Ainokura is a small, preserved village in the Gokayama area, surrounded by mountains and forest. The houses are built in the gasshō-zukuri style, with steep thatched roofs designed to handle heavy snow. Walking through the village feels slow and quiet, especially early in the morning or late afternoon when tour buses leave. It is much calmer than Shirakawa-go and feels more lived-in, with a few houses still occupied by locals. The setting is simple and very atmospheric, especially in autumn and winter.