Exploring the Cultural Heritage of Shirakawa-go with Hans

A Day of Tranquil Waters and Village Charm

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet reflection here in Shirakawa-go. Leaving behind the urban buzz of Berlin, it's moments like these, surrounded by nature's calm, that truly recharge my soul. Hans and I set out to discover some of the area's hidden gems, and it turned out to be a day filled with serene beauty and simple pleasures.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Shiawaseya Kichibei. The aroma of traditional Japanese cooking filled the air, a comforting start to the day. I savored every bite of the perfectly cooked rice and miso soup, feeling grateful for the simple, nourishing food. Hans, ever the early bird, was already planning our route, eager to explore the natural wonders Shirakawa-go had to offer.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed towards Midorigaike Pond. The walk there was a treat in itself, the path winding through lush greenery, the air filled with the gentle hum of cicadas. As we approached the pond, the vibrant emerald waters came into view, framed by towering mountains and dense forests. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, a perfect blend of nature's artistry. We took our time strolling along the well-maintained paths that encircled the pond, pausing frequently to soak in the stunning views. The tranquility of the area was palpable, inviting us to slow down and simply be present in the moment.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Midorigaike Pond in Gifu, Japan, a serene haven perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

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

Next on our itinerary was the Water Lily Pond. It was a short walk from Midorigaike, and as we arrived, we were greeted by a scene of delicate beauty. The water lilies floated gracefully on the pond's surface, their pristine white petals contrasting beautifully with the deep green of their leaves. Dragonflies danced above the water, adding a touch of whimsy to the scene. I couldn't resist pulling out my camera, trying to capture the ethereal beauty of the moment. Hans, ever the patient one, waited as I experimented with different angles and settings, determined to capture the perfect shot.


Discover tranquility at the Water Lily Pond in Shirakawa, where vibrant blooms and serene waters create a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

After our tranquil morning by the ponds, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local culture with a visit to Kobikiya, a traditional shop housed in a charming gassho-zukuri building. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs. From traditional sweets and pickles to local sake and seasonal products, there was something to delight every sense. I was particularly drawn to the Sarubobo dolls, each one unique and full of character. We spent a happy hour browsing the shelves, chatting with the friendly shopkeepers, and learning about the local traditions and customs. Before leaving, I picked up a small, hand-painted Sarubobo doll as a memento of our visit, a reminder of the warmth and hospitality of the people of Shirakawa-go.


Explore Kobikiya in Shirakawa-go for unique souvenirs and a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Lunch was at Tanaka-ya, a restaurant known for its traditional Japanese cuisine. The restaurant itself was a beautiful example of gassho-zukuri architecture, with a cozy interior and a welcoming atmosphere. We were seated at a low table, and as we settled in, the aroma of delicious food filled the air. I opted for the Hida beef set, a local specialty, while Hans chose the tempura. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The Hida beef was tender and succulent, melting in my mouth with each bite. Hans raved about the tempura, declaring it the best he had ever tasted. As we savored our meal, we chatted about our adventures of the day, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the unique culinary heritage of Shirakawa-go.


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

In the late afternoon, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the village, admiring the iconic gassho-style houses. The thatched roofs, designed to withstand the heavy snowfall of winter, gave the village a distinctive charm. We wandered through the narrow streets, peeking into the small shops and admiring the traditional architecture. It felt like stepping back in time, a glimpse into a simpler, more peaceful way of life. I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving these cultural treasures, ensuring that future generations could experience the beauty and serenity of Shirakawa-go.

As evening approached, we made our way to Nomura for dinner. This soba noodle shop, nestled in the heart of Shirakawa, promised an authentic taste of Japanese culinary heritage. The shop was cozy and inviting, with the comforting aroma of buckwheat filling the air. We ordered a selection of soba dishes, eager to sample the local specialty. The noodles were freshly made and cooked to perfection, each bite a symphony of flavors and textures. As we savored our meal, we chatted with the friendly owner, learning about the history of the shop and the secrets to making the perfect soba. It was a truly immersive culinary experience, a taste of the heart and soul of Shirakawa-go.


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

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Shirakawa-go. From the serene ponds to the charming village streets, every moment was a feast for the senses. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures, which include visits to Myozenji and Hatotani Hachiman Shrine, I know that the memories of today will stay with me long after we leave this enchanting place. And perhaps, we'll cap off the day with a drink at Tanaka-ya bar.

Back at our guesthouse, I’m already looking forward to tomorrow. Even without a phrasebook (something I regrettably forgot!), we managed to navigate the day and connect with the locals through smiles and gestures. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, reminding me of the shared humanity that connects us all, no matter where we come from. As I drift off to sleep, I’m filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. Goodnight from Shirakawa-go!

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Myozenji and Hatotani Hachiman Shrine, continuing our exploration of Shirakawa-go's cultural and spiritual landmarks. I'm particularly looking forward to experiencing the tranquility of these sacred sites and learning more about the local history and traditions. And who knows, maybe we'll even stumble upon another hidden gem along the way. The beauty of travel is that you never know what adventures await around the next corner. As Hans always says, The best stories are the ones you never planned.