Highlights and access methods of Shirakawa-go (Gifu Prefecture)

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Shirakawa-go primarily refers to the area around Shirakawa Village in Ono District, Gifu Prefecture. Particularly famous is the village of gassho-zukuri houses in the Ogimachi district. Surrounded by majestic nature, the sight of these traditional Japanese houses built to withstand heavy snowfall, standing side by side, is breathtaking. Additionally, it is noteworthy that these houses are still inhabited and used as homes by people today. In 1995, along with the Gokayama area in Toyama Prefecture, the gassho-zukuri villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama were registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

In this article, we will explain the attractions of Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture and how to access it for those who are traveling to Japan from overseas.

(Last modified: 2024-03-17)

(Prefecture : Gifu , Category : Townscapes and Area)

Highlights of Shirakawa-go

We will introduce the highlights of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

Deai Bridge

When driving to the Gassho-style village in Shirakawa-go, you can use the 'Seseragi Park Parking Lot' (though you may be directed to a temporary parking area). From the parking lot to the village, you cross the Sho River via the 'Deai Bridge'.

From the Deai Bridge, you can enjoy the view of the magnificent natural scenery surrounding Shirakawa-go.

Shirakawa-go landscape

The charm of Shirakawa-go lies in its Gassho-style village landscape, nestled amidst nature. This place, which can be described as a scene of Japan's original landscape, shows different aspects in each season.

Observatory

The Shirakawa-go Observatory is also famous as a photography spot, offering a view of the entire Shirakawa-go area. You can climb there on foot from the village or take a shuttle bus to the observatory, which departs from near the Wada House. There is also a parking lot, so you can come by car.

Besides the public Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory, there is also the Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observatory inside the 'Group Dining Place Tenshukaku' next door. This is private property and can only be used during business hours, so please be aware. The following photo was taken from the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory.

Wada House

The Wada House is one of the largest gassho-style buildings in the Shirakawa-go village and is a representative example of this architectural style. It is the only one designated as an Important Cultural Property by the nation. The exact year when the gassho-zukuri buildings were constructed is unknown, but it is said to be from the late Edo period.

The opening hours and admission fees are as follows (information as of the time of shooting, please inquire for accuracy):

The main house is a three-story building, and currently, the first and second floors are open to the public. As the house is still inhabited and used as a residence, private areas are not accessible to visitors. On the first floor, there's a large hearth, and the room displays dishes and other materials.

Going up the stairs, you can see the mezzanine and the second floor. The rooms above the second floor were used for sericulture, and currently, tools and equipment used for this purpose are on display.

The gaps in the second floor's flooring are designed to improve air circulation and to allow the heat from the hearth on the first floor to reach the upper floors.

From the windows on the second floor, you can enjoy the view outside.

Kanda House

The Kanda family originated from the second son of the Wada family, who established a separate house. The gassho-zukuri was built in the late Edo period, and it took ten years to complete.

The opening hours and admission fees are as follows (information as of the time of shooting, please inquire for accuracy):

The main house is a four-story building, and all four floors are open to the public. On the first floor, there is a large hearth and a space for resting. You can also see the place where they produced saltpeter (enshou) soil, a component of gunpowder.

The mezzanine was used by the servants. For fire prevention, there is a window known as 'Himimado' (fire-watching window), through which one can check the hearth's fire. It seems it was often checked at night upon waking.

The second floor displays tools used for sake brewing and daily life.

The third floor exhibits tools for sericulture (silkworm farming) and weaving looms.

The fourth floor is an attic space. You can go up to see it, but entry into the space itself is not permitted.

From the windows on each floor, you can enjoy the view outside.

Nagase House

The Nagase house is a five-story gassho-zukuri building (including a mezzanine). It was constructed in 1890, and it took three years to complete. The house gained attention when the roof was re-thatched in 2001, the first such renovation in 80 years, which was broadcasted on television.

The opening hours and admission fees are as follows (information as of the time of shooting, please inquire for accuracy):

The first floor displays a hearth, as well as various furnishings and art pieces. Additionally, the Buddhist altar is said to have been made 500 years ago.

The mezzanine was used by the servants.

On the second floor, tools that were used in daily life are displayed.

The third floor also displays tools used in daily life, similar to the second floor. Please note that many areas of the third floor have lattice flooring, and the only walkable part is a wooden pathway extending from one end to the other.

