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

A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of immersing myself in the art, nature, and culinary traditions of Shirakawa-go. It's amazing how much this little village has to offer, and I was eager to explore every nook and cranny. After a few days of settling in, I was excited to see what else Shirakawa-go had in store for me.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Soba dojo Restaurant. I opted for their famous handmade soba noodles, a regional specialty. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the broth was flavorful and comforting. It was the perfect way to start my day.

After breakfast, I made my way to the Jin Homura Art Museum. The museum is housed in a traditional gassho-style building, which is a work of art in itself. Inside, I was greeted by a collection of contemporary artworks by the artist Jin Homura. Homura's art uses vivid colors to illustrate the intersection between societal matters and various artistic themes. The contrast between the modern art and the traditional architecture was striking and thought-provoking.


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

I spent a couple of hours wandering through the museum, admiring the art and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The museum isn't very big, but I found it to be a very cool museum. The museum's gassho-style building evokes a sense of ancient romance.

Leaving the museum, I decided to immerse myself in nature with a visit to the Nature Forest. The forest is a short distance from the village and offers a welcome escape from the crowds. As I walked along the trails, I was surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds.


Explore the breathtaking Nature Forest in Takayama, Gifu, where nature meets cultural heritage in a tranquil setting.

The beauty of nature lies not just in what you see, but in what it makes you feel.

I've always found solace in nature, a connection to something larger than myself. It was a perfect opportunity to clear my head and appreciate the simple things in life. I spent hours wandering through the forest, taking photos and simply enjoying the serenity.

By lunchtime, I had worked up quite an appetite. I headed to Keyaki for a traditional Japanese lunch. Keyaki is known for its authentic Japanese dishes, highlighting seasonal ingredients and local specialties. I ordered one of their Teishoku meals, which included rice, miso soup, and a selection of side dishes. The food was delicious and beautifully presented. The casual atmosphere allowed me to relax and enjoy my meal.


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

In the afternoon, I decided to do some shopping at Kobikiya. This charming souvenir shop is located in the heart of Shirakawa-go and offers a wide array of local crafts and traditional Japanese sweets. I was immediately drawn to the intricately woven baskets and delicate pottery. I ended up buying a few small gifts for Jean-Pierre and myself, little reminders of my time in Shirakawa-go.


Explore Kobikiya in Shirakawa-go for unique souvenirs and a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

For dinner, I treated myself to a meal at Morizen. This restaurant is a bit away from the main village, providing a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. Morizen specializes in Hida cuisine, known for its rich flavors and local ingredients. I ordered a set meal that included Hida beef, which was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Morizen in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste amidst stunning landscapes.

As I walked back to my guesthouse, I reflected on all that I had seen and done. Shirakawa-go had truly captured my heart. The combination of art, nature, and delicious food made for an unforgettable experience. I was grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful village and immerse myself in its culture.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Water Lily Pond and the Hida Takayama Activity and Exchange Hall. I'm also hoping to check out Gassho, a local bar, in the evening. I'm excited to see what other adventures await me in this charming corner of Japan. Good night!

P.S. I really need to find a universal power adapter soon. My phone is constantly running out of battery, and I'm relying on my portable charger. Note to self: always double-check the essentials before leaving Lyon!