“Snow Country” refers to northwestern Japan, a region which represents a simpler world like the historic villages of Shirakawa-gō. It’s picturesque cottages in the center of a remote, mountainous river valley on the border of the Gifu Prefecture are where locals and tourist can connect with the world beyond themselves.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1995, Shirakawa traditional way of life has remained intact. When the village was registered by UNESCO it became one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, slowing eroding the historic landscape and culture with over-population. To preserve their way of life, heritage, infrastructure, the secluded community had to rethink their economic base by moving away from mass to sustainable tourism.

The community adopted a sustainable tourism model that teaches their ideals around community, called yui. This philosophy around supporting the community is now shared with visitors who work with the villagers to protect the traditional houses called gassho-zukuri, and preserve the town’s historic landscape. Under the shift there is a value for the village by welcoming outsiders into their community with an experience that uplift and preserve the tranquility of Shirakawa.

Original: 8.5” x 11” inch. Paper Collage Made with Copyright Free Photography of Shirakawa.