Ainokura Gassho-Zukuri Village

A serendipitous detour from my planned trip to Shirakawa-go led me to this charming place—Ainokura Gassho-Zukuri Village in Gokayama, Toyama Prefecture. For those seeking privacy, picturesque photo opportunities, and delicious local cuisine (both savory and sweet), this village is a hidden gem. I visited during Songkran and was delighted to find snow-covered landscapes perfect for photography. If you visit between December and February, you can experience the magical light-up events, which I imagine are absolutely stunning. If you're looking to escape the crowds of Shirakawa-go, this is the perfect alternative.