Gokayama Holidays
Gokayama Holidays
Tucked away in the remote mountains of Toyama Prefecture, Gokayama is a UNESCO-listed village known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses - steeply thatched-roof homes built to withstand heavy snowfall. Smaller and less visited than its neighbour Shirakawa-go, Gokayama offers an authentic rural experience, making it ideal for travellers looking to step off the beaten path. The villages of Ainokura and Suganuma feel frozen in time, with traditional wooden houses set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, offering a glimpse into Japan’s historic way of life.
Beyond its postcard-perfect scenery, Gokayama is a place to immerse yourself in local traditions. Visitors can try their hand at washi papermaking in a centuries-old workshop, join a sake brewer to learn about and taste unfiltered doburoku sake, or head into the mountains with locals to forage for seasonal wild vegetables. Meals here are a highlight, featuring home-cooked dishes made with freshly harvested ingredients.