Enchanting Shirakawa-go: A Timeless Journey into Japan's Heritage
Explore Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Nestled in the heart of Japan, Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This picturesque village offers a glimpse into Japan's past, with its thatched-roof houses harmoniously blending into the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the village, partake in seasonal festivals, and enjoy local culinary delights, making Shirakawa-go a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
A brief summary to Shirakawa-go
- Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ogimachi, Ono District, Gifu, 501-5627, JP
- +815769-6-1311
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during winter for the stunning snow-covered landscape and magical lighting events.
- Try to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring cash, as some local shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the village has uneven pathways.
- Consider staying overnight to fully experience the serene beauty of the village at dusk and dawn.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Mikawa to Shirakawa-go, take Route 41 north towards Takayama. Continue on Route 41 for approximately 40 kilometers until you reach the junction with Route 156. Turn left onto Route 156. Follow this road for around 30 kilometers, passing through beautiful countryside. When you reach the junction with Route 360 in the village of Shirakawa, turn right. Follow Route 360 for about 10 kilometers, and you will arrive in Shirakawa-go. There are parking facilities available near the village, and parking fees may apply (approximately 1000 yen).
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Public Transportation (Bus)
To reach Shirakawa-go from Mikawa using public transportation, first head to the nearest train station, which is usually Mikawa Station. Take a train to Takayama Station (approximately 30 minutes). Once you arrive at Takayama Station, go to the bus terminal located just outside the station. Look for the Nohi Bus service that goes directly to Shirakawa-go. The bus ride takes about 50 minutes and costs approximately 2000 yen one way. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as service may be limited, especially during off-peak seasons.
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Public Transportation (Train + Bus)
Another option is to take a train from Mikawa to Kanazawa. After reaching Kanazawa Station, transfer to the Hokuriku Railroad and take a train to the nearest station, which may be Shin-Takaoka. From Shin-Takaoka, you can catch a bus to Shirakawa-go. This option may take longer and could be more complicated, as you will need to check the train and bus schedules. The total cost for this journey can be around 5000 yen or more, depending on transfers.
Discover more about Shirakawa-go
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hida no Sato Open Air Museum
32.6 km
Immerse yourself in the beauty of traditional Japan at Hida no Sato Open Air Museum, where history and nature beautifully converge.
Hida Kokubunji Temple
33.7 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Hida Kokubunji Temple, a must-see Buddhist landmark in Takayama, Japan.
Takayama Jinya
34.2 km
Explore Takayama Jinya, a historical gem in Japan offering insights into the Edo period with stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
Daijoji Kyuryo Park
37.7 km
Explore the lush landscapes and historical treasures of Daijoji Kyuryo Park in Kanazawa, a tranquil haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Inotani Checkpoint Hall
38.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of Toyama at Inotani Checkpoint Hall, a local history museum highlighting the region's cultural heritage.
D.T. Suzuki Museum
39.9 km
Explore the serene D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa, where Zen Buddhism meets modern architecture in a tranquil setting for reflection and learning.
Shofukaku garden
40.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Shofukaku Garden in Kanazawa, a serene escape showcasing traditional Japanese landscaping and seasonal blooms.
Kenrokuen Garden Kodatsuno Gate
40.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural heritage of Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most famous landscapes in Kanazawa, Ishikawa.
Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well
40.1 km
Explore the serene Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well in Kanazawa, a historical landmark surrounded by nature's beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Ryuseki
40.1 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Ryuseki Garden in Kanazawa, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tranquil seekers.
Sekirei-jima (Wagtail Island)
40.2 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Sekirei-jima, Kanazawa's hidden garden gem, offering tranquility and stunning seasonal beauty.
Kenrokuen Garden Kamisaka Gate
40.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, a masterpiece of Japanese landscaping and a must-visit for every nature lover.
Kenroku-en
40.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top gardens, where nature and tradition create a stunning oasis in Kanazawa.
Yoshiro and Yoshio Taniguchi Museum of Architecture
40.3 km
Discover the stunning Yoshiro and Yoshio Taniguchi Museum of Architecture in Kanazawa, where tradition meets innovative design in a breathtaking setting.
