Season Guide

Autumn in Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go in autumn offers a stunning view, with leaves changing to vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, combined with the iconic traditional gassho-zukuri houses. Here's a guide to autumn travel in Shirakawa-go:

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Weather

Temperatures in Shirakawa-go tend to be mild in October, with average highs around 17-18°C and lows around 9°C.
At the end of October, nights can be quite chilly, so it's recommended to dress in layers and bring a warm jacket.
There's a chance of rain, so bring an umbrella or raincoat.
The first snowfall usually occurs around the beginning of December, so late November can be a transitional period between autumn and winter.

Activities

View from Shiroyama Viewpoint (Ogimachi Castle Ruins Lookout): This is the best place to get a panoramic view of the gassho-zukuri village surrounded by mountains in spectacular autumn colors. You can take the shuttle bus or walk for about 15-30 minutes.
Exploring Ogimachi Village: The largest and main village in Shirakawa-go. Take time to stroll among the unique gassho-zukuri houses. Many of them serve as museums, craft shops, restaurants, cafes, or inns (minshuku).
Visiting Gassho-zukuri Houses Open to the Public:
- Wada House: One of the largest and best-preserved gassho-zukuri houses in the village.
- Kanda House: Also a recommended house to visit.
- Myozen-ji Temple & Museum: The largest temple in the village with photogenic gassho-zukuri-style buildings.
- Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum: An open-air museum showcasing various gassho-zukuri houses relocated from other locations, providing a deeper understanding of Shirakawa-go's history and culture.
Stroll Along the Main Street (Shirakawa Kaido): Enjoy the tranquil village atmosphere and sample local snacks like Hida-gyu (Hida beef) skewers and gohei mochi (grilled rice cakes with miso sauce).
Deai-Bashi Bridge: This suspension bridge offers beautiful views of the flowing river and the green mountains contrasting with the autumn colors.
Attend a Local Festival: If your visit coincides, enjoy festivals like the Doburoku Festival (mid-October), which celebrates the harvest and features local sake.

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Tips & Tricks

Book accommodation and transportation well in advance, as autumn is very popular.
Wear layers to cope with varying temperatures.
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking in the village.
Bring an umbrella or raincoat, as rain is possible.
Avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning on a weekday.
Be mindful of parking rules and designated areas; some may be closed for repairs.
Consider visiting the smaller gassho-zukuri village of Gokayama for a quieter experience.