TRAVEL SERIES || Japan’s Rural Charm Comes Alive at This Traditional Alpine Village
As the world slowly re-opens post-pandemic, the desire to discover new lands and experiences is at an all-time high. Our travel series seeks to inspire you with unique travel options and itineraries worldwide, spanning the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and beyond. Join us as we indulge ourselves in the rural charm of Shirakawa-go, Japan.
I had lived for a year in the Kansai area of Japan during my university years, and it was a transformative experience. Although urban cities like Tokyo and Osaka are washed in the numerous lights from flashing billboards, Japan’s traditional rural villages are an oft-missed beauty where you can experience the country’s history and culture. In fact, these villages are like a preserved picture of classic Japanese Architecture sheltered by ancient forests and frosted mountains.
The thatched roof farmhouses of Shirakawa-go.
You don’t need to journey as far north as snowy Hokkaido or as far South as Shikoku to experience the country’s rural beauty. If you are flying into Tokyo and spending a few days basking in the urban energy of the metropolitan city, you can hop on a train to visit the countryside for a taste of something entirely different.
Just 3.5 hours west of Tokyo by train, tucked away in the mountains of the landlocked prefecture of Gifu, you’ll find the historic village of Shirakawa-go, stunning in its unspoiled, traditional beauty. The village was originally established because of its remote location, which gives it an oasis-like aura untouched by time.
A serene oasis where you will find peace and quiet.
Composed of roughly 100 thatched-roof Japanese gassho-zukuri farmhouses, Shirakawa-go offers guests rustic shelter from the snows of winter and the heat of summer. The largest village, Ogimachi, is flush with sightseeing opportunities and museums and acts as the perfect staging point for venturing into the alpine valley beyond.
Recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site, an overnight or multi-night stay at one of Shirakawa-go’s fairytale farmhouses is the perfect way to experience Japan’s humble roots, and get far, far away from the concerns and worries of a post-COVID world. Warm yourself by a roaring farmhouse fire in the cool nights and enjoy traditional Japanese countryside comforts at a picturesque village from another era.
For more information on Shirakawa-go, visit the website here.
The thatched roof provides a cool breeze in the summer and protection from the window snow.
Photos courtesy of Japan.travel
