Unexpectedly Encountering a Fairy Tale Village—Shirakawa-go

Finally, I arrived at Shirakawa-go, the place I had read about in textbooks. Seeing these gassho-style houses with their thick thatched roofs in person truly felt like stepping into a fairy tale world. Shirakawa-go is most famous in winter, when the roofs are covered with thick layers of snow, resembling adorable gingerbread houses. However, it’s equally beautiful in spring, summer, and autumn, with lush greenery or vibrant autumn leaves, each season offering its own unique charm. Strolling casually through the village, you’ll find small bridges, flowing streams, and meticulously maintained gardens by the locals, creating a serene atmosphere. I couldn’t resist trying the local Hida beef skewers and a warm bowl of soba noodles, which instantly warmed me up. These gassho-style houses may look simple, but they are ingeniously constructed without a single nail—truly fascinating! Standing at the observation deck and looking over the entire village, it felt as if time had slowed down. It’s truly a place that makes you forget all your worries.