Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-go

Finding Peace in the Prayerful Village

Today was a day of gentle exploration and deep connection with the heart of Shirakawa-go. Leaving behind the slight ache of missing my power adapter – a rookie mistake, I know – Liam and I set out to fully embrace the village's serene atmosphere and rich cultural tapestry. It’s amazing how quickly you adapt; I’m already feeling more at home here than I ever expected.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Zensuke. It was a delightful introduction to the local flavors. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. Liam, ever the adventurous one, tried the Hida beef skewers, declaring them a delicious start to the day. Zensuke had a cozy, welcoming vibe, perfect for fueling up before our adventures. I even managed to snap a few food photos – my Instagram followers are loving this trip! It's these simple moments, sharing a meal and planning our day, that I cherish the most with Liam. It reminds me of our early backpacking days in Southeast Asia, discovering hidden gems together.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zensuke in Shirakawa-go—home to exquisite kushiyaki amidst breathtaking heritage scenery.
With our stomachs full and spirits high, we ventured into the heart of Ogimachi, Shirakawa-go's largest village. The iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses were even more breathtaking up close. Each house seemed to whisper stories of generations past, of families who braved harsh winters and cultivated a unique way of life. The steep, thatched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snowfall, truly do resemble hands clasped in prayer. It's a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who built and maintained these homes. We wandered through the village, admiring the architecture and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Even though there were other tourists around, there was still a sense of tranquility that permeated the air. I couldn’t help but think how different this was from the hustle and bustle of Kelowna, and how much I appreciated the change of pace.


Explore the enchanting Ogimachi Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan, known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and stunning natural beauty.

The beauty of Shirakawa-go lies not just in its picturesque scenery, but in the enduring spirit of its people and their commitment to preserving a unique way of life.

Next on our itinerary was the Hatotani Hachiman Shrine, a place of reverence and natural beauty. As we approached the torii gate, I could feel a sense of calm wash over me. The shrine is thought to be one of the oldest places of worship in Shirakawa, with natural features believed to have played a part in ancient nature worship. We took our time exploring the grounds, admiring the giant Japanese cedar trees, which are considered sacred. Liam, with his Irish fascination for ancient sites, was particularly intrigued by the rock formation in front of the worship hall, believed to be a *yorishiro*, an object capable of attracting a deity. It was a humbling experience to stand in a place where people have been connecting with nature and the divine for centuries. The shrine's history, dating back to the 8th century, is incredible. It's amazing to think of all the changes this place has witnessed, and how it has remained a constant source of solace and inspiration for the community.


Explore the serene Hatotani Hachiman Shrine in Shirakawa, Gifu, a peaceful retreat that showcases Japan's spiritual heritage amidst breathtaking nature.
For lunch, we stopped at Keyaki, a restaurant known for its Hida region cuisine. I opted for the Keyaki Set Meal, featuring Hida Beef Miso Grilled, a local specialty. The beef was incredibly tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the sweet and savory miso. Liam chose the Hida soba, declaring it some of the best he’s ever had. The restaurant itself had a warm and inviting atmosphere, with wooden decor that added to the rustic charm. We sat by the window, enjoying the view of the surrounding village while savoring our meal. It was a perfect midday break, a chance to recharge before continuing our exploration. Eating local is something I always try to do while travelling, and Keyaki definitely didn't disappoint.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Keyaki in Shirakawa-go—where tradition meets flavor in a breathtaking setting.
As the afternoon waned, we decided to embrace the local culture with a visit to Koshiyama, a cozy bar in the village. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with locals and tourists alike mingling and sharing stories. Liam, ever the social butterfly, struck up a conversation with a group of Japanese tourists, while I enjoyed a glass of local sake. The owner of the bar was incredibly friendly, sharing insights about the village and its history. It was a delightful experience, a chance to connect with the community and learn more about the local way of life. This is exactly the kind of authentic experience we look for when we travel. It's these interactions, these unexpected moments of connection, that make a trip truly memorable.


Discover Koshiyama in Shirakawa for authentic soba noodles and unique antiques, a perfect blend of culinary delight and cultural charm.
For dinner, we decided on Yamamotoya, a restaurant specializing in soba noodles. I ordered the *tororo soba*, cold noodles with grated yam, while Liam chose the *kake soba*, hot noodles in a savory broth. Both dishes were delicious, a perfect ending to a day filled with culinary delights. The restaurant had a simple, unassuming atmosphere, but the food was exceptional. It's these hidden gems, these local favorites, that often offer the most authentic and satisfying dining experiences. I am learning that Shirakawa-go is full of surprises, and I am here for it.


Discover authentic soba noodles at Yamamotoya in Shirakawa - where tradition meets deliciousness amidst breathtaking scenery.
As we walked back to our guesthouse, the village was bathed in the soft glow of twilight. The gassho-zukuri farmhouses looked even more enchanting in the fading light, their silhouettes standing out against the darkening sky. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and damp earth. It was a moment of perfect serenity, a feeling of deep connection with this special place. Reflecting on the day, I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience the timeless beauty of Shirakawa-go. It's a place that has captured my heart, a place that I know I will never forget.

Tomorrow, we're off to Takayama! I’m particularly excited about visiting the Hida Takayama Museum of Art and Takayama Jinya. I’ve heard wonderful things about the museum’s collection of art and the historical significance of the Jinya. Plus, I'm looking forward to trying some of Takayama's famous street food. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the peace and tranquility of Shirakawa-go. I might even try to sketch one of the farmhouses in my notebook before bed. Good night from this magical village!