World heritage

Shirakawago, Japan

Automatic stepping Music: Cherry blossoms Image source: InternetMatus

Shirakawa go is a historic Japanese village, part of the UNESCO world heritage site since 1995. The village is situated in the valley of the river Shogawa in the middle of Japan. The thatched houses the well-known "praying hands" style were built. Their mission is to withstand the pressure of heavy snow in winter. They are trying to prevent fires in the with an annual ritual water sprinkling. The houses are large, they have 3-4 levels to make room for large families and they have practiced a variety of trades. The gutters are low-lying. 96% of the area's hills are still covered by forest. The upper floors silkworm breeding took place, while the lower levels were necessary for the saltpetre gunpowder.

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