Discover the Enchanting Gokayama Ancient Village in Japan

Gokayama, a historic village over 400 years old, attracts Japanese tourists for sightseeing and check-ins. 

Explore the Serene Gokayama Ancient Village in Japan

Gokayama Village is situated in the northern Tokai region, Toyama Prefecture, central Japan. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site since December 1995, it is also one of the snowiest tourist destinations in Japan.

Gokayama is an ancient village constructed with a unique architectural style – Gassho zukuri (合掌 造 り), meaning “clasped hands in prayer.” This distinctive architectural style, with steep thatched roofs resembling the hands of a monk in prayer, was built to withstand the harsh climate of the region.

Gokayama is divided into numerous small villages, with Suganuma and Ainokura being the largest and most picturesque. The houses here typically have 3-4 stories designed for extended families. The ground floor is utilized for family activities, while the upper floors are used for sericulture and mulberry cultivation during the harshest winter months.

Suganuma Village comprises two small villages, Suganuma and Gokayama Gassho no Sato, featuring the distinctive Gassho zukuri architecture, now serving as a small museum showcasing the daily life of the locals, providing you with an enriching cultural experience when traveling to Japan. Alongside is Ainokura Village, the most remote and spacious village in the Gokayama region, with 20 Gassho zukuri houses still inhabited by residents.

Each season brings its own unique charm to this ancient village. In autumn, the surrounding mountains are adorned with red, yellow, and orange leaves. In winter, the village is enveloped in a blanket of white snow, creating a beautifully romantic atmosphere. Don't hesitate to save the address of Gokayama Village for your Japan travels.

Address: 754 Kaminashi, Nanto Toyama 939-1914, Japan

According to Mytour

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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide