Aikura Gassho-style Village

Overview

Aikura Gassho-style Village is located in the mountains of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, and is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The village is lined with gassho-style houses featuring steeply pitched roofs, creating a unique landscape that feels like stepping back in time. Gassho-style architecture is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who lived in this harsh natural environment, reflecting the industries that once thrived here, such as sericulture and papermaking. The steeply pitched roofs were designed to withstand heavy snow, and their shape, resembling clasped hands, gave them the name "gassho-style." The village boasts traditional houses showcasing past lifestyles, shops selling traditional crafts, and more. Every September, the Gokayama Kokiriko Festival, featuring the "kokiriko-bushi," a traditional performing art representing Gokayama, takes place. Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, the unique music and dance captivate visitors. Aikura Gassho-style Village also boasts beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer lush greenery, and autumn vibrant fall foliage, making it worthwhile to visit any time of the year. The autumn foliage, in particular, is exceptionally stunning, while the winter snow adds a different kind of charm to the gassho-style houses. Aikura Gassho-style Village is a place where you can experience the beauty of Japan's traditional culture and nature—a true glimpse into Japan's original landscape. It's a place that will remind you of the important things you may have forgotten.