Deep in the heart of mountains, Shirakawa-go is a vivid image of old Japan. Thatched roof houses sit under forest covered mountains. Every season seems to be accentuated, from the white snow of winter to the bright green grass of summer. National parks dot the area around, while a gorgeous river runs directly through the small village. Shirakawa-go is a view of ancient Japan and splendor of lush country sides.
- Located in the valley of the Shō River, in the Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go village was cut off from the rest of Japan as it modernized in the 20th century. Traditional ways are held dear, especially in the way they construct their farmhouses. The roofs of houses in Shirakawa are still made from harvesting local grasses and thatching them together. These A-frame style, multi-story houses are called Gasshō-zukuri. They do not use nails for this and form them in this way to hold up against the heavy blanket of snow that falls in the winter. Their shape is said to resemble the praying hands of Buddhist monks.
- These farmhouses are scattered throughout the village of only about 1,630 people. Add in that 95.7% of the area is mountainous forest and any visitors are in for a pleasant sight. In the winter, the Gasshō-zukuri and surrounding nature are covered in the serene white of winter. In autumn, the crisp colors of fiery fall cover the forests. Spring brings the cherry blossoms to life, their soft pink flowers blown across the landscape. No matter when the traveler chooses to explore the village of Shirakawa-go, beauty awaits the senses.
Shirakawa-go was dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and continues to be a top draw among travelers searching for a peaceful setting to admire Japan’s hidden gems. The village is a great stopover along the way to other cities and site around Japan. That’s why Stunning Tours has created multiple itineraries for the traveler to experience the Land of the Rising Sun. Whether it be Osaka, Hiroshima, Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, or the smaller villages like Shirakawa-go… Stunning Tours is prepared to take the traveler on the trip of lifetime.
Japan Specials with Stunning Tours
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- Osaka-Nara-Kyoto-Gifu-Mt Fuji-Hakone-Yokohama-Tokyo
- Osaka 3 nights: Nara Park, Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Hiroshima with shinkansen optional tour
- Gifu 1 night: Kyoto, Shirakawa-go (UNESCO World Heritage), Gokayama
- Matsumoto/Suwa area 1 night: Takayama Jinya, Sanmachi Suji
- Kanagawa 1 night: Mt Fuji, Mt Komagatake, Lake Ashi, Hakone
- Tokyo 2 nights: Yokohama, Aka-Renga Soko, Imperial Palace, Asakusa temple, Nakamise Shopping street
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- Osaka 1 night-Kobe-Nadagiku Shuzo Sake Brewery Kurashiki- Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.
- Hiroshima 1 night-UNESCO listed Miyajima Island-the most beautiful landscapes of Japan. Itsukushima Shrine and Atomic Bomb Dome.
- Himeji 1 night-Himeiji Castle-widely considered as the Japanese most spectacular castle for its imposing size and beauty.
- Kyoto 1 night-Fushimi-Inari Shine and Nara Deer Park
- Hamamatsu 1 night-Lake Yamanaka-largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and best spot to enjoy views of Mt.Fuji
- Tokyo 2 nights-with one leisure day.
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