Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Family

A Day of Discovery in Takayama

Today, in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Takayama welcomed us with open arms and a promise of cultural immersion. With Maximilian and Elena by my side, I was eager to explore this ‘Little Kyoto’ and uncover its hidden gems. From crafting with gold leaf to savoring exquisite local cuisine, today was a testament to the beauty of slowing down and appreciating the moment.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yamamotoya. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of traditional Japanese breakfast dishes were inviting. I opted for the miso nikomi udon, a Nagoya specialty, which was absolutely delicious. Maximilian enjoyed a simpler set meal, while Elena happily munched on rice balls and miso soup. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.


Discover authentic soba noodles at Yamamotoya in Shirakawa - where tradition meets deliciousness amidst breathtaking scenery.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Hida Takayama Activity and Exchange Hall. This was an experience I had been particularly looking forward to, as I'd read about the chance to engage in local crafts. Elena was especially excited. The hall was bustling with activity, with artisans demonstrating various traditional crafts. We decided to try our hand at gold leaf application, a craft that Kanazawa is famous for. Kanazawa Katani, with its 120 years of history, provided the perfect setting for this activity. Elena chose a small wooden box, while Maximilian and I opted for small plates. With the help of a patient instructor, we carefully applied the delicate gold leaf onto our chosen items. Elena, with her boundless enthusiasm, managed to get gold leaf everywhere, including her hair, which made us laugh. It was a fun and memorable experience, and we left with unique souvenirs that we created ourselves.


Experience the rich cultural tapestry of Takayama at the Hida Takayama Activity and Exchange Hall, where history meets hands-on learning.


Explore Kanazawa Katani for authentic Japanese souvenirs, from exquisite textiles to local delicacies, all reflecting the rich culture of Ishikawa.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found not in grand monuments, but in the simple act of creation and the shared joy of a family experience.

Lunch was at Hiiragi, a charming regional cuisine restaurant. I had heard about their Hida beef skewers and was eager to try them. The restaurant had a cozy, traditional ambiance, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I ordered the Hida beef skewer rice bowl, while Maximilian went for a set meal with local vegetables and tempura. Elena, of course, wanted more rice balls. The Hida beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in my mouth with each bite. It was a true culinary delight. Maximilian enjoyed his set meal, commenting on the freshness of the vegetables and the lightness of the tempura. Elena, after devouring her rice balls, decided to try a bit of my Hida beef and declared it ‘super yummy.’


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

After lunch, we strolled through the streets of Takayama, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic town. The traditional wooden houses, the quaint shops, and the gentle flow of the Miyagawa River created a scene that felt like stepping back in time. We stopped at a local shop to purchase some traditional sweets and souvenirs. Elena was fascinated by the colorful candies and insisted on buying a bag of them. Maximilian, ever the practical one, picked up a beautifully crafted wooden sake cup.

As evening approached, we decided to indulge in a well-deserved dinner at Tenshukaku. This restaurant offered a panoramic view of Shirakawa-go, which I was eager to see. The restaurant was bustling with activity, but we were quickly seated at a table with a stunning view. I opted for a traditional Japanese dinner set, while Maximilian chose a Hida beef steak. Elena, predictably, wanted more rice. My dinner set was a culinary journey through the flavors of Japan, with each dish carefully prepared and beautifully presented. Maximilian raved about his Hida beef steak, declaring it one of the best he had ever tasted. Elena, after finishing her rice, was content to watch the lights of Shirakawa-go twinkle in the distance.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Tenshukaku in Shirakawa—where culinary tradition meets stunning mountain views.

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Shinanoya, a local bar known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive drink selection. While I’m usually a wine person, I decided to try some local sake, and Maximilian opted for a Japanese whiskey. Elena, of course, had a sparkling cider. The bar was dimly lit and filled with the murmur of conversations, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The sake was smooth and flavorful, a perfect ending to a day of culinary delights. Maximilian enjoyed his whiskey, commenting on its smoky notes. Elena, sipping her cider, was content to draw pictures on a napkin.


Discover the vibrant flavors of traditional Japanese izakaya dining combined with exquisite wines at Shinanoya in Hida, Gifu.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, the cool evening air was refreshing. Today had been a whirlwind of cultural immersion, culinary delights, and family bonding. Takayama had exceeded my expectations, offering a glimpse into a world where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Kanazawa, including the Jin Homura Art Museum and Ishiura Shrine. I’m particularly interested in visiting the Kobikiya shop, known for its exquisite lacquerware. But for now, I’m content to savor the memories of today and look forward to more adventures in this beautiful country.

This trip has been a reminder of how much I cherish these moments with my family. Leaving behind the hustle of my marketing consultant job in Bielefeld, Germany, and embracing the slow pace of Japanese culture has been incredibly refreshing. It’s a chance to reconnect with my roots, share my love for travel with Elena, and create memories that will last a lifetime. As a Mexican woman living in Germany, bringing my family to experience the beauty of Japan is a unique cultural exchange that I deeply value. I'm so glad I decided to bring my family along with me.

As I reflect on today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of Takayama. From crafting with gold leaf to savoring exquisite local cuisine, today was a testament to the beauty of slowing down and appreciating the moment. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm so glad we didn't forget essentials like our camera, comfortable walking shoes, and light jackets. However, I do wish I had remembered to pack an umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable. Also, a Japanese phrasebook would have been incredibly helpful, as communication can sometimes be a challenge. Regardless, we are making the most of our adventure and embracing every moment.

Takayama, with its blend of tradition and modernity, has captured my heart. I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you as we continue our journey through Japan.