🎎 Shirakawa-go Winter Illumination

Shirakawa-go, famous for its Gassho-zukuri style villages, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The winter illumination event held on specific days in January and February attracts a large number of tourists every year, making it a popular winter activity. The sight of snow piled on the unique triangular thatched roofs of the Gassho-zukuri houses evokes a beautiful and dreamlike fairy tale world. Starting in 2025, entry will be completely by reservation and ticket system. On the day of the event, visitors can enter the village through one of the following five methods: staying overnight in the village, driving and reserving a specific parking lot, taking a taxi and reserving a specific parking lot, participating in a route bus company, or joining a group tour organized by a travel agency. Visitors without tickets on the day of the illumination event can only visit the village during the day. The latest entry time for parking is 3 PM, and all parking will be cleared after 5 PM; the village-operated observation deck will not allow parking throughout the day. During the nighttime illumination period, temperatures can drop to -10 to 0°C, so visitors are reminded to prepare warm clothing, waterproof shoes, and flashlights.

The winter illumination event held in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go allows visitors to experience the Gassho-zukuri village, which radiates a dreamy atmosphere when lit up. Starting in 2025, the event will require complete advance reservations and tickets for entry. The observation deck will only be accessible to those holding specific tickets. During the day, visitors can enter the village for sightseeing without a reservation.