Exploring the Cultural Heritage of Shirakawa-go with Hans

Tranquility and Tastes of Shirakawa-go

Today was a delightful immersion into the heart of Japanese culture, blending serene landscapes with exquisite culinary experiences. Hans and I set out to explore the beauty that Shirakawa-go and its surroundings had to offer, and we were not disappointed. From meticulously designed gardens to authentic local cuisine, every moment was a testament to the region's rich heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori. The charming eatery was just the right place to fuel up for a day of exploration. I opted for the Hoba Miso Pork, a regional specialty, while Hans chose the Hida Beef set. The Hoba Miso Pork had a deep, sweet, and nutty flavor that was absolutely divine. Hans raved about his Hida Beef, noting its tenderness and the authentic flavors of the region. The atmosphere of Irori was cozy and inviting, with rustic decor that added to the overall experience.

With our appetites satisfied, we took a train to Kanazawa to explore the Gyokusenin Maru Garden. The garden, located next to Kanazawa Castle, was a peaceful retreat. As we strolled through the meticulously maintained landscape, we were struck by the harmony of the stone bridges, flowing water, and verdant trees. The garden was not very big, but the amount of tourists wasn't too high, so we could relax and enjoy the scenery. We sat down in a quiet corner, enjoying the tranquility and letting our minds relax. It was a perfect start to the day, connecting with nature and finding a sense of calm amidst the bustling surroundings.


Explore the serene Gyokusenin Maru Garden in Kanazawa, a historical oasis of Japanese landscape artistry and tranquility.

  

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

After immersing ourselves in the beauty of Gyokusenin Maru Garden, we decided to venture a bit further to Garyu Park in Suzaka, Nagano Prefecture. The park, known for its cherry blossoms, was a delightful surprise even in July. Though the cherry blossom season was long past, the park's lush greenery and serene pond offered a different kind of beauty. We strolled around the pond, enjoying the reflections of the trees in the water and the peaceful atmosphere. Though it was not cherry blossom season, the park had a festive, warm atmosphere. I could only imagine how beautiful this park would be during cherry blossom season in spring. It was a little local secret that bursts into full glory during cherry blossom season.


Experience the beauty and tranquility of Garyu Park in Takayama, where nature meets culture in a serene setting.

Following our garden adventures, it was time for lunch. We headed to Masuzono Bunsuke, a small family restaurant a short walk from the main town. The chef takes pride in serving fresh fish dishes, personally catching the live fish from the pond immediately after receiving orders. We decided to try the Masuzono set menu, which included grilled salted char, rainbow trout cooked in sweet sauce and in sashimi, and fried masu trout. The rainbow trout sashimi was a revelation, with a unique flavor that was both delicate and refreshing. Hans, always the adventurous one, tried the Iwana set menu, which featured various dishes made of char. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the chef's dedication to quality was evident in every bite.


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

With our bellies full and our spirits lifted, we spent the afternoon exploring Memenko, a charming shop near Wada House known for its local confectionaries. I couldn't resist buying a few Doburoku Kintsuba, a famous treat with the taste of Shirakawa-go's Doburoku sake. We also picked up some Doburoku Yokan and Akabu-zuke, eager to share these local flavors with our friends back in Berlin. It was nice to support the local community by buying local products.


Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs at Memenko, the charming souvenir store in the heart of Shirakawa-go, Japan's UNESCO World Heritage site.

As evening approached, we made our way to Morizen for dinner. This restaurant, known for its excellent Hida beef, was the perfect way to end our day of culinary exploration. We both opted for the Hida beef set, savoring each bite of the tender, flavorful meat. The service was impeccable, and the cozy ambiance of the restaurant made for a truly memorable dining experience. It was really a recommendable place to have a good lunch.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Morizen in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste amidst stunning landscapes.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the cultural heritage of the region with a visit to the Gokayama Folklore Museum and the Hida Takayama Activity and Exchange Hall. We're also hoping to unwind at Tenkara, a local bar in Shirakawa. I'm particularly excited to learn more about the traditional practices and craftsmanship of the area. It's experiences like these that make traveling so rewarding, connecting us to different cultures and ways of life.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the beauty and tranquility we experienced today. From the meticulously designed gardens to the authentic local cuisine, every moment was a testament to the region's rich heritage. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Hans and to continue our journey of discovery in this enchanting corner of Japan. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel and explore new cultures. I am looking forward to tomorrow's adventure!

And of course, I have to remember to buy that Japanese phrasebook and portable power bank, since I forgot them back at home in Berlin!