Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Isabella

Day 2: Discovering Spiritual Sanctuaries and Local Flavors in Shirakawa-go

Today, Isabella and I delved deeper into the heart of Shirakawa-go, seeking to understand its spiritual side and savor its culinary offerings. As a travel blogger, I'm always on the lookout for experiences that resonate with authenticity and cultural richness, and today certainly delivered on that front. I'm excited to share the highlights of our day, from exploring ancient temples to indulging in local delicacies.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yamamotoya. The traditional Japanese breakfast set us up perfectly for a day of exploration. The soba noodles were delicious, and the atmosphere was so peaceful. It was a great way to start the day.

Exploring Myozenji Temple

Our first stop was Myozenji Temple, a significant religious site in Shirakawa-go. Founded in 1748, it's the main Buddhist sanctuary in the village of Ogimachi. As we approached, the temple exuded an aura of tranquility. The main hall, with its distinctive thatched roof dating back to 1827, was a sight to behold. The intricate details and the sheer craftsmanship were remarkable. I couldn't help but think of the countless prayers and ceremonies that had taken place within those walls over the centuries.


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

The temple belongs to the Jodo Shinshu (True Pure Land) school, which is the dominant form of Buddhism in this area. The peacefulness of the temple grounds was palpable, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Isabella and I took our time wandering around, admiring the architecture and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere.

The true value of travel lies not in seeing new landscapes, but in seeing with new eyes.

Stepping Back in Time at Myozenji Museum

Next to the main hall, we visited the Myozenji Museum, housed in what was once the kuri, or living quarters of the head priest and his family. This gassho-style house, built in 1817, is one of the largest in the village and offered a fascinating glimpse into traditional life in Shirakawa-go.


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

The museum showcased a variety of tools, kitchen utensils, and ornaments that conveyed how the people of Shirakawa-go traditionally made a living. It was fascinating to see the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the villagers, who relied on silk farming and agriculture to sustain themselves.

One of the most interesting features of the house was the four-level attic, which was primarily used for cultivating silkworms. Looking at the inside of the roof structure, secured by straw ropes and bindings made of witch hazel saplings, gave me a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship and community effort that went into building these homes. I learned that while professional carpenters built the foundation and first floor, ordinary villagers would come together to assemble everything above the house's lattice ceiling.

The museum building itself is unique, being one of the few houses in the area with plastered earthen walls, which are more fire-resistant than wooden walls. Inside, the 330-square-meter first floor housed the living quarters, including a large living room with an irori fireplace at the center. I could imagine families gathering around the hearth, sharing stories and meals in the warmth of the fire.

Lunch at Shiraogi: A Taste of Local Tradition

For lunch, we chose Shiraogi, a restaurant known for its authentic teishoku dining. It was a wonderful opportunity to savor local cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. We tried the salt-grilled char, a local river fish, and, of course, soba noodles. Isabella opted for the Hida beef Hoba-yaki set, which featured grilled magnolia leaves with miso, Hida beef, maitake mushrooms, and green onions. Every dish was a testament to the region's culinary heritage.


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

Evening Reflections and a Nightcap at Koshiyama

As the day wound down, we decided to experience Shirakawa-go's nightlife with a visit to Koshiyama. While Shirakawa-go is known for its serene atmosphere, it was nice to unwind and enjoy a drink in a local setting. It was a cozy spot, and we enjoyed chatting with some of the locals, learning more about their lives and traditions. It seems that Koshiyama is known not only for the drinks, but also for serving soba noodles and displaying antiques. A perfect blend of culinary delight and cultural charm.


Discover Koshiyama in Shirakawa for authentic soba noodles and unique antiques, a perfect blend of culinary delight and cultural charm.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a moment to reflect on the day. Visiting Myozenji Temple and the Myozenji Museum offered a profound understanding of Shirakawa-go's spiritual and cultural heritage. The gassho-zukuri architecture, the serene temple grounds, and the glimpse into traditional life all combined to create a memorable experience.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Wooden Walkway and Midorigaike Pond, continuing our exploration of this enchanting village. I'm eager to see what new discoveries await us.

As I sit here writing, I realize how fortunate I am to share these experiences with Isabella. Traveling together has deepened our connection and broadened our perspectives. It's a reminder that the best travel experiences are not just about seeing new places, but about sharing them with someone you love.

It's almost time for bed, and I must remember to charge my camera, as I forgot my portable power bank back in Edmonton. What was I thinking? At least I remembered my travel adapter, so I can charge it overnight. Tomorrow will be another day filled with exploration and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all. Arrivederci!