Ainokura : Michelin's recommendations

Ainokura, the main village of Gokayama, with its 20 gassho-zukuri houses, lies on a plateau above the Sho River. It looks identical to Ogimachi but has a quieter atmosphere. Several farmhouses offer accommodation as minshuku (family-run guest houses), and if you wish to relax your muscles after a forest hike there are onsen nearby. The Folklore Museum presents the history and traditions of the valley, where the surviving samurai of the Taira clan are said to have sought refuge in the 12C. Traditional costumes and instruments, crafts and washi paper art from the region are also showcased here.