A Solo Journey into the Heart of Shirakawa-go

Discovering Spiritual Sanctuaries and Local Flavors

Today was a day of deeper exploration into the heart of Shirakawa-go, moving beyond the picturesque landscapes to discover the spiritual and cultural cornerstones of this unique village. It's amazing how much history and tradition is packed into such a small area.

My day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Yamamotoya. It was a delightful way to start the day, fueling up with traditional dishes that gave me a taste of local cuisine. The soba noodles were particularly good.

My first stop was Myozenji Temple. This temple, founded in 1748, is a significant religious site in Shirakawa-go. What sets it apart is that the main hall, Kuri (the living quarters of the head priest), and the bell tower gate all feature the distinctive gassho-zukuri style. The main hall's thatched roof, dating back to 1827, is a rare sight in temple architecture. I spent some time admiring the intricate details of the Shoromon gate, built in 1801, with its unique two-layered structure. The yew tree, planted to mark the completion of the main hall, added to the serene atmosphere.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Myozenji, a stunning Buddhist temple in Shirakawa, where culture, spirituality, and nature harmoniously blend.

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not just in its scenery, but in the preservation of its traditions and the warmth of its people.

Next on the itinerary was the Myozenji Museum, housed in the Kuri. This gassho-style house, built in 1817, once served as the residence for the head priest and his family. Now a museum, it offers a glimpse into traditional life in Shirakawa-go. The five-story structure is one of the largest of its kind in Ogimachi village. Inside, I explored the living quarters, complete with an irori sunken fireplace and tatami-mat rooms. It was fascinating to learn about the priest's family cultivating silkworms in the attic, a common practice in gassho-style houses.


Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Shirakawa-go at Myozenji Museum, a local history gem showcasing traditional Japanese lifestyle.

After immersing myself in the temple and museum, I decided to have lunch at Shiraogi. This restaurant is known for its local cuisine, using ingredients like river fish and wild plants. I opted for the Hida beef Hobayaki set, which included grilled magnolia leaves with miso, Hida beef, maitake mushrooms, and green onions. It was a flavorful and satisfying meal. Olivia would have loved this place. She always appreciates when restaurants use local and seasonal ingredients. I made a mental note to bring her here next time.


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

In the afternoon, I ventured to Hatotani Hachiman Shrine. This shrine offers a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with local traditions. Although I didn't get to experience the Doburoku Festival, which takes place in October, I could feel the spiritual significance of the place. The shrine is known for this autumn festival, where doburoku, a traditional drink, is offered to the gods. I took a moment to appreciate the serene surroundings and the beauty of the shrine's architecture.


Explore the serene Hatotani Hachiman Shrine in Shirakawa, Gifu, a peaceful retreat that showcases Japan's spiritual heritage amidst breathtaking nature.

As evening approached, I decided to check out Tenkara, a local bar in Shirakawa. It’s a yakiniku restaurant that offers A4 and A5 grade Hida beef. I enjoyed some Hida beef skewers. Sipping on local sake and chatting with the friendly locals was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Discover the exquisite flavors of authentic Yakiniku at Tenkara, Shirakawa, where quality meets tradition in a picturesque setting.

Before heading back to Shirakawago Onyado Yuinosho , I had dinner at Hiiragi. This restaurant is known for its Hida beef dishes and wild vegetables. I decided to try the Hida beef skewers, which were tender and flavorful. The owner was incredibly friendly.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hiiragi in Shirakawa - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning natural beauty.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Ogimachi, including the iconic viewpoint, the wooden walkway, and Midorigaike Pond. It sounds like another day filled with beautiful sights and cultural experiences. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Kataribe, a local shop.

Even though Olivia isn't here with me, I feel her spirit of adventure guiding me. I know she would be fascinated by everything I've seen and experienced today. I can't wait to share all my stories with her when I return to Toronto. Perhaps we can even recreate some of these dishes in our own kitchen, bringing a taste of Shirakawa-go to our home. For now, I'll cherish these memories and continue to explore all that this enchanting village has to offer.