Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Family

Whispers of the Past

Today, as our journey through Japan began in the enchanting village of Shirakawa-go, I felt like I stepped into a living postcard. The air was fresh, carrying the scent of damp earth and distant woodsmoke, a stark contrast to the bustling cityscapes I'm used to. It was a day filled with cultural immersion, architectural wonders, and the simple joys of family travel. It's amazing how much history and beauty can be packed into a single day, and I'm excited to share every detail.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori. The cozy atmosphere, with its traditional hearth, was the perfect start to our adventure. Maximilian, Elena, and I settled in, eager to taste the local flavors. I opted for the Hida beef set, a regional specialty, while Maximilian chose the chicken set. Elena, ever the adventurous eater, happily munched on some river fish. I must say, the Hida beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, a true testament to the region's culinary heritage. Maximilian loved his chicken, and Elena was thrilled with the river fish, which she declared tasted like a real adventure. The staff was exceptionally kind, and even though my Japanese is still a work in progress, they went out of their way to explain the menu options and make us feel welcome. I even managed to practice a few phrases I had learned, much to the amusement of Maximilian and Elena.

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not just in its picturesque landscapes, but in its ability to transport you to a simpler, more connected way of life.

After breakfast, we made our way to Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, an open-air museum showcasing the region's iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Walking through the village, I couldn't help but marvel at these architectural marvels, their steeply pitched thatched roofs resembling hands clasped in prayer. It was fascinating to learn about the history and construction of these houses, designed to withstand the region's heavy snowfall. Elena was particularly intrigued by the multi-level attics, traditionally used for raising silkworms. She kept asking questions about how the silkworms lived and what they ate, her curiosity seemingly boundless. Maximilian, ever the engineer, was impressed by the ingenious design and the way the houses were adapted to the local climate. He pointed out the clever use of natural materials and the way the structures were built to withstand the elements.


Explore Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, a captivating open-air museum showcasing Japan's traditional thatched-roof farmhouses amidst stunning natural beauty.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to 合掌村 Ogimachi, the heart of Shirakawa-go. As we wandered through the village, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The narrow streets were lined with traditional houses, each with its own unique charm. We explored the local shops, admiring the handcrafted souvenirs and local delicacies. I couldn't resist picking up a few small trinkets to remind us of our visit. Elena was fascinated by the colorful Sarubobo dolls, each representing a different wish for good fortune. She chose a pink one for love and a blue one for academic success, carefully tucking them into her backpack. I was struck by how well-preserved the village was, a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. It was inspiring to see how the local residents had managed to balance tradition with modernity, creating a vibrant and sustainable way of life.


Explore the enchanting Ogimachi Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan, known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and stunning natural beauty.

Lunch was at Shiraogi, a charming restaurant known for its regional cuisine. We savored local dishes, including Hoba miso, a specialty of the Hida region. The deep, sweet, and nutty flavor of the miso paired perfectly with the Hida pork. The chilled tofu was also a hit, its delicate soy flavor a refreshing contrast to the richness of the miso. Elena surprised us all by devouring a whole bowl of rice, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. The restaurant itself was a delightful experience. It was cozy, inviting, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I felt like I was dining in someone's home, surrounded by the warmth and hospitality of the local community.


Discover authentic teishoku dining at Shiraogi in Shirakawa - where every meal tells a story steeped in tradition.

After lunch, we spent some time browsing the Kodaijin Souvenir Store. It was a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up some traditional washi paper and a handcrafted wooden toy for Elena. She was thrilled with her new toy, immediately setting to work playing with it. Maximilian found a beautiful sake set, a perfect addition to his growing collection. I also couldn’t resist buying a few Sarubobo dolls, each with its own unique color and meaning. I chose a red one for protection and a green one for good health, hoping they would bring us luck on our travels.


Explore Kodaijin Souvenir Store in Shirakawa for unique Japanese treasures and cultural keepsakes to commemorate your travels.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Tenshukaku for dinner. The restaurant offered stunning views of the village, illuminated by the soft glow of twilight. The food was delicious, a perfect blend of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine. I opted for a set meal featuring local vegetables and grilled fish. The vegetables were incredibly fresh, their flavors enhanced by the simple yet skillful preparation. The grilled fish was perfectly cooked, its delicate flesh melting in my mouth. Elena was fascinated by the presentation of the meal, each dish arranged with meticulous care and attention to detail. Maximilian appreciated the quality of the ingredients, sourced locally and prepared with passion.


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

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a leisurely stroll through the village, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and damp earth. The stars twinkled overhead, creating a magical ambiance. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a unique and special place with my family.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our itinerary includes visits to the Myozenji Museum, Myozenji Temple, and Hatotani Hachiman Shrine. I'm particularly excited to explore the Myozenji Museum, as I'm eager to learn more about the region's religious history and cultural traditions. We also plan to visit the Kita no Sho bar for a relaxing evening drink, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Today was more than just a sightseeing trip; it was an immersive experience that touched my soul. I'm reminded of why I love to travel: to discover new cultures, connect with people, and create lasting memories with my family. Shirakawa-go has certainly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The weather today was mostly cloudy with brief rain, a typical June day in Shirakawa-go. The temperature was comfortable, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, perfect for exploring the village on foot. I was glad I packed light jackets for the cooler evenings, a lesson learned from my past travel mishaps. I did, however, regret forgetting our umbrella, as the sudden rain showers caught us off guard a few times. It seems my list of forgotten essentials continues to grow with each trip, a constant reminder of my imperfect packing skills.

As I reflect on our first day in Shirakawa-go, I am filled with a sense of peace and contentment. This village is a true gem, a place where time seems to stand still and the beauty of nature is celebrated. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I can’t wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring.

I think it's time for me to learn how to crochet a Sarubobo doll, so I can bring a bit of Shirakawa-go's magic back home to Bielefeld. After all, a little piece of Japan can always brighten up a German day. Good night, everyone!