Gankou-Bashi (Flying Geese Bridge)
40.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Gankou-Bashi, the Flying Geese Bridge, a picturesque landmark in Kanazawa's Kenrokuen Garden, perfect for relaxation and photography.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kanda House
0.1 km
Explore Kanda House, a heritage marvel in Shirakawa, Gifu, showcasing traditional architecture and local history in a serene setting.
Nagase House
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite Nagase House, a traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Japan's cultural heritage.
Myozenji Museum
0.2 km
Explore the cultural heritage of Japan at Myozenji Museum in Shirakawa-go, showcasing traditional crafts and historical artifacts in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wooden Walkway
0.2 km
Experience the tranquility of the Wooden Walkway in Shirakawa, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by lush landscapes and historic farmhouses.
Myozenji
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Myozenji Temple in Ogimachi, a must-visit destination for every traveler in Japan.
Wada House
0.3 km
Explore the architectural marvel of Wada House in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Water Lily Pond
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Water Lily Pond in Shirakawa, a perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers in Japan.
Hachiman Shrine Shirakawa
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and cultural richness of Hachiman Shrine Shirakawa, a hidden gem in Gifu, Japan.
Shirakawa-go World Heritage Site Gassho Style Preservation Trust
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning gassho-zukuri farmhouses and breathtaking natural beauty.
Jin Homura Art Museum
0.4 km
Discover the harmony of traditional and contemporary art in the serene Jin Homura Art Museum, nestled in the historic Ogimachi village.
Shirakawa go no Yu
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Shirakawa go no Yu, a traditional onsen nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Shirakawa-go, Japan.
Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en
0.5 km
Experience the beauty of Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing traditional Japanese farmhouses in stunning natural surroundings.
合掌村 Ogimachi
0.6 km
Explore Ogimachi Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning gassho-zukuri farmhouses and breathtaking natural landscapes in Gifu, Japan.
Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck
0.6 km
Discover breathtaking views of Shirakawa's gassho-zukuri farmhouses from the historic Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck, a must-visit tourist attraction.
Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck
0.6 km
Experience panoramic views of Shirakawago at Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck, a stunning observation point surrounded by natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Shiraogi
0.1 km
Discover authentic teishoku dining at Shiraogi in Shirakawa - where every meal tells a story steeped in tradition.
Hidaji
0.1 km
Discover authentic Soba noodles at Hidaji, a charming Syokudo restaurant nestled in Shirakawa's picturesque landscape.
Yamamotoya
0.1 km
Discover authentic soba noodles at Yamamotoya in Shirakawa - where tradition meets deliciousness amidst breathtaking scenery.
Nomura
0.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese soba noodles at Nomura in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every bowl.
Zensuke
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zensuke in Shirakawa-go—home to exquisite kushiyaki amidst breathtaking heritage scenery.
Shiawaseya Kichibei
0.1 km
Experience authentic local cuisine at Shiawaseya Kichibei in Shirakawa-go, where tradition meets convenience amidst stunning scenery.
Keyaki
0.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Keyaki in Shirakawa-go—where tradition meets flavor in a breathtaking setting.
Tanaka-ya
0.2 km
Experience the essence of Japan at Tanaka-ya, where handmade soba noodles meet breathtaking views in Shirakawa-go.
Yukinko
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yukinko in Shirakawa-go amidst stunning landscapes and traditional architecture.
Hakusuien
0.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese dining at Hakusuien in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Shirakawago Restaurant Irori
0.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, nestled in the scenic beauty of Shirakawa-go's heritage village.
Soba dojo Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic soba noodles in the heart of Shirakawa-go's breathtaking landscape at Soba Dojo.
Soba Wakimoto
0.4 km
Savor authentic handmade soba noodles in Shirakawa's scenic Ogimachi village, where tradition meets breathtaking views.
Arai
0.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Arai in Shirakawa, where traditional dishes meet stunning cultural heritage.
Kita no Sho
0.5 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kita no Sho in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
佐藤民芸品店
0.0 km
Discover the essence of Japanese craftsmanship at Sato Mingei Handicrafts Shop in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
白川郷HAKKO堂
0.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of tradition and taste at 白川郷HAKKO堂, where exceptional coffee meets the serene beauty of Shirakawa.
