Exploring Shirakawa-go: A Journey Through Japan's Timeless Village

Echoes of the Edo Period in Takayama

Today, Isabella and I immersed ourselves in the captivating history and culture of Takayama. From open-air museums showcasing traditional architecture to exploring the heart of local governance in the Edo period, every moment felt like stepping back in time. It's days like these that remind me why we set out on this journey, eager to absorb the unique stories woven into the fabric of Japanese heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arai. I opted for their famous udon, a comforting and flavorful start to a day of exploration. Isabella chose the soba, and we both relished the simplicity and authenticity of the meal. Fuelled up, we set off to the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum.

The Hida no Sato Open Air Museum was like walking into a living postcard. Traditional houses from the Hida region were carefully relocated here, creating a village-like atmosphere that transported us back to the Edo period. Each building was meticulously preserved, showcasing the unique architectural styles and tools used in everyday life. The thatched roofs and intricate woodwork were a testament to the craftsmanship of the era.

Isabella, with her librarian's eye for detail, was particularly fascinated by the interiors of the farmhouses. She imagined families gathering around the hearth, sharing stories and meals in these very spaces. I, on the other hand, was captivated by the ingenuity of the designs, how the buildings were adapted to withstand the harsh winters of the Japanese Alps.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

After spending the morning wandering through Hida no Sato, we took a bus to Takayama Jinya. This historical government complex served as the administrative headquarters for the Hida region during the Edo period. Stepping inside felt like entering a different world. We had to remove our shoes before exploring the tatami-matted offices and meeting rooms.

The Takayama Jinya offered a glimpse into the intricate workings of local governance during the shogunate. We explored the various rooms, including the reception hall, which was used for important annual events. The adjacent rice storehouse, the largest surviving Edo-period storehouse in Japan, now serves as a museum filled with historical documents and artifacts. I found myself particularly drawn to the interrogation room, imagining the tense atmosphere and the weight of justice that once filled the space.

After immersing ourselves in history, it was time for lunch. We headed to Morizen, a local restaurant known for its Hida beef. We both opted for the Hoba miso set, a regional specialty where the miso is served on a magnolia leaf, adding a unique flavor to the tender beef. The combination of the sweet miso and the savory beef was simply divine.

With our appetites satisfied, we strolled through the streets of Takayama, eventually finding ourselves at Kinu Yukari. Isabella, with her love for textiles, was immediately drawn to the shop's collection of silk products. She ended up buying a beautiful silk scarf, a perfect memento of our time in Takayama. I admired the craftsmanship and the vibrant colors, a true reflection of Japanese artistry.

Our final stop for the day was Kita no Sho for dinner. This restaurant is housed in a traditional Gassho-zukuri house, adding to its charm. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local cuisine, savoring the flavors of Hida. The ambiance of the restaurant, with its wooden furniture and traditional setting, made the experience even more special.

As we walked back to our accommodation, we reflected on the day's adventures. Takayama had truly captured our hearts with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It was a day of discovery, a day of immersion, and a day of unforgettable memories.

Tomorrow, we will be heading towards Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater [Ifakawa Prefectural Noh Theater]. We are both excited to witness a traditional Noh performance and delve deeper into Japanese performing arts. After the show, we plan to have breakfast at Yamamotoya, followed by lunch at Hiiragi [Hiiragi restaurant], and dinner at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori [Shirakawago Restaurant Irori]. To cap off our final night, we might visit Hidaji for a drink before we head back to Edmonton.

Until then, kampai!

P.S. I almost forgot! I was reminded today of how much I miss playing my guitar. I think I'll need to find a local music shop in Edmonton when we get back and maybe even look into some Uruguayan folk music events. It's these little reminders of home that make the travel experience so much richer.

Oh, and Isabella reminded me that I forgot to pack my rain jacket! It wasn't needed today, but it's definitely something I'll remember for future trips.