Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go with Family

Serenity Found: Reflecting in Shirakawa-go

Today, Maximilian, Elena, and I embraced the quiet beauty of Shirakawa-go, a welcome change of pace after our initial days of exploring this charming village. It was a day for gentle strolls, peaceful contemplation, and savoring the simple pleasures of rural Japan. The morning dew glistened on the thatched roofs as we set out, ready to discover the hidden corners of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our day began with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Yamamotoya. I always appreciate the simplicity and freshness of Japanese cuisine, and this morning was no exception. Elena was particularly fond of the tamagoyaki (rolled omelette), while Maximilian enjoyed the grilled fish. Fueled up and ready to explore, we set off to discover what the day had in store for us.

First on our list was the Wooden Walkway. As we approached, the path unfolded before us, inviting us to step into a world where time seemed to slow down. The walkway meandered through the heart of the village, offering stunning views of the gassho-zukuri farmhouses and the surrounding landscapes. It was the perfect spot to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the atmosphere of this idyllic setting. Elena was fascinated by the intricate details of the traditional architecture, while Maximilian enjoyed capturing the beauty of the scenery with his camera.


Discover the enchanting Wooden Walkway in Shirakawa, where traditional architecture meets breathtaking Japanese landscapes, perfect for leisurely exploration.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

Next, we ventured towards Midorigaike Pond, a serene gem nestled amidst lush greenery. The walk to the pond was a delight in itself, with vibrant flowers lining the path and the gentle sounds of nature accompanying us along the way. As we arrived, the emerald-green waters of the pond shimmered under the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing sight. I learned that the pond's unique color comes from hot-spring minerals seeping from below, and it has been a site of religious worship since medieval times. Elena was captivated by the reflections of the surrounding trees in the water, while Maximilian found the perfect spot to sit and sketch the tranquil scene.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Midorigaike Pond in Gifu, Japan, a serene haven perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Afterward, we made our way to the Water Lily Pond. Located near the Ogimachi bus stop, it was a vibrant display of colors and life. The water lilies were in full bloom, creating a picturesque scene that seemed straight out of a painting. Elena was particularly excited, pointing out the different colors and shapes of the flowers. Maximilian, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing the beauty of the pond from every possible angle. We spent a good hour just wandering around, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the beauty of nature.


Discover tranquility at the Water Lily Pond in Shirakawa, where vibrant blooms and serene waters create a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

All that walking made us hungry, so for lunch, we chose Hakusuien. This charming restaurant, built in the gassho style, offered a variety of local dishes made with fresh, regional ingredients. I decided to try the Oyaji Wazen, a hot pot with bear meat, a local specialty. I was a bit hesitant at first, but the miso broth was so flavorful and the meat was surprisingly tender. Maximilian opted for a Hida beef set, while Elena enjoyed a simple but delicious bowl of udon noodles. It was the perfect way to refuel and experience the local cuisine.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Hakusuien in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

With our bellies full, we decided to do some shopping at Sanrakudo. This charming shop offered a variety of local crafts and delicacies, perfect for souvenirs and gifts. I picked up a beautiful handcrafted pottery piece for my sister back in Mexico, while Maximilian found a bottle of local sake to bring back to Bielefeld. Elena, of course, chose a colorful Sarubobo doll, a traditional amulet from the region. The manager was incredibly welcoming and even taught us a few phrases in the Shirakawa-go dialect. It was a fun and memorable interaction that added a personal touch to our visit.


Discover the essence of Japan at Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies.

As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed dinner at Nomura, known for its authentic soba noodles. We watched as the chefs prepared the noodles by hand, a testament to their dedication and skill. I ordered the cold soba with tempura, while Maximilian chose the hot soba with mountain vegetables. Elena, always adventurous, tried a bit of both. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the flavors were subtle yet satisfying. It was the perfect way to end our day of culinary exploration.


Experience authentic Japanese soba noodles at Nomura in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every bowl.

Our day in Shirakawa-go was a reminder of the beauty of simplicity and the importance of taking time to appreciate the world around us. The serene ponds, the traditional walkway, and the delicious local cuisine all contributed to a day of reflection and rejuvenation. It was a day that I will cherish for a long time.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum and the Hida Takayama Museum of Art, continuing our exploration of the region's cultural heritage. I'm particularly excited about the open-air museum, as it will give us a chance to see even more of the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses up close. And maybe, just maybe, we'll find a cozy little bar called Shiraogi to relax in the evening.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we paused for a moment to watch the sunset over the village. The sky was ablaze with color, casting a warm glow over the thatched roofs and the surrounding mountains. It was a scene of unparalleled beauty, a perfect ending to a perfect day. As we walked back, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Shirakawa-go had captured our hearts, and I knew that we would carry its beauty with us long after we had left. It's these quiet moments, these simple pleasures, that make travel so rewarding and life so rich. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but wonder what adventures tomorrow would bring. One thing was certain: we would continue to explore, to discover, and to cherish every moment along the way.