Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Family

Echoes of the Past in Shirakawa-go

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Soba Dojo Restaurant. I had heard so much about their handmade soba, and it did not disappoint. The noodles were perfectly springy, and the broth was rich with umami. Maximilian opted for the Hida Beef Shigure Soba, while Elena enjoyed a simpler bowl of warm soba. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. I am usually not a big fan of Soba for breakfast, but this one was particularly delicious. I think it had to do with the fact that the noodles were freshly made.

After breakfast, we made our way to Shirakawago Three Houses. These traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses offered a glimpse into the lives of the villagers of the past. The steep, thatched roofs were truly impressive, designed to withstand the heavy snowfall that blankets the region in winter. Elena was particularly fascinated by the intricate wooden structures and kept asking how they were built without nails. I tried my best to explain, drawing parallels to the traditional building techniques we learned about in Cholula, but I suspect she was more interested in running around the spacious interiors.

Next on our itinerary was the Gokayama Folklore Museum. This museum provided a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture. The exhibits showcased a variety of artifacts, including traditional clothing, farming tools, and household items. Maximilian, with his keen interest in history, was engrossed in the displays about gunpowder production and the silk industry, both of which played significant roles in the region's economy. Elena, surprisingly, was captivated by the re-enactment of gunpowder production using dolls and shadow pictures. I think the shadow puppets made it more interesting for her.

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not only in its picturesque landscapes but also in the enduring spirit of its people.

For lunch, we chose Hakusuien, a restaurant known for its traditional regional cuisine. The setting itself was stunning, with the restaurant built in the gassho style. We tried the Hoba Miso wazen with Hida beef, a local specialty. The beef was incredibly tender, and the miso paste added a depth of flavor that was simply divine. Elena, who can be a bit picky, surprised us by devouring her portion of the beef. Maximilian and I shared a pot of warm sake, savoring the moment and the delicious food.

In the afternoon, we indulged in a sweet treat at Shirakawago Purin no Ie (Pudding House). I had read so many rave reviews about their puddings, and I knew we had to try them. The shop offered a variety of flavors, including classic custard, matcha, and coffee. Elena chose the classic custard, while Maximilian went for the matcha. I decided to be adventurous and try the Gohei Mochi pudding, a unique flavor that incorporated local rice cakes. Each pudding came in a cute little glass jar, which we could either return or take home as a souvenir. The puddings were indeed heavenly, creamy, and rich, with just the right amount of sweetness.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Soba Wakimoto for dinner. This restaurant is famous for its soba noodles and crispy tempura. We started with an assortment of tempura, including shrimp, vegetables, and conger eel. The tempura was perfectly crisp, and the dipping sauce was light and flavorful. For our main course, Maximilian and I both ordered the Hida beef mini bowl set, which came with a side of cold soba. The beef was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the soba was refreshing after a day of exploring. Elena, still full from the pudding, opted for a simple bowl of udon noodles.

One of the most striking aspects of Shirakawa-go is how seamlessly the traditional and modern worlds blend together. While the village is steeped in history and tradition, it is also a living, breathing community. People still live in the gassho-zukuri farmhouses, tending to their fields and carrying on the traditions of their ancestors. It's a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit.

I couldn't help but draw comparisons to my own upbringing in Cholula. Like Shirakawa-go, Cholula is a town steeped in history and tradition, with its own unique architectural style and cultural heritage. I remember spending countless hours exploring the ancient pyramids and learning about the customs of my ancestors. Moving to Germany and embracing a new culture has been an enriching experience, but I will always cherish my roots in Cholula. Sharing those memories with Elena and Maximilian makes these trips even more special.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a leisurely stroll through the village, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The sun had begun to set, casting a warm golden glow over the thatched roofs. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of crickets. It was a perfect moment, a memory that I knew I would cherish for years to come. It reminded me of evenings in Cholula, listening to the distant music and feeling the sense of community that permeated the air.

As we prepare for tomorrow's journey to Hida Takayama Activity and Exchange Hall and Kanazawa Katani, I find myself reflecting on the day's experiences. Shirakawa-go has a way of captivating the soul, of transporting you to a different time and place. It's a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and of cherishing the simple things in life: family, food, and the beauty of nature. We'll start the day with breakfast at Yamamotoya before venturing out. I'm already looking forward to the new adventures that await us.

One thing I almost forgot to mention is that I completely forgot to pack an umbrella. I checked the weather forecast, but I didn't anticipate the short, sporadic rain showers. Thankfully, Maximilian had one in his backpack, but next time I will make sure to double check my packing list! I also wish I had brought my Japanese phrasebook. Although many people spoke English, it would have been nice to be able to communicate more fluently in Japanese. I guess I'll just have to brush up on my Japanese before our next trip!

I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, especially with the promise of Shinanoya for a nightcap!