Jul 9, 2012 - 1 min read

Traditional Shirakawa-go

One of Japan's most beautiful hidden villages

By Ben Beechey

Community writer

Shirakawa-go village seen from a look out point on top of a neighbouring mountain

A traditional style house known as 'gassho-zukuri' in Shirakawa-go. The design and architecture of these buildings is intended to withstand the heavy snowfall experienced in winter.

Even in this remote mountainous location local businesses operate as usual. This farmer's house and rice field wait patiently for the snow to melt so that the new year's farming can begin

A local dango (Japanese sweets) seller in Shirakawa-go

A local resident hangs their chilli's out to dry in Shirakawa-go village

The local postman doesn't let a bit of snow stop him from doing his job!

The entrance to the local shrine in Shirakawa-go

Ema plaques on display at the local shrine. Ema plaques are written (or in this case drawn) on by visitors to the shrine detailing their wishes and plans for the future

The historic village Shirakawa-go (白川郷 "White River Old-District") is one of Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is a quiet mountain village with rice fields and a river running through it, situated at the foot of Mt. Haku-san in northwestern Gifu Prefecture. The village is well known for its 114 houses constructed in the architectural style known as gassho-zukuri, some of which are more than 250 years old. These houses have been designed to withstand the winter’s heavy snowfall. The village also boasts a temple, a coalhouse, and a horse paddock as well as places to stay.

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By Ben Beechey

Community writer

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Elena Lisina 6 years ago

Ben? I'd like to know in what month there is so much snow? or is it rare to see?

Irwan Laming 10 years ago

I went there on April last year and it was really an amazing experience. the building are just incredible. No wonder that it became a UNESCO cultural heritage area.

Lester Goh 10 years ago

The distinctive architecture and spatial planning has always been an inspiration to me. I always show photos to my teammates hoping that people will be similarly inspired, even if the project has nothing in common, hahaha. That, and I've never seen snow before. AHHHH. Sorry for my little nerd moment. Shirakawa-go is definitely definitely on my bucket list.