Exploring the Enchanting Gassho-Zukuri Villages of Shirakawa-go

A Journey Begins

After months of planning and anticipation, Lena and I finally arrived in Shirakawa-go! The journey from Berlin was long, but the moment we stepped off the bus, we knew it was worth every second. The air was fresh, carrying a hint of earthy sweetness, and the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses stood before us like something out of a fairytale. It felt like stepping into a living postcard, and I couldn't wait to explore every nook and cranny of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our first stop was breakfast at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, and it was an experience in itself. The restaurant, nestled in a traditional thatched-roof house, exuded rustic charm. We sat at a table near the irori (a traditional sunken hearth), which added to the cozy atmosphere. I decided to try the Hida Beef Cooked on a Ceramic Board Set Meal. Lena opted for the Grilled Tofu Set Meal, made with local Shirakawa-ko Tofu. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling us up for the adventures ahead.


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

After breakfast, we headed to Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, an open-air museum showcasing traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Walking through the museum felt like stepping back in time. Each house told a story, and I was particularly fascinated by the intricate details of the thatched roofs. Lena, ever the graphic designer, was captivated by the craftsmanship and the way the buildings blended seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.


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

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not just in its picturesque landscapes but in the way it connects you to a simpler, more authentic way of life.

As we wandered through the Minka-en, I couldn't help but think about my own background. Growing up in Turrialba, Costa Rica, I was surrounded by nature, but this was different. The meticulous care and preservation of tradition here were palpable, a stark contrast to the rapid modernization I've witnessed in many parts of the world. It made me appreciate the importance of preserving cultural heritage, something I hope to share with future generations. We were able to explore the interiors of some of the houses, marveling at the tools, kitchen utensils, and ornaments that offered a tangible connection to the past. I was particularly intrigued by the irori fireplace in the center of the living room, imagining families gathering around it for warmth and sustenance.

Next on our list was Shirakawago Three Houses, a vantage point offering a stunning view of three gassho-zukuri farmhouses nestled together. The walk there was a bit of a trek, but the view was worth every step. From this vantage point, the village looked even more enchanting, with the farmhouses surrounded by lush greenery. I took out my camera and snapped away, trying to capture the perfect shot. Lena, always the patient one, helped me find the best angles and lighting.


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

By lunchtime, we were ready for another culinary adventure. We chose Soba Wakimoto, a restaurant known for its delicious soba noodles and Hida beef. I decided to try the cold soba with Hida beef. Lena opted for the hot soba with ebi tempura. The Hida beef was incredibly juicy, paired with a special sauce that was both savory and slightly sweet. As for the soba, there was a significant difference in noodle texture between the cold and hot versions.


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

After lunch, we decided to do some shopping at Sanrakudo. The shop was filled with handcrafted souvenirs and local delicacies. I picked up a few small gifts for my family back in Costa Rica, hoping to share a piece of our journey with them. Lena, of course, found some charming trinkets to remind us of our time here. The shopkeeper was incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the village and its traditions. I even tried my hand at a few Japanese phrases, much to Lena's amusement.


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

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Tenshukaku. The restaurant offered stunning views of the Shirakawa village, and we wanted to savor one last glimpse of the iconic landscape. The food was delicious, but the view was the real highlight. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the gassho-style farmhouses, I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me.


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

The weather in July is quite warm, with daytime temperatures peaking around 27°C, but it can also be rainy. We were lucky to have a mix of sunshine and clouds today, but I'm definitely packing an umbrella from now on, especially since I forgot to bring one from Berlin! It seems like there is a 71% chance of rain this month. I should have also brushed up on my Japanese phrases, as I forgot to bring my Japanese phrasebook.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Myozenji Museum and the Hatotani Hachiman Shrine. I'm particularly excited about the Myozenji Museum, as it promises a deeper dive into the history and culture of Shirakawa-go. We also plan to try Hiiragi for breakfast, Zensuke for lunch, and Yamamotoya for dinner. Plus, we might check out the bar at Yamamotoya for a nightcap.

Reflecting on our first day, I'm struck by the simplicity and beauty of Shirakawa-go. It's a place where time seems to stand still, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience it with Lena. It's amazing how much we can learn from different cultures and how travel can broaden our perspectives. As a software developer, I spend most of my time in front of a computer screen, but being here, surrounded by nature and history, reminds me of the importance of connecting with the world around us.

As we headed back to our minshuku (traditional farmhouse inn), I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. This trip is not just a vacation; it's an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with each other and the world around us. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I am looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you all! Stay tuned for more updates from Shirakawa-go!

One thing I've learned today is that sometimes, the most beautiful experiences are the ones you least expect. As we continue our journey, I'm excited to see what other hidden gems Shirakawa-go has in store for us.

Until tomorrow,
José