Exploring the Enchanting Gassho-Zukuri Villages of Shirakawa-go

Finding Peace in Shirakawa-go's Hidden Gems

Today was a day of quiet reflection and natural beauty, as Lena and I explored some of the lesser-known, yet equally enchanting, corners of Shirakawa-go. From the tranquil grounds of Myozenji Temple to the serene trails of the Nature Forest, it was a day that nourished both our bodies and souls.


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

Our day began with the gentle sounds of Shirakawa-go awakening. After a good night's sleep, Lena and I were eager to start the day. First stop: breakfast at Yukinko.

Breakfast at Yukinko

Yukinko is run by two sisters who grew up in Shirakawa-go. It’s a small, cozy spot near the Wada House, perfect for a quick and tasty bite. I opted for the Gohei Mochi. Lena had some dumplings, and we enjoyed our food on the terrace. It was a delightful start to the day, chatting with the friendly staff and soaking in the peaceful morning atmosphere.

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yukinko in Shirakawa-go amidst stunning landscapes and traditional architecture.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to explore the day's main attractions.

Exploring Myozenji Temple

Myozenji Temple was our first official stop of the day. Founded in 1748, it's a significant religious site in Shirakawa-go. The temple belongs to the Jodo Shinshu (True Pure Land) school of Buddhism, a prominent sect in this region. The main hall, with its distinctive thatched roof dating back to 1827, immediately caught my eye. The intricate wooden structures and peaceful gardens created an atmosphere of profound tranquility.

We wandered through the temple grounds, admiring the meticulous craftsmanship of the buildings. The Shoromon Gate, built in 1801, is particularly striking with its two-layered structure and high thatched roof. I learned that the original temple bell was taken for military use during World War II, a poignant reminder of the village's history. Thankfully, a new bell was cast after the war, and it now rings in ceremonies and on New Year's Eve.

Adjacent to the main hall is the kuri, the former living quarters of the head priest and his family. This gassho-style house, one of the largest in the village, was built in 1817 and now serves as a museum. Inside, we explored the traditional living spaces, complete with an irori fireplace at the center of the main room. I was fascinated by the hiama, a wooden board hanging above the fireplace used to extinguish sparks and dissipate smoke. It gave me a glimpse into the daily life of the monks and their families who once lived here.

As we strolled through the temple grounds, I noticed a magnificent yew tree, planted to commemorate the completion of the main hall in 1827. It's designated as a Natural Monument of Gifu Prefecture, a testament to its age and significance. Lena, ever the observant one, pointed out a cherry tree on the other side, its pink blossoms a promise of spring. The temple truly felt like a place where time stood still, a sanctuary of peace and reflection.

The quiet beauty of Myozenji Temple offered a moment to connect with the spiritual heart of Shirakawa-go.

Embracing Nature in the Nature Forest

After immersing ourselves in the cultural and spiritual ambiance of Myozenji Temple, Lena and I craved a deeper connection with nature. So, we ventured into the Nature Forest. The forest is part of the larger Forest of North Hida, known for its rich biodiversity and lush greenery. As we stepped onto the trail, the air immediately felt fresher, cooler, and filled with the earthy scent of damp soil and ancient trees.

Explore the breathtaking Nature Forest in Takayama, Gifu, where nature meets cultural heritage in a tranquil setting.

The trail wound its way through a dense forest of beech and oak trees. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. We walked hand in hand, listening to the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds. It was a welcome escape from the more crowded areas of Shirakawa-go, a chance to reconnect with the natural world.

I paused to admire the towering beech trees, their trunks covered in moss and lichen. Lena, with her keen eye for detail, pointed out various species of ferns and wildflowers growing along the path. We even spotted a few small animals scurrying through the underbrush, a testament to the forest's thriving ecosystem.

As we hiked deeper into the forest, I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me. The hustle and bustle of Berlin seemed a million miles away. It was just us, the trees, and the quiet symphony of nature. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such unspoiled beauty.

