Solo Cultural Exploration in Shirakawa-go

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day of deep immersion into the heart of Japan's rich cultural heritage. I set out to explore the historical and natural wonders surrounding Shirakawa-go, eager to soak in the atmosphere and capture the essence of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The day was filled with experiences that transported me back in time, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life that has been preserved in this remarkable corner of the world.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Soba Wakimoto. The restaurant was bustling with early risers, all eager to start their day with a traditional Japanese meal. I ordered their signature soba noodles with Hida beef, a local delicacy that I've quickly grown fond of. The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the Hida beef was incredibly tender and flavorful. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I made my way to the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum. This museum is a collection of historical houses that have been relocated from various villages around the Hida region. As I stepped onto the grounds, I felt as though I was transported back to the Edo period. The houses were built in the traditional gassho-zukuri style, with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand the heavy winter snow. It's fascinating how these structures were built without nails, a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the craftsmen of that era.


Discover the enchanting Hida no Sato Open Air Museum in Takayama, where traditional architecture and local culture come to life amidst stunning natural beauty.

Wandering through the village, I explored the interiors of the houses, each one offering a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the people who once lived there. I saw traditional farming tools, household items, and even demonstrations of local crafts like weaving and wood carving. It was incredible to see how self-sufficient these communities were, relying on the land and their own skills to survive.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

One of the highlights of the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum was the opportunity to climb up to the top levels of some of the houses. From there, I had a stunning view of the surrounding landscape, with rolling hills and lush forests stretching as far as the eye could see. It was easy to imagine what life must have been like for the families who lived in these houses, working the land and raising their families in this peaceful setting.

After spending several hours exploring the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum, I decided to immerse myself in nature at the nearby Nature Forest. The forest is a tranquil oasis, with towering trees, winding paths, and the soothing sound of flowing water. As I walked through the forest, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. The air was fresh and clean, and the scenery was simply breathtaking.


Explore the breathtaking Nature Forest in Takayama, Gifu, where nature meets cultural heritage in a tranquil setting.

The Nature Forest offered a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life. I took my time, stopping to admire the beauty of the trees, the vibrant colors of the wildflowers, and the intricate patterns of the moss-covered rocks. It was a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and appreciating the simple things in life.

For lunch, I headed to Masuzono Bunsuke, a small family restaurant known for its fresh fish dishes. The restaurant is located a bit outside the main town, offering a serene and quiet atmosphere. The chef takes pride in serving fish that he personally catches from the pond right after receiving orders. I decided to try the grilled rainbow trout, which was cooked to perfection and incredibly delicious. The fish was so fresh that it practically melted in my mouth.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Masuzono Bunsuke in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste.

After lunch, I decided to do some shopping at Kataribe, a local shop known for its Shirakawa-go specialty products and Hida's local sake. I picked up a few souvenirs for Jana and Maximilian, including some key chains and local crafts. I also couldn't resist buying a bottle of Hida's local sake to enjoy later in the evening. The shop was conveniently located near the suspension bridge, making it easy to access from the Seseragi parking lot.


Explore Kataribe Souvenir Store in Shirakawa for authentic Japanese crafts and unique gifts that embody the spirit of traditional culture.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Keyaki for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Hida region menu, including dishes like Magnolia miso, Hida soba, and Takayama ramen. I opted for the Hida soba, which was served in a flavorful broth with tender pieces of Hida beef. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had learned about the history and culture of Shirakawa-go. The Hida no Sato Open Air Museum and the Nature Forest had offered a glimpse into the past, while the local restaurants and shops had provided a taste of the present. It was a day of deep immersion, one that I will cherish for years to come.

As I prepare for tomorrow, I'm excited to visit the Museum Hida and the Hida Earth Wisdom Center. I am also looking forward to trying out Arai for breakfast, Kita no Sho for lunch, and Nomura for dinner. And maybe a beer in Koshiyama bar. I'm sure tomorrow will bring even more insights and experiences as I continue to explore this fascinating region of Japan.

Back at the hotel, I decided to sample the Hida sake I purchased earlier. As I sipped the sake, I thought about Jana and Maximilian. I missed them dearly and wished they could have been here to share this experience with me. I made a mental note to bring them back to Shirakawa-go someday, so they could see for themselves the beauty and history of this remarkable place. The summer air is warm and humid, and I can hear the faint sounds of insects outside, a stark contrast to the busy streets of Brno.

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” – Marcel Proust. Tonight, as I reflect on my journey, I realize that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about seeing the world with new eyes. It’s about opening our minds to different cultures and ways of life, and about appreciating the beauty and diversity of our planet. And with that thought, I close my eyes, ready to dream of the adventures that await me tomorrow.