A Solo Journey into the Heart of Shirakawa-go

A Journey Begins

Today marked the start of my 11-day solo adventure in Shirakawa-go, and I couldn't have asked for a more enchanting beginning. The allure of this UNESCO World Heritage site, with its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, has always captivated me. Leaving behind the data-driven world of Toronto for a taste of traditional Japanese culture felt like stepping into a living postcard. I was eager to explore every nook and cranny of this serene village, camera in hand, ready to capture its timeless beauty.

The journey here was quite the experience. After flying from Toronto to Tokyo, I navigated the efficient Japanese train system and hopped on a bus that wound its way through the mountains [i]. The anticipation grew with every turn, and as the first gassho-zukuri roofs appeared in the distance, I knew I was in for something special. It's a far cry from my usual weekend explorations of Toronto's diverse neighborhoods, but that's exactly what I was seeking – a complete immersion into a different world.

My home for the next few days is Shirakawago Onyado Yuinosho, a place that perfectly blends local charm with modern comforts [i].


Experience the serene beauty of Shirakawamura at Shirakawago Onyado Yuinosho, a perfect blend of comfort, local charm, and modern amenities.

After settling in, it was time to dive headfirst into the day's itinerary.

First stop: Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, an open-air museum showcasing relocated gassho-zukuri houses.


Explore Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, a captivating open-air museum showcasing Japan's traditional thatched-roof farmhouses amidst stunning natural beauty.

Stepping onto the grounds felt like walking into a historical drama. The museum preserves and opens 25 Gassho-zukuri houses, including 9 important cultural relics in the prefecture. Wandering through the village, I was struck by the ingenuity and craftsmanship of these unique structures, designed to withstand the heavy snowfall of the region. It's amazing how these houses have been preserved, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle that has endured for centuries.

In Shirakawa-go, time slows down, allowing you to savor the simple beauty of traditional Japanese life.

I explored several of the houses, each with its own story to tell. The former Yamashita Haruro House, built in the 1750s, was particularly impressive. Imagine living in a house that has stood for over 260 years! The museum also featured shrines, temples and watermills, creating an immersive atmosphere. It was fascinating to see the tools and everyday items used by the villagers, offering a tangible connection to the past. I couldn't help but think how Olivia, with her artistic eye, would have loved capturing the intricate details of the architecture and the rustic charm of the interiors. I made a mental note to bring her back here someday.

Next on the list was Shirakawago Three Houses, another picturesque spot offering a unique perspective on the gassho-zukuri architecture.


Explore the enchanting Shirakawago Three Houses, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Japan's unique gassho-zukuri architecture amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

While the location itself was beautiful, I couldn't shake off a slight sense of unease due to a rather unpleasant encounter with one of the locals. It served as a reminder that even in the most idyllic settings, cultural sensitivities and respect are paramount. Despite this minor hiccup, the view of the three houses nestled together against the backdrop of the mountains was undeniably stunning. I took a few photos, trying to capture the essence of the scene without intruding on the local atmosphere.

By this time, my stomach was starting to rumble, so I made my way to Shirakawago Restaurant Irori for a late breakfast.


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

The restaurant is housed in a traditional gassho-zukuri building, adding to the overall ambiance. I opted for one of their vegetarian set meals, which, to my delight, was also vegan. The meal featured local Shirakawa-ko tofu and mountain vegetables, offering a true taste of the region. The flavors were subtle yet satisfying, and the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant made it a perfect spot to relax and recharge. The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, making the experience even more enjoyable.

For lunch, I decided to try Soba Wakimoto, known for its delicious soba noodles and Hida beef.


Savor authentic handmade soba noodles in Shirakawa's scenic Ogimachi village, where tradition meets breathtaking views.

The restaurant was bustling with activity, a testament to its popularity. I ordered the cold soba with tempura, a refreshing choice for the warm May afternoon. The soba noodles were perfectly cooked, and the tempura was light and crispy. It was a simple yet satisfying meal, and the friendly service added to the overall experience.

With my appetite sated, I spent the afternoon exploring the village, wandering through the narrow streets and soaking in the atmosphere. The surrounding mountains were lush with greenery, a welcome sight after the concrete jungle of Toronto. I could feel myself unwinding, the stress of work slowly melting away. I even managed to pick up a few souvenirs at Sanrakudo, a charming shop offering local crafts and delicacies.


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

I found a beautiful handcrafted pottery piece for Olivia, a small token to remind her of this special place. The manager of the store was incredibly welcoming and offered to teach me some Shirakawa-go dialect. I only picked up a few phrases, but it was a fun and memorable interaction.

As evening approached, I made my way to Tenshukaku for dinner.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Tenshukaku in Shirakawa—where culinary tradition meets stunning mountain views.

Situated on a hill overlooking the village, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the gassho-zukuri houses. I arrived just in time to witness a breathtaking sunset, the golden light casting a magical glow over the landscape. The menu featured local Hida beef and other regional specialties. I decided to try the Hida beef hotpot, a hearty and flavorful dish that was perfect for a cool evening. The beef was tender and succulent, and the broth was rich and savory. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.

Before heading back to my accommodation, I took a leisurely stroll through the village, enjoying the tranquility of the night. The gassho-zukuri houses were illuminated, creating a fairytale-like scene. The only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant murmur of the river. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of why I had embarked on this solo journey.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I plan to visit Myozenji Temple and Museum, as well as Hatotani Hachiman Shrine [i]. I'm also hoping to check out Tenkara, a local bar, for a taste of the village's nightlife [i]. But for tonight, I'm content to simply reflect on the day's experiences and savor the peace and quiet of Shirakawa-go.

It's funny, I almost forgot to pack an umbrella, but thankfully the weather cooperated today. I did, however, realize I forgot an extra memory card for my camera. A rookie mistake for someone who loves photography as much as I do! I'll have to pick one up tomorrow.

As I close my travel journal for the night, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Shirakawa-go has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the beauty and diversity of our world, and I'm excited to share more of my adventures with you all on Evendo.

Until tomorrow, dear readers, sayōnara!