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

Day 1: Discovering the Soul of Shirakawa-go

Today marked the beginning of my solo journey in Shirakawa-go, and what a start it has been! From the moment I stepped off the bus, I felt enveloped by the tranquil atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with their steeply pitched roofs, stood as silent witnesses to centuries of history, and I couldn't wait to explore the village's hidden gems.

My first stop was Myozenji Temple, a serene sanctuary that immediately captivated me. As I approached, the temple's main hall, or Honden, came into view, its majestic thatched roof rising above the surrounding rice paddies. The structure, built in 1736, exuded a sense of peace and history. Inside, the lavish decorations contrasted beautifully with the monks' simple residence. I was particularly drawn to the fusuma sliding doors, adorned with nihonga-style paintings by the talented artist Taisuke Hamada. The bell tower, or Shoromon, was another highlight, its unique roof marking the entrance to this spiritual haven. I learned that the original bell was replaced after World War II and is rung during ceremonies and on New Year's Eve.
Wandering through the temple grounds, I admired the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into every aspect of its design. The yew tree next to the belfry gate, planted as a memorial when the main hall was built in 1827, stood tall as a natural monument. I took a moment to appreciate the peaceful scenery, imagining how it transforms into a snowy wonderland during the winter months. Myozenji is not just a temple; it's a museum showcasing the crafts and traditions of Shirakawa-go, infused with Buddhist spirituality.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Myozenji, a stunning Buddhist temple in Shirakawa, where culture, spirituality, and nature harmoniously blend.
Leaving Myozenji, I made my way to the Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, an open-air museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's traditional way of life. Here, 26 relocated gassho-style houses, including nine designated as important cultural properties, recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era. As I wandered through the museum, I felt transported back in time, imagining what life must have been like for the families who once lived in these houses.


Explore Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, a captivating open-air museum showcasing Japan's traditional thatched-roof farmhouses amidst stunning natural beauty.
I explored the interiors of several houses, marveling at the ingenious design of the thatched roofs and the practical layout of the living spaces. The attics, once used for cultivating silkworms, provided a glimpse into the resourcefulness of the villagers. I learned that the houses were built without nails or screws, using carefully selected cypress and zelkova pillars for their strength. The central fireplace, or irori, served as the heart of the home, providing warmth and a gathering place for the family.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of settings, where history whispers through the architecture and nature embraces the soul.

For lunch, I stopped at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, a charming eatery known for its rustic and traditional regional dishes. The restaurant's interior featured traditional irori hearths, creating an ambiance reminiscent of old-world Japan. I decided to try the Hida beef set, which was delicious. The Hida beef was incredibly juicy and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the special sauce and warm Japanese rice.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, nestled in the scenic beauty of Shirakawa-go's heritage village.
After lunch, I explored the local shops, including Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir store offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies. The store was established in 1945. The friendly staff welcomed me with smiles, and I enjoyed browsing the wide selection of traditional crafts, keychains, and Japanese character toys. I picked up a few small gifts for Jean-Pierre and my friends back in Lyon, wanting to share a piece of Shirakawa-go's charm with them.


Discover the essence of Japan at Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies.
As the day drew to a close, I headed to Soba Wakimoto for dinner, eager to try their famous handmade soba noodles. The restaurant used carefully selected raw materials for their homemade soba, serving it fresh to customers. I ordered the soba with specially selected natural yam and Hida beef. The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the Hida beef added a rich and savory flavor to the dish.


Savor authentic handmade soba noodles in Shirakawa's scenic Ogimachi village, where tradition meets breathtaking views.
Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep appreciation for the simple beauty and rich cultural heritage of Shirakawa-go. The village's traditional architecture, serene temples, and delicious cuisine had all left a lasting impression on me. I was grateful for the opportunity to immerse myself in this unique corner of Japan and experience its timeless charm.
Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Myozenji Museum and the Hatotani Hachiman Shrine, continuing my exploration of Shirakawa-go's cultural and spiritual treasures. I'm also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at Shiawaseya Kichibei for breakfast, Tanaka-ya for lunch, and Gassho for dinner. And perhaps, I'll end the day with a drink at Shiraogi bar.
As I settle into my guesthouse for the night, I can't help but feel excited about what tomorrow will bring. Shirakawa-go has already captured my heart, and I know that the days ahead will be filled with even more unforgettable experiences. I can't wait to share them all with you!
P.S. I really need to remember to buy a universal power adapter. My phone is almost out of battery, and I forgot my raincoat, but thankfully the weather was good today.
Also, I've been thinking about Jean-Pierre a lot today. I know he would have loved exploring the Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en with me. Maybe next time we can come together!