Discovering Kanazawa: A Cultural Journey in Japan

Whispers of the Past

Today, Maximilian and I embarked on a journey that felt like stepping back in time. We ventured into the heart of Japan's countryside to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Shirakawa-go and Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village. These villages, with their iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, offered a glimpse into a world where tradition and community thrived amidst the rugged mountains and heavy snowfalls. It was a day filled with wonder, discovery, and a deep appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of the people who have called these villages home for centuries.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Aashirwad. I love starting my day with a good meal, especially when I know we have a long day of exploring ahead of us. Fully energized we set off towards Shirakawa-go. The drive itself was beautiful, the landscape transforming into rolling hills as we moved further away from Kanazawa. The closer we got, the more excited I became. I was eager to see the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses I had only ever seen in pictures.

As we approached Shirakawa-go, the landscape opened up to reveal a breathtaking panorama of verdant rice paddies and charming farmhouses nestled against the backdrop of towering mountains. The gassho-zukuri houses, with their steeply pitched thatched roofs resembling hands clasped in prayer, stood proudly as testaments to the ingenuity of the local people. The unique architectural style was developed to withstand the region's heavy snowfall, a testament to the harmony between the villagers and their environment. I was immediately captivated by the serene beauty and timeless charm of the village.


Explore Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO Heritage Site with captivating gassho-zukuri houses and breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps, perfect for cultural immersion.
We spent the morning wandering through the narrow lanes of Shirakawa-go, admiring the meticulously preserved farmhouses and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Many of the houses have been converted into museums, restaurants, and guesthouses, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional village life firsthand. We visited the Wada House, one of the largest and most well-preserved gassho-zukuri houses in the village. Stepping inside, I was transported back in time as I explored the various rooms, each filled with antique furniture, farming tools, and artifacts that told the story of the Wada family and their ancestors.

The beauty of these villages lies not only in their picturesque landscapes but also in the spirit of community and resilience that has sustained them for generations.

After immersing ourselves in the history and culture of Shirakawa-go, we decided to take a break for lunch. We stopped at the Tawara Restaurant, known for its traditional Japanese cuisine and stunning views of the village. I savored every bite of my meal, savoring the fresh, local ingredients and the authentic flavors of the region. Maximilian, ever the adventurous eater, tried a local delicacy – grilled river fish – and declared it surprisingly delicious. It's moments like these, sharing new culinary experiences, that make our travels so special.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at Tawara Restaurant in Kanazawa, where elegance meets culinary artistry.
With our bellies full and our spirits refreshed, we continued our journey to Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village, a smaller and more secluded settlement nestled deeper in the mountains. As we drove along the winding mountain roads, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. I had heard that Suganuma was even more charming and authentic than Shirakawa-go, and I was eager to discover its hidden treasures.

As we arrived in Suganuma, I was immediately struck by its tranquil beauty and unspoiled charm. Unlike Shirakawa-go, which has become a popular tourist destination, Suganuma felt like a hidden gem, untouched by the passage of time. The village consisted of just a handful of gassho-zukuri houses, clustered together amidst lush greenery and surrounded by towering mountains. It was a scene straight out of a postcard.


Explore Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing traditional Japanese architecture in the stunning Toyama mountains.
We spent the afternoon exploring Suganuma, wandering through its narrow lanes and admiring the meticulously preserved farmhouses. The village exuded a sense of peace and tranquility that was truly captivating. We visited the local folk museum, where we learned about the history and culture of the village and the traditional way of life of its inhabitants. I was fascinated to discover that the villagers were once involved in the production of saltpeter, a key ingredient in gunpowder, which was a valuable commodity during the Edo period.

One of the highlights of our visit to Suganuma was the opportunity to meet some of the local residents. We struck up a conversation with an elderly woman who was tending to her garden, and she shared with us stories about her life in the village and the challenges and rewards of living in such a remote and isolated community. Her warmth and hospitality touched my heart, and I felt a deep connection to the people of Suganuma.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the village, we reluctantly bid farewell to Suganuma and began our journey back to Kanazawa. The drive back was filled with quiet reflection as we reminisced about the incredible experiences we had shared throughout the day. We had witnessed the beauty and resilience of traditional Japanese culture, and we had gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving these unique and historic villages for future generations.

Back in Kanazawa, we decided to treat ourselves to a special dinner at Teppanyaki 'Icho'. The sizzling sounds and tantalizing aromas of the teppanyaki grill filled the air as the chef expertly prepared our meal right before our eyes. It was a truly memorable dining experience, and the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Discover an unforgettable Teppanyaki dining experience at Icho in Kanazawa's Hotel Nikko—where flavors meet artistry against stunning city views.
Before heading back to the APA Hotel Kanazawa Nomachi, we decided to try a local bar. The Kohaku Bar was a cozy and inviting place, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered a couple of drinks and chatted with the friendly bartender, who shared with us stories about Kanazawa and its vibrant nightlife. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.


Discover the vibrant Kohaku Bar in Kanazawa, where expertly crafted cocktails meet warm ambiance for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
As I lay in bed that night, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of Shirakawa-go and Suganuma. These villages had transported me back in time, and I had gained a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Japan. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but wonder what adventures tomorrow would bring as we explore the Kazuemachi Chaya District, Seison-kaku Villa and the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum. I'm particularly excited to wander through the Kazuemachi Chaya District, imagining the geishas who once graced its streets. I'm also looking forward to seeing Seison-kaku Villa, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. It sounds like tomorrow will be another day of discovery here in Kanazawa.

It is experiences like these that remind me why I love to travel.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Kanazawa, starting with the Kazuemachi Chaya District. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems this city has in store for us.