In the heart of the Gifu and Toyama prefectures in Japan, there are two historic villages that seem straight out of a fairy tale: Shirakawago and Gokayama. Nestled in the Japanese Alps, these villages are famous for their traditional houses, known as Gassho-zukuri, which are a living testament to centuries of history and culture. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they offer a unique opportunity to explore the past and immerse oneself in a charming setting.
Visiting Shirakawago and Gokayama is not just a sightseeing tour, but an immersion in how architecture, nature, and culture interact harmoniously. If you are fascinated by the beauty and simplicity of rural life in Japan, get ready to fall in love with these villages.
Table of Contents
What is Gassho-zukuri?
O termo Gassho-zukuri (合掌造) significa literalmente “mãos em oração” e descreve o formato dos telhados dessas casas tradicionais. Feitos de palha de arroz, os telhados inclinados lembram as mãos de monges budistas durante a oração, simbolizando a espiritualidade e resistência dos habitantes da região. Construídas inteiramente de madeira, essas casas foram projetadas para ar os invernos rigorosos e a grande quantidade de neve que cobre a região todos os anos.
Structure and Design of Houses
The roofs are slanted at an angle of 60 degrees, helping the snow to slide off easily and creating a large space in the attic, which was used for silkworm farming. In addition, the houses are oriented from north to south, minimizing wind resistance. This architectural design is the result of generations of accumulated knowledge, proving that these villages developed sustainable solutions to cope with the severe climate.
Daily Life in Houses
Inside the houses, the functional design continues: the attics were not only storage spaces but also used for economic activities, such as silk production. The wooden construction, without nails, is incredibly durable, and the use of straw on the roofs is renewed every 20 to 30 years in a community effort, demonstrating the strong spirit of cooperation among the residents.
These unique structures, with over 300 years of history, continue to impress visitors, especially during the winter, when the snow-covered roofs turn the landscape into a magical scene.
The Village of Gokayama
Gokayama (五箇山), located in the city of Nanto, is one of the most authentic areas of the region, situated along the Shogawa River. The beauty of Gokayama lies in its simplicity and isolation, which have helped preserve centuries-old traditions. The villages of Taira, Kamitaira, and Toga are perfect examples of how the locals have managed to keep their cultural practices intact over time.
Historical Villas of Gokayama
- AinokuraOne of the best-preserved villages, with about 20 Gassho-zukuri houses. Here, you can learn about the local culture by visiting the Ainokura Minzoku-kan, a museum that displays ancient utensils and artifacts of rural life.
- SuganumaAnother charming village that offers the opportunity to explore houses that have been converted into small museums. The village's nighttime illumination during the winter is a spectacle in itself.
Visitors can explore local museums, such as the Ainokura Minzoku-kan, which provides a detailed insight into the rural way of life of the inhabitants of Gokayama, or experience Japanese hospitality in traditional accommodations.
Shirakawago: The Jewel of the Japanese Alps
Shirakawago (白川郷) is the most famous village in this region and attracts tourists from all over the world due to its picturesque landscape. The largest village, Ogimachi, is the main tourist spot, with more than 50 well-preserved Gassho-zukuri houses. As you walk through Ogimachi, you realize that each building tells a story — from the families that lived there to the traditions of silk cultivation.
Main Attractions of Shirakawago
- Wada House (Wada-ke)One of the largest houses in the village, open to the public as a museum. It is a perfect example of how the wealthiest local families lived.
- Myozenji TempleThis temple has a unique thatched roof and a fascinating history. Visitors can get a close look at how the roof was constructed and learn about the temple's spiritual role in the village.
- Observatório ShiroyamaFor the best panoramic view of the village, the Shiroyama Observatory is a must-visit. The view is spectacular in any season, but winter brings a special charm with the snow-covered landscape.
Winter transforms Shirakawago into a true wonderland, as snow covers the sloping rooftops and lights up the village during special night illumination events. In summer, the lush green rice fields and the sound of the river waters make the atmosphere equally magical.
Must-See Facts and Experiences
Check out some curiosities and things to do in the region:
- Inspiração de AnimeThe village of Hinamizawa, from the famous anime Higurashi When They Cry, is based on Shirakawago, attracting fans to experience the real scenery.
- Casas HistóricasThe Gassho-zukuri houses are between 200 and 300 years old and are carefully maintained by their owners, who still live in them.
- Hospedagem TradicionalMany visitors choose to spend the night in a Gassho-zukuri house, experiencing local cuisine and learning about Japanese customs.
- Museus e CulturaVisit museums like Minkaen, where you can gain a better understanding of the region's agricultural life, and take the opportunity to taste typical dishes at restaurants like Kanda-ke.
- Festivais Locais: Em outubro, o Doburoku Matsuri celebrate the harvest with Shinto rituals, music, and traditional dances. Try doburoku, a type of homemade sake, during the festival.
