Shirakawa

Shirakawa (白川村, Shirakawa-mura) is a village located in Ōno District, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.

Population : 1,630

Shirakawa, a remote village in Japan’s Gifu Prefecture, stands as a living relic of the country’s rural past. Known for its iconic gasshō-zukuri farmhouses, the village's architecture is striking, with steeply sloped, thatched roofs built to endure the region’s harsh winters and heavy snowfall. These structures, some dating back over 250 years, are so unique that Shirakawa was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Nestled in the Japanese Alps, the village exudes a timeless charm, especially in winter, when the snow-covered landscape transforms it into a picturesque wonderland. Despite its isolation, Shirakawa remains a popular destination for those seeking to experience traditional Japanese culture, local craftsmanship, and scenic natural beauty.