Winter illuminations in Shirakawa-go

At this time of year, traditional houses are lit up in their full winter glory in Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture. More than 100 spotlights illuminate about 30 thatched-roof houses in the snow. But from this season on, visitors need to purchase an admission ticket, which are limited in number, and make a prior reservation. This is because large numbers of tourists flocking to the village can interfere with the lives of residents.