Exploring the History of Shirakawa-go's Gassho-style Houses

Shirakawa-go, located in Gifu Prefecture, is a place where traditional ways of living are still cherished. I had the opportunity to visit the interior of one of the iconic Gassho-style houses. In this UNESCO World Heritage site, only a few houses are open for public viewing. This time, I visited the Nagase family house. The Nagase house is a five-story structure, with the third and fourth floors showcasing traditional tools and artifacts from the past. The first floor serves as a living space, complete with a hearth, and is still actively used for daily life. The warmth of the wooden construction and the remnants of traditional living evoke a sense of history that feels far removed from modern Japanese lifestyles. It was a home filled with a rich and warm history that is hard to imagine in today's world. I sincerely hope that this Gassho-style architecture and way of life will continue to be preserved for generations to come. 📍 Shirakawa-go, Nagase House Admission Fee: 400 yen 🕰️ Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM