Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Family

Finding Peace and Flavor in Shirakawa-go

Today was a day of gentle exploration and delicious discoveries here in Shirakawa-go. After several days of more structured sightseeing, it felt wonderful to simply wander, breathe in the fresh air, and let the day unfold naturally. It was a perfect blend of nature and local flavors, shared with my favorite travel companions.

Our day began, as most do, with the promise of new adventures. After a restful night, we were eager to experience more of Shirakawa-go's natural beauty. Maximilian, Elena, and I decided to start our day with a visit to the Nature Forest. The thought of immersing ourselves in the lush greenery was incredibly appealing.

A Morning Stroll Through Nature Forest

The Nature Forest was a tranquil escape. As we stepped onto the winding paths, the air was filled with the earthy scent of damp soil and the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. Elena was immediately captivated, her little eyes wide with wonder as she pointed out every interesting leaf and tiny mushroom.

Maximilian, ever the thoughtful husband, held my hand as we navigated the gentle slopes. We talked about our lives back in Bielefeld, our work, and our dreams for future travels. It's funny how nature has a way of making conversations flow so easily. There's something about being surrounded by the quiet rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds that allows you to truly connect with one another. I felt a sense of peace wash over me, a feeling of being completely present in the moment.

Elena, with her boundless energy, skipped ahead, occasionally stopping to examine a particularly interesting rock or to chase a butterfly. She reminded me of my own childhood in Cholula, where I spent countless hours exploring the fields and hills around our home. Those memories are so precious to me, and I cherish the thought of Elena creating similar memories here in Japan.


Explore the breathtaking Nature Forest in Takayama, Gifu, where nature meets cultural heritage in a tranquil setting.

Lunch at Keyaki: A Taste of Local Charm

By lunchtime, our appetites were calling, and we made our way to Keyaki for a traditional Japanese breakfast.

The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with wooden interiors and the aroma of miso filling the air. We settled into a comfortable booth and ordered a variety of dishes to share. Maximilian, always eager to try new things, opted for the Hida beef miso, while Elena chose the udon with tempura – a safe bet for a picky eater! I decided on the vegetarian curry, remembering the reviews I had read about Keyaki being one of the few places in Shirakawa-go offering vegan options.

The food was delicious and comforting. The Hida beef was tender and flavorful, the udon was perfectly cooked, and the vegetarian curry was surprisingly rich and satisfying. Elena particularly enjoyed the tempura, happily dipping each piece into the savory sauce. As we ate, we watched other families and travelers come and go, each one adding to the warm, communal atmosphere of the restaurant. It was a simple meal, but it felt incredibly special.

Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Keyaki in Shirakawa-go—where tradition meets flavor in a breathtaking setting.

Afternoon Serenity at Garyu Park

With our bellies full and our spirits lifted, we ventured to Garyu Park in the afternoon. The park was a beautiful oasis of green, with meticulously manicured gardens, serene ponds, and winding walking paths. The air was fresh and clean, and the atmosphere was one of quiet contemplation.

Elena immediately made a beeline for the playground, her laughter echoing through the park as she swung on the swings and climbed on the jungle gym. Maximilian and I took a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admiring the vibrant colors of the flowers and the intricate designs of the landscaping. We paused by a small pond, watching the koi fish glide gracefully through the water. Their vibrant colors and peaceful movements were mesmerizing.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, when we allow ourselves to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

As we wandered through the park, I couldn't help but reflect on how much I've come to appreciate these moments of peace and simplicity. Life in Bielefeld can be so busy, with work, school, and the constant demands of modern life. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle and forget to take time for the things that truly matter. Traveling with my family reminds me to slow down, to be present, and to cherish the simple joys of life.

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Garyu Park in Takayama, where nature meets culture in a serene setting.

A Taste of Local Flavors: Morizen for Lunch

For lunch, we decided to try Morizen, a local spot known for its traditional dishes. We were all eager to taste more of Shirakawa-go's culinary offerings, and Morizen seemed like the perfect place to do so. The restaurant was small and cozy, with a warm, inviting atmosphere. We were greeted by friendly staff who were eager to share their local cuisine with us.

We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including Hoba Miso, a regional specialty made with miso paste and vegetables cooked on a hoba leaf. The aroma alone was enough to make our mouths water. The flavors were rich and complex, a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and earthy notes. Elena, surprisingly, was quite adventurous and tried a little bit of everything. Maximilian and I savored each bite, appreciating the unique flavors and the care that went into preparing the meal.

Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Morizen in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste amidst stunning landscapes.

Evening Delights: Hidaji and Gassho

As evening approached, we decided to indulge in more local experiences. First, we stopped by Hidaji, a local spot known for its Hida beef croquettes. We each grabbed one to enjoy as we strolled through the village. The croquettes were crispy on the outside and filled with tender, flavorful beef on the inside – a perfect little treat.

Later, after putting Elena to bed, Maximilian and I ventured out to Gassho, a local bar. It was a cozy, intimate space with a warm, inviting atmosphere. We ordered a couple of local beers and chatted with the friendly bartender, learning more about the history and culture of Shirakawa-go. It was a relaxing end to a wonderful day.

Discover authentic Soba noodles at Hidaji, a charming Syokudo restaurant nestled in Shirakawa's picturesque landscape.


Discover the flavors of Japan at Gassho, a charming restaurant in Ogimachi offering traditional dishes in a stunning setting.

Reflections on the Day and Anticipation for Tomorrow

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new things, connecting with different cultures, and creating lasting memories with the people I love. Shirakawa-go has a way of slowing you down, of reminding you to appreciate the simple things in life. And that's a lesson I'll carry with me long after we leave.

As I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit the Shirakawago Three Houses and the Gokayama Folklore Museum, immersing ourselves even further in the rich history and culture of this region. I'm excited to see what new discoveries await us, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

I'm also thinking about what we might eat for breakfast tomorrow. Perhaps we'll try the Soba dojo Restaurant! And maybe, just maybe, we'll find time for a little treat at Shirakawago Purin no Ie (Pudding House). After all, a little sweetness is always a good way to start the day!

Until tomorrow, dear readers. May your days be filled with peace, joy, and delicious discoveries!