Shirakawa is a picturesque city located in the Gifu prefecture in the Tokai region of Japan. It is known for its well-preserved traditional Gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which are characterized by their steep thatched roofs that resemble hands in prayer. These historic houses are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and offer visitors a glimpse into Japan's rural past. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the rugged mountains of the Northern Japan Alps and the Shogawa River, which flows through the region. The area is particularly stunning during the winter months when the farmhouses are covered in snow, creating a postcard-worthy scene.