Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

Kanazawa's Charms Beyond the Gassho-zukuri

After several days immersed in the enchanting world of Shirakawa-go, Hans-Peter and I decided to venture a bit further afield today. While the gassho-zukuri farmhouses remain etched in our memories, we were eager to explore more of what this region of Japan had to offer. Kanazawa, with its blend of natural beauty and historical gardens, seemed like the perfect destination for a day trip. We anticipated a day filled with serene landscapes, delightful cuisine, and perhaps a few unique souvenirs to bring back to Berlin.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Yukinko. The name, I later learned, comes from two sisters who grew up in Shirakawa and opened the restaurant. It was a charming spot, the kind that makes you feel instantly at home. We enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast, which gave us the energy we needed for a day of exploring. I always appreciate starting the day with a good meal; it sets the tone for everything that follows.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yukinko in Shirakawa-go amidst stunning landscapes and traditional architecture.

After breakfast, we set off to Garyu Park. Although I knew it was famous for its cherry blossoms, I hoped it would still have its own distinct charm even in September. Fortunately, the park did not disappoint. The vibrant greenery and tranquil Ryugaike Pond created a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a morning stroll. I could only imagine how breathtaking it must be in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Even without the blossoms, the park offered stunning views of the Hokushin Gogaku mountain range. Hans-Peter, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing the scenery from every possible angle. I found a quiet bench where I could sit and jot down my thoughts in my travel journal. It's moments like these, surrounded by nature, that make traveling so rewarding.


Discover the serene beauty of Garyu Park in Takayama, Gifu, home to ancient cherry blossoms and tranquil landscapes.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are found in the quiet corners of a destination, away from the bustling crowds and popular attractions.

Next on our itinerary was the Gyokusenin Maru Garden. This traditional-style garden, located on the grounds of Kanazawa Castle, was a true oasis of calm. The stepped design and the stair-like waterfall added a unique sense of verticality to the landscape. We spent a considerable amount of time wandering through the garden, admiring the meticulous attention to detail. The garden has been carefully restored to look much as it did at the end of the Edo period (1603–1867). I found myself particularly drawn to the Gyokusen-an teahouse, where we enjoyed tea and traditional sweets while overlooking the garden. It was a delightful experience, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the history and culture of this place.


Discover a serene Edo-era garden within Kanazawa Castle Park, featuring tranquil ponds, stone walls, and a traditional teahouse.

For lunch, we chose Soba Dojo Restaurant. I had read about their freshly made soba noodles and was eager to try them. The restaurant itself was charming, with a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflected the essence of Japanese hospitality. The soba noodles were indeed exceptional, crafted from high-quality buckwheat flour sourced from local farms. I opted for the cold dipping noodles with a savory dipping sauce, while Hans-Peter chose the hot noodle soup with seasonal vegetables. Both dishes were delicious, and we savored every bite. It was a satisfying and authentic culinary experience that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Shirakawa-go.


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

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping. I had heard about Ichihi, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go. We browsed through the local crafts and delicacies, searching for the perfect memento of our trip. I was particularly drawn to the silk products, a nod to the region's history of sericulture. I ended up purchasing a beautiful silk scarf, while Hans-Peter found a unique piece of local pottery. It's always nice to bring back something that reminds you of your travels, a tangible connection to the places you've visited.


Explore Ichihi, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, offering unique local crafts and delicacies that capture Japan's rich heritage.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hidaji for dinner. This small, rustic soba restaurant is located in the center of Shirakawa-go's Ogimachi district. We enjoyed soba and udon dishes alongside edible wild plants and tempura. The Hida beef croquette was also a highlight. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring, a delicious meal in a cozy setting.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I enjoyed venturing beyond the main attraction of Shirakawa-go. While the gassho-zukuri farmhouses are undoubtedly impressive, there is so much more to discover in this region. The serene beauty of Garyu Park and Gyokusenin Maru Garden, the authentic flavors of the local cuisine, and the unique crafts and souvenirs all contributed to a memorable experience. Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are found in the quiet corners of a destination, away from the bustling crowds and popular attractions.

As we prepare for our next adventure tomorrow, a visit to the Gokayama Folklore Museum and Kanazawa Katani , I feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful part of Japan. Each day brings new discoveries, new experiences, and new memories to cherish. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what tomorrow will bring. Perhaps we will even have a drink at Tenkara, Shirakawa !

The funny thing is, despite meticulously planning our trip, I completely forgot to pack an extra power adapter [The TravelDuration number]! It's always something, isn't it? Luckily, we've managed so far, but I'll need to remember to pick one up soon. And perhaps an umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. But these are minor details in the grand scheme of things. What truly matters is the experience itself, the memories we create, and the connections we make along the way.

I am reminded of a quote from one of my favorite Latvian authors, Vizma Belševica: It is not the destination that matters, but the journey itself. This sentiment perfectly captures my approach to travel. It's not just about seeing the sights, but about immersing yourself in the local culture, connecting with the people, and savoring every moment, both big and small. And as I continue on this journey through Japan, I am committed to embracing every opportunity that comes my way, with an open mind and a grateful heart.

As Hans-Peter and I reflect on our day, we are filled with a sense of contentment. We have explored new places, tasted new flavors, and learned new things. We have connected with the history and culture of this region, and we have created memories that will last a lifetime. And as we look forward to tomorrow's adventures, we are reminded of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world, waiting to be discovered.

It's funny how travel can sometimes feel like a metaphor for life itself. There are unexpected detours, moments of frustration, and occasional setbacks. But there are also moments of pure joy, unexpected discoveries, and profound connections. And it's these moments that make it all worthwhile, that remind us of the beauty and richness of the human experience.

And so, as I close my travel journal for the night, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to travel, for the chance to explore new places, and for the companionship of my beloved Hans-Peter. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow will bring new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories to cherish.