Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Friends

A Day of Cultural Immersion

Today was a delightful journey through the heart of Shirakawa-go, filled with art, traditional crafts, and exquisite local cuisine. It was one of those days where everything just seemed to flow perfectly, each experience building upon the last, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting region. From exploring museums to savoring local delicacies, every moment was a treasure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hakusuien. The restaurant's gassho-style architecture immediately caught my eye, blending seamlessly into the UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, with the aroma of traditional Japanese cuisine filling the air. I opted for a traditional teishoku meal, which included rice, miso soup, pickles, and grilled fish. The flavors were simple yet satisfying, providing the perfect start to a day of exploration. Andreas particularly enjoyed the Hida beef set, savoring every bite of the tender, flavorful meat.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to the Jin Homura Art Museum. This small but very cool museum, as some reviews describe it, is housed in a gassho-style building donated by the painter Jin Homura. The exterior was beautiful, and I was eager to see the art within. Inside, we discovered a collection of about 50 of Homura's works, characterized by vivid colors and dynamic touches. The contrast between the contemporary art and the traditional architecture was striking, creating a unique and inspiring atmosphere. I found myself particularly drawn to the pieces that reflected the artist's connection to the local landscape and culture.


Explore the Jin Homura Art Museum in Shirakawa, where traditional and contemporary Japanese art come together in a stunning cultural experience.

Sophie was especially intrigued by Homura's life and his dedication to using his art to express societal matters. It was a great opportunity to discuss the role of art in reflecting and challenging the world around us. The museum itself felt like a hidden gem, tucked away in this serene village, offering a moment of reflection amidst the lush surroundings.

Next on our itinerary was Hida-Sashiko, a place dedicated to the art of sashiko stitching. This traditional Japanese embroidery technique uses beautiful geometric patterns to create intricate designs. At Hida-Sashiko, we had the opportunity to see artisans at work, creating stunning pieces of art. I was fascinated by the precision and skill involved in this craft, and I couldn't resist purchasing a small sashiko embroidered handbag as a souvenir. I even considered trying my hand at it, perhaps as a new hobby to bring a piece of Japan back home to Bonn. Maybe I could even incorporate some of the patterns into my floral designs.


Explore the traditional art of Sashiko embroidery at Hida-Sashiko in Takayama, where craftsmanship meets culture in every stitch.

Lunch beckoned, and we headed to Masuzono Bunsuke, a small family restaurant known for its fresh fish dishes. The restaurant was a short, pleasant walk from the main town, offering a quiet escape from the crowds. The chef takes pride in catching the live fish from the pond immediately after receiving orders, ensuring the utmost freshness. I opted for the set meal that included salt-grilled Japanese char, sweet-boiled Japanese char, and raw slices of rainbow trout. The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness that I found delightful. Andreas, always the adventurous one, tried the raw slices of rainbow trout and was impressed by its unique chewy texture.


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

Today was a reminder that true beauty lies not just in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of the world where art, nature, and tradition intertwine.

After such a delightful lunch, our next stop was the Hida Takayama Museum of Art. Although it required a bit of a drive from Shirakawa-go, it was well worth the journey. The museum houses a diverse collection of art, blending Japanese and European pieces, offering a unique glimpse into artistry that transcends borders. From traditional Japanese ceramics to impressionist paintings, the exhibits were enchanting. Sophie was particularly captivated by the European glass arts, including the Art Nouveau and Art Deco pieces. The museum itself is housed in a beautifully designed building that harmonizes with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a serene atmosphere for exploration.


Explore the artistic heritage of Japan at the Hida Takayama Museum of Art, where tradition meets contemporary creativity in a stunning setting.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to experience a local bar, Koshiyama. This guesthouse and restaurant is located a short walk from the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal. It’s a 60-year-old house, adding to its charm. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals and fellow travelers. I opted for a glass of local sake, while Andreas enjoyed a Japanese beer. It was a delightful way to end a day filled with cultural immersion and gastronomic delights.


Discover Koshiyama in Shirakawa for authentic soba noodles and unique antiques, a perfect blend of culinary delight and cultural charm.

Dinner was at Kita no Sho, a charming restaurant and souvenir shop. This Syokudo and Teishoku restaurant is located in the historic village of Ogimachi, offering guests an opportunity to savor traditional flavors in a rustic setting. The menu featured a variety of seasonal ingredients, prepared meticulously to highlight the essence of Japan's culinary heritage. I chose a teishoku meal with Hida beef, while Andreas enjoyed a selection of local dishes. The restaurant also doubled as a souvenir store, allowing us to pick up a few unique local crafts to take home.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kita no Sho in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum, Takayama City Museum, and Garyu Park. I'm excited to delve even deeper into the region's history and culture, and I anticipate another day filled with unforgettable experiences. I'm also looking forward to visiting Ochuudo, a local shop, to find more unique souvenirs.

Today was a reminder that true beauty lies not just in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of the world where art, nature, and tradition intertwine. Shirakawa-go has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you with a sense of peace and wonder. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this enchanting village with my friends, and I look forward to sharing more of our adventures in the days to come.

There’s some constuction going on in the area. From June 2 to September 30, 2025, major repairs will be made to the aging Seseragi Parking Lot. During the construction period, the Seseragi Parking Lot will be reserved for large buses, so I am glad we did not drive. For regular vehicles, they recommend using the Midashima Parking Lot or Terao Temporary Parking Lot.