Shirakawa-go: A Living Heritage
Discover Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO World Heritage village with iconic gassho-style farmhouses, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Shirakawa-go is a traditional village nestled in the Gifu Prefecture mountains, famed for its unique gassho-style farmhouses with steeply pitched thatched roofs resembling hands clasped in prayer. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, it offers a glimpse into Japan's rural past.
A brief summary to Shirakawa-go
- Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ogimachi, Ono District, Gifu, 501-5627, JP
- +815769-6-1311
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons like Golden Week and October/November.
- Consider staying overnight in a gassho-style house for a memorable experience, but book well in advance.
- Check the Shirakawa-go Tourist Association website for information on seasonal events and traffic conditions.
- Dress appropriately for the season, with warm layers in winter and comfortable shoes for walking.
- Be mindful of the local culture and respect the residents' privacy, as Shirakawa-go is not a theme park but a living village.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Takayama, take the Nohi Bus (also known as Hokuriku Rail Road or Toyama Chiho Railway) from the Takayama Nohi Bus Center. The journey to Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal takes approximately 50-65 minutes. From the bus terminal, the village is a short walk away. Bus tickets cost around ¥2,470 one way. Advance booking is highly recommended.
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Driving
From the Shirakawa-go Interchange on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, it's about a 10-minute drive to the village. Follow signs to the Seseragi Park Parking Area. Parking costs ¥1,000 for regular cars. From October, the parking fee will increase to ¥2,000. From the parking area, cross the Deai Bridge to enter the World Heritage area. Note that vehicle entry to the main street is restricted.
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Walking
From the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal or Seseragi Park Parking Area, the main attractions of Ogimachi village are easily accessible on foot. The Wada House is about a 15-20 minute walk, while the Shiroyama Viewpoint takes around 30-35 minutes. A shuttle bus to the Shiroyama Viewpoint is available from in front of Wada House for ¥200.
Discover more about Shirakawa-go
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hida no Sato Open Air Museum
32.6 km
Discover traditional Japanese architecture and rural life at Hida no Sato Open Air Museum in Takayama, featuring historic houses and craft demonstrations.
Hida Kokubunji Temple
33.7 km
Explore Hida Kokubunji Temple in Takayama: a historic landmark with a three-story pagoda and ancient ginkgo tree dating back to 746 AD.
Takayama Jinya
34.2 km
Explore Japan's only remaining Edo-era government office, Takayama Jinya, and step back in time to experience feudal administration and culture.
Daijoji Kyuryo Park
37.7 km
Escape to Daijoji Kyuryo Park for panoramic views, tranquil gardens, and a peaceful retreat in Kanazawa.
Inotani Checkpoint Hall
38.1 km
Explore the history of the Inotani Checkpoint, where Hida and Etchu once met, with ancient documents, models, and a VR basket ferry experience.
D.T. Suzuki Museum
39.9 km
Find serenity and contemplate Zen philosophy at the D.T. Suzuki Museum, a tribute to the influential Buddhist scholar in tranquil Kanazawa.
Shofukaku garden
40.0 km
Discover a serene oasis in Kanazawa at Shofukaku Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape offering tranquility and seasonal beauty.
Kenrokuen Garden Kodatsuno Gate
40.0 km
Discover Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa: A landscape masterpiece blending history, artistry, and natural beauty in one of Japan's most celebrated gardens.
Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well
40.1 km
Explore the serene Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well in Kanazawa, a historical landmark surrounded by nature's beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Ryuseki
40.1 km
Discover Ryuseki, a hidden gem in Kanazawa, offering a tranquil escape near the famed Kenrokuen Garden.
Sekirei-jima (Wagtail Island)
40.2 km
A symbolic island within Kanazawa's Kenrokuen Garden, representing life's journey through birth, marriage, and death.
Kenrokuen Garden Kamisaka Gate
40.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, a masterpiece of Japanese landscaping and a must-visit for every nature lover.
Kenroku-en
40.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top gardens, featuring stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage in Kanazawa.
Yoshiro and Yoshio Taniguchi Museum of Architecture
40.3 km
Explore the architectural legacy of Yoshiro and Yoshio Taniguchi in a modern museum nestled in Kanazawa's historic temple district.
