Houses at UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go Illuminated for Event through Feb. 1

The Yomiuri Shimbun

15:28 JST, January 14, 2026

Gassho-zukuri houses featuring steeply pitched thatched roofs have begun an illumination event in Shirakawa-go, the UNESCO World Heritage site, in Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture.

On Monday night, the first day of the event, the snow-covered roofs, including that of Wada House, a nationally designated important cultural property, stood out against the night sky. Tourists excitedly took pictures of the fantastic sight.

The illuminations will also take place on Jan. 18, Jan. 25 and Feb. 1. Advance reservations are required.