A Winter Day Trip to Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Nestled in the remote mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique 250-year-old gassho-zukuri farmhouses and picturesque landscapes. Shirakawa-go is one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in Japan. Although I’ve only been to Japan twice (so far), I must say that Shirakawa-go is definitely a must-visit place when exploring Japan, most especially during winter.

Since it’s my first time experiencing the winter season, seeing and experiencing the snow is truly a dream for me! Thus, I decided to stay in Sapporo for 4 days but also added Shirakawa-go to my list since my friend also wanted to see and experience the snow. (Unfortunately, he wasn’t coming with me to Sapporo!)

Thus, if you’re traveling to Japan soon, then you must include Shirakawa-go in your itinerary! If you only have a limited amount of time, a day trip to Shirakawa-go is possible! With that, here’s a day trip guide to Shirakawa-go, Japan!

Table of Contents

How to Get to Shirakawa-go, Japan?

From Osaka

From Osaka, you can take a bullet train to Nagoya. Then, from Nagoya Station, walk to Meitetsu BC Bus Stop and transfer to a Gifu Bus bound for Shirakawa-go. Get off at Shirakawago BT Bus Stop. Travel time is approximately 3 hours from Nagoya.

From Tokyo

You can take the Shinkansen Hokuriku to Toyama Station. Then, switch to the Nouhi bus and alight at Shirakawago BT bus stop.

From Kanazawa or Takayama

The easiest way to get to Shirakawa-go is by the Nohi Bus, which departs multiple times a day. Travel time is approximately 50 minutes by bus from Takayama Nohi Bus Center to Shirakawago.

When is the best time to visit Shirakawa-go?

Shirakawa-go is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. But winter is the best time to visit Shirakawago. The entire place seemed like a winter wonderland, where everything was covered in snow. Also, if you’re lucky enough, you can also experience snowfall in the village.

So far I’ve only been to Shirakawa-go once during the winter, when the village looked like a snow-covered wonderland. This is one of the most magical places I’ve visited in Japan! I totally fell in love with the place.

Best Things to See and Do in Shirakawa-go

a happy girl first time experiencing snow

shiroyama observatory at shirakawa-go japan

Explore the Gassho-Zukuri Farmhouses

The highlight of Shirakawa-go is its gassho-zukuri houses, which have steeply thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. The architecture is centuries old and resembles hands in prayer (“gassho”).

Wada House

This is one of the largest and oldest farmhouses, now a museum that shows the traditional life of the locals in the village.

Kanda House

You can explore the interior of this beautifully preserved house and see the traditional crafts on display.

Shiroyama Observatory

For a panoramic view of the entire village, make sure to hike to the Shiroyama Observatory. The view from here is especially breathtaking during winter when the thatched roofs are blanketed in snow. Trekking time is about 30 minutes or depending on your pacing.

Ogimachi Village

Stroll through Ogimachi, the largest village in Shirakawa-go. Take your time walking around to soak in the traditional atmosphere, visit local shops, and try handmade crafts or local snacks.

Essential Tips When Visiting Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go experiences all four seasons, so pack accordingly. In winter, dress warmly with snow boots. The temperature could go beyond negative degrees, so make sure that you are dressed appropriately.
Observe silence. Please do not talk too loud or you must avoid yelling in the village. Respect the locals living in the village.
Drones are not allowed in the village.
While English isn’t widely spoken, most signs are in English, and locals are friendly and accommodating to travelers.

A Day Trip to Shirakawa-go via KLOOK

the ultimate day tour to shirakawa-go japan

For a less-hassle trip, you can book a day trip to Shirakawa-go via KLOOK. You can book a Shirakawago day tour from Nagoya on Klook!

This is actually what my friend and I did. We booked a Shirakawa-go day tour via Klook, and we’ve really had a smooth trip with them! Also, before arriving in Shirakawa-go, we had a two-hour stop in Takayama and had the opportunity to explore the town a bit! Takayama is underrated! It feels so peaceful and a nice small town. Not to mention the fact that we were able to try some amazing local food in Takayama! I felt like visiting this place and exploring it longer the next time I come to Japan!

Is Shirakawa-go worth visiting?

Shirakawa-go is worth visiting, whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or not. Travel time seems long a day, but it’s all worth it. Shirakawago is truly a magical place in Japan, especially in winter!

Shirakawa-go offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s rural past, with its iconic architecture and serene landscapes. Whether you’re coming for a day or staying a few nights, this village is definitely an unforgettable escape into a slower, more traditional side of Japan.