Discover the Enchanting Village of Ainokura
Explore Ainokura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Toyama, renowned for its charming gassho-zukuri farmhouses and breathtaking rural landscapes.
Nestled in the lush mountains of Toyama Prefecture, Ainokura is a picturesque village renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Ideal for tourists seeking an authentic Japanese experience, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into rural life, vibrant landscapes, and warm hospitality.
A brief summary to Ainokura
- Nanto, Ainokura, Toyama, JP
Local tips
- Visit during the autumn for stunning foliage or in winter to see the village covered in snow.
- Take a guided tour of the traditional farmhouses to fully appreciate their history and architecture.
- Bring a camera; the scenery is picturesque at every turn!
- Try local delicacies such as soba noodles made from fresh buckwheat during your visit.
- Respect the local customs and ask for permission before taking photos of residents or private properties.
Getting There
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Bus
From Kanazawa Station, take the Noto Railway bus towards Nanto. This bus departs from the bus terminal located just outside the station. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Get off at Ainokura bus stop. From the stop, follow the signs to Ainokura village, which is a short 10-minute walk.
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Train and Bus
Take the JR Hokuriku Line from Kanazawa Station to Takaoka Station (approximately 20 minutes). At Takaoka Station, transfer to the Noto Railway and take the bus towards Nanto. Get off at Ainokura bus stop. From there, follow the signs to Ainokura village, which is about a 10-minute walk.
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Taxi
If you prefer a quicker and more direct route, you can take a taxi from Kanazawa Station directly to Ainokura. The journey will take approximately 50 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure you show the driver the address 'Nanto, Toyama 939-1915' to avoid any confusion.
Discover more about Ainokura
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Kenrokuen Garden Kodatsuno Gate
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D.T. Suzuki Museum
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Ryuseki
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Sekirei-jima (Wagtail Island)
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Shofukaku garden
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Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center
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Gankou-Bashi (Flying Geese Bridge)
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Kenroku-en
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Gyokusen-en Nishida Family Garden
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village
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Gokayama
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Washi Paper Workshop
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Gokayama Folklore Museum
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World Heritage Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village
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Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck
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Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck
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合掌村 Ogimachi
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Shirakawa go no Yu
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Water Lily Pond
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Wada House
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Wooden Walkway
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Essential places to dine
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Yukinko
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Keyaki
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Tanaka-ya
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Shiawaseya Kichibei
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Shiraogi
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Zensuke
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Yamamotoya
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Hidaji
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Nomura
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Coffee Shop Hina
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Kobikiya
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Memenko
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ZEN
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