Since its listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Shirakawa-gō (白川郷), also known as Shirakawagō in Gifu Prefecture, has been considered one of the most popular getaway spots in Japan. Located in a remote mountainous region in central Japan, Shirakawago village and their people were known to be isolated and hidden from the rest of the world. However, due to the surge in tourism, it has become increasingly easy for people to visit this charming part of Japan.
No matter what season you visit Shirakawago, the village in the river valley surrounded by rugged high mountains will definitely be the ultimate escape from the chaotic urban lifestyle (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
What to Do in Shirakawagō
- The Best Time to Visit Shirakawa-gō
- Explore Shirakawa-gō With a Guided Tour
- How to Get to Shirakawa-gō by Public Transport
- The Gassho-Zukuri-Style Houses
- Strolling Around Shirakawagō
- Shirakawa-gō’s Cherry Blossom and Fall Foliage Season
- Wada House (和田家)
- Tenshukaku Observatory (天守閣展望台)
- Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck (荻町城跡 展望台)
- Also known as the Shirakawago Observatory Deck
- Hoba Miso Cuisine at Shirakawa-gō
- Deai Bridge (であい橋)
- Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine (白川八幡神社)
- Shirakawa-gō Three Houses (三小屋)
- The Local Snack – Goheimochi (五平餅)
- Things to Look Out for When You Visit Shirakawagō
- Places to Stay in Shirakawa-gō
- Winter Light-Up Event at Shirakawa-gō
Tip: Please check the event calendar on the official website HERE for information on events and festivals in Shirakawago.
The Best Time to Visit Shirakawagō
- Like the rest of Japan, the light pink flowers of cherry blossoms also colour shirakawa-go in spring. The cherry blossom season at Shirakawago usually peaks around mid-April.
- Shirakawago in autumn is scenic, with the fall foliage season is from late October to early November.
- Shirakawagō usually receives the first snow in early December. The village is covered by snow from late December to late February.
Explore Shirakawa-gō With a Guided Tour
If you prefer a guide to introduce you to Shirakawago’s gorgeous village, how about joining one of the following tours?
Tours from Takayama or Kanazawa
Tours from Tokyo, Osaka, or Nagoya
- Shirakawago, Hida Area, and Tatayama Snow Wall 2-Day Tour from Osaka
- 2D1N Shirakawago & Takayama & Hirase Onsen Tour from Tokyo
- Shirakawago and Hida Takayama One Day Bus Tour from Nagoya
How to Get to Shirakawa-gō by Public Transport
While Shirakawago village feels remote, getting there is easier than you think! This guide breaks down the most efficient transport options, whether you are traveling via Shinkansen, express bus from hubs like Takayama and Kanazawa, or planning to drive. Find the best route and tips to make your Shirakawago trip smooth and unforgettable.
For more information on how to get to Shirakawago, refer to our article on Shirakawago Guide!
The Gassho-Zukuri-Style Houses
Throughout Shirakawago, you will find unique traditional houses known as Gassho-Zukuri (合掌造り). The thatched roofs with steep slopes resemble our hands placed together in a prayer position, which is why this style of architecture is called “gassho”.
Just like anywhere else in the world, people living in colder regions construct their houses with a nearly vertical slope due to the heavy snowfall. Villagers in ancient Japan also shared similar thoughts and wisdom.
However, probably none of them would have thought that their homes would become one of the most popular tourist destinations hundreds of years later (´▽｀*).
Most of the approximately 100 gassho-zukuri houses in the area were built in the late 1600s. If you could travel back in time and sneak into those large attics, you would most likely see hundreds of silkworms in front of you (≧▽≦).
The traditional way of life is preserved at Shirakawago. When the thatched roof is due to be renewed for maintenance, this will apply to the whole village (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ
Strolling Around Shirakawagō
Ogimachi (荻町) is the most accessible and largest village in Shirakawago. Most attractions, including lookouts, cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and museums, are located at Ogimachi. If you don’t intend to stay at one attraction for too long, it will probably take an hour or so to walk around the whole Ogimachi.
On the other hand, if you are like us who like to have a meal at the local restaurant and are willing to explore the interior of gassho-zukuri houses and take pictures here and there, allocate at least half a day to this gorgeous village would be better (‘ω’)ノ.
Shirakawa-gō’s Cherry Blossom and Fall Foliage Season
- Cherry blossoms: mid-April to early May
- Fall foliage: mid to late October
Tip: Refer to the live camera HERE for what Shirakawago village looks like at this moment!
Wada House (和田家)
Get a vibe of the rich Japanese lifestyle back in the 1800s!
This house was owned by the Wada family, who served as government officials. The family also traded the raw silk farmed locally, as well as explosives. The wealth that the family accumulated enabled them to build and live in the largest gassho-zukuri-style house at Shirawakago.
This National Cultural Asset preserves the original state of the architecture. Whether it is the main house, the storehouse, or the waterways, the formation and structure have remained unchanged for over 200 years.
