Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

Whispers of the Past

Our arrival in Shirakawa-go felt like stepping into a living postcard. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of fresh greenery and damp earth, a welcome change from the dry heat of Kelowna. Liam and I were instantly captivated by the tranquility of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the local culture and history, and I couldn't wait to see what this charming village had in store.

Our first stop was the Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, an open-air architectural museum showcasing traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Walking through the grounds, I felt like I had been transported back in time. Each house told a story of generations past, their steep, thatched roofs resembling hands clasped in prayer. The craftsmanship was simply astounding; it’s hard to believe these structures have withstood the test of time and weather.


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

Wandering through the museum, we peeked into the interiors of several houses, each furnished with artifacts that offered a glimpse into daily life during the Edo period. Liam, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the ingenious design of the roofs, which are specifically engineered to withstand heavy snowfall. I, on the other hand, was drawn to the intricate details of the traditional tools and household items, imagining the hands that once used them.

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not just in its picturesque landscape, but in the enduring spirit of its people and their commitment to preserving their heritage.

After Minka-en, we made our way to Shirakawago Three Houses. While the name suggested individual dwellings, it turned out to be a collective area showcasing the iconic architectural style. We strolled through the area, admiring the unique structures and capturing photos from every angle. The way the sunlight filtered through the surrounding trees, casting shadows on the thatched roofs, was simply magical.


Explore the enchanting Shirakawago Three Houses, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Japan's unique gassho-zukuri architecture amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

By lunchtime, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Shirakawago Restaurant Irori for a traditional Japanese meal. The restaurant itself was a charming gassho-zukuri building, complete with a central irori (sunken hearth) that added to the cozy atmosphere. We decided to try the Hoba Miso pork set, a local specialty. The pork, marinated in miso paste and grilled on a hoba leaf, was absolutely divine. The deep, sweet, and nutty flavor was a perfect complement to the tender meat. We also sampled the grilled tofu skewer topped with miso, which was equally delicious. The service was excellent, and the staff was happy to explain the different dishes and ingredients. Irori definitely provided an authentic taste of the region and was a delightful experience.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, nestled in the scenic beauty of Shirakawa-go's heritage village.

After lunch, we ambled over to Soba Wakimoto for a light midday snack. I was keen to sample their soba noodles, and they did not disappoint. We enjoyed the classic cold soba with a side of crispy tempura, a perfect combination for a warm day. The noodles were perfectly cooked, with a delightful springy texture, and the dipping sauce was flavorful and refreshing. Liam opted for the Hida beef mini bowl set and was raving about the tenderness and flavor of the beef. It was a delightful and satisfying meal, and we left feeling energized for the rest of our explorations. The restaurant was bustling, but the friendly staff made sure everyone was well taken care of. I can certainly see why it is a popular spot.


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

With our appetites satisfied, we dedicated some time to shopping. We popped into Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir shop filled with local crafts and delicacies. I was immediately drawn to the intricate pottery and hand-painted fans, each one a unique work of art. Liam, on the other hand, was more interested in the local snacks and treats. We ended up buying a selection of traditional sweets and some Akabu-zuke (pickled turnips) to take home as gifts. The shop owner was incredibly friendly and shared some interesting facts about the village and its history. It was a lovely way to connect with the local community and support their traditional crafts.


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 decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Tenshukaku. This restaurant offered not only delicious food but also breathtaking views of the entire Shirakawa village. We arrived just in time to witness the sunset, which painted the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors. The gassho-zukuri houses below looked like tiny dollhouses, nestled amidst the rolling hills. For dinner, we opted for the Hida beef cooked in hoba miso, which was phenomenal. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the miso added a rich, savory note. The free rice refills were definitely a plus! The experience was simply magical, and it was the perfect way to end our first day in Shirakawa-go.


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

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a unique and culturally rich destination. Shirakawa-go had exceeded all my expectations, and I was already looking forward to exploring more of its hidden gems. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Myozenji Temple and its museum. Liam is particularly excited about visiting the local bar, Yamamotoya, in the evening. I must admit, I am looking forward to that, too.

As I sit here writing this, the sounds of crickets and the gentle breeze rustling through the trees fill the air. It’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Kelowna, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Shirakawa-go has a way of slowing you down, of reminding you to appreciate the simple things in life. And as I drift off to sleep, I can’t help but wonder what other wonders await us in this enchanting village.

I am also realizing that I forgot to pack a power adapter for Japanese outlets and a guidebook on Japanese cultural etiquette. I will need to find one tomorrow. I am sure Liam will remind me if I forget!

Until tomorrow,
Sophie