Exploring the Enchanting Gassho-Zukuri Villages of Shirakawa-go

A Day of Discovery in Takayama

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the art, history, and flavors of Takayama. I woke up with a sense of excitement, eager to explore what this charming city had to offer. Lena and I were both looking forward to a day filled with cultural experiences and delicious food. It's amazing how each day on this trip brings something new and captivating.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arai. I decided to try their famous udon, while Lena opted for the soba. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the broth was rich and flavorful. It was the perfect way to start our day, giving us the energy we needed for our explorations. We chatted about our plans for the day, both excited to see what Takayama had in store for us.

After breakfast, we headed to the Jin Homura Art Museum. Nestled beside the village parking lot, this small museum had a surprisingly cool exterior. The gassho-style building evoked a sense of ancient romance, which I found quite charming. Inside, we discovered a world of art created by Jin Homura, an artist known for his vivid colors and dynamic touch. Lena, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly fascinated by the way Homura's works interacted with the traditional architecture of the building. The museum was a precious place with a rustic ambiance where you can appreciate the passionate work that Homura created there.


Explore the Jin Homura Art Museum in Shirakawa, where traditional and contemporary Japanese art come together in a stunning cultural experience.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our itinerary was Takayama Jinya. This historical building, once a government office during the Edo period, offered a fascinating glimpse into the past. As we walked through the immense building, we had to remove our shoes, which added to the sense of stepping back in time. The various rooms, though mostly empty, were filled with historical significance. Lena and I spent a good amount of time imagining what life must have been like for the officials who worked there. The grounds, though in need of some care, provided a tranquil space for reflection. I learned that Takayama Jinya is the only remaining Jinya in Japan with most of its structure from that period remaining, which made the visit even more special.


Experience the historical essence of Takayama Jinya, a stunning landmark showcasing Japan's rich heritage and traditional architecture.

After immersing ourselves in history, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We made our way to Masuzono Bunsuke, a small family restaurant known for its fresh fish dishes. The chef takes pride in serving fresh fish dishes, as he personally catches the live fish from the pond immediately after receiving orders. I decided to try the Masuen set menu, which included grilled salted char, rainbow trout cooked in sweet sauce and in sashimi, and fried masu trout. Lena, who isn't as fond of fish as I am, opted for a vegetarian set. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were delicate and delicious. It was a truly unique culinary experience, and I savored every bite.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Masuzono Bunsuke in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to do some shopping at Ebisu-ya. This shop offered a variety of local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a few small gifts for our family back in Berlin, while Lena found a beautiful hand-painted fan. It was fun browsing through the different items, each one telling a story of the local culture and craftsmanship.


Discover authentic Japanese souvenirs at Ebisu-ya in Shirakawa-go, a treasure trove of local crafts and traditional gifts.

For dinner, we chose Nomura, a restaurant known for its organic cuisine. After a day of indulging in local specialties, we were both craving something a bit healthier. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the menu featured a variety of dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients. I ordered a vegetable curry, while Lena chose a tofu stir-fry. The food was delicious and nourishing, and it felt good to give our bodies a break from the richer foods we had been eating.


Experience authentic Japanese soba noodles at Nomura in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every bowl.

As we walked back to our accommodation, Lena and I reflected on the day's experiences. We had explored art, history, and local crafts, and indulged in delicious food. Takayama had truly captivated us with its charm and cultural richness.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we are planning to visit the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum and the Museum Hida, where we hope to delve even deeper into the region's history and traditions. We'll start the day with breakfast at Soba dojo Restaurant, followed by lunch at Shiraogi. In the evening, we're planning to have dinner at Kita no Sho, and maybe even check out their bar for a nightcap. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Lena.

It's moments like these that make me realize how much I value these trips with Lena. Away from the hustle of Berlin, we get to reconnect with each other and discover new things together. It's a reminder of why we started this travel blog in the first place – to inspire others to explore the world and create their own unforgettable memories.

The weather today in Takayama was pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C and a mix of sunshine and clouds. It was perfect for walking around and exploring the city. I'm glad I packed my comfortable hiking shoes, as they came in handy during our explorations.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. I can't wait to see what other hidden gems Takayama has in store for us. Good night from Japan!

Tomorrow promises more cultural immersion as we explore the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum and Museum Hida, offering a deeper understanding of the region's heritage. We will also sample local cuisine at Soba dojo Restaurant for breakfast and Shiraogi for lunch, ending the day with dinner and drinks at Kita no Sho. It’s shaping up to be another unforgettable day with Lena.

This trip has been a wonderful escape from our busy lives in Berlin. It’s given Lena and me the chance to reconnect, rediscover our shared passion for travel, and create lasting memories together. Moments like these remind me why we started this blog – to inspire others to seek out their own adventures and appreciate the beauty of the world around them. I hope our experiences inspire you to pack your bags and embark on your own journey of discovery.

Thinking back to my Costa Rican roots, I realize how much travel has shaped me. From the rainforests of Turrialba to the charming streets of Takayama, each place has left an indelible mark on my soul. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience different cultures and share my stories with you all. And I'm especially grateful to have Lena by my side, my partner in life and adventure.

As the day winds down, I'm filled with a sense of contentment. Takayama has exceeded all my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Until then, good night from Japan!