Day 2 begins!
Gokayama Washi-no-Sato
At Gokayama Washi-no-Sato, visitors can enjoy a hands-on kamisuki papermaking experience under the guidance of skilled artisans. Participants create their own original piece by decorating postcard-sized washi paper. The activity takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and the finished washi paper can be mailed as-is. Held in a traditional gassho-zukuri style experience hall, the workshop offers a special opportunity to connect with the traditions of Gokayama. *Reservation required.
12 minutes by car
Matsuya
Located within the Gokayama Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village, the Matsuya is a dining spot that has as well been serving as a place of rest and comfort ever since the Taisho era. The restaurant offers set meals featuring Gokayama local specialties, such as the mountain vegetable tempura and firm tofu. This cozy space is ideal for taking a break, as it also offers local souvenirs and specialties. Enjoy delicious local cuisine in this warm spot while absorbing the beautiful scenery of the traditional gassho-zukuri village.
1 minute on foot
Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village (Strolling)
Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a precious hamlet preserving the unspoiled landscape of Japan as it has existed for over 350 years. With 20 large and small gassho-zukuri buildings lined up against a backdrop of stunning seasonal scenery, the village captivates all who visit. In winter, the snow-covered landscape and seasonal illumination create a magical atmosphere. This is a healing and deeply touching place where traditional ways of life continue to thrive.
3 minutes on foot
Ainokura Traditional Industries Museum
Ainokura Traditional Industries Museum exhibits valuable materials related to Gokayama’s three major industries during the Edo Period: saltpeter production, sericulture, and washi papermaking. Visitors can also enjoy videos of traditional Gokayama folk songs and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich cultural heritage. Housed within a charming gassho-zukuri building, the museum offers a chance to feel the wisdom and the way of life of the people who once sustained themselves through self-sufficient farming and household industries.
3 minutes on foot
Stay Overnight in the World Heritage Site of Ainokura Gassho-style Village
Ainokura, a village in Gokayama registered as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. Did you know lodging is possible at a gassho-zukuri house? Even within Japan, the opportunity to stay overnight in a World Heritage site is rare—making this a truly special experience.
