Solo Cultural Exploration in Shirakawa-go, Japan

A Day of Serenity and Art

Today was all about embracing the quieter side of Shirakawa-go. After the initial excitement of arriving and seeing the iconic farmhouses, I wanted to delve a little deeper and find some hidden gems. It turned out to be a day filled with art, tranquil scenery, and delicious local flavors.

My day began, as it often does, with a hearty breakfast. I headed to Tenshukaku, a restaurant known for its stunning mountain views. Sipping on green tea while gazing out at the landscape was the perfect way to start the day. It reminded me of mornings back in Heidelberg, watching the sunrise over the Neckar River – a world away, yet somehow familiar in its peacefulness. I do miss Lena and Sophie, especially during these quiet moments. I know Sophie would have loved the view from here.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Tenshukaku in Shirakawa—where culinary tradition meets stunning mountain views.

With a full stomach and a sense of calm, I set off to explore the Jin Homura Art Museum. Nestled close to the village parking lot, this museum is housed in a traditional gassho-style building, which is a work of art in itself. I was immediately struck by the contrast between the traditional architecture and the contemporary art inside. It's a small museum, but the exterior is beautiful. The museum showcases about 50 works by Jin Homura, an artist who uses vibrant colors to explore the intersection of societal issues and artistic themes. It turns out that Homura lived in a gassho-zukuri style house in Shirakawa, using it as a studio for about 20 years. He then donated the building and his works to the village.


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

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Homura's art is characterized by a flaming, multi-dimensional, and dynamic touch, which he says was inspired by the gassho-zukuri house itself. Wandering through the exhibits, I found myself captivated by the pieces. It was fascinating to see how the traditional setting influenced such modern artwork. As a brewery technician, I appreciate the blend of tradition and innovation – it's something we strive for in our brewing processes too. The use of vivid colors was especially striking, a far cry from the muted tones I often associate with traditional Japanese art. It was a reminder that art can be found in unexpected places, and in unexpected forms.

After immersing myself in the art world, I decided to embrace nature with a visit to Midorigaike Pond. It took me about 20 minutes to walk there from the Hirase bus stop. The pond is known for its vibrant emerald waters, surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains. The walk to the pond was incredibly peaceful, with the sounds of nature all around me. I could imagine Lena enjoying this walk; she always appreciates a good nature trail. I made a mental note to bring her and Sophie here someday.


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

Arriving at Midorigaike Pond, I was immediately struck by its beauty. The emerald waters were so clear and still, reflecting the surrounding trees like a mirror. It was the perfect spot for quiet contemplation. I sat on a bench, closed my eyes, and simply listened to the sounds of nature. The gentle breeze rustling through the trees, the chirping of birds, and the distant sound of a stream – it was incredibly soothing. I took some photos, of course, trying to capture the beauty of the scene, but no photo could truly do it justice. It's one of those places you have to experience for yourself.

As lunchtime approached, I made my way to Shiraogi for a traditional teishoku meal. It was a welcome change from the often-heavy German cuisine I'm used to. The meal was light, flavorful, and beautifully presented. I particularly enjoyed the fresh vegetables, which were so different from what I find in the supermarkets back home. It reinforced my appreciation for local, seasonal ingredients – something I try to incorporate into my homebrewing as much as possible.


Discover authentic teishoku dining at Shiraogi in Shirakawa - where every meal tells a story steeped in tradition.

After lunch, I did a little shopping at Kobikiya, a traditional gassho-zukuri shop next to the Wada House. I picked up a few souvenirs for Lena and Sophie, some local crafts that I thought they would appreciate. It's always nice to bring back something tangible to remind them of my travels, even if it's just a small trinket. I know Sophie will love the little Salugabamba dolls I found.


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

As the day drew to a close, I treated myself to dinner at Kita no Sho. The restaurant offered a variety of local dishes, and I decided to try something I hadn't had before. It turned out to be a great choice – the flavors were complex and delicious, and the presentation was impeccable. I savored every bite, reflecting on the day's experiences. It's amazing how much you can discover when you slow down and take the time to appreciate the smaller things.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kita no Sho in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore the Nature Forest and visit Ogimachi. I’m looking forward to more hiking, especially after such a relaxing day today. And perhaps I’ll stop by Shiraogi bar in the evening – I hear it’s a great place to unwind. For now, though, I’m content to relax and reflect on the beauty of Shirakawa-go. It's a place that truly captures the essence of traditional Japan, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience it.

This solo trip is proving to be exactly what I needed. The chance to disconnect from the everyday, to immerse myself in a different culture, and to simply be present in the moment – it's been incredibly refreshing. I'm already looking forward to the adventures that tomorrow will bring. It's funny how a place so steeped in tradition can also feel so new and exciting. Shirakawa-go has a way of captivating you, drawing you in with its beauty and its charm. And I, for one, am completely captivated.

I am especially grateful that I managed to get around to all the places I wanted to visit today, and I look forward to sharing more of my travels with you all. I'm sure Lena and Sophie would love to hear all about it when I get back, and hopefully, they'll get to experience it for themselves someday soon.