Shirakawa-go is a historic village located in Shirakawa Village, Ono District, Gifu Prefecture. It is renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri houses, which have steeply pitched thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Surrounded by mountains and rich natural landscapes, Shirakawa-go is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. These unique houses are still inhabited today, and the village preserves its traditional way of life while also welcoming visitors from around the world. The history of Shirakawa-go dates back to the Heian period, when people first settled in the area and engaged in agriculture. Due to its remote location and limited access to the outside world, the region developed a distinctive culture and way of life. From the Edo period to the Meiji period, sericulture (silk farming) flourished in Shirakawa-go. Since silk farming required spacious environments, large attic spaces were incorporated into the design of the gassho-zukuri houses, making them ideal for raising silkworms while also serving as family dwellings. During the Meiji period, Japan underwent rapid modernization, and mechanization gradually replaced traditional sericulture. As a result, Shirakawa-go's economy declined, and its population decreased. However, after World War II, a movement to preserve Japan's cultural heritage gained momentum. In the 1970s, efforts were made by both local residents and researchers to protect the gassho-zukuri houses, recognizing their historical and architectural significance. These preservation activities ultimately led to Shirakawa-go being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, further solidifying its importance on the global stage. Today, Shirakawa-go is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. However, the village faces challenges in balancing tourism with the preservation of its traditional culture and environment. Issues such as increased visitor numbers and environmental changes require careful management. Despite these challenges, the local community remains dedicated to preserving their heritage, ensuring that Shirakawa-go continues to be a living example of Japan’s rich history and traditional way of life.