Shirakawa-go

This UNESCO World Heritage site in Gifu Prefecture served as inspiration for the rural village settings in Maquia. The traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with their steep thatched roofs closely resemble the architectural style of the human settlements depicted in the film.

Featured in 5 anime

• 
  Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms

  The village architecture appears throughout the film, particularly in scenes showing Ariel's hometown and other human settlements where Maquia lives.

  Plan a trip with this anime →Watch on Crunchyroll
• 
  Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End

  Inspiration for remote village scenes in episodes 5-6, particularly the mountain village where Frieren helps with local problems and reflects on human settlements changing over time

  Plan a trip with this anime →Watch on Crunchyroll
• 
  Higurashi: When They Cry

  The thatched-roof houses and narrow village paths of Shirakawa-go form the basis for Hinamizawa's eerie yet beautiful setting. Key locations including the shrine, the school, and the village overlook are all drawn from real spots here.

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• 
  MUSHI-SHI

  Referenced in episodes featuring isolated mountain villages where Ginko encounters mushi phenomena, particularly scenes with traditional thatched-roof houses

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• 
  When They Cry Kai

  Village overview shots and background scenery throughout multiple episodes, particularly establishing shots of Hinamizawa

  Plan a trip with this anime →Watch on Crunchyroll

Access

Nearest Station: Takayama Station

Take Nohi Bus from Takayama Station to Shirakawa-go (約50 minutes)

岐阜県大野郡白川村荻町

Recommended visit: 180 min

Visitor Tips