Kanda-ke

One of the attractions of Shirakawa-gō is visiting some of the traditional Gassho-zukuri houses. These wooden structures were specially designed to combat the rigors of harsh winter in the Hida region. The slanted straw roofs are one of their main characteristics, perfect for preventing the accumulation of snow in the colder months. We visited some of the most famous houses in the town, like the Kanda-ke. In the entrance hallway there were photos from whe the Imperial family visited here. Inside it was very warm. The houses are huge wooden structures with traditional houses hidden in its core. It was very curious to see how the smoke was coming out from natural vents without accumulating.