Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

Finding Peace in Shirakawa-go

Today was a day of quiet reflection and cultural immersion in Shirakawa-go. I set out to explore the serene gardens and historic shrines, savoring every moment of peace and beauty that this charming village has to offer. It's amazing how much you can experience when you slow down and truly take in your surroundings.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Shiawaseya Kichibei. The traditional Japanese breakfast set was the perfect way to start the day. I enjoyed grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly cooked rice. It reminded me of the breakfasts Fatima makes back home, though hers always have a special Libyan twist. I sat there, sipping my green tea, and felt incredibly grateful for this solo adventure. It's moments like these that make all the planning and travel worthwhile.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences come from the simplest moments, like a quiet walk through a garden or a shared meal with friendly faces.

After breakfast, I made my way to the Gyokusenin Maru Garden. This garden, located on the grounds of Kanazawa Castle, is a hidden gem. It was initially created in 1634 by Maeda Toshitsune, and it was carefully restored to its Edo-era appearance in 2015. The garden's design features a stepped layout, creating a sense of verticality, and includes a beautiful waterfall flowing from a stone wall. The meticulous design and tranquil atmosphere made it a perfect place for a morning stroll. I spent a good hour wandering through the garden, taking photos and simply enjoying the peace. It reminded me a little of the gardens in Bielefeld, but with a distinctly Japanese aesthetic. The vibrant colors of the plants and the gentle sound of the waterfall were incredibly soothing.


Explore the serene Gyokusenin Maru Garden in Kanazawa, a historical oasis of Japanese landscape artistry and tranquility.

Next on my itinerary was the Hatotani Hachiman Shrine. This shrine is a bit off the beaten path, nestled in a quieter part of Shirakawa-go. It provided a more intimate and personal experience. I took my time exploring the grounds, admiring the traditional architecture and the peaceful surroundings. I learned that Hachiman shrines are dedicated to the god of archery and war, who later became known as a guardian deity of Japan. The history and significance of the shrine added depth to my visit. I found a quiet spot to sit and reflect, thinking about my family back in Bielefeld and the journey that brought me here. It’s funny how travel can make you feel both incredibly connected to the world and deeply rooted in your own life.


Explore the serene Hatotani Hachiman Shrine in Shirakawa, Gifu, a peaceful retreat that showcases Japan's spiritual heritage amidst breathtaking nature.

For lunch, I headed to Tanaka-ya, a charming restaurant known for its delicious soba noodles. The restaurant is housed in a traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse, adding to the overall experience. I ordered the Hida beef set, which came with a small boiled rainbow trout, side dishes, rice, and hot soba. The Hida beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the soba was perfectly cooked. It was a truly satisfying meal. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home. It’s these small, family-run establishments that often provide the most authentic and memorable experiences.


Experience the essence of Japan at Tanaka-ya, where handmade soba noodles meet breathtaking views in Shirakawa-go.

In the afternoon, I decided to do some shopping at Kataribe, a local shop known for its unique souvenirs and crafts. The shop is located near the suspension bridge, making it easily accessible from the Seseragi parking lot. I browsed through the various items, admiring the local sake, keychains, and other specialty products. I ended up buying a few small gifts for Fatima and Omar, wanting to bring back a piece of Shirakawa-go for them to enjoy. Supporting local artisans and businesses is important to me, and it’s a great way to ensure that traditional crafts and skills continue to thrive.


Explore Kataribe Souvenir Store in Shirakawa for authentic Japanese crafts and unique gifts that embody the spirit of traditional culture.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Soba dojo Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for its spacious and clean environment, as well as its excellent soba noodles. I ordered the cold zaru soba, which was served with a flavorful dipping sauce. The noodles had a great texture, and the overall experience was very enjoyable. The restaurant also offers Japanese traditional handmade buckwheat pillows, which I found quite interesting. It’s always fascinating to see how different cultures incorporate natural materials into everyday items.


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

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Shirakawa-go. The gardens, shrine, shops, and restaurants all contributed to a rich and fulfilling day. I’m looking forward to tomorrow, when I plan to explore Hida-Sashiko and the Takayama City Museum. I might even check out Gassho bar in the evening. Each day here brings new adventures and discoveries, and I’m excited to see what tomorrow holds. I am also excited to try Yamamotoya for breakfast, Yukinko for lunch and Gassho for dinner tomorrow.

This trip has been a wonderful reminder of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the simple things, and connecting with different cultures. I hope that my experiences inspire you to embark on your own adventures, whether near or far. Until tomorrow, happy travels!