Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Friends

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day of deep immersion into the cultural heart of Shirakawa-go. It's remarkable how this region preserves its history, offering glimpses into the lives of those who came before us. I felt like I was walking through a living museum, each location whispering stories of tradition, innovation, and community spirit.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tenshukaku. The mountain views were stunning, and the traditional Japanese breakfast set us up perfectly for a day of exploration. After breakfast, Andreas and I headed to the Hida Earth Wisdom Center.


Explore the cultural heart of Takayama at Hida Earth Wisdom Center, where tradition and craftsmanship come alive in stunning exhibits.
This center is dedicated to promoting regional development through the lens of folk culture. The architecture itself was impressive, with a distinctive roof inspired by the Hida mountain range. Inside, the Museum Hida awaited.


Discover Hida's rich woodworking heritage at Museum Hida in Takayama, where art and tradition come together in a stunning showcase.
This museum focuses on furniture making in the Hida Takayama region, showcasing how the craftsmanship dates back to the Asuka period. It was fascinating to learn that artisans once constructed palaces and temples as a form of tax payment. Seeing the furniture used by royals from centuries ago really highlighted the enduring legacy of Hida's craftsmen. I was particularly drawn to the chairs on display; the museum encourages visitors to sit and experience the comfort and design of each piece. As someone who appreciates functional art, I found this aspect of the museum incredibly engaging.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

After thoroughly exploring the museum, we stopped by the Kodaijin Souvenir Store.


Explore Kodaijin Souvenir Store in Shirakawa for unique Japanese treasures and cultural keepsakes to commemorate your travels.
Located conveniently near the Seseragi parking area, it was packed with local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a few small gifts for Sophie and a beautiful hand-painted fan for myself. It's always nice to have a tangible reminder of the places I've visited. I also grabbed a bottle of local sake, hoping Andreas and I can enjoy it later this evening.

For lunch, we ventured to Hiiragi.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hiiragi in Shirakawa - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning natural beauty.
This restaurant is known for its delicious Hida beef skewers and sukiyaki. The owners were incredibly friendly, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The Hida beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, a true culinary highlight of the trip. It's these authentic, local experiences that I cherish the most.

Our final stop of the day was the Nezumita-mon Gate.


Explore the historical beauty of Nezumita-mon Gate, a remarkable castle landmark in Kanazawa, Japan, showcasing traditional architecture and serene gardens.
While technically located in Kanazawa, the gate's historical significance and recent reconstruction made it a must-see. The gate, with its distinctive black plaster and namako walls, is part of the Kanazawa Castle complex. Originally built in the early 17th century, it was destroyed by fire in 1884 and recently reconstructed based on historical records. Walking through the gate felt like stepping back in time, connecting with the narratives of the past. The adjacent Nezumitamon Bridge, rebuilt with steel covered in wood to meet modern safety standards, offered a picturesque view of the surrounding area.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we had dinner at Gassho.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Gassho in Shirakawa - where tradition meets taste in a picturesque setting.
The restaurant serves traditional cuisine from Shirakawa-go, and I opted for a set meal featuring Hida beef. The cozy atmosphere and unique flavors made it a perfect ending to a day filled with cultural exploration.

As I reflect on today's journey, I am struck by the seamless blend of history and nature in Shirakawa-go. The dedication to preserving traditional crafts and architecture is truly commendable, and I feel fortunate to have experienced it firsthand. Tomorrow, we're off to Takayama, with plans to visit Takayama Jinya, the morning markets, and the Hida Takayama Retro Museum. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us!

I am also grateful that I remembered to pack my lightweight jacket today. The evenings are getting cooler, and it’s perfect for strolling through the village after dinner. I still regret forgetting my portable phone charger, though. It would have been useful for taking more photos throughout the day.

It's funny, I'm already anticipating the Jinya-mae Morning Markets tomorrow. I am curious to see what local crafts and produce they have on offer. I am also looking forward to trying the local sake at Shiraogi bar in the evening. It will be a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring Takayama. I am glad Andreas is here with me, it is always a great experience to explore new places with him by my side.