Exploring the Cultural Heritage of Shirakawa-go with Hans

Finding Peace and Flavor in Shirakawa-go

Today was a day of deep exploration and delightful discoveries here in Shirakawa-go. Hans and I set out to immerse ourselves in the local culture, visiting serene temples and indulging in the region's culinary treasures. It was a day that nourished both our spirits and our appetites, leaving us with a profound appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arai. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of traditional Japanese cooking immediately made us feel at home. I opted for the Hida beef set menu, eager to taste the local specialty. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the miso soup and pickled vegetables. Hans chose the tempura sushi, which he declared was some of the best he's ever had. Arai's warm and accommodating service made our breakfast even more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Arai in Shirakawa, where traditional dishes meet stunning cultural heritage.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we made our way to Myozenji Temple. As we approached, the temple's distinctive thatched main hall stood out against the lush green landscape. Myozenji Temple, founded in 1748, has been the main Buddhist sanctuary in the village of Ogimachi. The temple's Shoromon gate, a two-layered structure with a high thatched roof, was particularly impressive. The yew tree, planted to mark the completion of the main hall in 1827, added a sense of history and tranquility to the site. We took our time exploring the temple grounds, admiring the intricate details of the architecture and soaking in the peaceful ambiance. The museum, once the living quarters of the head priest, offered a fascinating glimpse into traditional life in Shirakawa-go. I was particularly struck by the irori fireplace in the center of the living room, a gathering place for the family in days gone by.


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

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in its ability to transport you to a simpler, more serene way of life.

Next on our itinerary was the Hatotani Hachiman Shrine. Getting there involved a short bus ride and a pleasant walk through the countryside. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and protector of Japan, and the setting was truly breathtaking. The rolling hills and lush greenery provided a stunning backdrop for the Shinto shrine. We took a moment to appreciate the harmony between nature and spirituality that is so central to Japanese culture.


Explore the serene Hatotani Hachiman Shrine in Shirakawa, Gifu, a peaceful retreat that showcases Japan's spiritual heritage amidst breathtaking nature.

After our spiritual sojourn, it was time to indulge in more of Shirakawa-go's culinary offerings. We headed to Hakusuien for lunch, a restaurant known for its traditional Japanese dining experience. Located a short walk from the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal, the restaurant is built in the gassho style, with a large thatched roof. Inside, we were seated in a wood-paneled room with tatami mats, adding to the authentic atmosphere. I decided to try the Hida beef hoba miso set, while Hans opted for the oyaji wazen, a Japanese hot pot with bear meat. My hoba miso was a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, the Hida beef melting in my mouth. Hans, ever the adventurous eater, enjoyed the unique taste of the bear meat, which was surprisingly tender and flavorful. The restaurant's serene setting, with beautiful garden views, made our lunch a truly memorable experience.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Hakusuien in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

In the late afternoon, we made our way to Tenshukaku for dinner. What drew us to this spot was the promise of stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes. Tenshukaku did not disappoint. As we sat down to enjoy our meal, we were treated to a breathtaking panorama of Shirakawa-go. The restaurant specializes in Teishoku, set meals that include rice, miso soup, and a variety of seasonal side dishes. I chose the grilled fish teishoku, while Hans went for the vegetable tempura. The freshness and quality of the ingredients were evident in every bite. The friendly staff were more than happy to recommend dishes based on our preferences, ensuring that we had a truly satisfying meal.


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

To cap off our day, we decided to visit Tanaka-ya, a local bar known for its soba noodles and traditional atmosphere. Tanaka-ya has been in business for nearly 100 years. The owners travel across Japan discovering local specialties. While not strictly a bar, Tanaka-ya offered a cozy spot to unwind and reflect on our day. We shared a bowl of their famous soba noodles, savoring the delicate texture and nutty flavor of the buckwheat noodles. The bar also offered a selection of local sake, which we sampled while chatting with the friendly locals. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery in Shirakawa-go.


Experience the authentic flavors of Japan at Tanaka-ya, Shirakawa-go's beloved soba noodle shop, nestled in a stunning traditional village.

As we walked back to our guesthouse under the starlit sky, Hans and I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared today. Shirakawa-go had captured our hearts with its serene beauty, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It was a day that we would cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Wooden Walkway and Shirakawa-go Three Houses, continuing our journey through this enchanting village. I'm particularly excited to see the unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses up close and learn more about their history and construction. I'm also looking forward to visiting the Ichihi shop, hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home to Berlin. I'm sure tomorrow will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.

Before I close, I must add that I am still kicking myself for forgetting my Japanese phrasebook. It would have been so useful today. I will make sure to have it on hand for tomorrow's adventures!

Until then, *¡adiós desde Shirakawa-go!* (Goodbye from Shirakawa-go!)