Shirakawa-go: The Most Beautiful Japanese Village
Nestled in the heart of Japan’s mountainous Gifu Prefecture lies Shirakawa-go, a village that looks as though it has sprung to life from the pages of a storybook. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, Shirakawa-go is renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are over 250 years old. These architectural wonders, paired with the village's stunning natural beauty and cultural richness, make Shirakawa-go one of the most enchanting destinations in Japan. Shirakawa-go translates to “White River Old District,” a name that echoes the pristine waters flowing through the village. The most iconic feature of Shirakawa-go is its gassho-zukuri farmhouses. The term “gassho-zukuri” means “constructed like hands in prayer,” as the steep thatched roofs of these houses resemble the hands of Buddhist monks pressed together in prayer. This architectural style is not only visually striking but also practical. The roofs’ steep slant allows snow to slide off easily,...
