Deep in the scenic valley of Japan Alps, but easily accessible by highway, was the beautiful village of Shirakawa-Go, a wonderland of beautiful landscape with traditional farmhouses built in the style called Gassho-Zukuri, a steeply thatch roof house to prevent snow accumulation. The houses were really unique and different with mainstream Japanese architecture which cannot be found in other region of this country.

Since the farmhouses were designed for winter, I decided to see the village in the best time of the year, February when the snow was heaviest, and my decision was correct, the whole village was liked a fantasyland with the unique Gassho-Zukuri roofs emerged from the white sea of snow. The houses were really big and beautiful, and the snow made them looked more unbelievable to be existed.

The village was well prepared for tourism, locals made many cute snowmen for photo spot while in the souvenir shops were packed with hundreds of gifts made in the shape of Gassho-Zukuri. After the village I went to the famous viewpoint to see the postcard view of the village, and the view was just amazing and should be seen by everyone. Then I continued my trip to Shirakawa-Go-no-Yu, the traditional hot spring bath hall, to sample the experience, the hot spring and the river view from outdoor bath were really good.

I really enjoyed my trip to Shirakawa-Go; the village in winter was exceeding my expectation and was one of the highlights of Japan apart from Kyoto which was always my highlight of every Japan trips. Actually, judging from other reviews, the place seems to be great for every season and from my opinion, another great WHS that deserved to be listed and seen.