Is Shirakawa-go worth visiting? Formerly a hidden gem off the beaten path, the place is not battling with overtourism. That being said, Shirakawa-go is like stepping into a fairy-tale village with traditional thatched-roof houses nestled at the foot of Mt. Hakusan in Gifu. Even though it was crowded the day I went, the village is so spaced out that I honestly barely noticed the people. It certainly is the most impressive out of the traditional Gassho Houses and definitely worth a visit. Especially in winter, but I also really liked it in autumn a lot. Make sure to come on a weekday and make a reservation of the busses ahead of time if possible (only some are reservation prior) to save yourself some headache. Go to the observation deck around lunchtime to get the spot all to yourself!