Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

Sunday Reflections in Shirakawa-go

Today was a day of quiet reflection and sweet indulgence in the heart of Shirakawa-go. As my trip nears its end, I find myself cherishing these moments of solitude and cultural immersion even more. It's amazing how a change of scenery can bring about a change of perspective, and Shirakawa-go has certainly offered that in abundance.

My day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Arai. The cozy atmosphere and the kind service from the older lady managing the place made it feel like I was having breakfast at a family home. I opted for the set meal, which included grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. It was a simple yet satisfying way to start the day, fueling me up for the explorations ahead. It reminded me of Fatima's cooking back home in Bielefeld, simple, hearty, and full of love. I must remember to get her recipe for miso soup when I return; Omar would love it.

After breakfast, I decided to visit Ishiura Shrine. Although it's actually located in Kanazawa, I decided to take a day trip to experience it. The shrine is known as a power spot, especially for those seeking good luck in relationships. While I'm happily married to Fatima, I couldn't resist the charm of the shrine's mascot, Kima-chan. I bought a small omamori featuring Kima-chan, hoping it would bring good fortune to my family. The shrine itself was peaceful, with a short path winding through small torii gates, reminiscent of Fushimi Inari. It was a serene place to reflect on my journey and appreciate the blessings in my life.


Explore the serene beauty and cultural richness of Ishiura Shrine, a must-visit Shinto shrine in Kanazawa, Japan.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest moments, allowing us to connect with ourselves and the world around us.

Next on my list was the Wooden Walkway. The walkway offered stunning views of the surrounding gassho-zukuri farmhouses and the lush greenery of the Gifu Prefecture mountains. It was a peaceful escape, allowing me to connect with nature while exploring the beauty of rural Japan. I took my time, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and capturing the picturesque scenery with my camera. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the simple things in life and remind me why I love to travel.


Discover the enchanting Wooden Walkway in Shirakawa, where traditional architecture meets breathtaking Japanese landscapes, perfect for leisurely exploration.

For lunch, I ventured to Masuzono Bunsuke, a small family restaurant located a short walk from the main town. The restaurant is known for its fresh fish dishes, with the chef personally catching the fish from the pond after receiving orders. I tried the Masuen set meal, which included grilled rainbow trout, sashimi, and sweet simmered fish. The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the chef's dedication to his craft. It was a delightful culinary experience, and I savored every bite.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Masuzono Bunsuke in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste.

No visit to Shirakawa-go would be complete without a stop at Shirakawago Purin no Ie (Pudding House), also known as the Pudding House. This quaint dessert shop specializes in creamy, delicious puddings made with fresh, local ingredients. I indulged in the original smooth pudding, which was heavenly. It was the perfect sweet treat to end the day, and I even bought a few extra puddings to take back to my ryokan. The shop itself was charming, with a warm and inviting atmosphere that made me feel right at home. I can understand why it's considered a must-visit destination for dessert enthusiasts.


Experience the sweetness of Shirakawa-go at Purin no Ie, renowned for its delicious puddings and delightful desserts in a charming café setting.

For dinner, I decided to try Shirakawago Restaurant Irori. The restaurant is located in a traditional gassho-zukuri building and serves local cuisine made with seasonal mountain produce. I ordered the Hida beef miso tobanyaki set, which was a delicious and comforting meal. The beef was tender and flavorful, and the miso added a rich, savory depth to the dish. The atmosphere of the restaurant was cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, nestled in the scenic beauty of Shirakawa-go's heritage village.

As I reflect on my day, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences I've had in Shirakawa-go. From the serene beauty of Ishiura Shrine to the sweet indulgence of the Pudding House, every moment has been a treasure. I'm also starting to think about my next destination, Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge about these prehistoric creatures. I'm also looking forward to seeing the Nezumita-mon Gate, and maybe even singing a tune or two at KARAOKE & BAR Maria.

Tomorrow marks the last day of my trip, and I'll be heading to Fukui to visit the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum and the Nezumita-mon Gate. It's going to be a day of exploration and discovery, and I can't wait to see what adventures await. I'm also planning to visit KARAOKE & BAR Maria, because I feel like singing.

As I prepare to leave Shirakawa-go, I'm filled with a sense of peace and contentment. This solo trip has been a journey of self-discovery, allowing me to connect with myself and the world around me in a way that I never thought possible. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have experienced the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Shirakawa-go, and I know that these memories will stay with me long after I return home to Bielefeld.

I'm already looking forward to sharing my experiences with Fatima and Omar, and I hope that one day, we can all return to Japan together to explore more of this beautiful country. Until then, I'll continue to cherish the memories I've made here and carry the spirit of Shirakawa-go in my heart.

And now, as the day comes to a close, I'm going to savor the last moments of tranquility in my ryokan, knowing that tomorrow brings new adventures and new discoveries. Goodnight from Shirakawa-go!