Can you believe that this entire structure remains so sturdy, able to withstand the numerous earthquakes in Japan and the heavy snowfall in winter?
The staircases leading to the 2nd floor and the attic are as steep as the thatched roof. So mind your steps and follow the rules by letting the people come down first before you climb up. It will be your turn to use the stairs first once you are done exploring the upper floor of this traditional house, anyway!
The attic was home to thousands of cute silkworms a few hundred years ago. The thatched roof is the perfect insulation for keeping the white worms warm and comfortable from the extreme cold in winter (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
Once you are done checking out the house’s structure and exhibits, remember to admire the peaceful Shirakawago village from the window.
Wada House’s Opening Hours, Admission Fee, and Access Information
- Wada House is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
- The admission fee is
- 400 yen for adults
- 200 yen for children.
Tenshukaku Observatory (天守閣展望台)
Coming out of the Wada House, with your back facing the entrance, a road on your right-hand side will lead you to the Tenshukaku Observatory. Many also referred to it as the Shirakawago Observatory Deck. This is a great photo spot with this World Heritage Village. It even has a gassho-zukuri board with the date on it for you to pose around (≧▽≦).
Important: Apparently, this observatory is not considered a public facility. Whilst accessing it is free, the Shirakawago Village Office kindly asks all visitors to show some consideration towards the property owners during the visit.
The observatory is located in the middle of a hill. The slope is small and only a 10-minute walk from the Wada House.
There are also shuttle bus services (展望台行きシャトルバス) departing from the main road in front of Wada House at a 20-minute interval from 9 am to 3:40 pm.
You can utilize this service for 200 yen for a one-way trip if you prefer not to walk.
Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck (荻町城跡 展望台)
There should be an intersection as you come down from the Tenshukaku Observatory, and close to the car park.
Instead of following the big road back to the Wada House, why not try the smaller roads? You will come across the Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck, which will give you a closer view of the Shirakawago village (^^)/.
Hoba Miso Cuisine at Shirakawa-gō
Shirakawago, being so close to the Hida (飛騨) area, also has Hida’s local cuisine – Hoba Miso (朴葉味噌)!
As you can see in the photo, Hoba Miso cuisine is basically created by putting all ingredients on a dried magnolia leaf. The set is then placed on a charcoal grill. After some time, the leaf’s fragrance and the aroma of baking miso will blend nicely.
Most of the restaurants in Shirakawago serve this dish with Hida beef. When we visited Shirakawago, Irori (いろり) did have a set menu with tofu instead of meat. Try this when you arrive at Shirawakago. If they cannot do Tofu Hoba Miso, other tofu and vegetable dishes are available.
Important: Although this has not been confirmed, the broth of all noodle dishes is likely to contain bonito extract. If you are keen on a bowl of noodle soup, check with the restaurant you visit about your dietary requirements before placing your order.
The other place that may be able to serve you, Tofu Hoba Miso, is Hakusuien (白水園). Again, it’s best to check with the restaurant for their vegetarian options first.
Tip: Please refer to our Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Vegetarian article if you need communication assistance with restaurants/café at Shirakawago (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
Deai Bridge (であい橋)
If you stand on this concrete bridge, you should be able to get a nice photo with the great natural landscape as your backdrop.
Although it is made out of concrete, if too many people stand on the bridge at once, it might swing a bit…(;・∀・)
The 107-meter-long Deai Bridge connects Ogimachi to Shirakawago village’s largest car park (村営せせらぎ公園 駐車場). That is why you will find people visiting Shirakawago on tour coming from the Deai Bridge, as the coach buses will be parked in this car park.
Also, if you need a toilet break, there are public toilets available around the car park as well (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
If you are a big fan of museums, a few are located on this side of the bridge for you to explore (^_-)-☆.
Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine (白川八幡神社)
Coming from the Observation Deck and passing through a few shops and restaurants, you will see this old but solemn shrine at the far end of the main road that you are on.
The Doburoku Festival (どぶろく祭) is held in Shirakawago around mid-October (usually on the 14th and 15th) to celebrate the year’s harvest. People often pray for another year of a good harvest, as well as the safety of their families and peace in the village.
“Doburoku” is sake brewed by the local brewing technique that has been passed down from ancient times. The doburoku is first presented to the Gods and then shared with the rest of the festival participants. As the doburoku is passed around, it won’t take long for the venue to be surrounded by the doburoku’s rich scent (*’▽’).
Important: Doburoku is a type of unfiltered rice wine. It is quite strong in flavor. So if you don’t think you can finish it, sharing it with your companions might be a good idea!
During the two-day festival at Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine, apart from the Doburoku offering, there will be exciting performances such as lion dancing and traditional folk dance happening throughout the event.
For more photos of the festival, check out Shirakawa Village Office’s website.
