Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

A Journey Through Time and Taste

Takayama, nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, offered us a day brimming with cultural enrichment and culinary adventures. From exploring art that transcends time to immersing ourselves in the history of the Hida region, every moment was a discovery. Today was a testament to the beauty of blending art, history, and gastronomy.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yukinko. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the savory scent of local delicacies, setting a perfect tone for the day ahead. Hans-Peter, ever the early riser, was already up and about, sketching in his notebook as I savored a traditional Japanese breakfast set. It's these quiet moments of shared passion that make our travels so special.

Art Nouveau and Architectural Echoes

Our first stop was the Hida Takayama Museum of Art. This museum is a treasure trove of Art Nouveau and Art Deco pieces. The museum itself is a work of art, designed by the acclaimed architect Tadao Ando. As we wandered through the exhibits, I found myself particularly drawn to the intricate glassware and furniture. The elegant decor and luxurious ambiance amplified the experience. Hans-Peter, with his keen eye for detail, was captivated by the Charles Rennie Mackintosh collection. The museum is home to over 1,500 artworks, spanning from ancient to modern Japanese art.


Explore the artistic heritage of Japan at the Hida Takayama Museum of Art, where tradition meets contemporary creativity in a stunning setting.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Stepping Back in Time at Hida no Sato

Next, we ventured to the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum, also known as Hida Folk Village. This museum transports you back to the Edo period, showcasing over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region. These houses, with their distinctive gassho-zukuri farmhouses, were relocated here to preserve the unique cultural heritage of the area. Walking through the village, we explored the former village head's house, logging huts, and storehouses. It felt like stepping into a living history book, each building telling a story of the past. The indoor fireplaces were lit, adding a sensory dimension to the experience.


Explore traditional thatched-roof houses and immerse yourself in the rural heritage of the Hida region at this open-air museum in Takayama.

One thing that struck me was the ingenuity of the architecture. The steep thatched roofs, resembling hands joined in prayer, were designed to withstand the heavy winter snow. Inside the houses, we saw tools and utensils used in everyday life, offering a glimpse into the resourcefulness of the people who lived here.

We even had the chance to see craftspeople at work, demonstrating traditional skills like wood carving and weaving. It was a reminder of the importance of preserving these crafts for future generations. I was particularly fascinated by the exhibits on silkworm cultivation and regional customs.

A Culinary Journey: Soba and Hida Beef

For lunch, we indulged in a delightful soba experience at Soba dojo Restaurant. The restaurant exuded a traditional charm, and the aroma of buckwheat filled the air. I opted for the Mori Soba, while Hans-Peter, ever adventurous, chose the Tempura Soba. Each slurp was a taste of authentic Japanese flavors, a testament to the simplicity and elegance of soba noodles. The soba was perfectly cooked, and the shoyu was delicious. The service was very friendly.


Experience authentic soba noodles in the heart of Shirakawa-go's breathtaking landscape at Soba Dojo.

In the evening, we had dinner at Hidaji. This restaurant is known for its Hida beef, a local delicacy. The tender and flavorful beef was a culinary highlight of our trip. Hans-Peter and I shared a Hida beef steak, savoring each bite. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were attentive and welcoming.


Discover authentic Soba noodles at Hidaji, a charming Syokudo restaurant nestled in Shirakawa's picturesque landscape.

Evening Reflections at Gassho Bar

To cap off the day, we ventured to Gassho, a local bar known for its ambiance. The bar had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. We sipped on local sake, reflecting on the day's adventures. It was a fitting end to a day filled with art, history, and culinary delights.


Discover the flavors of Japan at Gassho, a charming restaurant in Ogimachi offering traditional dishes in a stunning setting.

As I write this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we shared today. Takayama has a way of captivating you with its charm and beauty. I am looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to immerse ourselves in nature at the Nature Forest and delve deeper into the city's history at the Takayama City Museum. We'll also be sure to sample more local cuisine, with breakfast at Soba Wakimoto, lunch at Morizen, and dinner at Zensuke. And, of course, we'll make time for some shopping at Ochuudo. It promises to be another day of discovery and adventure.

The weather in Takayama in September is quite changeable. It is warm and rainy. The average high is around 24°C, while the average low is around 14°C. It is recommended to wear layers and bring a rain jacket.

Before I close, I must share a funny incident from our day. While at Hida no Sato, Hans-Peter, in his excitement to capture the perfect shot of a gassho-zukuri farmhouse, nearly tripped over a small stone lantern. Thankfully, he regained his balance, but not before letting out a startled yelp that echoed through the tranquil village. It was a moment of levity that reminded us to always be mindful of our surroundings, even when caught up in the beauty of the moment. It's these little mishaps that often become the most memorable stories of our travels.

Until tomorrow, auf wiedersehen!