Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

Seeking Wisdom and Art

Today, Hans-Peter and I delved deeper into the cultural tapestry of Shirakawa-go. It was a day of seeking wisdom and immersing ourselves in the local art scene, complemented by the region's exquisite culinary offerings. Each experience enriched our understanding of this unique corner of Japan, leaving us with a profound appreciation for its heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Shiawaseya Kichibei. It was a cozy start, and I enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. Hans-Peter, ever the enthusiast for local flavors, opted for the Hida beef rice bowl, which he declared was a delightful and savory start to the day. I must admit, the aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water.


Experience authentic local cuisine at Shiawaseya Kichibei in Shirakawa-go, where tradition meets convenience amidst stunning scenery.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Hida Earth Wisdom Center. The center is a multi-purpose facility that promotes regional development with the theme of folk culture. As we approached the main entrance, we were greeted by a towering 9-meter gate, a symbol of the center. I decided to take on the 68 steps of the external stairway, while Hans-Peter took the path of the tree, a gently sloped wooden sub-approach. We met at the Fureai Square on the first floor, admiring the panoramic view of Takayama and the Hida mountains.


Explore Hida's folk culture at this Takayama center with museums, event spaces, and stunning views of the Japanese Alps.

Inside, the Hida Earth Wisdom Center was a fascinating blend of modern facilities and traditional crafts. We learned that the center houses the Hida Convention Hall, the Hida Geijutsudo, meeting rooms, a restaurant, and Museum Hida. I was particularly drawn to the Welcome Plaza, where a 16-meter-wide panorama picture of Hida captured the region's beauty. We even saw a cell animation table displaying a cell from Astro Boy, which brought a smile to my face. The highlight, however, was Museum Hida, which showcased furniture and crafts made in the Hida region. It was inspiring to see the dedication and skill of the local artisans, and it reminded me of Hans-Peter's work restoring antique furniture back in Berlin.


Discover the artistry and history of Hida's renowned woodworking traditions at Museum Hida in Takayama.

The essence of culture lies in the preservation of traditions and the embrace of artistic expression.

Next on our itinerary was Museum Hida, located within the Hida Earth Wisdom Center. This museum offered an intimate look at the craftsmanship and artistry unique to the Hida region. The exhibits featured a range of locally made furniture, showcasing the intricate techniques and designs passed down through generations. As an archivist, I was particularly fascinated by the historical context provided for each piece, offering insights into the cultural significance of woodworking in the area. Hans-Peter, with his expertise in furniture restoration, appreciated the craftsmanship and the stories each piece told. It was a delightful experience that deepened our appreciation for the region's artistic heritage.

For lunch, we chose Hakusuien, a restaurant known for its local cuisine. The restaurant is situated in a charming ancient house with a steep rafter roof. Hakusuien celebrated its 47th anniversary recently and offers local dishes centered on Hida and local ingredients. I opted for the Hida beef set, eager to taste the region's renowned beef. Hans-Peter, feeling adventurous, decided to try the kuma-nabe, a rare local dish featuring bear meat cooked in a pot. My Hida beef was tender and flavorful, living up to its reputation. Hans-Peter, though initially hesitant, found the kuma-nabe to be a surprisingly rich and satisfying dish. We both agreed that the meal was a true reflection of the local culinary traditions.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Hakusuien in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

In the late afternoon, we decided to visit Shirakawago Restaurant Irori for a drink. This charming eatery serves rustic and traditional regional dishes. Though we didn't have a full meal, we enjoyed some local sake, soaking in the atmosphere of the traditional Japanese setting. The restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming ambiance, with seating options ranging from tatami mats to western-style tables around an irori (a traditional Japanese sunken hearth). We chatted with some fellow travelers, sharing stories and recommendations, before heading out for our final culinary experience of the day.


Experience the best of Gifu's culinary delights at Irori Restaurant in Shirakawago, where tradition meets exquisite taste.

For dinner, we had reservations at Shiraogi, a restaurant that promised an authentic taste of Shirakawa-go. Shiraogi offers local cuisine using local ingredients such as river fish and wild vegetables. The restaurant had a cozy, family-run feel, and we were warmly greeted by the staff. I chose the grilled river fish, while Hans-Peter selected the Hida beef soba. Both dishes were prepared with care, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients. The grilled fish was delicate and savory, while Hans-Peter's soba was hearty and satisfying. It was a perfect end to a day filled with cultural and culinary discoveries.


Discover authentic teishoku dining at Shiraogi in Shirakawa - where every meal tells a story steeped in tradition.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, we reflected on the day's experiences. We had explored the Hida Earth Wisdom Center, immersing ourselves in the region's art and culture. We had savored the local flavors at Hakusuien and Shiraogi, each meal offering a unique taste of Shirakawa-go. And we had shared stories and laughter with fellow travelers at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori.

Tomorrow, we plan to journey to Takayama, where we will explore the Takayama Jinya and the Hida Takayama Retro Museum. I am particularly excited about visiting the Takayama Jinya, a historical government building that will offer further insights into the region's past. Hans-Peter is looking forward to the Hida Takayama Retro Museum. I am sure we will find more treasures to uncover in this region of Japan. It is days like today that remind me why I love to travel – to learn, to experience, and to connect with different cultures. It is a privilege to share these moments with Hans-Peter, my partner in life and adventure.