Leading travel publication Travel + Leisure recently published their list of the 20 Most Beautiful Small Towns to Visit Around the World, and Shirakawa-go in Gifu was one of the featured destinations. The list highlights places that offer more than just scenery, focusing on locations where tradition, culture, and atmosphere come together.
Located in Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed mountain village known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which date back centuries. These homes, with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow, are surrounded by forests and rice fields. The setting is peaceful year-round, but becomes especially picturesque in winter when the village is covered in white.
The list is a pertinent reminder that small towns offer a different kind of travel experience. With (typically!) fewer crowds and a slower pace, they allow for a deeper connection with a place and its people. Travelers can appreciate everyday moments like walking quiet streets, visiting a local inn, or learning about traditional crafts, without the pressure of a packed itinerary.
While Shirakawa-go is classed as a small town, it is still quite well known due to its UNESCO status. If you're looking for a similar feeling with the thatched roof, traditional vibe, consider adding destinations like Ouchi-juku (Fukushima), Miyama (Kyoto), and Gokayama (Toyama) to your travel plans.
