Family Adventure in Historic Kanazawa

Gassho-style Wonders
Today, our family ventured into the heart of the Japanese Alps, a journey that transported us back in time. The destinations were Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, two UNESCO World Heritage sites renowned for their unique gassho-style farmhouses. These villages, nestled amidst lush greenery, offered a serene escape from the bustling city life of Kanazawa. It was a day of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and heartwarming experiences that we will cherish forever.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café. This charming spot, owned by a Seattle native and his Japanese wife, was a delightful blend of American comfort and Japanese hospitality. I ordered a latte, while Elena enjoyed a cup of green tea. Miguel, ever the adventurous one, opted for a pulled pork sandwich. The cafe's cozy atmosphere and friendly service set the perfect tone for our day's adventure.


Experience the charm of Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café in Kanazawa – where delicious brunch meets vintage vibes.

The drive to Shirakawa-go was scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of the Japanese countryside. As we approached the village, the iconic gassho-style farmhouses began to appear, their steeply pitched roofs resembling hands clasped in prayer. These architectural marvels, designed to withstand heavy snowfall, were a sight to behold.

We parked the car and began our exploration of Shirakawa-go on foot. The village was bustling with tourists, but it retained its charm nonetheless. We strolled along the main street, admiring the traditional houses, many of which have been converted into shops, restaurants, and guesthouses. The air was filled with the aroma of street food, tempting us at every turn.

One of the highlights of our visit was the Ogimachi Castle Observation Point, which offered a panoramic view of Shirakawa-go. From this vantage point, the village looked like a miniature landscape, with the gassho-style houses dotting the valley floor. The view was simply breathtaking, a perfect photo opportunity for our family.

Miguel, always eager to learn about local culture, struck up a conversation with a local artisan who was demonstrating the traditional craft of straw weaving. He learned about the intricate process of creating thatched roofs for the gassho-style houses, a skill passed down through generations. I even tried my hand at weaving, but quickly realized that it was more challenging than it looked.

Elena, with her nurturing spirit, was drawn to a small garden where villagers were growing vegetables and herbs. She chatted with a local farmer, learning about the traditional farming techniques used in the region. The farmer shared some tips on growing Japanese herbs, which Elena eagerly noted down in her travel journal.

For lunch, we decided to try Teppanyaki makibi san-an, a restaurant that promised a delightful culinary experience. The chef masterfully cooked a variety of dishes on a hot iron plate right before our eyes. I savored the Noto beef, perfectly grilled to a tender perfection, while Elena enjoyed the fresh seafood. Miguel, always a fan of Japanese cuisine, devoured the okonomiyaki. It was a truly memorable meal, a testament to the region's culinary excellence.


Experience authentic teppanyaki dining at Teppanyaki Makibi San-an in Kanazawa—where culinary artistry meets vibrant flavors.

After lunch, we drove to Gokayama, another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gassho-style farmhouses. Unlike Shirakawa-go, Gokayama was less crowded and offered a more tranquil atmosphere. We visited the Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village, a smaller settlement with nine traditional houses nestled amidst rice paddies.


Explore Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing traditional Japanese architecture in the stunning Toyama mountains.

The Suganuma Village was a peaceful haven, a place where time seemed to stand still. We wandered through the village, admiring the traditional houses, many of which were built centuries ago. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the sounds of nature. It was a perfect place to relax and reflect on our journey.

We visited the Gokayama Folk Museum, housed in a traditional gassho-style house, where we learned about the history and culture of the region. The museum showcased traditional tools, clothing, and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the lives of the villagers who lived in these houses centuries ago.

As we explored the village, we stumbled upon a small shop selling local crafts. Elena, always on the lookout for unique souvenirs, purchased a handmade washi paper doll. Miguel, inspired by his earlier encounter with the straw weaver, bought a small woven basket. I found a beautiful photograph of the village in winter, a reminder of the region's stunning beauty.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Kanazawa. The drive was quiet, filled with our reflections on the day's experiences. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama had left a lasting impression on us, a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of traditional Japanese life.

Back in Kanazawa, we decided to treat ourselves to a special dinner at Teppanyaki Icho. Located on the 29th floor of Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, the restaurant offered panoramic views of the city. The teppanyaki cuisine was exquisite, a perfect ending to our day of culinary delights. We savored the flavors of the region, reminiscing about our adventures in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama.


Discover an unforgettable Teppanyaki dining experience at Icho in Kanazawa's Hotel Nikko—where flavors meet artistry against stunning city views.

Visiting these villages felt like stepping into a living museum, where the past is not just preserved but actively celebrated.

As I reflect on our journey, I am struck by the resilience and ingenuity of the people who built and maintained these gassho-style houses. These architectural marvels, designed to withstand the harsh winters of the Japanese Alps, are a testament to human adaptability and resourcefulness.

I am also reminded of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are not just tourist destinations; they are living communities with a rich history and unique traditions. It is our responsibility to protect these treasures for future generations.

Our day in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama was more than just a sightseeing trip; it was a cultural immersion, a journey into the heart of Japan. We learned about the region's history, admired its architecture, savored its cuisine, and connected with its people. It was an experience that enriched our lives and deepened our appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden, two of the city's most iconic landmarks. I am eager to delve deeper into Kanazawa's history and culture, and to discover more of its hidden gems. We might also visit the Ishikawa Local Products Center to pick up some souvenirs for our friends and family back home in Stratford.

Before I sign off, I must share a funny incident from our day. As we were exploring Shirakawa-go, I accidentally bumped into a scarecrow in a rice field. The scarecrow, dressed in traditional farmer's attire, was so lifelike that I mistook it for a real person. Elena and Miguel burst into laughter, teasing me for my clumsiness. It was a lighthearted moment that added to the charm of our day.

One thing I did forget to pack was sunscreen, and my face is definitely feeling it now! Also, I wish I had brought a Japanese phrasebook. While many people spoke English, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases would have enhanced our interactions with the locals.

Until tomorrow, dear readers, stay tuned for more adventures from our family trip to historic Kanazawa. I hope our experiences inspire you to explore the world and discover the beauty that lies beyond your doorstep.

P.S. I am starting to think about learning to play the ukulele when I get back home. I saw a street performer in Shirakawa-go playing traditional Japanese songs on the ukulele, and it was simply enchanting!

P.P.S. I am also planning to try my hand at cooking some of the delicious dishes we have tasted on our trip. I have already bookmarked a few recipes for Noto beef and Kaga vegetables. Wish me luck!

P.P.P.S. It was great to see Scrum Fest Kanazawa taking place yesterday and today. It's wonderful to see Kanazawa embracing innovation and technology alongside its rich cultural heritage.