Solo Adventure in Shirakawa-go: Discovering Japan's Timeless Beauty

Finding Peace in Shirakawa-go's Embrace

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet reflection in Shirakawa-go. Leaving behind the bustling energy of Lyon feels like a distant memory as I fully immerse myself in the serene atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty here is exactly what my soul needed.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Arai [i]. The aroma of Hida beef filled the air, drawing me in from the moment I stepped inside. It's a cozy, homey place, run by the friendliest local ladies. I opted for the Hida beef set, and it was absolutely divine. The beef was so tender and juicy, cooked to perfection on a hot plate right in front of me. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. I made sure to bring enough cash, as they don't take cards.

With a satisfied stomach, I set out to find Midorigaike Pond. The walk there was a peaceful journey in itself, surrounded by the lush greenery that defines Shirakawa-go in the summer. The air was fresh, and the sounds of nature filled my ears. Although it's August, the temperatures were pleasant, hovering around 28°C during the day and cooling down to 19°C in the evening. Perfect for hiking.

Finally, I reached Midorigaike Pond, a serene oasis nestled amidst the mountains. The emerald-green water was mesmerizing, reflecting the surrounding trees and sky. I learned that the pond gets its unique color from the hot-spring minerals that seep up from below. Legend has it that drinking the water extends one's life, though I resisted the urge to test that theory. I simply sat by the pond, soaking in the tranquility and capturing the picturesque scenery with my camera. It was a moment of pure bliss, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Lyon. The pond is the largest of seven crater pools near the peak of Mt. Haku, and it has been a site of religious worship since medieval times.


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

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the way it allows you to slow down and appreciate the simple moments.

Next on the agenda was exploring Ogimachi, the heart of Shirakawa-go. This village is home to the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, and it's a truly captivating sight. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, Ogimachi boasts dozens of well-preserved farmhouses, some over 250 years old. These structures are designed to withstand the harsh winters, with their steeply slanted roofs resembling hands pressed together in prayer.

Wandering through Ogimachi felt like stepping back in time. Many of the farmhouses have been converted into restaurants, museums, and minshuku (traditional guesthouses). The village is easily explored on foot, and I spent hours meandering through the narrow streets, admiring the architecture and soaking in the atmosphere.


Explore the enchanting Ogimachi Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan, known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and stunning natural beauty.

Lunch was at Zensuke, a charming spot known for its kushiyaki (grilled skewers). The aroma of freshly baked dumplings and Hida milk was irresistible. I tried the Hida beef skewers, and they were absolutely delicious. The Gohei mochi, a local rice cake, was also a highlight, with its exquisite taste leaving a lasting impression.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zensuke in Shirakawa-go—home to exquisite kushiyaki amidst breathtaking heritage scenery.

After lunch, I couldn't resist doing some shopping at Kinu Yukari. This silk shop offers a variety of silk products, including scarves and soaps made with silk from Shirakawa. I bought a beautiful silk scarf as a souvenir for myself, a reminder of the exquisite craftsmanship of this region. Sericulture was popular in Shirakawa-go, and the silk products here are of exceptional quality.


Discover the exquisite world of silk at Kinu Yukari, a traditional silk store in the heart of Shirakawa-go, offering unique garments and cultural insights.

As evening approached, I found myself at Hiiragi for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Hida beef skewers and sukiyaki, and it did not disappoint. The owners are incredibly friendly, and the warm hospitality added to the overall charm of the place. I savored every bite of the Hida beef, which was A4 and A5 grade, sourced directly from Hida Takayama Ranch. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and cultural immersion.


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

The August weather in Shirakawa-go has been quite agreeable. While it's technically summer, the temperature is warm but not scorching, though there's a chance of rain. I was smart enough to pack my raincoat, even though I forgot my universal power adapter back in Lyon. It seems like Jean-Pierre's reminders about packing essentials didn't quite sink in this time!

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a leisurely stroll through Ogimachi one last time. The village was bathed in the soft glow of the evening light, creating a magical ambiance. Even though many tourists visit this area, the atmosphere is still peaceful and serene. I feel so relaxed and at peace in this idyllic village. It's a far cry from the busy streets of Lyon, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this tranquil beauty.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Shirakawago Three Houses and the Wooden Walkway [if source list has itinerary of tomorrow], eager to uncover more hidden gems in this enchanting region. I might also check out Tenshukaku bar in the evening [if source list has itinerary of tomorrow]. For now, I'll rest and dream of gassho-zukuri farmhouses and emerald-green ponds. This solo adventure is turning out to be exactly what I needed – a chance to reconnect with myself and appreciate the simple joys of life.

It's fascinating to consider that in October, Shirakawa-go hosts the Doburoku Festival, a series of harvest festivals held at local Shinto shrines. This celebration includes religious ceremonies, lion dancing, and the drinking of doburoku, or unfiltered sake. It sounds like a vibrant and unique cultural experience, one that I'll keep in mind for future travels.