Exploring Shirakawa-go: A Family Adventure in Japan's Historic Village

Stepping Back in Time in Shirakawa-go

After our long journey from Berlin to Tokyo and then Komatsu, I was so ready to explore Shirakawa-go with my family. The drive from Komatsu was beautiful, and as we approached the village, the unique Gassho-zukuri farmhouses started to appear, just like in the pictures. I was excited to finally be here and experience this UNESCO World Heritage site with Klaus and Ama.

Our first day in Shirakawa-go was nothing short of magical. Even though I had seen countless pictures of this place, nothing prepared me for the real thing. The crisp October air , combined with the stunning scenery, made it feel like stepping into a living postcard. The weather was pleasant, with daytime highs around 18°C, but I was glad I packed a warm jacket for the cooler evenings. October is considered rainy season with average rainfall of about 229 mm. We started our day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and I opted for the Hida beef set with grated yam. It was my first taste of Hida beef, and the rich, savory flavor was incredible. Klaus chose a vegetarian set, which he enjoyed, and Ama loved the steamed rice and miso soup. I was really happy to see that they have an English menu available.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those that have been preserved with love and care, allowing us to connect with the past in a meaningful way.

After breakfast, we headed to the Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, an open-air museum showcasing relocated Gassho-style houses. Walking through the park felt like stepping back in time. Each house had its own unique story, and I was fascinated by the ingenuity of the construction. The steep thatched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snowfall, were truly impressive. Ama was thrilled to run around and explore the different houses, and Klaus, with his architect's eye, was captivated by the structural details.
We spent a few hours wandering through the Minka-en, peeking into the houses and learning about the traditional way of life in Shirakawa-go. I was particularly interested in the displays about silk farming, which used to be a major industry in the area. It's amazing how these communities adapted to their environment and created such a sustainable way of living.


Explore Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, a captivating open-air museum showcasing Japan's traditional thatched-roof farmhouses amidst stunning natural beauty.
Next on our list was the Myozenji Museum. This museum is housed in a former monk's residence and showcases everyday items and tools used by the villagers in the past. It provided a fascinating glimpse into the history of Shirakawa-go and the Buddhist influence in the region. Ama was a bit restless at this point, but she enjoyed seeing the old farming tools and imagining how they were used.


Explore traditional life and architecture at Myozenji Museum in Shirakawa-go, a window into the region's rich cultural heritage and history.
For lunch, we decided to try Tenshukaku. This restaurant is known for its stunning views of the entire Shirakawa village. We enjoyed some delicious fried tofu while taking in the breathtaking scenery. It was the perfect spot to capture some family photos with the iconic Gassho-zukuri houses in the background.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Tenshukaku in Shirakawa—where culinary tradition meets stunning mountain views.
In the afternoon, we made a stop at Shirakawago Purin no Ie, also known as the Pudding House. I had read so much about their famous puddings, and I couldn't resist trying them. We sampled a few different flavors, including the original and the matcha, and they were all incredibly smooth and creamy. Ama especially loved the pudding soft serve, and Klaus enjoyed the coffee flavor. It was the perfect sweet treat to end our afternoon.


Experience the sweetness of Shirakawa-go at Purin no Ie, renowned for its delicious puddings and delightful desserts in a charming café setting.
For dinner, we chose Gassho restaurant, hoping to immerse ourselves further in the local cuisine. The restaurant's atmosphere was wonderful, and the menu featured traditional dishes made with local ingredients. I decided to try the Hida beef grilled with Hoba miso, and it was absolutely divine. The combination of the tender beef and the savory miso was a flavor explosion. Klaus enjoyed a vegetarian soba noodle dish, and Ama happily munched on some rice balls.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Gassho in Shirakawa - where tradition meets taste in a picturesque setting.
As the day drew to a close, we strolled through the village, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful autumn colors. The air was crisp and cool, and the stars began to twinkle in the night sky. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.
Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a moment to reflect on the day's adventures. Shirakawa-go had exceeded all my expectations. It was more than just a collection of old houses; it was a living, breathing community with a rich history and a deep connection to its environment. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ogimachi, the heart of Shirakawa-go, and visit the Hatotani Hachiman Shrine. I'm also looking forward to visiting Kataribe, a local shop, and trying some more of the regional cuisine. I am excited to see what other treasures this village holds.
One thing I realized I forgot to pack was a portable toddler bed for Ama. I hope she sleeps well in the regular bed tonight. Also, an umbrella would have been useful, as October tends to have some rainy days.

I am looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you all. Stay tuned for more updates from Shirakawa-go!