Things to do in Shirakawa-go
Discover the best attractions and experiences Shirakawa-go has to offer
Historic Monuments
Shirakawa-go's UNESCO-listed village is defined by its iconic thatched-roof houses and timeless rural lanes.
Ogimachi Village (Gassho-zukuri district)
The heart of Shirakawa-go, where thatched-roof houses line narrow lanes and create the village’s distinctive skyline.
Wada House
One of the largest gassho-zukuri houses, preserved as a museum showcasing traditional life.
Kanda House
A preserved thatched farmhouse offering a glimpse into historic rural life.
Museums
Small museums preserve the culture and craft of Shirakawa-go’s gassho-zukuri houses.
Gassho-zukuri Minkaen (Open-Air Folk Museum)
An open-air collection of traditional thatched houses illustrating rural life.
Shirakawa-go Folklore Museum
Exhibits about traditional crafts, daily life, and the history of the village.
Nagase-ke Museum
A historic house turned museum displaying the large thatched-roof architecture.
Religious Monuments
Religious and spiritual sites tucked into the village streets and surrounding hills.
Shirakawa Shrine (Shinto)
A small Shinto shrine tucked among the thatched houses, often visited by locals.
Hachiman Shrine (nearby hillside)
A compact shrine offering a peaceful pause during a village stroll.
National & Theme Parks
Nearby natural areas perfect for alpine scenery and hiking.
Chubu-Sangaku National Park
Rugged peaks and scenic trails in the central Japanese Alps region.
Hakusan National Park
Protected wilderness with mountains, forests, and seasonal wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Explore the village's distinct sections and the surrounding thatch-roof neighborhoods.
Ogimachi Village Center
The core district where most thatched houses cluster and visitors gather.
Shiroyama Viewpoint Area
Scenic streetscape and viewpoints offering panoramic village shots.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the village at no cost with scenic walks and outdoor views.
Stroll through Ogimachi Village
Wander past the iconic gassho-zukuri houses and take photos.
Shiroyama Viewpoint
Climb or walk to a vantage point for sweeping village views.
Photo walk along the Shogawa riverbanks
Relaxing riverside paths perfect for a sunset shot.
Gastronomy
Local flavors and simple countryside fare that pair with the rustic setting.
Gohei mochi
Grilled rice cakes on a skewer, brushed with miso and sesame.
Hida beef skewers
Tender grilled beef skewers from the region's renowned cattle.
Soba noodles
Rustic buckwheat noodles served in mountain inns.
Nightlife
Quiet evenings in the village with warm lights and cozy inns.
Evening stroll under lanterns in Ogimachi
A tranquil walk as the village lights glow around the thatch.
Local sake tasting at a traditional inn
Sample regional beverages in a rustic setting.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences that bring the village to life.
Traditional craft demonstrations (washi paper)
Watch artisans craft paper and weaving common in mountain villages.
Shirakawa-go seasonal events
Experience local festivals or seasonal lighting if available.
Sports
Outdoor activity options around the village and in the surrounding mountains.
Hiking the hillside trails
Explore forest trails with mountain views and rural scenery.
Winter snowshoeing
Seasonal snow routes with guided or self-guided routes.
Off the Track
Little-known corners and unique perspectives beyond the usual routes.
Sunrise from a back alley viewpoint
Hidden nooks that reveal unique angles of the village.
Night sky over the thatched rooftops
Clear nights provide star-filled skies above the village.