Shirakawagō Seseragi Park Parking Lot. — Local services in Shirakawa

Expensive and closes extremely early. Why do they close the parking lot so early? Good question. Where does the money go? They don't use it for improving tourism or information about and around the village for international tourists. I can only assume that the local residents use tourism income to offset the costs and inconveniences of living in the remote countryside. More clarity would also help visitors to understand how their visit helps to contribute to Shirakawago's protection and maintenance. There are no benches or trash cans for tourists around the parking lot or anywhere around the village. A disagreeable fact given that the village is a UNESCO world heritage site with goals to educate, inform, promote culture, understanding, history, etc. More hospitality for tourists, from the beginning upon entering the park, should be taken into consideration and provided. At the very least, work on informing guests (in languages other than Japanese) about some of the things touched...

DO NOT PARK HERE! 高すぎて駐車しないで！ There are so many other places to park but the attendants make it seem like it’s the only one. It’s 1000 yen and waaay too much.

“Midashima” parking lot is on the grounds right next to the three famous houses. The signs to the lot are very confusing because it says not to enter by car. BUT you can. You can only drive to the parking lot and no further.

If you’d like FREE PARKING you can go to Hagichojoseki parking lot at tenshukaku observatory deck. YOU WILL END UP HERE ANYWAY. It’s a great view of all the buildings. So, if you’re ok and in good health to walk 10 minutes up a slope, why not park at that...

Closed too early. It’s October. Sunset 17:30. We weren’t allowed in at 16:30 even though it’s before closing time. We missed our only chance for a sunset stroll. Drove around and got lost by Google Maps looking for other parking. Couldn’t find an open toilet anywhere. Does this village need your tourist income, yet treat you like an intruder disobeying their overly strict observation of rules. At least some parking attendant gave some instructions. But it would have been much better if we could just park for...