Exploring the Cultural Heritage of Shirakawa-go with Hans

Whispers of Tradition

Today was a beautiful immersion into the heart of Shirakawa-go. It was a day filled with exploration, delicious food, and a deeper connection to the cultural heritage of this remarkable village. Every corner turned revealed a new layer of its timeless charm, making me feel like I was stepping back into a living, breathing postcard.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Keyaki. The restaurant's warm ambiance and the promise of traditional Japanese flavors were the perfect way to start. I opted for a classic teishoku meal, complete with perfectly cooked rice, savory miso soup, and an assortment of local side dishes. Hans, ever the adventurous eater, tried the Hida beef miso grilled set meal, and he was in heaven. The rich miso perfectly complemented the tender beef, making it a truly memorable culinary experience. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. We savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such authentic cuisine.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set out to explore one of Shirakawa-go's hidden gems: the Wooden Walkway. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, and Hans, with his ever-reliable sense of direction, led the way. The walkway meandered through lush greenery, offering glimpses of the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses nestled amidst the rolling hills. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the gentle sounds of nature. As we strolled along, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me.


Discover the enchanting Wooden Walkway in Shirakawa, where traditional architecture meets breathtaking Japanese landscapes, perfect for leisurely exploration.

The Wooden Walkway was a photographer's dream. Every angle offered a postcard-worthy shot, and I found myself snapping away, trying to capture the essence of this serene landscape. We paused frequently to simply take it all in, breathing in the fresh air and marveling at the beauty that surrounded us. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the importance of slowing down to appreciate them.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are made when you wander off the beaten path.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Shirakawago Three Houses. This cluster of traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses offered a glimpse into the past, showcasing the unique architectural ingenuity of the region. The houses were positioned perfectly to catch the light, creating a scene that felt both timeless and magical. As we approached, I was struck by the intricate details of the thatched roofs, meticulously crafted to withstand the heavy snowfall of the Japanese winters. It was a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the local artisans.


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

We spent a good amount of time wandering around the Three Houses, admiring their unique charm and imagining what life must have been like for the families who once called them home. The surrounding landscape added to the allure, with lush green fields stretching out towards the distant mountains. It was a scene that felt both peaceful and awe-inspiring. I was particularly fascinated by the way the houses blended seamlessly into the natural environment, creating a sense of harmony and balance.

Lunch beckoned, and we decided to try Soba dojo Restaurant, known for its authentic soba noodles. The restaurant's cozy interior and the aroma of freshly made noodles were incredibly inviting. I ordered the classic cold soba with dipping sauce, while Hans opted for the hot noodle soup with tempura. Both dishes were delicious, showcasing the simplicity and elegance of Japanese cuisine. The soba noodles were perfectly cooked, with a delicate flavor that was enhanced by the savory dipping sauce. It was a truly satisfying meal, and we left feeling refreshed and ready for more exploration.


Experience authentic soba noodles in the heart of Shirakawa-go's breathtaking landscape at Soba Dojo.

No trip to Shirakawa-go would be complete without a visit to Ichihi, a local shop brimming with handcrafted souvenirs. I was on the hunt for a unique memento of our trip, something that would remind me of the beauty and charm of this special place. The shop was a treasure trove of local crafts, from exquisite textiles to delicate pottery. I spent ages browsing the shelves, admiring the artistry and craftsmanship of the local artisans. Hans, meanwhile, was busy sampling the local specialty foods, his eyes widening with delight at each new flavor.


Explore Ichihi, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, offering unique local crafts and delicacies that capture Japan's rich heritage.

I finally settled on a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, its delicate design capturing the essence of Shirakawa-go's natural beauty. Hans, on the other hand, couldn't resist purchasing a selection of local sweets, promising to share them with me later. As we left the shop, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. I had found the perfect souvenir, a tangible reminder of our incredible day in Shirakawa-go.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Hidaji for dinner. This charming restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with local delicacies. I decided to try the Hida beef hot pot, while Hans opted for the grilled Hida pork. Both dishes were incredibly flavorful, showcasing the region's culinary expertise. The Hida beef was melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the grilled pork was perfectly seasoned and incredibly juicy. We savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such authentic cuisine. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Discover authentic Soba noodles at Hidaji, a charming Syokudo restaurant nestled in Shirakawa's picturesque landscape.

Looking back on the day, I realized that Shirakawa-go had exceeded all my expectations. It was more than just a picturesque village; it was a living, breathing testament to the power of tradition and the beauty of sustainable living. I felt a deep connection to the local culture and a renewed appreciation for the importance of preserving our heritage.

As we head into tomorrow, I'm excited to see more of the natural beauty surrounding Shirakawa-go. We're planning a visit to the Nature Forest and the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum. And, if we're lucky, we might even find time to relax at Shiroyamakan for a well-deserved drink. I’m also hoping to find a Japanese phrasebook to help me better communicate with the locals!

It's moments like these, shared with Hans, that remind me why I love to travel. Each day brings new adventures, new discoveries, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

Tomorrow, we're venturing into the Nature Forest and exploring the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum, hopefully ending the day with a relaxing drink at Shiroyamakan. I'm already looking forward to the new experiences and breathtaking scenery that await us.

I am also thinking about my beekeeping back in Berlin. I wonder how my rooftop hives are doing. I should call my neighbor to check in on them.

Shirakawa-go has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!