Gankou-Bashi (Flying Geese Bridge)
40.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kanazawa's Gankou-Bashi, the Flying Geese Bridge, nestled in the heart of Kenrokuen Garden.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kanda House
0.1 km
Explore Kanda House, a heritage marvel in Shirakawa, Gifu, showcasing traditional architecture and local history in a serene setting.
Nagase House
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite Nagase House, a traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Japan's cultural heritage.
Myozenji Museum
0.2 km
Explore traditional life and architecture at Myozenji Museum in Shirakawa-go, a window into the region's rich cultural heritage and history.
Wooden Walkway
0.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Shirakawa-go with a stroll along the picturesque Wooden Walkway, offering stunning views of traditional Japan.
Myozenji
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Myozenji Temple in Ogimachi, a must-visit destination for every traveler in Japan.
Wada House
0.3 km
Explore the architectural marvel of Wada House in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Water Lily Pond
0.3 km
Find serenity at Shirakawa-go's Water Lily Pond, a tranquil escape reflecting the beauty of the Japanese Alps.
Hachiman Shrine Shirakawa
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and cultural richness of Hachiman Shrine Shirakawa, a hidden gem in Gifu, Japan.
Shirakawa-go World Heritage Site Gassho Style Preservation Trust
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning gassho-zukuri farmhouses and breathtaking natural beauty.
Jin Homura Art Museum
0.4 km
Discover contemporary art in a traditional Gassho-style farmhouse at the Jin Homura Art Museum in Shirakawa-go, a unique cultural experience.
Shirakawa go no Yu
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Shirakawa go no Yu, a traditional onsen nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Shirakawa-go, Japan.
Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en
0.5 km
Experience the beauty of Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing traditional Japanese farmhouses in stunning natural surroundings.
合掌村 Ogimachi
0.6 km
Explore the timeless beauty of Ogimachi, a UNESCO World Heritage village showcasing traditional gassho-style farmhouses in a stunning natural setting.
Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck
0.6 km
Discover breathtaking views of Shirakawa's gassho-zukuri farmhouses from the historic Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck, a must-visit tourist attraction.
Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck
0.6 km
Experience panoramic views of Shirakawago at Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck, a stunning observation point surrounded by natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Shiraogi
0.1 km
Discover authentic teishoku dining at Shiraogi in Shirakawa - where every meal tells a story steeped in tradition.
Hidaji
0.1 km
Discover authentic Soba noodles at Hidaji, a charming Syokudo restaurant nestled in Shirakawa's picturesque landscape.
Yamamotoya
0.1 km
Discover authentic soba noodles at Yamamotoya in Shirakawa - where tradition meets deliciousness amidst breathtaking scenery.
Nomura
0.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese soba noodles at Nomura in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every bowl.
Zensuke
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zensuke in Shirakawa-go—home to exquisite kushiyaki amidst breathtaking heritage scenery.
Shiawaseya Kichibei
0.1 km
Experience authentic local cuisine at Shiawaseya Kichibei in Shirakawa-go, where tradition meets convenience amidst stunning scenery.
Keyaki
0.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Keyaki in Shirakawa-go—where tradition meets flavor in a breathtaking setting.
Tanaka-ya
0.2 km
Experience the essence of Japan at Tanaka-ya, where handmade soba noodles meet breathtaking views in Shirakawa-go.
Yukinko
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yukinko in Shirakawa-go amidst stunning landscapes and traditional architecture.
Hakusuien
0.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese dining at Hakusuien in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Shirakawago Restaurant Irori
0.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, nestled in the scenic beauty of Shirakawa-go's heritage village.
Soba dojo Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic soba noodles in the heart of Shirakawa-go's breathtaking landscape at Soba Dojo.
Soba Wakimoto
0.4 km
Savor authentic handmade soba noodles in Shirakawa's scenic Ogimachi village, where tradition meets breathtaking views.
Arai
0.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Arai in Shirakawa, where traditional dishes meet stunning cultural heritage.
Kita no Sho
0.5 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kita no Sho in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
佐藤民芸品店
0.0 km
Discover the essence of Japanese craftsmanship at Sato Mingei Handicrafts Shop in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
白川郷HAKKO堂
0.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of tradition and taste at 白川郷HAKKO堂, where exceptional coffee meets the serene beauty of Shirakawa.
