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Shirakawa-go

Scenic spot
★ 4.9 (12K+ reviews) • 308K+ booked
Welcome to Shirakawago, a top sightseeing destination in Gifu Prefecture, Japan! Here, you'll find traditional houses with steep, thatched roofs surrounded by nature. Three villages include this unique architecture, with Ogimachi Village standing out for having the most of these charming structures. Located at the foot of Mount Hakusan, a breathtaking site among Japan's Three Holy Mountains, Shirakawago is a fairytale-like UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a must-visit for its breathtaking and serene charm.
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Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ono District, Gifu 501-5627, Japan
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Shirakawa-go Reviews

4.9 /5
12K+ reviews
Read all reviews
LEI *******
11 Sep
A very fulfilling day tour. This time it was a combined tour with both Chinese and English-speaking guides. The English-speaking guide's introduction and explanations were very soft and difficult to hear, but he did send a lot of useful information to the group via WhatsApp. The lunch was delicious, and overall, I was satisfied.
2+
Stephanie ***
11 Sep
Despite the summer heat, I truly enjoyed soaking in the beauty of the nature. The tour was well organized, timely, the bus was clean and cool with the A/C, and I was happy to see more countryside areas of Gifu. Really no complaints, just wish we had more than 120 minutes at each location. Leaves around 8:00 and gets back 18:30
2+
Leung ****
10 Sep
The meeting point is conveniently located near the hotel. The tour guide (Xiao Yu) is professional and attentive. The schedule is well-organized, and the explanations are detailed, ensuring that every member of the group enjoys a pleasant trip!
2+
Klook用戶
9 Sep
The explanation was clear. I was added to a group and received reminders about the pick-up time and location. There was plenty of time. Participating with the lunch package is convenient and saves time. There was also time to go up to the observation deck for a panoramic view of Shirakawa-go.
2+
Klook User
9 Sep
Taking a day trip from Nagoya to Takayama and Shirakawa-go is very convenient. The journey takes a little over two to three hours. Although the weather was hot, the tour bus was very comfortable. We had two hours to stroll and have lunch in Takayama's old town. The time allotted for sightseeing in Shirakawa-go was also sufficient. The tour guide introduced local attractions and recommended shops in Chinese, English, and Japanese. Previously, I had a bad experience with a non-stop talking guide on a day trip in another area which lasted 10 hours, and I was hesitant to join another one for a while. This time, I especially appreciated that the guide's commentary was just right and not overly verbose. I am very grateful. I recommend this tour.
2+
chan ******
9 Sep
The itinerary and tour guide were excellent. Our guide, Xiaoliu, was very attentive and recommended worthwhile places to shop and eat nearby. However, the tour bus driver drove very fast, regardless of the weather. They were constantly overtaking other vehicles (much faster than private cars and small trucks on the road), and I even have a video of it.
SUWEE *****************
8 Sep
Experience the best Takayama and Shirakawa-go tour available. The two destinations for my day trip were departing on time and it was easy to find the meeting point. See the Miyakawa morning market, Nakabashi bridge, Hida kokubunji temple, and Takayama Old Town. Before visiting Shirakawa-go village, take a look at the village from above on the observation deck. Your photos are being taken by staff, and you can obtain a small photo for free. Gassho-zukuri buildings can be found in this village
2+
tu ****
7 Sep
This day trip to the countryside was a delightful experience! The air was fresh, the scenery was beautiful, the activities were well-organized, and the tour guide was thoughtful and professional. The whole trip was relaxing and carefree, allowing me to unwind and recharge. Highly recommended!

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FAQs about Shirakawa-go

Why is Shirakawa-go famous?

Is Shirakawa-go worth visiting?

Is Shirakawa-go near Tokyo or Osaka?

What is the difference between Shirakawa and Shirakawa-go?

What to know about Shirakawa-go

What to know before visiting Shirakawago

Things to Do in Shirakawago

1. Shirakawa-go

Visit a fairytale village of traditional thatched-roof houses and historic buildings and take a delightful journey back in time. Located at the base of the known Mt. Hakusan, Shirakawa-go stands out as a must-see destination in Gifu. As one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this stunning traditional village embodies picture-perfect beauty, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.

2. Ogimachi

Discover Shirakawago's largest village, an ideal day trip from Takayama or a stop between Takayama and Kanazawa. For an authentic experience, you can spend the night at a converted farmhouse, perfect for cozy Minshuku accommodations. These historic structures, designed for cold winters, offer a picturesque stay, whether blanketed in snow or surrounded by fields.

3. Omicho Market

At Kanazawa's largest fresh food market, experience the vibrant local life giving you a variety of fresh seafood, produce, and unique products. Make sure to try a scrumptious seafood rice bowl and explore the lively market atmosphere.

4. Kanazawa Castle

Go back in time at Kanazawa Castle, a significant historical site that was once the seat of powerful feudal lords. Explore the reconstructed castle compounds and explore the traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.

5. Oyama Shrine

Visit the uniquely designed Oyama Shrine, known for its East-meets-West religious theme and unconventional architecture.Embrace the local culture of this important shrine and admire its distinctive features.

Tips for Your Shirakawago Visit

When is the best time to visit Shirakawago?

Shirakawago is a fantastic destination all year round, but each season offers its own unique charm. Spring and autumn are particularly popular for their beautiful landscapes and pleasant weather. Winter, however, brings a magical atmosphere with snow-covered gassho-style houses, making it an enchanting time to visit.

How to go to Shirakawago?

You can reach Shirakawago by bus from major cities like Tokyo, Nagoya, and Kanazawa. The Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal even offers currency exchange services for your convenience. For local travel within the area, shuttle buses are available to take you to key attractions.

Where to stay in Shirakawago?

Make your visit truly memorable by going for an overnight stay at one of Shirakawa-go's charming farmhouses---a rewarding way to feel the ambiance of a traditional Japanese family home and get up close with the iconic gassho-zukuri buildings. Experience the authentic charm of these accommodations, where guest rooms include tatami mat floors and low tables in the traditional Japanese style.

What should I know about visiting Shirakawago in winter?

If you're planning to visit Shirakawago in winter, be prepared for the cold weather. Dress warmly and consider bringing snow gear. Also, you can check the illumination schedule in advance to ensure you don't miss the spectacular winter illuminations.

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