Gokayama, Nanto

At Gokayama, see how the area's traditional gasshō-zukuri houses found their way onto the World Heritage List. Not a single nail was used in construction of these three- to four-story houses; the style of minka (residents for non-samurai castes) developed during the Edo period, and today people continue to live in them. Steep roofs at 60-degree angles add a special charm and prevent snow from building up. During summer, artists from all around the world gather for the World Drama Festival in the picturesque scenery. Although relatively noncommercialized and slow-paced, the area does offer a souvenir shop and cafe. Enjoy the fresh air and mountain landscape, which in winter has an especially magical ambiance. Plan your visit to Gokayama and a wealth of other attractions, well-known and undiscovered, using our Nanto trip builder tool .