Kondou Shoten
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese liquors at Kondou Shoten in Shirakawa, a treasure trove of local sake and spirits.
Mamekichi Honpo Shirakawago
0.1 km
Explore Mamekichi Honpo Shirakawago, a quaint souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, showcasing local crafts and delicious treats steeped in tradition.
豆菓子専門店「豆吉本舗」 白川郷店
0.1 km
Explore Mame Kichi Honpo in Shirakawa-go for authentic Japanese bean snacks and a delightful cultural experience.
民芸品店おけさ
0.1 km
Explore the charm of Shirakawa at Okesa Souvenir Store, where authentic Japanese crafts and heartfelt memories combine.
Ochuudo
0.1 km
Discover Ochuudo, the perfect café retreat in Shirakawa-go, offering exquisite coffee and traditional sweets amidst stunning mountain views.
Okuzaemon
0.1 km
Discover unique crafts and traditional home goods at Okuzaemon, a charming store in the heart of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sanrakudo
0.1 km
Discover the essence of Japan at Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies.
ZEN
0.1 km
Experience the authentic tastes of Japan at ZEN, a Japanese delicatessen in Shirakawa, where traditional cuisine meets serene ambiance.
Gassho
0.1 km
Explore Gassho, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, offering local crafts and delicacies that reflect the beauty of Japan's heritage.
てづか民芸品店 Neo
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting てづか民芸品店 Neo in Shirakawa for authentic Japanese souvenirs and handcrafted treasures.
Kataribe
0.2 km
Explore Kataribe Souvenir Store in Shirakawa for authentic Japanese crafts and unique gifts that embody the spirit of traditional culture.
”Kyoshu” Traditional Coffee Shop
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese coffee culture at Kyoshu Traditional Coffee Shop in scenic Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Shirakawago Purin no Ie (Pudding House)
0.2 km
Experience the sweetness of Shirakawa-go at Purin no Ie, renowned for its delicious puddings and delightful desserts in a charming café setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
だんご屋 ゆたか
0.2 km
Experience the sweetness of traditional Japanese dango at だんご屋 ゆたか, a charming takeout restaurant in the historic village of Shirakawa.
Shiroyamakan
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Japan at Shiroyamakan, a traditional inn offering authentic cuisine and stunning views in Shirakawa.
Koshiyama
0.9 km
Discover Koshiyama in Shirakawa for authentic soba noodles and unique antiques, a perfect blend of culinary delight and cultural charm.
Tenkara, Shirakawa
1.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of authentic Yakiniku at Tenkara, Shirakawa, where quality meets tradition in a picturesque setting.
Yamakoshi
1.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of Japan at Yamakoshi, a charming soba noodle shop in Shirakawa, where tradition meets flavor.
リトルビレッジ
25.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Little Village Bar in Hida, Gifu, where local flavors and friendly faces create an unforgettable experience.
リトルビレッジ
25.3 km
Experience the unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and local flavors at Little Village, Hida's beloved bar.
Shinanoya
25.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of traditional Japanese izakaya dining combined with exquisite wines at Shinanoya in Hida, Gifu.
ヒダノオクブルワリー
25.4 km
Experience the best of Gifu's craft beers at Hida No Oku Brewery in the charming town of Hida.
Marin Blue
25.4 km
Experience the warmth of Hida's nightlife at Marin Blue, a charming bar offering local drinks and a cozy atmosphere for all travelers.
Cinq
33.3 km
Experience the charm of Takayama at Cinq, a cozy bar offering exquisite drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Barrl
33.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Barrl, a cozy pub in Takayama, where locals and tourists come together for a memorable evening.
Yu
33.7 km
Discover Yu in Takayama, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a cozy ambiance, perfect for a memorable night out.
Hids' cafe & bar
33.7 km
Experience the unique blend of café culture and bar vibes at Hids' Cafe & Bar, a must-visit spot in the heart of Takayama.
Botchini
33.7 km
Discover the charm of Botchini, a cozy bar in Takayama, serving local delights and exquisite drinks in a warm atmosphere.
