Understand

In the delightful region of Gokayama, you will find a special type of farmhouse known as gassh (). These unique structures have steep roofs that resemble hands coming together in prayer. These roofs are expertly designed to keep the heavy winter snowfall at bay. Underneath these stunning roofs, you will discover spacious attics that were traditionally used to house silkworms. Gokayama, which translates to "Five Mountains," is actually named after the "Between Five Valleys" where it is located. In Gokayama, there are two main settlements to marvel at these incredible gassho houses: Ainokuraand Suganuma(). Ainokura is the larger and closer of the two, boasting an impressive collection of twenty-three gassho houses. Suganuma, on the other hand, offers a slightly quieter and more peaceful atmosphere with its eleven gassho houses. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of Ainokura or the serene ambiance of Suganuma, both villages offer a captivating glimpse into the past.]

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing