Shirakawa-go

The modern art of Jin Homura's works featured in a traditional farmhouse is an interesting combination of old and new that enhances the art, as well as bringing new intrigue to the houses and architecture themselves. It has a completely different atmosphere from the various preserved farmhouses scattered about that merely contain artifacts.

A collection of historic farmhouses moved here from other areas of the village in order to preserve them. Some of them date back to the 18th century. The buildings contain artifacts and objects used by the past residents as well as information about the history of the buildings and surrounding area.

A well-preserved farmhouse that always has its fire lit. The second floor has similar artifacts as others in the village. Many visitors enjoy the traditional cat carrier. The third floor offers a good look at the inner construction of the house along with nice views of the rest of the town from the windows.

This is the largest of the farmhouses in Ogimachi. It contains some artifacts used during its heyday. For those fans of ‘Higurashi no Naku Koro ni’ the Wada residence is Shion and Mion’s home

The house is well-known for its 11-meter length which comes from single trees used as horizontal beams inside the house. The house dates back 250 years when the Nagase family worked as doctors. The artifacts inside include medical objects, and things used in daily life.

The castle disappeared into the ground, along with the town surrounding it, when a big earthquake struck one night in 1586. A goldmine near the castle was also swallowed by the earth that night, leaving people to speculate to this day that as much as ¥10 billion may still be buried there. Nowadays there is nothing left but a monument and some greenery.

A scenic waterfall near Shiramizu Lake.

A convenient hot spring for day visitors located right in the historic area. It's especially popular in the winter to warm up after wandering around town in the cold. Hotel rooms also available.