One of our favourite UNESCO World Heritage Listed places to visit in Japan in Shirakawago. This village is famous for the traditional gassho-zukuri homes that line the streets. Their distinct architectural style includes steep thatched roofs that provide ventilation and reduce the build up of snow. The high ceilings also allow sericulture, or raw silk production in their roof cavities. The name of this farmhouse style came from the two slanting roofs that look like hands in prayer, known as Gassho. Wandering amongst these homes (especially when snow topped) is a picturesque sight you will never forget.

View All Japan & Northeast Asia Tours