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Japan: Hida Takayama IV: Shirakawa-go & Ainokura bus tour 1

Shirakawa-go (白川郷) and Gokayama (五箇山) regions can be found in the remote mountains that span from Gifu to Toyama Prefectures. 

They are most famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which literally means "constructed like hands in prayers". The architecture of the steep roof is an art within itself. The roof extends all the way to the ground, as if two hands are held together to form the shape of a house. It is engineered to withstand the weight of the snow that falls heavily during winter, and it take a whole village to come together to thatch the roof of one house at each time. 


Since they are very close to Takayama, and many people choose to go there on a day trip. You can op to travel by yourself on the public transport system, here's the site for the bus timings and fees.

Or you can take a day tour offered by Nohi bus, which has an office in Takayama bus station. That's the option we took. =) Do remember to book for the tour at least one day in advance or online to secure your seat. They do offer English and Japanese tours.

During our journey, 70% of the bus was filled with tourists from around the world, and yes, they do provide English explanations, with drawn up pictures too.

The other 30% of the bus is made up of Japanese locals, and they have their own Japanese speaking guide, which I must absolutely compliment - They started introducing the places from the start of the journey to the end of the journey there, and back! They didn't even stop for a water break, they just went on and on and on and on....... And mind you, the bus journey on each leg lasted about an hour or more. I couldn't understand what she said, but her dedication to her job really impressed me.

The English guide did a good job too, just not as drawn out. So, we'd some snooze time (I'm a rock-a-bye bus baby) and time to observe the beautiful, peaceful countryside. 





First up is Ainokura, (相倉) is the most remote village in the Gokayama region. Gokoyama is less well-known, and less accessible. Thus, you won't find many people here. This is probably the closest you will get to the authentic country life, which is what I prefer.



You'll find yourself on a path that winds deeper into the village, and houses on either side of the road. It is not a difficult place to navigate, with only one path. 

They do offer farms tays and museum visits, but given the time limit, we only had time to walk to a small waterfall. It's so quiet and peaceful that I feel like the intruders of this beautiful town.



If you do have the time, take a trip to Ainokura yourself. More information at http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5955.html

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Next up is time for lunch! 
They have this famous fish that is placed on the frill on the top right hand corner of the picture. 
Ok, you're going to tell me that the picture is not clear. Yes, I was too hungry to retake. Haha. It was delicious!


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Next up is Shirakawa-go!
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