ABOUT
About this spot
Located at the southwestern tip of Toyama Prefecture, Gokayama is a historic village of gassho-zukuri houses that, together with Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture, is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The biggest highlight is the cluster of "gassho-zukuri" houses, characterized by their steeply pitched thatched roofs. There are two main villages here, "Ainokura" and "Suganuma," and they remain precious places where people still live their daily lives. The scenery surrounded by steep mountains is full of simple, warm charm, as if you had wandered into a folktale. Between strolls, we recommend tasting local dishes such as the specialty "Gokayama tofu" and "salt-grilled iwana char," or trying a papermaking experience with the traditional craft "Gokayama washi." The beauty of the four seasons is also wonderful, with cherry blossoms in spring, deep green in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and the dreamlike snowy scenery created by the harsh winter cold, so you will find new emotion each time you visit. The winter night illumination events, in which the gassho-zukuri houses emerge in the snow, are extremely beautiful and captivate many people. Whether you want to quietly feel Japanese tradition with family or friends, or enjoy a trip that values time alone, Gokayama offers the best in soul-cleansing healing.
Last updated March 26, 2026