If you yearn for the world of ice and snow, if you have a dreamy fairy tale world in your heart, then you don’t have to go far, Shirakawa-go, Japan can meet all your expectations.
Shirakawa-go, a name that sounds strange. It is a small village in Gifu Prefecture, located at the northern end of central Japan. Regardless of the small size of the village, it has the reputation of being one of Japan’s top four secret places.
Shirakawa-go is known for its palm-shaped houses. This 400-year-old house was built without a nail and the roof was tilted about 60 degrees to effectively avoid snow pressure on the roof. It is designated as a World Cultural Heritage.
The green trees, red leaves, and snowscapes have beautiful scenery all year round, attracting countless tourists.
But to say that the most charming scenery is Shirakawago in winter. In the winter, the snow is flying, and people come to a crystal-clear fairy-tale world and a quiet and peaceful world.
At the beginning of each year, a grand lighting ceremony is held in Shirakawago. This ceremony has become one of the most favorite festivals for travellers.
It is said that the best place to watch the lighting needs to be grabbed 5-6 hours in advance. And as more and more tourists came to the lighting ceremony in recent years, an appointment system has now been implemented.
After the light comes, you find that all the wait is worth it. The warm lights lit up the whole village, and the snow-covered Gassho House became fantastic under soft light, just like entering a fairy kingdom, like entering a fairytale dream.
2020 Lighting Event Schedule
Lighting time: 17:30 – 19:30
- Monday, January 13, 2020
- Sunday, January 19, 2020
- Sunday, January 26, 2020
- Sunday, February 02, 2020
- Sunday, February 09, 2020
- Sunday, February 16, 2020
It should be noted that the lighting period is the coldest time of the year in Shirakawa-go, the snow is heavy, the road is slippery, and the lighting facilities in the village are not perfect, so it is recommended that you carry a flashlight with you to prepare for cold and cold.
It’s okay if you miss the lighting event, and Shirakawa-go is very beautiful during the day. You can take a map and walk slowly through every corner of the village. The map is intimately printed with information including attractions, accommodations, restaurants, bus stops, etc. With it, you don’t have to worry about finding a way.
Shirakawa-go, a place without hustle and bustle. Here you can feel the taste of Japan’s old hometown that you can’t experience in ordinary life. It is a place where many people dream of purity.
If you have been to Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Okinawa, Hokkaido, then your next stop is to go to Shirakawago!