Picture of the month: January 2021

This picture from Scott, a former exchange student, shows Shirakawa in Gifu Prefecture on
5th January 2021.


Famous for its thatched roofs, which are steep to deal with this kind of wintry weather. Once in
sharp decline, it has become a popular sightseeing location, particularly after easier access following
the construction of the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway. Together with Gokayama in neighbouring Toyama
prefecture, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.   Reduced numbers due to the Covid-19 pandemic have
made it much quieter.

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