Shirakawa-go
Nestled deep in the mountains, the quaint village of Shirakawa-go is famous for its traditional “gassho-zukuri” houses, whose steep thatched roofs resemble hands joined in prayer. Alongside the surrounding rice paddies, they create a picturesque landscape is a joy to behold and to take a stroll through.
Many of these homes remain inhabited today, but some are open to the public, like the Wada Residence, with displays of traditional tools and ways of life in Shirakawa-go.
Some gassho-zukuri houses also offer accommodation. Be sure to book in advance if considering this memorable option!
Many of these homes remain inhabited today, but some are open to the public, like the Wada Residence, with displays of traditional tools and ways of life in Shirakawa-go.
Some gassho-zukuri houses also offer accommodation. Be sure to book in advance if considering this memorable option!
View scenic routes that include this spot
From the Streets of Edo to the Mountain Villages of Hida: A Journey through the Historic Townscapes of Tokyo and Gifu
More Information about Shirakawa-go
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Street address
- 1086 Ogimachi, Shirakawa-mura, Ono-gun, Gifu Prefecture
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Access
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Route1
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- 【From Takayama】 50 min by bus from Takayama Nohi Bus Center (Nohi Bus)
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Route2
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- 【From Nagoya】2 hr 50 min by bus from the Meitetsu Bus Center (Gifu Bus)
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Opening Hours
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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Closed
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Website
- https://shirakawa-go.gr.jp/en/
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Best season
- All year
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Point
- For information to help you plan a smooth trip to Shirakawa-go, check out the “SHIRAKAWA-Going” website for live traffic camera feeds and congestion forecast calendars.
When visiting Shirakawa-go, please use designated parking lots only, take all rubbish home with you, note that the use of open flames is strictly prohibited, nighttime sightseeing is not permitted, and the flying of drones is banned. Due to heavy snowfall, please visit using public transit rather than private vehicles during the winter months.
update: Oct.28.2026
