Ainokura

Nestled along the Sho River between mountains covered by beech forest, the village of Ainokura provides fascinating views of the past. The area has been settled since the 11th century. Farmers raise rice and other produce for their own subsistence, along with mulberry trees, whose fruit feeds silkworms. See the unusual buildings that have been the traditional architecture in the region for 200 to 400 years. Somewhat isolated from the rest of the world, the village is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit the Ainokura Gassho-zukuriVillage of about 20 intriguing farmhouses built in the Gassho-zukuristyle. Wooden beams support a steep roof in an A-frame shape that resembles hands in prayer. Roofs are made of thick thatching that can withstand the region’s heavy snowfall. Walk through the village to discreetly admire these private homes. Several buildings operate as restaurants or provide overnight accommodations.

Look for the Folk Museum at the village’s southern end, occupying one of the traditional buildings. Step inside to see farming tools used by residents since the Edo period and learn about the construction of the Gassho-zukuri buildings.

Another regional highlight is the making of washi paper by hand processing the bark of native vegetation. Stop at the Washi Paper Workshop to see a demonstration and try the activity yourself.

For additional exercise, follow a narrow walking path for about 15 minutes to reach the tree known as Zelkova couples. Local stories say that this unusually shaped tree and its roots have prevented avalanches from destroying the village.

The bus from Shirokawa to Ainokura takes 1 hour. Alternatively, drive here in just over 1 hour from Toyama. Parking is available for a fee in the lot at the village’s north end. Take iconic photos of the village from a raised Ainokura Observatory deck nearby. A monument marks the entrance to the village, documenting its 1995 World Heritage registration. See the additional traditional villages of Ogimachi and Suganuma that are part of the UNESCO-listed site.