I learned that the forests in the Hida region are considered a treasure. They feature Amou Marsh, Ikegahara Marsh and Fukado Marsh. There are also primeval beech forests in the Chubu region. I made a mental note to explore more of these natural wonders in the days to come.

Lunch at Tanaka-ya: A Soba Delight

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. Following a recommendation, we decided to try Tanaka-ya, a soba noodle shop known for its traditional dishes and local ingredients. The restaurant itself was charming, housed in a gassho-zukuri farmhouse that exuded rustic elegance.

Experience the essence of Japan at Tanaka-ya, where handmade soba noodles meet breathtaking views in Shirakawa-go.

We were greeted warmly by the staff and seated at a table overlooking a small garden. The menu featured a variety of soba dishes, from chilled soba with dipping sauce to warm noodle soups. I opted for the Hida beef soba, eager to try the local specialty. Lena chose the tempura soba, craving something crispy and flavorful.

When our meals arrived, we were immediately impressed by the presentation. The soba noodles were perfectly arranged in a delicate broth, topped with thinly sliced Hida beef and fresh scallions. Lena's tempura was golden brown and crispy, served with a side of dipping sauce.

My first bite of the Hida beef soba was heavenly. The noodles were perfectly cooked, with a slightly nutty flavor that complemented the rich, savory broth. The Hida beef was tender and flavorful, melting in my mouth with each bite. Lena raved about her tempura, praising the light, crispy batter and the fresh, succulent shrimp and vegetables.

As we savored our lunch, we chatted about our morning adventures. We agreed that Shirakawa-go had a special kind of magic, a way of slowing down time and connecting us with the simple pleasures of life. Tanaka-ya was the perfect place to soak in that magic, to savor the flavors of the region and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings.

An Evening at Gassho: Dinner and Drinks

As evening approached, we decided to experience Shirakawa-go's culinary scene once more. We chose Gassho for dinner, enticed by its reputation for serving traditional Japanese dishes in a stunning setting. The restaurant, like many others in the village, was housed in a beautifully preserved gassho-zukuri farmhouse, adding to the authentic ambiance.

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Gassho in Shirakawa - where tradition meets taste in a picturesque setting.

We arrived at Gassho just as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the village. The farmhouse was illuminated with soft, warm light, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Inside, we were seated at a table near a window, offering a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape.

The menu at Gassho featured a variety of local specialties, including Hida beef dishes, mountain vegetable tempura, and homemade tofu. I opted for the Hida beef hoba miso yaki, a regional dish that I had been eager to try. Lena chose the sansai (mountain vegetable) set meal, wanting to sample the flavors of the local flora.

The Hida beef hoba miso yaki was a culinary masterpiece. The beef was grilled on a hoba leaf (magnolia leaf) with miso paste, infusing it with a unique smoky flavor. The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the savory miso. Lena's sansai set meal was equally impressive, featuring a variety of fresh, seasonal vegetables prepared in a delicate and flavorful broth.

After dinner, we decided to linger at Gassho's bar, wanting to experience the local nightlife. The bar was cozy and intimate, with a selection of local sake and craft beers. I ordered a glass of doburoku, an unfiltered sake that is a specialty of the region. Lena chose a local craft beer, curious to taste the flavors of the area.

Discover the flavors of Japan at Gassho, a charming restaurant in Ogimachi offering traditional dishes in a stunning setting.

As we sipped our drinks, we chatted with the friendly bartender, learning about the history of Gassho and the traditions of Shirakawa-go. He shared stories about the village's past, its unique culture, and its commitment to preserving its heritage. It was a fascinating glimpse into the heart of this remarkable community.

Tomorrow's Journey

Tomorrow, we're heading to Takayama to visit the Jin Homura Art Museum and Takayama Jinya. I am looking forward to exploring more of the region's art and history.

As the day came to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. Shirakawa-go had exceeded all my expectations, offering a blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and culinary delights that I will never forget. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, eager to discover more of this enchanting region of Japan.