Gokayama (Toyama) – A Quiet Hidden Village with Gassho-Zukuri Houses

Gokayama, like Shirakawa-go, is a village with traditional gassho-zukuri houses. However, it is less crowded with tourists, offering a quieter and more serene atmosphere. Gokayama has two main villages, Ainokura and Suganuma, both of which are registered as World Heritage sites. Ainokura Village features over 30 gassho-zukuri houses, surrounded by idyllic rural landscapes. Visitors can stay in traditional inns and experience the old-fashioned Japanese lifestyle. On the other hand, Suganuma Village is a smaller area but is well-preserved, providing a more traditional ambiance. In winter, the village is enveloped in a snowy wonderland, offering enchanting winter scenery. Gokayama is also famous for its traditional crafts like washi paper making and local cuisine such as Gokayama tofu and salt-grilled iwana (char). Besides sightseeing, visitors can enjoy cultural experiences. Access is convenient by bus, similar to Shirakawa-go, but visiting by car is also recommended.