The fourth floor can be slightly glimpsed, but it is not possible to walk around in this part.

From the windows on the second floor, you can enjoy the view outside.

Myozenji Kuri

Myozenji is a Shinshu Otani-ha temple located within the Shirakawa-go village. Its main hall, bell tower gate (shoro-mon), and priest's quarters (kuri) are all constructed in the gassho-zukuri style with thatched roofs.

Myozenji Kuri is a five-story gassho-zukuri building created in the late Edo period and is used as a local museum.

The opening hours and admission fees are as follows (information as of the time of shooting, please inquire for accuracy):

As a route, you first go up the stairs to the second floor. On the second floor, various tools are displayed along with boards describing their uses.

The third floor appears to be used like a storage area. Please be aware that many areas of the third floor have lattice flooring, and the only walkable part is a wooden pathway that runs from one end to the other.

From the windows on the second and third floors, you can enjoy the view outside.

When you go down to the first floor, you can proceed into the main hall.

After returning to the Kuri using the same path, you can finally view the hearth and other features before exiting.

Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine

Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine is located a bit away from the center of the Shirakawa-go village. Every year in October, the 'Doburoku Festival' is held, during which prayers are offered to the mountain gods for abundant harvests, family safety, and peace in the village.

Shirakawa-go souvenir shops, restaurants & cafes, and guesthouses

Within the Shirakawa-go village, there are various souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes where you can dine, as well as guesthouses scattered around.

Souvenir shops

Part of the souvenir shop.

Restaurants & Cafes

Part of the restaurant and cafe. There are also shops selling snacks that you can enjoy while walking.

Cafe Ochiudo

I eat at Cafe Ochiudo every time I visit Shirakawa-go. You can have coffee, curry, and zenzai.

Guesthouses

These are some of the guesthouses where you can stay in the village.

Ogimachi Park

There is Ogimachi Park near the center of the village. It was developed as a park on a site that used to be a parking lot.

Within the park, there is a free rest area called 'Yururi'. Inside the rest area, there are benches, as well as a room for nursing and diaper changing. Additionally, there is a toilet next to the building.

In the buildings adjacent to Ogimachi Park, there are souvenir shops and eateries.

Snowy landscape of Shirakawa-go

This is the snowy landscape of Shirakawa-go.

For more detailed information about snowy landscape of Shirakawa-go, please see 「Complete guide to the highlights of snowy landscape of Shirakawa-go」.

List of photos related to Shirakawa-go

Please see below for a list of photos related to Shirakawa-go.

Address and access method of Shirakawa-go

Address of Shirakawa-go

The address of Shirakawa-go is "Ogimachi, Shirakawa Village, Ono District, Gifu Prefecture".

Access method of Shirakawa-go

I will explain how to access Shirakawa-go from Gifu Station. There are two ways to get there: you can go to Nagoya Station and take the express bus, or you can take the train to Takayama Station and take the express bus.

If you take the express bus from Nagoya Station:

When going from Gifu Station to Takayama Station and taking an express bus from Takayama Station:

Shirakawa-go parking lot

If you are visiting Shirakawa-go, please use the 'Seseragi Park Parking Lot'. Once you cross the 'Deai Bridge' from the parking lot, you will immediately reach Shirakawa-go. During busy times, you may be directed to use the 'Terao Temporary Parking Lot' or 'Midaishima Park (Temporary Parking Lot)'. For a map, please refer to the official website of Shirakawa Village, 「Parking in Shirakawa-go」.

Attractions near Shirakawa-go

Several notable attractions are located near Shirakawa-go:

Ukai(Cormorant fishing) on the Nagara River
Nagara River cormorant fishing in Gifu Prefecture is an enchanting spectacle that skillfully interweaves history, culture, and nature. The fascinating ancient fishing technique performed under the glow of bonfires, the profound beauty of the surrounding nature, and the delightful local cuisine, particularly the fresh Ayu, all contribute to making this a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

Aquatotto Gifu
Aquatotto Gifu is an impressive aquarium showcasing the diverse aquatic life of the Nagara River, providing an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. Visitors can explore various exhibits, including a large underwater tunnel, and attend interactive shows featuring sea lions and other marine creatures. This unique attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich aquatic ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts in the region.

Other information about Shirakawa-go

Official site about Shirakawa-go :

https://shirakawa-go.gr.jp/

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