Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Friends

Discovering Tranquil Beauty: Shirakawa-go's Hidden Gems

Today was a day of serene discoveries in Shirakawa-go, a journey into the heart of Japan's natural beauty and cultural heritage. After a delightful breakfast, I set out with my friends, eager to explore the hidden corners of this UNESCO World Heritage site. It was a day filled with picturesque landscapes, charming architecture, and the simple joys of connecting with nature.

Our first stop was Midorigaike Pond, a serene spot nestled near the peak of Mt. Hakusan. The trail leading to the pond was a gentle climb, with the air crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. As we ascended, the trees formed a natural canopy, filtering the sunlight into dappled patterns on the forest floor. It reminded me of the forests around Hattem, where I spent countless hours as a child, marveling at the intricate dance of light and shadow. The pond itself was a sight to behold. The emerald-green water, colored by hot-spring minerals, reflected the surrounding trees like a perfect mirror. It was incredibly peaceful, a world away from the bustling tourist spots. Legend has it that this pond was once considered a dwelling of the mountain deity, and drinking its water would extend one's life span. I didn't drink any, but I certainly felt rejuvenated just being there.


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

From Midorigaike Pond, we made our way to the Shirakawago Three Houses. These traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses represent the pinnacle of Japanese rural architecture. Standing in front of them, I was struck by their unique design. The steeply pitched thatched roofs, resembling hands clasped in prayer, are perfectly engineered to withstand the region's heavy snowfall. It's a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who have called this place home for generations. I learned that these houses are positioned to catch the best light, making them a photographer's dream. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of these remarkable structures, hoping to share their beauty with you all.


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

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

Next on our itinerary was the Nature Forest, a sprawling woodland area that beckoned us to explore its depths. As we ventured into the forest, the sounds of the village faded away, replaced by the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. The trees were tall and majestic, their branches reaching towards the sky like supplicating arms. It was easy to lose ourselves in the tranquility of the forest, wandering along winding paths that seemed to lead to nowhere and everywhere at once. I thought about Andreas and Sophie back in Bonn, and how much they would have loved to be here with me, breathing in the fresh air and soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. The forest floor was covered in a carpet of moss and fallen leaves, creating a soft, springy surface underfoot. We discovered hidden streams, their waters crystal clear and ice-cold, and small clearings where sunlight streamed through the canopy, illuminating patches of wildflowers. It was a sensory feast, a reminder of the simple pleasures that nature has to offer.


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

After our forest adventure, it was time for lunch. We headed to Hiiragi, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. The restaurant's cozy interior and friendly staff immediately made us feel welcome. I decided to try the Hida beef A4 grade, which was sent directly from Hida Takayama Ranch. It was an exquisite culinary experience. The beef was tender and flavorful, melting in my mouth with each bite. My friends opted for the Hoba miso yaki, a regional specialty that involved cooking Hida beef with miso on a magnolia leaf. The aroma alone was enough to make our mouths water, and the taste was even better than we had imagined. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploration.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hiiragi in Shirakawa - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning natural beauty.

In the afternoon, we strolled through the village, stopping at Mamekichi Honpo Shirakawago, a delightful shop specializing in Japanese bean snacks. The shop was filled with a colorful array of beans, each one more tempting than the last. I sampled a few different varieties, settling on a bag of roasted black beans and some sweet red bean paste. They were the perfect treat to enjoy as we continued our wanderings.


Explore Mamekichi Honpo Shirakawago, a quaint souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, showcasing local crafts and delicious treats steeped in tradition.

For dinner, we chose Nomura, a soba restaurant with a reputation for serving freshly baked soba noodles. The restaurant was small and intimate, with only a handful of seats overlooking the open kitchen. I watched as the chef skillfully prepared the noodles, kneading the dough and slicing it with precision. The soba was delicious, the noodles perfectly cooked and served in a flavorful broth. It was a comforting and satisfying end to a day filled with adventure.


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

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the experiences we had shared. Shirakawa-go had exceeded all of my expectations, offering a glimpse into a world where nature and culture coexist in perfect harmony. The serene ponds, traditional houses, and lush forests had captivated my senses, while the local cuisine had tantalized my taste buds. It was a day I would cherish forever.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Jin Homura Art Museum, Hida-Sashiko, and the Hida Takayama Museum of Art. I am excited to see what artistic treasures await us in this beautiful region of Japan. I might also try to Koshiyama bar [Koshiyama], a local establishment, for a relaxing evening drink. I'm looking forward to sharing those experiences with you all soon!

The best journey always takes us home, in some way.