Cultural Immersion in Shirakawa-go: A Japanese Heritage Adventure

A Day of Discovery in Shirakawa-go

Today in Shirakawa-go was a beautiful blend of cultural immersion and culinary delight. From exploring ancient wisdom to savoring local flavors, every moment felt like a step deeper into the heart of this enchanting village. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this journey – to connect with cultures and share these experiences with all of you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yukinko. This charming eatery is run by two sisters who grew up in Shirakawa-go. It's a small counter shop, which gave us a chance to chat with the locals. I had some delicious dumplings and Gohei Mochi (grilled rice with sweet miso) on their terrace. The terrace offered a lovely view of the surrounding mountains as we enjoyed our meal. It’s the perfect way to start a day of exploration.


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

After breakfast, we visited the Hida Earth Wisdom Center. This museum showcases the rich history of craftsmanship in the Hida Takayama region. It was fascinating to learn about the artisans who, as far back as the Asuka period, contributed their skills to building palaces and temples. The museum has an exposition of furniture used by royals from over a thousand years ago. I was particularly impressed by the collection of nearly 100 award-winning chairs, each a testament to the region's dedication to comfort and design. I even sat in a few, experiencing firsthand the comfort that Hida craftsmanship is known for.


Explore the cultural heart of Takayama at Hida Earth Wisdom Center, where tradition and craftsmanship come alive in stunning exhibits.

The true essence of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in connecting with the culture and people that make them unique.

Next, we headed to the Nezumita-mon Gate. Although technically located in Kanazawa, the gate's history and recent reconstruction made it a compelling visit. The original gate was destroyed by fire in 1884, but it was rebuilt in 2020 using traditional methods. The black plaster connecting the gray tiles gives it a distinctive look. Learning about its history and seeing the craftsmanship that went into its reconstruction was truly inspiring.


Explore the historical beauty of Nezumita-mon Gate, a remarkable castle landmark in Kanazawa, Japan, showcasing traditional architecture and serene gardens.

For lunch, we chose Masuzono Bunsuke, a family restaurant known for its fresh fish dishes. The chef takes pride in catching the fish from the pond right after receiving orders. I tried the Iwana (char) and Nijimasu (rainbow trout) sashimi. The Nijimasu sashimi was quite unique, with a flavor that reminded me of salmon. The restaurant is located a short walk from the main town, offering a quiet escape from the crowds. The tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful garden surrounding the gassho-zukuri structure made the experience even more special.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Masuzono Bunsuke in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste.

After lunch, I spent some time at Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir shop. The manager, who was born in Ogimachi in 1948, greeted me with a warm smile. I enjoyed chatting with him and learning a few words of the local Shirakawa-go dialect. It’s these small interactions that make traveling so rewarding, reminding me of the importance of community, something I try to foster in my work back in Potsdam. I picked up a few handcrafted treasures and local delicacies to take back home.


Discover the essence of Japan at Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies.

As the day drew to a close, we had dinner at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori. This restaurant is known for its rustic and traditional regional dishes. The hoba miso pork was a standout, with its deep, sweet, and nutty flavor that paired perfectly with the local Hida pork. The restaurant itself is in a traditional setting, complete with tatami seating and picturesque views. The staff was friendly and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. I even tried the chilled tofu, which had a great soy flavor – thick and dense, a delightful contrast to the rich pork.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, nestled in the scenic beauty of Shirakawa-go's heritage village.

Tomorrow, we head towards Kanazawa to explore the Nishi Chaya District and Ishiura Shrine. I’m looking forward to discovering more about this region's cultural heritage and sharing it with you all. I plan on having breakfast at Keyaki, lunch at Soba Wakimoto, and dinner at Tenshukaku. I'm also hoping to find some time to relax at Hakusuien bar in the evening.

Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about immersing oneself in the local culture and connecting with the people who call it home. These are the moments that stay with you long after the journey ends, enriching your understanding of the world and your place in it. As an Afghan woman living in Germany, I find these experiences particularly poignant, a testament to the universal human desire for connection and understanding. The warmth and hospitality I've encountered here in Shirakawa-go resonate deeply with the values I grew up with in Bamyan, reinforcing my belief in the power of cultural exchange to bridge divides and foster empathy.

Good night from Shirakawa-go!