"Gokayama" is the region of forty small villages nestled in abundant nature in Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, known for the Gassho-style houses, representing the wooden culture of Japan. In 1995 the two villages of Ainokura and Suganuma in Gokayama were registered as World Cultural Heritage Site, along with Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture, in recognition of outstanding examples of a traditional way of life perfectly adapted to the environment, social and economic circumstances of the people around the Gassho-style houses, and the heart of “Yui” [mutual assistance or share labor] passed down through generations. Shirakawa-go is just 30 Km away from Gokayama, so enjoy all three World Heritage Site in the area in just one trip.

The unique architectural style of "Gassho-style" houses are found in Gokayama and Shirakawa-go. "Gassho" is the gesture of putting left and right palms together when worshiping Budda, and is characterized by the shape of the roof. The triangular thatched roof, the most distinctive feature of the Gassho-style houses, has a steep 60-degree slope to make it easier for snow to slide off, which is typical in areas with heavy snowfall. The first floor is used as a living space, and the attic, which is divided into two to four floors, is used as a workspace for sericulture and other activities. The rooms are designed for effective use of space and comfort. It is a rational architectural structure born of the wisdom of the people living in this region.

The largest of the three villages registered as the World Heritage Site is Shirakawa-go, the mid-sized village is Ainokura, and the smallest village is Suganuma.
Ainokura is surrounded by mountains, and twenty Gassho-style houses are remaining today. People still live in the village, so catch a glimpse of life as it was in the past. Also, learn about the history of Gokayama and experience papermaking, a thriving industry in the area, at the museum and facilities located in Gassho-style houses. In winter, the entire village is covered with snow, creating a magical silvery-white world.

Suganuma is a small village nestled on the Shogawa River, where nine Gassho-style houses are remaining. Gokayama Folk Museum in the village displays about 200 daily utensils showing the traditional lifestyle of Gokayama. At Niter Museum, the tools used in saltpeter production, which was a major industry in Gokayama are displayed, so you are able to learn about the manufacturing process. Also, being designated a penal colony during the Edo Era, it was prohibited to build bridges, so the "Kago no Watashi” [basket ferry] was once used to cross the river in Gokayama.