Cultural Immersion in Kanazawa: A Solo Journey

A Day of Discovery in Shirakawa-go

Today, I ventured into the heart of Japan's historical countryside, a journey that transported me back in time. Leaving the familiar comforts of Kanazawa, I set out to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go. The day promised a blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty, and it certainly delivered.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at Nyumba.


Experience modern izakaya dining at Nyumba in Kanazawa—where tradition meets contemporary flavors for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Fuelled up, I was ready to embark on the adventure that awaited me in the mountains. The bus ride from Kanazawa was an experience in itself, with the landscape gradually transforming from urban sprawl to lush greenery. As we approached Shirakawa-go, the iconic gassho-style farmhouses began to dot the landscape, their steeply pitched roofs a testament to the region's heavy snowfall.

Stepping off the bus, I was immediately captivated by the serene atmosphere of Shirakawa-go. The village exudes a timeless charm, with its traditional wooden homes, meticulously maintained rice paddies, and the gentle flow of the Shogawa River. It felt like stepping into a living postcard, a scene straight out of a classic Japanese painting.

My first stop was the Wada House, the largest and most well-preserved of the gassho-style farmhouses in the village.


Discover the charm of Wada House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing traditional gassho-zukuri architecture in the heart of Shirakawa-go.

As I removed my shoes and stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the ingenuity of the architecture. The massive wooden beams, expertly joined together without the use of nails, formed a sturdy framework that has withstood the test of time. I learned that the Wada family, who once served as village headmen and oversaw a government checkpoint, had accumulated a sizable fortune through the production and trade of saltpeter and later through silk production. The house served as a testament to their wealth and influence.

Exploring the various rooms, I marveled at the artifacts on display, offering a glimpse into the daily life of a prosperous farming family during the Edo period. The irori, or sunken hearth, in the center of the main room served as a gathering place for warmth, cooking, and socializing. The multi-level attic, once used for silkworm cultivation, provided a fascinating look at the inner workings of the thatched roof structure.

The best journey takes you home, even if it's to a place you've never been before.

Leaving Wada House, I continued my exploration of Shirakawa-go, wandering through the narrow lanes and admiring the other gassho-style farmhouses. Each house had its own unique character, some converted into restaurants, souvenir shops, or minshuku (traditional guesthouses). I made my way to Kanda House, another well-preserved farmhouse that once belonged to a branch family of the Wada clan.


Explore the Kanda House in Shirakawa, a captivating heritage building that unveils the beauty of traditional Japanese culture and history.

This house, constructed around 1850, showcased a refined example of gassho-style architecture, with its sturdy construction designed to withstand earthquakes and fires.

Inside, I admired the traditional furnishings and the exhibits detailing the family's history and way of life. It was fascinating to learn about the Kanda family's involvement in brewing and the production of saltpeter, which contributed to their prosperity. The Kanda House also offered a glimpse into the sericulture (silk farming) that was once a vital industry in the region.

For lunch, I decided to try Turban Curry Main Store in Kanazawa, a local favorite known for its rich, dark curry served with a generous portion of rice and crispy toppings.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Turban Curry Main Store in Kanazawa - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

The curry was thick and flavorful, with a hint of spice that left a pleasant warmth in my mouth. I opted for the L-set Curry, which included a pork cutlet, hamburger steak, and sausage, a hearty combination that satisfied my hunger after a morning of exploring. It was a small, no-frills place, but the food was delicious and the prices were reasonable.

After lunch, I took some time to explore Kanazawa Hyakubangai, a shopping area located within Kanazawa Station.


Discover the ultimate shopping and dining experience at Kanazawa Hyakubangai, where tradition meets modernity in the heart of Kanazawa.

It was a convenient place to pick up some souvenirs and browse the local crafts and food products. I found a beautiful piece of Kutani-yaki pottery, a traditional style of Japanese ceramics known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. I also sampled some local sweets and sake, wanting to bring a taste of Kanazawa back home with me.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way back to Kanazawa, reflecting on the incredible experiences I had in Shirakawa-go. The village had exceeded all my expectations, offering a glimpse into a bygone era and a deeper appreciation for Japan's rich cultural heritage. The gassho-style farmhouses, with their unique architecture and historical significance, were truly a sight to behold.

For dinner, I decided to try Aashirwad, an Indian restaurant in Kanazawa that had received rave reviews.


Discover the rich flavors of India at Aashirwad in Kanazawa—where traditional meets modern in a delightful dining experience.

As much as I love Japanese cuisine, I was craving something different, and Aashirwad seemed like the perfect choice. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, guiding me through the menu and recommending some of their most popular dishes.

I started with the samosas, which were crispy and flavorful, filled with a delicious blend of potatoes and spices. For my main course, I opted for the chana masala, a classic Indian dish made with chickpeas in a rich and tangy tomato-based sauce. The curry was perfectly spiced, with a depth of flavor that tantalized my taste buds. I also ordered a side of naan bread, which was soft and fluffy, perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce. The entire meal was a delightful culinary experience, a welcome change of pace from the traditional Japanese fare I had been enjoying.

As I headed back to HOTEL AMANEK Kanazawa, I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the day's adventures.


Experience comfort and convenience at HOTEL AMANEK Kanazawa, a perfect base for exploring the rich culture, cuisine, and history of Kanazawa.

Shirakawa-go had been a truly unforgettable experience, a journey that had transported me to another time and place. The beauty of the village, the ingenuity of the architecture, and the warmth of the local people had left an indelible mark on my heart.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Kanazawa's cultural gems, including the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater, the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum, and the Seison-kaku Villa. I'm particularly excited to learn more about Noh theater, a traditional form of Japanese dance-drama that has been designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. I'm also looking forward to visiting the Ashigaru Museum, which will provide insights into the lives of the samurai foot soldiers who played a crucial role in Kanazawa's history. It's hard to believe that my trip is nearing its end, but I am determined to make the most of every moment, immersing myself in the rich culture and history of this captivating city.

Back at my hotel, I spent some time reflecting on my journey. It struck me how travel, especially solo travel, is a mirror reflecting back our own selves. I felt a sense of accomplishment, navigating a foreign land, communicating (albeit sometimes clumsily) with the locals, and discovering hidden gems along the way. As I drifted off to sleep, I was filled with anticipation for the adventures that tomorrow would bring. The memories of Shirakawa-go, with its timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage, would forever be etched in my mind.

I'm also glad I didn't forget my camera today; it was a necessity! I am, however, kicking myself for forgetting an umbrella and a local SIM card. I could have used both today! The weather was a bit unpredictable, and a SIM card would have made navigating the buses a bit easier. But alas, I will survive!