SHIRAKAWA, Gifu Prefecture--Villagers in this renowned UNESCO World Heritage site came together to re-thatch the roof of a multitiered house here for the first time in five years on May 13.

About 25 minutes later, thatched roofs came into view. We had arrived. The island's workers welcomed us with fresh watermelon juice and a shot of cherry-soaked rum. With watermelon juice in hand ...

For the best experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser settings. The ‘makuti’ thatch continues to be a symbol of prestige and cultural attraction in ...