Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

Whispers of the Past, Echoes of Nature

Today in Shirakawa-go was a gentle dance between history and nature, a quiet symphony that resonated deeply within me. It's days like these, where the world seems to slow down, that I truly appreciate the beauty of simplicity. As an archivist, I often find myself immersed in the stories of the past, but today, I was equally captivated by the present moment, by the rustling leaves and the gentle lapping of water against ancient wooden structures. Hans-Peter, ever the observant companion, shared in my awe as we navigated the serene landscapes of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our day began with breakfast at Arai, a cozy restaurant conveniently located near the bus station. The aroma of Hida beef filled the air, a local delicacy that I couldn't resist. We opted for the Hida beef set meal, a delightful combination of tender beef and sweet miso sauce. The restaurant was managed by two sweet old ladies who made us feel right at home. It was a hearty and satisfying start to our day, fueling us for the explorations ahead. The warm service, despite the language barrier, added to the charm of the place.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set out to explore the famed Wooden Walkway. As we strolled along, the breathtaking landscapes unfolded before us, showcasing the Gifu Prefecture mountains and the iconic thatched-roof houses. The walkway offered a peaceful escape, a chance to connect with nature while immersing ourselves in the beauty of rural Japan. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. The sound of the river flowing alongside the walkway was a constant, soothing companion. The walkway meandered gently, offering different vantage points of the surrounding scenery.


Experience the serene beauty of Shirakawa-go with a stroll along the picturesque Wooden Walkway, offering stunning views of traditional Japan.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the simplest of moments, in the quiet appreciation of the world around us.

Continuing our exploration, we sought out the Water Lily Pond. The pond was a tranquil oasis, a mirror reflecting the sky above. The water lilies, with their delicate petals and vibrant green pads, added a touch of elegance to the scene. The surrounding marshland provided a habitat for various plants and animals. It was a serene spot, perfect for quiet contemplation. I took the opportunity to capture the beauty of the pond through my camera lens, hoping to preserve the memory of this peaceful moment.


Find serenity at Shirakawa-go's Water Lily Pond, a tranquil escape reflecting the beauty of the Japanese Alps.

For lunch, we chose Zensuke, a restaurant renowned for its delectable kushiyaki, or grilled skewers. The restaurant's traditional Japanese decor created an inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after our morning adventures. The menu showcased an array of skewers made from high-quality ingredients, including succulent beef and seasonal vegetables. Each skewer was expertly grilled to perfection, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. We savored the tender texture and rich flavors, appreciating the culinary heritage of Shirakawa-go. The restaurant's location in the heart of the village made it an ideal pitstop, allowing us to soak in the surrounding scenery.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zensuke in Shirakawa-go—home to exquisite kushiyaki amidst breathtaking heritage scenery.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Yamamotoya, seeking a place to unwind and reflect on our experiences. It is a restaurant in spring and summer, and becomes a guesthouse in winter. Though we didn't indulge in sake, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We chatted with fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover the authentic taste of handmade soba noodles at Yamamotoya in the scenic Shirakawa village, a true culinary gem of Japan.

Dinner was at Nomura, a counter shop where you can enjoy freshly baked soba noodles. With only twelve seats, it had an intimate atmosphere. I enjoyed watching the chef prepare the noodles right in front of my eyes. The soba was delicious, and Hans-Peter thoroughly enjoyed the takikomi-gohan, rice cooked with vegetables. The friendly atmosphere made it a memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Japanese soba noodles at Nomura in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every bowl.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the seamless blend of nature and history in Shirakawa-go. The Wooden Walkway and Water Lily Pond offered a tranquil escape, while the local restaurants provided a taste of the region's culinary heritage. It's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing visitors to appreciate the simple joys of life.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Hatotani Hachiman Shrine and the Jin Homura Art Museum. I am eager to delve deeper into the cultural fabric of this remarkable village, to uncover more of its hidden stories. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with a sense of anticipation, eager to see what wonders await us in Shirakawa-go. The weather in September is generally warm, with daytime temperatures around 24°C and nighttime temperatures around 15°C. However, it is also the rainy season, so we will be sure to pack our umbrellas and waterproof shoes.

The gentle rhythm of life here is a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Berlin, a reminder of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the world around us. Perhaps a bit of this tranquility is what I need to bring back with me to the Deutsches Historisches Museum; a fresh perspective to apply to my work, a renewed appreciation for the stories etched in the artifacts I handle each day. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll try my hand at growing some Latvian herbs and flowers in our garden when we return, a little piece of home amidst the German landscape.

As I sit here, penning these thoughts, Hans-Peter is already fast asleep, his gentle snores a comforting soundtrack to the quiet night. Tomorrow promises new adventures, new discoveries, and new stories to tell. Until then, I bid you goodnight from the heart of Shirakawa-go.