Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri houses

The history and characteristics of Gassho-zukuri houses

The name "Gassho-zukuri Village" comes from its architectural style, which resembles two hands clasped together. Thus, the houses are called Gassho-zukuri houses, and the village itself is known as "Gassho-zukuri Village."Gassho-zukuri VillageLooking across Japan, only these few villages have houses with such a structure. 300 years ago, in order to adapt to the valley environment, the residents designed the roofs of their wooden houses into equilateral triangles with a 60-degree sloping angle. In addition to blocking the cold wind, this angle also allows the roofs to bear heavy snow, while allowing excessive snow to naturally collapse.

These wooden historical buildings, preserved from the Tokugawa Shogunate and the late Edo period of Japan, are most vulnerable to fire. Therefore, when you visit Gassho-zukuri Village, you will see many fire hydrants and water spray equipment, and fire prevention drills are held regularly every year.

Architectural and cultural features

Every house in a Gassho-zukuri village has a hearth in its living room. Above the hearth is a large suspended panel. This is because sparks from burning charcoal rise with the hot air, and the panel prevents them from flying onto the roof and causing a fire. This panel is made of paulownia wood planks, which are lightweight and fire-resistant, requiring no fire-retardant coating.

Tourist Tips

In Ogimachi, Shirakawa-mura, in addition to regular ryokans and hot spring ryokans, there are over 20 gassho-style guesthouses offering accommodation. The following are recommended attractions:

• Building Homes with Hands
• Wada Family (Important Cultural Property)
• The Nagase family and the Kanda family
• Myozenji Temple
• Shiroyama Observation Deck at the Ogimachi Castle Ruins

To get a panoramic view of the entire village, you can take the direct sightseeing bus from SESERAGI Park (200 yen one way) or walk for about 30 minutes.

Travel Guidelines

The village is not a theme park; it is a residential area with residents. Please observe the following etiquette:

• Please do not litter or bring trash in; take your trash home with you.
• Please do not smoke while walking; please smoke in designated areas.
• Please protect nature and do not take away the plants from the village.
• Please do not enter private residences, land, or rice paddies, and do not pick flowers or crops grown by residents.
• Please use the designated public restroom.
• Camping is prohibited, but designated camping areas may be used.