Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go: A Solo Journey

A Cultural Immersion in Shirakawa-go

Today was a beautiful blend of cultural exploration and culinary indulgence in the heart of Shirakawa-go. It's amazing how much history and art can be packed into a single day, leaving me feeling enriched and inspired. I'm excited to share the highlights of my day, from the serene atmosphere of the Museum Hida to the captivating performances at the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater and the delightful local flavors I savored throughout the day.


Discover Hida's rich woodworking heritage at Museum Hida in Takayama, where art and tradition come together in a stunning showcase.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Hakusuien. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, which included grilled fish, miso soup, rice, and various pickled vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The restaurant itself was charming, with its traditional gassho-style architecture blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. I found myself reflecting on how different this was from my usual breakfast in Heidelberg, a simple Brotchen with Käse. It’s these contrasts that make traveling so fascinating.

After breakfast, I headed to Museum Hida. The museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the region's history and culture.

The exhibits showcased traditional crafts, farming techniques, and the unique architectural style of the gassho-zukuri farmhouses. I was particularly impressed by the intricate woodworking and the ingenuity of the designs, which were created to withstand the region's heavy snowfall. Wandering through the museum, I felt a deep connection to the past, imagining the lives of the people who had lived and worked in these houses for generations. It reminded me a bit of my hometown, Ouro Preto, with its own rich history and well-preserved architecture. Although, instead of farmhouses, Ouro Preto boasts stunning baroque churches.

To truly appreciate a culture, one must immerse oneself in its art, history, and cuisine.

Next on the agenda was the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater. This was an experience I had been particularly looking forward to. Noh is a classical Japanese dance-drama characterized by its stylized movements, elaborate costumes, and haunting music. Before the performance, I took some time to read about the history and traditions of Noh theater, which helped me to better understand and appreciate the performance.


Discover the timeless beauty of Noh theater at Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater in Kanazawa, where tradition and artistry come alive.

The theater itself was a beautiful space, with its minimalist design and serene atmosphere creating a sense of reverence and anticipation. As the performers took to the stage, I was immediately captivated by their graceful movements and the ethereal quality of the music. The stories were often allegorical, exploring themes of life, death, and redemption. Although I didn't understand every word, the emotions conveyed through the performers' expressions and gestures were universal. It was a truly mesmerizing experience that transported me to another world. I remember Hans once took me to a modern dance performance in Berlin, which I appreciated, but it didn't resonate with me the way Noh theater did. There’s something about the ancient traditions and the deep symbolism that speaks to my soul.

For lunch, I decided to try Shiraogi, a local restaurant known for its traditional Hida cuisine. I ordered the Hoba Miso set, which featured Hida beef grilled on a magnolia leaf with miso paste. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the miso paste added a rich, savory note that was simply divine. The set also included rice, miso soup, and various side dishes, providing a complete and satisfying meal. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive. It was the perfect place to relax and recharge after a morning of cultural exploration. It was a far cry from the Feijoada my grandmother used to make, but it was comfort food nonetheless, filling me with warmth and contentment.

In the late afternoon, I decided to explore the town a bit more, wandering through the narrow streets and admiring the traditional architecture. I stopped by a few local shops, browsing the handicrafts and souvenirs. I picked up a small Sarubobo doll, a traditional amulet from the Hida region, as a memento of my trip. I also bought some local sake to take back to Hans. I know he’ll appreciate it.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Keyaki for dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its exquisite Hida beef dishes, and I was eager to try them. I opted for the Hida beef steak, which was cooked to perfection and served with a delicate soy sauce-based sauce. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in my mouth with each bite. The restaurant had a sophisticated and elegant ambiance, making it the perfect place to end my day of culinary exploration. It reminded me of some of the finer restaurants Hans and I frequent in Heidelberg, but with a unique Japanese twist. The meal was a delightful culmination of the day's experiences, leaving me feeling completely satisfied.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Keyaki in Shirakawa-go—where tradition meets flavor in a breathtaking setting.

To cap off the evening, I ventured to Tenkara, a local bar in Shirakawa. It was a cozy spot, dimly lit with a relaxed atmosphere. I ordered a glass of local craft beer and chatted with some of the locals, who were friendly and welcoming. It was interesting to hear their stories and learn about their lives in Shirakawa. They were curious about my travels and my life in Germany, and we exchanged stories and laughter. It was a wonderful way to connect with the local culture and experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality. It was nothing like the Samba clubs back in Ouro Preto, but it had its own unique charm, a sense of community and shared experience.


Discover the exquisite flavors of authentic Yakiniku at Tenkara, Shirakawa, where quality meets tradition in a picturesque setting.

As I sipped my beer, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the serene beauty of Museum Hida to the captivating performances at the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater and the exquisite flavors of the local cuisine, it had been a day of pure bliss. I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful region and immerse myself in its rich culture. I am reminded of a quote I once read:

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Nezumita-mon Gate and Garyu Park. I am looking forward to more cultural and natural experiences.

Good night from Shirakawa-go! Until tomorrow's adventure!