Deep into Traditional Japan - Gokayama

Deep in the mountains of Toyama Prefecture, not far from the coast of the Sea of Japan, lies the Gokayama region. The traditional architecture and culture of the villages in this area have been carefully preserved to the present day. That is why it has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. One of the villages is Ainokura. It is famous for its traditional houses built in a style known as gassho-zukuri. The steep angle of the roofs was essential because of the heavy snowfall in this region. Buried under more than 2 meters of snow, the village used to be cut off from the outside world each winter. The local people developed a deep understanding to survival in this challenging environment. They also created a distinctive culture that has been kept alive to the present day. Some of the gassho-zukuri houses are now used as guesthouses, where visitors can stay and observe the traditional customs. The style of dancing and music known as Kokiriko Bushi has been handed down for around 1,400 years. Originally a form of prayer for bountiful harvests, it is thought to be the oldest style of performing art in Japan. This region faces a serious problem of depopulation. Today, there are 23 households in the village of Ainokura. In all, about 50 people live there. But young people are starting to move up from urban areas, attracted by the rich natural environment.