• Tonami/Gokayama

    broken image
  • broken image

    World Heritage Wonders: Gokayama

    Stretching across a serene mountainous vista lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gokayama. Here, nestled within quaint villages, stand rows of traditional gassho-style houses, surrounded by rice fields, stone walls, and protective snow forests, preserving an ageless allure. This rustic yet picturesque scenery transports you to a bygone era of Japan's natural beauty, inviting you to revel in the ever-changing seasons offered by the abundant surroundings.

     

    Would you like to explore these thriving mountain hamlets where time seems to stand still and discover the enchantment of this UNESCO World Heritage Site?

    Gokayama, located in the lush southwestern corner of Toyama Prefecture, is home to 40 villages scattered along the banks of the Shogawa River, each offering a charming glimpse into tranquil mountain living.

    Among them, the villages of Ainokura and Suganuma boast a wealth of traditional structures, including the iconic gassho-style houses, where life continues much as it always has. In 1995, these precious rural landscapes, centered around the gassho-style houses symbolizing Japan's rich wooden architecture heritage, earned recognition alongside Ogimachi village in Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture, as the "Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama," securing their status as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

    broken image


    Gokayama, with a history spanning approximately 4,000 years since the Jomon period, marks the beginning of human settlement. Until recent years, it lacked adequate transportation routes, and its rugged terrain and heavy snowfall in winter once earned it the title of "remote region." Legend has it that in the late Heian period, warriors of the defeated Heike clan sought refuge here after the Genpei War, giving rise to the legend of the "fallen warriors." This area is also known as the "hidden village of the fallen warriors." The way of life passed down through generations over this long history is a precious heritage, contributing to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • broken image

    A Tapestry of Tulips: Tonami Tulip Fair


    Every spring, Toyama bursts into a riot of colors as millions of tulips bloom at the Tonami Tulip Fair. This vibrant celebration of nature features over 300 varieties of tulips, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that attracts visitors from far and wide. Stroll through fields ablaze with hues of red, yellow, and pink, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this floral paradise.
    Prepare to be dazzled by one of Japan's most vibrant floral festivals, the Tonami Tulip Fair. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Toyama Prefecture, this annual event showcases the beauty and diversity of tulips in a breathtaking display that attracts visitors from around the world.
    Each spring, Tonami comes alive with a riot of colors as millions of tulips burst into bloom across expansive fields. From delicate pastel shades to bold and bright hues, the tulips create a stunning tapestry of color that stretches as far as the eye can see. It's a sight that ignites the senses and fills the air with the sweet fragrance of spring.
    With over 300 varieties of tulips on display, the Tonami Tulip Fair offers a feast for the eyes unlike any other. From classic single-color blooms to exotic multicolored hybrids, there's a tulip to suit every taste and preference. Take a leisurely stroll through the fields and marvel at the sheer diversity and beauty of these iconic flowers.
    The Tonami Tulip Fair typically takes place from late April to early May, coinciding with the peak bloom period for tulips. The fairgrounds are easily accessible by public transportation, with shuttle buses running regularly from Tonami Station to the event venue.
    Whether you're a nature lover, a flower enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, the Tonami Tulip Fair promises to delight and inspire.

  • Load More