Introduction
Nestled in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Gassho Mura feels like stepping back in time. I remember walking in and thinking, “So beautiful and relaxing.” The thatched-roof houses here were actually moved from Shirakawa-go, which means you can experience that UNESCO World Heritage charm without the crowds.
In this post, I’ll share what it was like wandering through this peaceful village, what you should know before you go, and why I think it’s one of the most underrated spots in Japan.
Check out our video for a closer look at our experience!
Gassho Mura: The Most Charming Village In Japan!
The first thing that struck me was how quiet it was. “It’s so peaceful, and there’s not a lot of tourists,” I said out loud, half in disbelief. Unlike Shirakawa-go, where busloads of visitors arrive every hour, Gassho Mura gave me space to breathe.
Inside the houses, I was surprised that you could actually walk around freely. Most museums rope off the rooms, but here I found myself standing by an old central fire pit, imagining families cooking dinner together. Upstairs, I learned how silkworms were raised to make thread, which villagers would trade for rice since the cold climate made farming difficult.
Of course, the visit wasn’t all history and learning. At one point, we spent nearly an hour just laughing and running from a duck that had basically claimed ownership of a bridge. “That duck is going to go crazy and come after you,” I joked, and sure enough—it did.
The highlight, though, had to be the giant 175-meter slide. When we first saw it, Mr. Eats said, “Now you have to embrace the chaos!” But it was WAY too scary for me! So he decided to go for it, and seconds later he was flying down so fast!
Even while I'm writing this, I can't stop laughing about how his shoes were getting scraped off! When he hit the bottom of the slide, he landed on a soaking wet tatami mat, which made his butt all wet!
It looked like he peed his pants so hard!! I was screaming with laughter!
And then there was the food. The charcoal-grilled river fish was tender and juicy! Mr. Eats said it was “like a fish lollipop". I thought he was kind of crazy for calling it that, but since the bones were so soft, it kind of was like a lollipop!
They also had a wrapped sushi in bamboo leaves that had a strong vinegar smell. But it was actually REALLY good and the fragrance of the bamboo made it taste even better!
Gassho Mura: Details You Need To Know
Here are some helpful details if you’re planning a visit:
- Location: Gassho Mura is in Gero, Gifu Prefecture, just outside the famous Gero Onsen hot spring town.
- Address: 2369 Mori, Gero-shi, Gifu, 509-2202
- Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (last admission 4:30 p.m.)
- December 31 – January 2: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Open year-round (except for rare special closures)
- Admission: Adults 800 yen, Children 400 yen
- Access:
- From Gero Station, buses run hourly starting at 9:00 a.m. (last bus 4:40 p.m.)
- From Nagoya, take the JR Takayama Line “Wide View Hida” express (1h 28m).
- From Tokyo, an express bus from Shinjuku takes about 6 hours.
- Extras: Foot baths and hand baths are scattered around the site, there’s a craft workshop where you can make washi postcards or paint ceramics, and in summer, a morning market is held near the entrance.
Why You Should Visit Gassho Mura
For me, Gassho Mura is the perfect mix of culture and fun. You can step into centuries-old houses, learn about the way of life there, enjoy the peaceful Japanese atmosphere, and then launch yourself down a giant slide. As I said while leaving, “This place is definitely much more exciting than I thought it would be.”
If Shirakawa-go feels overwhelming with tourists, this is the calmer, quirkier alternative. Families will love it. Japan lovers will appreciate it. And honestly, anyone looking for a unique day trip from Nagoya or Takayama will find it unforgettable!
Gassho Mura: A Can't-Miss Destination In Japan!
Walking through Gassho Mura, I realized it’s more than just a museum! It’s a place to play, to learn, and to relax. From dodging ducks to eating perfectly grilled fish to sliding down a mountain, we left with amazing memories!
If you’re ever in Gero, don’t miss Gassho Mura. Just remember to bring an extra pair of shoes—you might need them!