The Magnificent Mountains of Autumn: Japan’s World Heritage Villages Keep the Old Ways Alive

Shirakawa-gō lit up in the depths of winter. (© Somese Naoto)

Gasshō-zukuri houses in Gokayama. The windows set into the broad gables create a better environment for the silkworms in the attic.

Gold and crimson surrounds Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine, where the ujigami (guardian spirit) of the area is worshipped.

The Ogimachi hamlet in its autumn finery, viewed from the Tenshukaku observation deck.

A gasshō-zukuri house. The blazing autumn mountains in the background add to the picturesque atmosphere.

The issei hōsui is a magnificent sight with a purpose—keeping the community prepared to fight fires that would be disastrous for its thatched roofs. (© Jiji Photo)

These traditional buildings are now home to stores offering local sake and souvenirs.

Autumn leaves adorn the peaceful thatched village of Suganuma.

The gold of the autumn foliage is all the more brilliant against the faded brown of this Suganuma thatched roof.

One striking feature of Ainokura is the single straight road that goes right through town.

At five stories, the Iwase Residence is the largest gasshō-zukuri house in either Shirakawa-gō or Gokayama. (Photograph taken in July)