Kondou Shoten
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese liquors at Kondou Shoten in Shirakawa, a treasure trove of local sake and spirits.
Mamekichi Honpo Shirakawago
0.1 km
Explore Mamekichi Honpo Shirakawago, a quaint souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, showcasing local crafts and delicious treats steeped in tradition.
豆菓子専門店「豆吉本舗」 白川郷店
0.1 km
Explore Mame Kichi Honpo in Shirakawa-go for authentic Japanese bean snacks and a delightful cultural experience.
民芸品店おけさ
0.1 km
Explore the charm of Shirakawa at Okesa Souvenir Store, where authentic Japanese crafts and heartfelt memories combine.
Ochuudo
0.1 km
Discover Ochuudo, the perfect café retreat in Shirakawa-go, offering exquisite coffee and traditional sweets amidst stunning mountain views.
Okuzaemon
0.1 km
Discover unique crafts and traditional home goods at Okuzaemon, a charming store in the heart of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sanrakudo
0.1 km
Discover the essence of Japan at Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies.
ZEN
0.1 km
Experience the authentic tastes of Japan at ZEN, a Japanese delicatessen in Shirakawa, where traditional cuisine meets serene ambiance.
Gassho
0.1 km
Explore Gassho, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, offering local crafts and delicacies that reflect the beauty of Japan's heritage.
てづか民芸品店 Neo
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting てづか民芸品店 Neo in Shirakawa for authentic Japanese souvenirs and handcrafted treasures.
Kataribe
0.2 km
Explore Kataribe Souvenir Store in Shirakawa for authentic Japanese crafts and unique gifts that embody the spirit of traditional culture.
”Kyoshu” Traditional Coffee Shop
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese coffee culture at Kyoshu Traditional Coffee Shop in scenic Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Shirakawago Purin no Ie (Pudding House)
0.2 km
Experience the sweetness of Shirakawa-go at Purin no Ie, renowned for its delicious puddings and delightful desserts in a charming café setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
だんご屋 ゆたか
0.2 km
Experience the sweetness of traditional Japanese dango at だんご屋 ゆたか, a charming takeout restaurant in the historic village of Shirakawa.
Shiroyamakan
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Japan at Shiroyamakan, a traditional inn offering authentic cuisine and stunning views in Shirakawa.
Koshiyama
0.9 km
Discover Koshiyama in Shirakawa for authentic soba noodles and unique antiques, a perfect blend of culinary delight and cultural charm.
Tenkara, Shirakawa
1.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of authentic Yakiniku at Tenkara, Shirakawa, where quality meets tradition in a picturesque setting.
Yamakoshi
1.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of Japan at Yamakoshi, a charming soba noodle shop in Shirakawa, where tradition meets flavor.
リトルビレッジ
25.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Little Village Bar in Hida, Gifu, where local flavors and friendly faces create an unforgettable experience.
リトルビレッジ
25.3 km
Experience the unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and local flavors at Little Village, Hida's beloved bar.
Shinanoya
25.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of traditional Japanese izakaya dining combined with exquisite wines at Shinanoya in Hida, Gifu.
ヒダノオクブルワリー
25.4 km
Experience the best of Gifu's craft beers at Hida No Oku Brewery in the charming town of Hida.
Marin Blue
25.4 km
Experience the warmth of Hida's nightlife at Marin Blue, a charming bar offering local drinks and a cozy atmosphere for all travelers.
Cinq
33.3 km
Experience the charm of Takayama at Cinq, a cozy bar offering exquisite drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Barrl
33.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Barrl, a cozy pub in Takayama, where locals and tourists come together for a memorable evening.
Yu
33.7 km
Discover Yu in Takayama, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a cozy ambiance, perfect for a memorable night out.
Hids' cafe & bar
33.7 km
Experience the unique blend of café culture and bar vibes at Hids' Cafe & Bar, a must-visit spot in the heart of Takayama.
Botchini
33.7 km
Discover the charm of Botchini, a cozy bar in Takayama, serving local delights and exquisite drinks in a warm atmosphere.
