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

Finding Peace in Shirakawa-go's Water Gardens

Today was a day of serene exploration in Shirakawa-go, a welcome contrast to the hustle of city life. The crisp October air and the gentle rustling of leaves created a soothing atmosphere as we ventured out to discover the hidden gems of this picturesque village. Away from the iconic farmhouses, we sought out the more subtle beauties of Shirakawa-go, finding tranquility in its ponds and delight in its local flavors.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yamamotoya. The traditional Japanese fare, with its delicate flavors and artful presentation, was the perfect start to a day of exploration. Ama, of course, was particularly thrilled with the tamagoyaki, declaring it even better than the one Klaus makes! After breakfast, we bundled up and headed out to find the famed Water Lily Pond.

The Water Lily Pond was a sight to behold. The water lilies, though past their peak bloom, still held a quiet beauty. Their large, green leaves floated serenely on the water's surface, reflecting the surrounding trees and sky. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, hoping to preserve the peacefulness of the moment. Ama, ever curious, was fascinated by the tiny fish darting beneath the lily pads. She spent a good half-hour pointing and giggling, her little face alight with wonder. It reminded me of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the small wonders of nature, something I often forget in my busy life in Potsdam.


Find serenity at Shirakawa-go's Water Lily Pond, a tranquil escape reflecting the beauty of the Japanese Alps.

Sometimes, the most profound beauty is found not in grand landscapes, but in the quiet corners of the world.

Next on our itinerary was Midorigaike Pond. This pond, nestled higher up, offered a different kind of beauty. The water here was a deep, emerald green, reflecting the surrounding forest like a mirror. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the occasional bird call. We took a leisurely stroll around the pond, enjoying the tranquility and the stunning views. According to local legend, Midorigaike Pond was formed by an eruption in 1042. It is believed that the water in this pond can extend one's life span, and in medieval times, the pond was considered the dwelling place of the mountain deity.


Discover Midorigaike Pond in Gifu: Emerald waters, tranquil nature, and stunning seasonal beauty await in this serene Japanese escape.

For lunch, we chose Keyaki, a restaurant known for its Hida region cuisine. I opted for the Hida soba, while Klaus went for the Takayama ramen. Both were delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients that this region is known for. Ama happily munched on some rice balls, her energy levels seemingly inexhaustible. The warmth of the restaurant and the friendly service made our lunch a truly enjoyable experience.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Keyaki in Shirakawa-go—where tradition meets flavor in a breathtaking setting.

After lunch, we decided to explore Sanrakudo, a local shop known for its unique souvenirs and Hida products. The owner, a charming gentleman born in Ogimachi, greeted us with a warm smile and shared some interesting facts about the local dialect. I picked up a few small gifts for friends back home, while Ama was delighted with a colorful key chain. It's these small, personal interactions that truly enrich a travel experience.


Discover the essence of Japan at Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies.

As evening approached, we made our way to Zensuke for dinner. This restaurant is famous for its kushiyaki, or grilled skewers, and it did not disappoint. The aroma of grilled meat and vegetables filled the air, creating a mouthwatering anticipation. We sampled a variety of skewers, each one perfectly cooked and seasoned. The Hida beef skewers were particularly divine, melting in our mouths with their tender, juicy flavor. Ama, surprisingly, enjoyed the vegetable skewers, a testament to their deliciousness. The restaurant was bustling with both locals and tourists, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zensuke in Shirakawa-go—home to exquisite kushiyaki amidst breathtaking heritage scenery.

Tomorrow, we're planning to venture a bit further afield, heading to Hida Takayama to visit the Hida Takayama Activity and Exchange Hall and the Jin Homura Art Museum. I'm particularly excited about exploring the traditional crafts and art of this region. We might even stop by Shiroyamakan for a nightcap, if Ama allows us! [ ].

As I reflect on today, I'm struck by the simple beauty of Shirakawa-go. It's a place where time seems to slow down, where nature's wonders are readily accessible, and where the local culture is rich and vibrant. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best travel experiences are not about ticking off famous landmarks, but about immersing oneself in the local atmosphere and finding peace in the small moments. And as a mother, seeing Ama connect with nature and experience a different culture is the greatest reward of all.

The Doburoku Festival is held in Shirakawa-go around mid-October. During the festival, home-brewed sake is offered to the local mountain gods in thanks for their protection and with prayers for a good harvest. Visitors can also enjoy folk music and dance, lion performances, and free tastings of the sake.

The Shirakawa-go Light Up event usually takes place over 6 nights in January and February, but in 2025, it will only occur 4 times. The village is illuminated, creating a mystical scene.