sandals and make hand-rolled soba noodles, as well as participate in activities at the historical museum, gaining insight into the life experiences and wisdom of ancient villagers coexisting with nature. Additionally, Shirakawa-go offers hot springs, camping sites, and accommodation facilities where one can fully enjoy nature. Today, the gassho-zukuri houses in Shirakawa-go continue to be places where people live and work, distinguishing it from many other gassho-zukuri settlements that serve solely as tourist destinations. From the "Tenshukaku Observation Deck" at the castle's restaurant, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Ogimachi gassho-zukuri settlement. *The experience activities at the "Gassho-zukuri Minka-en" are available from mid-April to the end of October and require advance reservations.

The Gassho-zukuri buildings in Shirakawa-go are still homes for the locals. To avoid disrupting the residents' daily lives, visiting hours are set from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding periods when night lighting and other activities are held). From the "Tenshukaku Observation Deck," visitors can overlook the charming scenery of the Ogimachi Gassho-zukuri village, making it a popular spot for photography. There are also Gassho-zukuri buildings that offer accommodations.