In Gifu prefecture, near Takayama, is the village of Shirakawago. This village, which has been part of the UNESCO Heritage since 1995, is characterized as one of the few villages in Japan that maintain the architectural style of the Heian period: the gasshou-zukuri or minka.
The name eludes the pointed-roof shape of these houses, as gasshou, in Japanese, literally means hands joined in prayer. This particular form of construction is characteristic of this area of the country, with very harsh winters and constant snows. Observing this village, especially from the viewpoint that is located at the top of one of the mountains, allows us to appreciate another type of traditional Japan, less known but just as beautiful and interesting.
If you want to enjoy this unique town, located in a very beautiful valley, with a nature almost unaltered for centuries, this should be an unavoidable stop. Of course, with the increase in tourism, damage has also begun to occur in some houses in the area, so it is recommended to be very careful when visiting them, respecting the inhabitants of the place. To get to Shirakawago you can take a bus from Takayama.