Shirakawa-go is a region located in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture, in the central region of Japan. This area is popular for its beautiful traditional houses, especially known for their unique architectural style called "Gassho-zukuri."
The history of Shirakawa-go can be traced back to the Heian period (794-1185). The Gassho-zukuri houses are designed to protect the homes from the harsh winter snow, named for their roofs that resemble hands joined in prayer. Below is some key points highlighting this architectural style;
Roof Structure: The most notable feature of Gassho-zukuri is its thick, steeply sloped thatched roofs. These roofs are designed to withstand heavy snowfall, allowing snow to slide off easily during winter.
Materials: These houses are primarily built using timber and thatch. The use of these natural materials contributes to the beautiful landscape, blending the houses into surrounding nature.
Multipurpose Use: Inside the house, the space is typically used for various purposes, including living areas, farming tasks, and silk production. The attic is often used to dry agricultural products.
Durability: Gassho-zukuri houses are known for their durability, based on architectural techniques that succeeded through centuries. These houses are built to withstand the harsh winter conditions.
The traditional Gassho-zukuri houses in Shirakawa-go are constructed without using any nails. The structure supports the large roof by interlocking timber, with a steep slope to protect the house from heavy snow. This architectural style ensures durability and strength by using only timber and special techniques to interlock the wood without nails, thereby supporting the structure through skillful wood joinery.
Shirakawa-go, with its well-preserved traditional landscape and culture, was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. The main village, Ogimachi, offers visitors a glimpse into the life of old Japan.
The snow-covered Gassho-zukuri houses in winter create a magical landscape, attracting many tourists. From spring to autumn, visitors can enjoy the beautiful village scenery in harmony with nature. Visiting Shirakawa-go allows one to experience the spirit of Japan's traditional architectural techniques and the coexistence with nature.
However, the influx of tourists throughout the year impacts the local environment and residents' lives, including traffic congestion, noise, and litter problems. Excessive entry into the Gassho-zukuri houses and their surroundings could also negatively affect the preservation of these historical buildings.
When visiting Shirakawa-go, it's important to respect the beautiful natural environment by taking the trash with you and not entering prohibited historical buildings. Responsible behavior towards the environment is strongly encouraged.
For access, using public transportation, such as buses from the nearest major city, is common.
For those interested, please visit the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association's official website.