Shirakawa-gō Three Houses (三小屋)
As you return from the lovely Deai Bridge, before wrapping up your visit to Shirakawago, why not take a photo with Shirakawago Three Houses that frequently appear on the Shirakawago village’s promotion materials?
You can also try your luck with the restaurant close to the Shirakawago Three Houses – Chubei (忠兵衛) about the Hoba Miso cuisine, and see whether they can replace the meat with tofu and mushrooms for you (^_-)-☆.
When Shirakawago village is covered in white snow in winter, the houses will look like gingerbread houses (just think of the fairy tale stories). And in May, when the field in front of the houses is filled with water (in preparation for farming), you will be able to get photos of the houses together with their reflections.
Important: Shooting angle is important. However, be careful not to step on other people’s private property. It is easy to step on the villagers’ crops, especially when the ground is covered in snow during the winter…
For more attractions at Shirakawago, please check out Shirakawa-go Village Office’s website HERE!
The Local Snack – Goheimochi (五平餅)
Goheimochi is Shirakawago’s local snack. The rice will first be crushed and then pinched into an oval shape before being grilled with soy sauce-infused miso.
There are quite a few shops that sell Goheimochi. If you ever wonder where the delicious smell comes from, we can definitely say it comes from the Goheimochi!
Places to Stay in Shirakawa-gō
Spending a night at one of those gassho-zukuri houses will definitely be an experience you will remember for the rest of your life (^^)/. With the owners’ exceptional Japanese hospitality, your meals will be prepared with the freshest local ingredients. The hoba miso cuisine will most likely be on the menu too!
At night, the traditional Japanese hearth, irori, might be illuminated with fire, especially in winter. Having a conversation with the owner around the hearth will definitely be one of the highlights of the stayover (≧▽≦).
HERE is the list of 18 unique gassho-zukuri houses that you can book to stay overnight. Each has its own unique charms (whether it is a house with a great view or one that includes a shamisen performance, a traditional Japanese instrument…etc.).
Price-wise…we think it is quite reasonable. Given the maintenance required, 15,000 to 250,000 yen a night per person is around the average price for a traditional Japanese Ryokan.
Tip: Kōemon (幸エ門) is a guesthouse that caters to a vegan diet.
Things to Look Out for When You Visit Shirakawagō
- If the Shirakawago village is covered in snow, try not to step on areas where snow may accumulate. There might be a puddle or a pond underneath.
- Follow the manner guide on Shirakawago’s website HERE.
- Shirakawago in winter is extremely cold, so be sure to pack enough warm clothing. It would also be wise to have your phone and camera fully charged!
- Flying your drone around the Shirakawago village is forbidden.
Winter Light-Up Event at Shirakawa-gō
The annual Shirakawago Winter Light-Up event is the most sought-after winter experience in Japan. For just a few exclusive nights each January and February, the historic gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawago village are blanketed in snow and spectacularly illuminated, creating a breathtaking, fairytale scene.
Due to its popularity, attending requires careful planning and preparation. Refer to our Shirakawago Winter Illumination Guide for everything you need to know, including how to secure your mandatory tickets or accommodation!
Gokayama: Ogimachi’s Neighbour
Gokayama (五箇山) in Toyama Prefecture is another village near Shirakawago that is known for its gassho-zukuri-style houses. It also got listed as a World Heritage with Shirakawago!
There are only small differences between Gokayama and Shirakawago. Whether it is the slope of the roof being steeper in Gokayama or the details of the house entrances being almost identical, spotting these differences can be really fun (´▽｀*).
Compared to Shirakawago, Gokayama has a lot fewer tourists. That is probably because fewer buses stop at Gokayama, and the village is a lot less commercialized. But if you hate the crowd and want to visit an area for some peace in the charming countryside, you will probably want to add Gokayama to your itinerary and even spend a night there (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
When you come to Gokayama, don’t forget to grab one of the “Gokayama Washi (五箇山和紙)”. Washi is a type of paper made from fiber produced locally, which is then handcrafted into a piece of paper using traditional techniques. The “Gokayama Washi” was appointed as one of the National Traditional Crafts. The industry remains prosperous at Gokayama!
Visiting Shirakawa-gō Through the Hakusan Shirakawa-gō White Road
If you are confident in driving in Japan and plan to head to Shirakawagō from Kanazawa, we recommend driving to Shirakawagō via the Hakusan Shirakawagō White Road, rather than taking a bus. Although it is a toll road, the scenery along this motorway is picturesque from late April to November. Along the road, there are multiple hiking trails perfect for a leisurely hike.
For more information, please refer to our article on Hakusan Shirakawagō White Road.
Combine Your Visit With Other Nearby Popular Destinations and Save on Transportation
For more details about the ticket, please refer to our Chūbu region transportation article HERE (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
Any of the accommadation or ryokan over this place
Yes, you can refer to the official website below.
https://shirakawa-go.gr.jp/en/stay/?tag%5B%5D=1&category%5B%5D=3#refine