Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Family

Whispers of the Past: A Day of Discovery in Shirakawa-go

Today, I embarked on a journey that transcended the picturesque landscapes of Shirakawa-go, delving into the spiritual and cultural heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site. It was a day filled with serene temples, tranquil shrines, and the simple joys of experiencing local life with my family. The weather was comfortable, with temperatures hovering around 64°F to 75°F, though the forecast suggested a chance of rain, so I was glad I had remembered to pack our light jackets. Maximilian, Elena and I were all eager to immerse ourselves in the history and traditions that make this village so special.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Hiiragi, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. The aroma of freshly cooked rice and miso soup filled the air as we settled into our cozy corner. I decided to try the Hida beef skewers, a local specialty, while Maximilian opted for the Hoba miso yaki, a dish cooked on a magnolia leaf. Elena, as always, was happy with a simple bowl of rice and some pickled vegetables. The owners were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


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

Fueled and ready, our first stop was the Myozenji Museum. This museum, housed in a traditional gassho-zukuri building, offered a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the villagers of Shirakawa-go. As we wandered through the exhibits, we learned about the tools and techniques used for farming, silk production, and other traditional crafts. Elena was particularly intrigued by the displays of old kitchen utensils and ornaments, imagining how life must have been for children in the past. The museum itself was once a monk's residence and has been turned into a museum of the temple's history since 1748. The yew tree planted in 1827 as a memorial, also caught my eye.


Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Shirakawa-go at Myozenji Museum, a local history gem showcasing traditional Japanese lifestyle.

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not just in its scenery, but in the preservation of its traditions and the warmth of its people.

Adjacent to the museum stands Myozenji Temple, a significant religious site in Shirakawa-go. Founded in 1748, it belongs to the Jodo Shinshu school of Buddhism. The temple's main hall, with its distinctive thatched roof, exuded a sense of tranquility. We removed our shoes and stepped inside, where a serene atmosphere enveloped us. The gilded statue of the Amida Buddha at the main altar was breathtaking. The intricate carvings of guardian lions and celestial beings added to the spiritual ambiance. Elena was quiet and respectful, absorbing the peaceful energy of the space.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Myozenji, a stunning Buddhist temple in Shirakawa, where culture, spirituality, and nature harmoniously blend.

After spending some time at Myozenji, we made our way to the Hatotani Hachiman Shrine. Located a short bus ride from the village center, this Shinto shrine offered a different perspective on the spiritual heritage of Shirakawa-go. As we walked along the path leading to the shrine, we were surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. The shrine itself was smaller and more intimate than Myozenji Temple, but it possessed a unique charm. We took a moment to appreciate the serene surroundings and the beauty of the shrine's architecture. I read that the shrine is known for its autumn festival, where doburoku, a traditional drink, is offered to the gods. I could almost feel the spiritual significance of the place.


Explore the serene Hatotani Hachiman Shrine in Shirakawa, Gifu, a peaceful retreat that showcases Japan's spiritual heritage amidst breathtaking nature.

For lunch, we headed to Soba Wakimoto, a renowned soba noodle shop in Ogimachi village. I had heard that their handmade soba noodles were a must-try, and I was not disappointed. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the Hida beef mini bowl set and some crispy tempura. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the Hida beef was incredibly tender. Elena loved the tempura, especially the shrimp and sweet potato. The restaurant was bustling with activity, but the staff was friendly and efficient. Maximilian commented that the Hida beef was better than some Wagyu he had in Kobe!


Savor authentic handmade soba noodles in Shirakawa's scenic Ogimachi village, where tradition meets breathtaking views.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break and enjoy a drink at Kita no Sho, a local bar known for its traditional atmosphere and local brews. It's located in a gassho style building that is about 250 years old. I sampled some local sake while Maximilian enjoyed a cold beer. Elena sipped on a refreshing juice. The bar was cozy and inviting, with a veranda overlooking the Shogawa River. It was the perfect place to relax and reflect on our day.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Shirakawa at Kita no Sho, a delightful restaurant and souvenir shop that showcases local flavors and crafts.

For dinner, we chose Gassho Restaurant, hoping to immerse ourselves further in the local culinary scene. Located near Seseragi parking lot, the restaurant served local cuisine and Hida beef. We savored each bite, appreciating the unique flavors and textures of the dishes. Elena was particularly fond of the dumplings, while Maximilian enjoyed the Tochimochi zenzai, a sweet red bean soup with horse chestnut mochi. The staff were attentive and welcoming, making our dining experience even more memorable.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Gassho in Shirakawa - where tradition meets taste in a picturesque setting.

As the day drew to a close, we walked back to our guesthouse, the village was quiet and peaceful. The gassho-zukuri houses were silhouetted against the darkening sky, creating a magical scene. We stopped for a moment to take it all in, feeling grateful for the experiences we had shared. Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with different cultures and creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Shirakawa-go's natural beauty, including the Wooden Walkway, Midorigaike Pond, and Water Lily Pond. We'll also visit Sanrakudo, a local shop, and sample more of the region's delicious cuisine. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us.

Back at our guesthouse, I began to reflect on the day’s events. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. It’s moments like these that make all the challenges of living in a foreign country worthwhile. As a Mexican woman living in Germany, I sometimes feel like I’m caught between two worlds. But when I travel, I feel like I can embrace all aspects of my identity. I can appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture, share my experiences with my family, and connect with people from all walks of life.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. Shirakawa-go has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what other treasures it holds.

One thing I did forget to pack was a Japanese phrasebook, and while many people speak English, I think it would be helpful to know some basic phrases to better connect with the locals. Also, I wish I had brought an umbrella, as the weather forecast predicts a chance of rain tomorrow. But these are minor details, and I am confident that we will have another incredible day in Shirakawa-go, rain or shine!