Leap into an old world, straight out of a fairy tale, and experience the picturesque harmony between the village and nature!

Hidden away deep in the mountains is this quaint settlement in Shirakawa Village that is famous for its ”gassho-zukuri” houses whose grand roofs resemble hands clasped in prayer. Many of these houses are still inhabited to this day, and together with their adjacent rice paddies, they paint an incredibly picturesque landscape that is a joy to behold and to take a stroll through. The Shiroyama Viewpoint offers a great panoramic view of the settlement in its entirety.

The oldest and largest remaining gassho-zukuri house in the village, the Wada Residence, is still used as a private residence, but part of it is also open to the public for viewing. There, you will find many tools used in everyday life a long time ago displayed throughout the house.

Some gassho-zukuri houses also offer accommodation. Be sure to book in advance if considering this memorable option!

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Basic Information

Address

Ogi-machi, Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture

Access

【From Takayama】 50 min by bus from Takayama Nohi Bus Center (Nohi Bus/Hokuriku Rail Road/Toyama Chiho Railway)
【From Nagoya】2 hr 50 min by bus from the Meitetsu Bus Center (Gifu Bus)
【From Kanazawa】 1 hr 15 min by bus from Kanazawa Sta. (Nohi Bus/Hokuriku Rail Road)

Price

Free (museum and park admission fees separate)

Telephone Number 05769-6-1013
Website Visit Website
Notes

Parking Area (8:00-17:00)
・Cars: 1,000 yen
・Motorcycles: 200 yen
・Buses/Mini Buses: 3,000 yen