Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

A Day of Discovery in Shirakawa-go

Today was all about immersing myself in the natural beauty and rich history surrounding Shirakawa-go. Leaving the gassho-zukuri farmhouses behind for a day, I ventured into the nearby forest and explored a fascinating open-air museum. It was a day of contrasts, from the tranquility of the woods to the vibrant displays of traditional life. I'm excited to share my experiences and the unique charm I encountered along the way.

My day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Shiawaseya Kichibei. It was a cozy start, the kind of place where the aroma of freshly cooked rice and miso soup fills the air. The simplicity of the meal was perfect, setting a calm and peaceful tone for the adventures ahead. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from my usual rushed mornings in Bielefeld. I miss Fatima and Omar, but I know they'd want me to embrace every moment of this solo journey.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to explore the Nature Forest. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city. The forest was a vibrant tapestry of greens, with sunlight filtering through the leaves, creating a magical atmosphere. As I walked deeper, I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me, a feeling of being completely disconnected from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It was just me and the sounds of nature – the gentle rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the occasional gurgle of a nearby stream.


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

I spent hours wandering through the forest, taking photos and simply enjoying the serenity. I've always found solace in nature, a connection to something larger than myself. Back in Libya, I remember spending countless days exploring the desert with my grandfather, learning about the plants, animals, and the stories of our ancestors. Those memories are etched in my mind, and I often find myself seeking similar experiences wherever I go.

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

After my forest adventure, I headed to the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum. This place is like stepping back in time, with over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region carefully preserved and open for exploration. I was immediately struck by the unique architecture of the gassho-zukuri farmhouses, their steep thatched roofs resembling hands joined in prayer. It's incredible to think about the ingenuity and craftsmanship that went into building these structures, designed to withstand the heavy snowfall of the region.


Discover the enchanting Hida no Sato Open Air Museum in Takayama, where traditional architecture and local culture come to life amidst stunning natural beauty.

As I wandered through the museum, I peered into the interiors of the houses, imagining what life must have been like for the families who lived there. I saw tools and utensils used in everyday life, giving me a glimpse into the past. What struck me most was the simplicity and resourcefulness of the people, making the most of what they had and living in harmony with nature. It reminded me of my own upbringing in Libya, where we learned to value community and make do with limited resources.

One of the highlights of the museum was the Hida Takayama Crafts Experience Center. I decided to try my hand at making a sarubobo doll, a popular local craft. It was a fun and engaging experience, and I enjoyed learning about the history and significance of the doll. I even made one for Omar. I think he will like it.

For lunch, I stopped by Soba dojo Restaurant. The restaurant specializes in freshly made soba noodles, crafted using high-quality buckwheat flour. I ordered a bowl of cold dipping noodles with a savory dipping sauce. It was simple, yet delicious, and the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring. I also tried some local sake, which complemented the meal perfectly.


Experience authentic soba noodles in the heart of Shirakawa-go's breathtaking landscape at Soba Dojo.

In the late afternoon, I decided to do some shopping at Kobikiya. This traditional gassho-zukuri shop is located next to the Wada House. They had a variety of local products, from sweets and pickles to sake and crafts. I picked up a few souvenirs for Fatima and Omar, as well as some local sake to share with friends back in Bielefeld. I even got myself a little thatched-roof home knick-knack to remind me of this beautiful village.


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

As evening approached, I headed to Hiiragi for dinner. I wanted to try some Hida beef, a local specialty. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm and friendly atmosphere. I ordered the Hida beef hôba miso yaki set, which came with pickles, rice, soba, and fruit. The beef was tender and flavorful, and the miso added a delicious depth of flavor. The staff was incredibly friendly, making me feel welcome and comfortable. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring.


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

The weather today was typical for July in Shirakawa-go, with high temperatures and a chance of rain. I was glad I had packed my comfortable walking shoes, as I did a lot of walking. I am regretting not bringing an umbrella, but I’ll make sure to buy one tomorrow!

As I reflect on today’s experiences, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful region, to learn about its history and culture, and to connect with nature. I am also grateful for the warm hospitality of the local people, who have made me feel so welcome. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Takayama Jinya and the Jinya-mae Morning Markets. I'm looking forward to exploring more of this region and sharing my experiences with you. I might even grab a drink at Hidaji bar in the evening!

I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, the famous Berber scholar and explorer:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

This journey is certainly turning me into a storyteller, and I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you.

Until tomorrow,
Mohamed