Solo Cultural Exploration in Shirakawa-go, Japan

A Day of Discovery in Kanazawa

Today was a day for wandering and soaking in the atmosphere of Kanazawa. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Shirakawa-go for a day, I ventured into the city, eager to uncover some of its lesser-known treasures. It's always exciting to explore beyond the main attractions and find those special places that offer a more intimate glimpse into the local culture. I was particularly keen to experience the blend of history and tranquility that Kanazawa is known for.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Yukinko, a charming little spot I found tucked away near my starting point. After a satisfying meal, I set off to explore the Nishi Chaya District. This area, one of Kanazawa's three preserved teahouse districts, offered a step back in time. Unlike the more bustling Higashi Chaya, Nishi Chaya has a quieter, more intimate feel. The traditional wooden buildings, with their intricate latticework, exuded a sense of history and charm. It was easy to imagine geiko entertaining guests here in centuries past.


Discover the enchanting Nishi Chaya District in Kanazawa, where history and traditional Japanese culture come to life in picturesque surroundings.
As I strolled along the main street, I noticed that many of the old teahouses now house sweet shops and cafes. I couldn't resist popping into Ichihi, a local shop, where I picked up some traditional sweets. The shopkeeper was incredibly friendly, offering me a taste of several different treats before I made my purchase. It's these small interactions that really make a trip memorable.


Explore Ichihi, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, offering unique local crafts and delicacies that capture Japan's rich heritage.

The beauty of discovery lies not in seeing new landscapes, but in seeing with new eyes.

After exploring Nishi Chaya, I made my way to the Gyokusenin Maru Garden, located on the grounds of Kanazawa Castle. This garden, carefully restored to its Edo-period appearance, is a true oasis of calm. The stepped design, complete with a stair-like waterfall, created a sense of verticality that was quite striking. I spent a good hour wandering through the garden, admiring the meticulously manicured landscapes and the serene ponds. The garden's history is fascinating; it was originally a private garden for the lords of the Kaga domain and named after Gyokusenin, the wife of the second lord. It's amazing to think of the generations who have walked these same paths.


Explore the serene Gyokusenin Maru Garden in Kanazawa, a historical oasis of Japanese landscape artistry and tranquility.
One of the highlights of the Gyokusenin Maru Garden was the Gyokusen-an teahouse, where I enjoyed a traditional tea ceremony. Sipping matcha while overlooking the garden was a truly Zen experience. The tea was served with traditional sweets, which perfectly complemented the slightly bitter taste of the tea. I took a moment to reflect on the beauty and tranquility surrounding me. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

For lunch, I headed to Morizen, a restaurant recommended by a local I met earlier in the day. The restaurant was known for its traditional Kanazawa cuisine. I decided to try their specialty, jibuni, a duck and vegetable stew. The flavors were rich and complex, and the dish was incredibly satisfying. It was a perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Morizen in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste amidst stunning landscapes.
In the evening, I treated myself to dinner at Masuzono Bunsuke. The chef prides himself on serving fresh fish dishes, and I could tell. I opted for a sashimi platter featuring local catches. Each piece was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The restaurant itself had a cozy, family-run atmosphere, which added to the overall experience.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Masuzono Bunsuke in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste.
As I walked back to my accommodation, I thought about how much I had enjoyed my day in Kanazawa. It's a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when I'll be visiting the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum in Takayama. It promises to be another day filled with cultural exploration and new discoveries. I’m particularly excited to see the traditional architecture and learn more about the region's history. Maybe I'll even find a new favorite beer to add to my list! I am also looking forward to dinner at Hidaji and maybe checking out Kita no Sho for a nightcap.

Reflecting on today, I realize how much these solo trips mean to me. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about the personal growth that comes with stepping outside my comfort zone. Lena and Sophie always support my adventures, and I know they're eager to hear all about my experiences when I get back to Heidelberg. Until then, I'll keep exploring and sharing my stories along the way. Tomorrow, it's back to Takayama, ready for a new set of adventures!