Shirakawago Village Announces Dates for Winter Light-Up Event 2025
Shirakawago, a village nestled in the mountainous Gifu Prefecture of Japan, is renowned for the unique architectural style of its traditional Gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
Every year during the winter months, this UNESCO World Heritage Site comes alive on select evenings thanks to the Shirakawago Light-Up Event.
The Shirakawago Light-Up Event is an annual winter tradition that transforms the village into a light filled winter wonderland.
Between 17:30 and 19:30, the iconic Gassho-style farmhouses are illuminated against the backdrop of the majestic Japanese Alps.
Visitors can wander through the village at their own pace, taking in the beauty of the illuminated farmhouses and soaking up the festive atmosphere.
What are Gassho-style Farmhouses?
The Gassho-style farmhouses, also known as Gassho-zukuri, are the heart and soul of Shirakawago.
These traditional farmhouses are instantly recognizable by their steeply thatched roofs, resembling hands clasped in prayer.
The design is not simply aesthetic, it is a practical adaptation to the region’s heavy snowfall. The steep thatched roofs allow snow to slide off easily, preventing the accumulation of snow that could potentially damage the structures.
When does the Shirakawago Light-Up Event take place?
The Shirakawago Light-Up Event typically takes place from mid-January to early February, with the exact dates varying slightly from year to year.
The 2025 event has been confirmed as taking place on four dates in January and February 2025:
- January 13, 2025 (Monday, Japanese National Holiday)
- January 19, 2025 (Sunday)
- January 26, 2025 (Sunday)
- February 2, 2025 (Sunday)
How much does it cost to visit Shirakawago?
The Shirakawago Light-Up Event is a popular tourist attraction, so it is advisable to book your accommodation and transportation well in advance. Due to the popularity of the event, admission is limited and all visitors must reserve a ticket in advance.
Several tour operators offer packages that include transportation, accommodation, and event admission. These packages can be a convenient option for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of planning all the logistics themselves.
Willer Express, a popular Japanese coach tour operator, offer tours to Shirakawago specifically for the Light-Up Event from Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya on the following dates:
- January 13, 2025 (Monday, Japanese National Holiday)
- January 19, 2025 (Sunday)
- January 26, 2025 (Sunday)
- February 2, 2025 (Sunday)
Prices for tours with Willer Express start at 30,110 yen per person, depending on the departure location and the date of travel.
- Tokyo: from 36,810 yen
- Osaka: from 33,810 yen
- Nagoya: from 30,110 yen
All tours with Willer Express include return transport between Tokyo, Osaka or Nagoya and Takayama, a one night hotel stay in Takayama (with breakfast), transport between Takayama and Shirakawago, admission to the Shirakawago Light-Up Event and admission to the Nihon Minkaen open-air museum.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Japan, the Shirakawago Light-Up Event is an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The combination of the enchanting illuminations, the traditional Gassho-style farmhouses, and the picturesque winter setting creates a truly magical atmosphere.
So if you are looking for a unique and unforgettable winter getaway, be sure to add the Shirakawago Light-Up Event to your Japan bucket list.
Source, Images: Willer Express