Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Friends

Echoes of Edo in Takayama

Today, I embarked on a journey through time, exploring the historical heart of Takayama and its surrounding natural beauty. It was a day filled with cultural immersion, quiet reflection, and a deeper appreciation for the traditions that have shaped this enchanting region of Japan.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Shiawaseya Kichibei. The traditional Japanese breakfast set us up perfectly for a day of exploration. I always appreciate how Japanese breakfasts are so nourishing and balanced, quite different from the usual bread and cheese back in Bonn.

Stepping Back in Time at Hida no Sato Open Air Museum

After breakfast, we ventured to Hida no Sato Open Air Museum. This museum is a collection of over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region, carefully preserved and relocated to create a village-like atmosphere. Walking through the village, I felt as though I had been transported back to the Edo period. Each house told a story, with its unique wooden architecture and displays of tools and utensils used in everyday life.

It was quite incredible to be able to walk around inside each house and learn about how people lived in the Hida region, especially how they raised silk worms and expertly wove kimonos from the harvested silk.

The gassho-zukuri farmhouses were particularly impressive, with their steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. I learned that the name 'gassho-zukuri' comes from the roofs resembling hands joined in prayer. It's amazing how these structures, some over 250 years old, have been preserved. Inside, the fireplaces were lit, adding to the authentic atmosphere and filling the air with a smoky scent.

I was fascinated by the craftsmanship and the ingenuity of the people who built and lived in these houses. It was interesting to see how they utilized the natural resources around them to create homes that were both functional and beautiful. Andreas, ever the engineer, was particularly impressed by the structural design of the farmhouses, commenting on how well they were adapted to the climate.


Discover the enchanting Hida no Sato Open Air Museum in Takayama, where traditional architecture and local culture come to life amidst stunning natural beauty.

Delving into History at the Takayama City Museum

Next on our itinerary was the Takayama City Museum. Housed in a renovated earthen storehouse that once belonged to wealthy merchant families, the museum offered a comprehensive look at the history and culture of Takayama. The exhibits covered everything from the formation of the castle town to the arts and crafts that have been nurtured here over the centuries.

The museum's collection of artifacts and historical documents provided valuable context to everything we had seen so far. I particularly enjoyed learning about the local writers and artists who have been inspired by Takayama's unique beauty. It was also interesting to see the tools and techniques used by the Hida craftsmen, who are renowned for their woodworking skills.

Sophie was particularly engaged by the displays on the Takayama Festival, one of Japan's most famous festivals. The intricate floats and the elaborate costumes worn during the festival were truly impressive. We made a mental note to try and visit Takayama during the festival one year.


Explore the captivating history and culture of Takayama at the Takayama City Museum, a must-visit destination in Gifu Prefecture.

After immersing ourselves in history and culture, we stopped for lunch at Yukinko. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the food was delicious. I tried the Hida beef croquettes, which were a local specialty, and they were absolutely divine. Andreas opted for the soba noodles, while Sophie enjoyed a simple but satisfying bowl of udon.

A Tranquil Escape to Garyu Park

In the afternoon, we sought a change of pace with a visit to Garyu Park. Located a bit further afield, in Suzaka City, the park is known for its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere. Although it is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, even in summer, the park offered a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.

As we strolled through the park, we admired the lush greenery and the serene Ryugaike Pond. The pond's surface reflected the surrounding trees, creating a mirror-like effect that was simply mesmerizing. I learned that the park gets its name from the magnificent pine trees on Mount Garyu, which resemble a sleeping dragon when reflected in the water.

Garyu Park was so named because the hills on its grounds resemble a dragon (ryū) in repose (ga).

We took a leisurely walk around the pond, enjoying the fresh air and the peaceful surroundings. I found a quiet spot to sit and sketch in my notebook, capturing the beauty of the landscape. Andreas and Sophie explored the small zoo within the park, where they saw capybaras and other animals. Although the cherry blossoms were long gone, I could imagine how stunning the park must be in spring.


Experience the beauty and tranquility of Garyu Park in Takayama, where nature meets culture in a serene setting.

Before heading back to Takayama, we stopped at Ochuudo to browse the local crafts. I picked up a few small souvenirs for friends back home, including some beautifully crafted wooden chopsticks and a set of traditional Japanese paper fans.

For dinner, we chose Morizen, a restaurant known for its traditional Hida cuisine. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local dishes, including Hoba miso, a regional specialty of miso grilled on a magnolia leaf. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural exploration.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am struck by the rich history and natural beauty of Takayama. From the traditional houses of Hida no Sato to the historical artifacts in the Takayama City Museum and the tranquil landscapes of Garyu Park, every moment offered a glimpse into the past and a deeper appreciation for the present. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel and explore new cultures.

Tomorrow, we're off to Kanazawa, where we plan to explore the Nishi Chaya District, visit Gyokusenin Maru Garden, and pay our respects at Ishiura Shrine. I'm particularly looking forward to experiencing the traditional teahouses and gardens of Kanazawa, and I'm sure it will be another day filled with cultural discoveries. I'm also hoping we can find a nice spot at the Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck for a relaxing evening drink.

Until then, sayōnara from Takayama!