Solo Cultural Exploration in Kanazawa

Echoes of the Past: A Day in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

Today was a day of stepping back in time, a journey into the heart of Japan's traditional soul. Leaving the familiar streets of Kanazawa behind, I ventured into the mountain landscapes to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. These villages, with their iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, offered a glimpse into a way of life that has endured for centuries. It was a day filled with architectural wonders, cultural immersion, and a deep appreciation for the simple beauty of rural Japan.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Turban Curry Main Store. I had heard whispers about the legendary Kanazawa curry, a thick, rich, and dark concoction served with a crispy cutlet. It was a small, no-frills shop, the kind where you order from a ticket machine and the air hums with the quiet satisfaction of locals. I opted for the L-set curry, a mountain of rice buried beneath a generous serving of pork cutlet, hamburger steak, and sausage. The curry was indeed thick and flavorful, with a hint of spice that woke up my taste buds. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. I can see why the locals enjoy this place. It reminded me a bit of the hearty feijoada my mother used to make back in Ouro Preto, Brazil – a dish that sticks to your ribs and warms you from the inside out. I made sure to bring cash as it's the only form of payment they accept.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Turban Curry Main Store in Kanazawa - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

With a full stomach, I set off towards Shirakawa-go, a village nestled in the Japanese Alps, famed for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses. The drive itself was stunning, winding through lush green valleys and alongside crystal-clear rivers. As I approached the village, the distinctive A-frame roofs of the farmhouses began to appear, punctuating the landscape like origami cranes.

Stepping into Shirakawa-go felt like entering a living museum. The gassho-zukuri houses, with their steeply pitched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall, were truly remarkable. I wandered through the village, admiring the intricate details of the architecture and the meticulous care with which these homes have been preserved. Many of the houses are now shops, museums, and restaurants, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life.

I made my way to the Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck, a vantage point that offered a panoramic view of the entire village. From there, the gassho-zukuri houses looked like miniature dollhouses, nestled amidst a sea of green. It was a breathtaking sight, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who have called this valley home for generations.

The beauty of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama lies not just in their picturesque landscapes, but in the enduring spirit of community and tradition that permeates every aspect of life.

After soaking in the views, I descended back into the village and explored some of the local shops, picking up a few souvenirs to remind me of this special place. I also had the chance to chat with some of the villagers, who were warm and welcoming, eager to share their stories and traditions. It struck me how seamlessly they have managed to blend the old with the new, preserving their heritage while embracing the modern world.

For lunch, I decided to try Grill Otsuka in Kanazawa, known for its Hanton Rice. This local specialty is an omelet rice dish topped with fried shrimp and fish, drizzled with a creamy sauce and ketchup. It was a delightful combination of flavors and textures, a comforting and satisfying meal. The presentation was definitely old school, reminding me of the simple, home-cooked meals of my childhood. While the hamburger steak is also decent, I was here for the Hanton Rice.


Discover Grill Otsuka in Kanazawa: Where Japanese tradition meets Western culinary excellence in every delicious bite.

In the afternoon, I continued my journey to Gokayama, another UNESCO World Heritage site located a short drive from Shirakawa-go. Gokayama is actually comprised of several villages, but I focused on exploring the Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village, a smaller and less crowded alternative to Shirakawa-go.


Explore Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing traditional Japanese architecture in the stunning Toyama mountains.

Suganuma was a hidden gem, a tranquil oasis of traditional Japanese architecture and natural beauty. The village is nestled in a narrow valley, surrounded by steep mountains covered in lush forests. The gassho-zukuri houses here were equally impressive, but there was a sense of serenity and seclusion that I found particularly appealing.

I wandered through the village, exploring the Saltpeter Museum and the Folk Museum, which offered fascinating insights into the history and culture of the region. I learned about the importance of saltpeter production during the Edo period and the ingenuity of the villagers in adapting to the harsh mountain environment.

As the sun began to set, I made my way back to Kanazawa, filled with a sense of awe and gratitude for the experiences of the day. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama had exceeded all my expectations, offering a glimpse into a world that seemed both timeless and deeply connected to the past.

For dinner, I treated myself to Teppanyaki ‘Icho’, a restaurant I had heard so much about. Located on the higher floors of a hotel, it offered stunning views of the city. The chef skillfully prepared a multi-course meal right before my eyes, using the freshest local ingredients. The highlight was undoubtedly the Kumamoto black wagyu beef, which was incredibly tender and flavorful. It was a truly special dining experience, a perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover an unforgettable Teppanyaki dining experience at Icho in Kanazawa's Hotel Nikko—where flavors meet artistry against stunning city views.

Finally, before heading back to Yuyaruru Saisai, I decided to check out ZOWIE, an Irish pub near Kanazawa Station. I was curious to see how the Irish pub culture translated to Japan, and I was pleasantly surprised. The pub was cozy and welcoming, with a good selection of beers and a friendly atmosphere. It was a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the locals and fellow travelers.


Discover the taste of Ireland at ZOWIE, an authentic Irish pub in Kanazawa offering delicious food, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm reminded of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the power of travel to broaden our perspectives. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are not just beautiful villages; they are living testaments to the enduring spirit of community and the ingenuity of humankind. Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Kanazawa itself, starting with the Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall and the Kanazawa Nishi-chaya Museum. I'm excited to delve deeper into the history and culture of this fascinating city.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine

It's a sentiment that resonates deeply with me, fueling my desire to explore new places and connect with different cultures. And with that, I bid you goodnight from Kanazawa, a city that has captured my heart with its beauty, history, and charm.