Myozenji Museum: A Glimpse into Shirakawa-go's Past
Explore traditional life and architecture at Myozenji Museum in Shirakawa-go, a window into the region's rich cultural heritage and history.
The Myozenji Museum, housed in a former monk's residence, offers a captivating look into the traditional life and cultural heritage of Shirakawa-go. Explore the unique gassho-style architecture and discover artifacts showcasing the region's history, agricultural practices, and time-honored customs.
A brief summary to Myozenji Museum
- 679 Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ogimachi, Ono District, Gifu, 501-5627, JP
- +815769-6-1009
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience of the museum and temple grounds.
- Take your time to explore the intricate details of the gassho-style architecture, both inside the museum and on the surrounding temple buildings.
- Don't miss the opportunity to see the main hall of Myozenji Temple, with its unique thatched roof and beautiful interior.
- Check out the yew tree planted in 1827, a designated Natural Monument of Gifu Prefecture.
Getting There
-
Walking
Myozenji Museum is located in the Ogimachi village, a short walk from most points within the village. From the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal, it's approximately a 10-minute walk. As you walk through the village, follow the signs directing you towards Myozenji Temple. The museum is located next to the temple's main hall. Be aware that the village has limited trash cans, so carry any waste with you.
-
Public Transport
If arriving by bus from Takayama, Kanazawa, or Nagoya, disembark at the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal. From there, follow the walking directions to Myozenji Museum (approximately 10 minutes). The bus from Nagoya costs ¥3600-4700. The bus from Kanazawa costs around ¥2,600. The bus from Takayama costs ¥2,470. Luggage storage is available at the bus terminal.
-
Driving
If driving, follow the signs to Shirakawa-go. Park at the Seseragi Park Parking Lot, the main parking area for visitors. From the parking lot, cross the Deai pedestrian suspension bridge to enter the village. Myozenji Museum is a short walk from the bridge. Parking at Seseragi Park Parking Lot costs ¥1,000 per entry. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak seasons. As of October 2025, parking rates are expected to increase to ¥2,000.
Discover more about Myozenji Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hida no Sato Open Air Museum
32.5 km
Discover traditional Japanese architecture and rural life at Hida no Sato Open Air Museum in Takayama, featuring historic houses and craft demonstrations.
Hida Kokubunji Temple
33.6 km
Explore Hida Kokubunji Temple in Takayama: a historic landmark with a three-story pagoda and ancient ginkgo tree dating back to 746 AD.
Takayama Jinya
34.1 km
Explore Japan's only remaining Edo-era government office, Takayama Jinya, and step back in time to experience feudal administration and culture.
Daijoji Kyuryo Park
37.8 km
Escape to Daijoji Kyuryo Park for panoramic views, tranquil gardens, and a peaceful retreat in Kanazawa.
Inotani Checkpoint Hall
38.2 km
Explore the history of the Inotani Checkpoint, where Hida and Etchu once met, with ancient documents, models, and a VR basket ferry experience.
D.T. Suzuki Museum
40.1 km
Find serenity and contemplate Zen philosophy at the D.T. Suzuki Museum, a tribute to the influential Buddhist scholar in tranquil Kanazawa.
Shofukaku garden
40.2 km
Discover a serene oasis in Kanazawa at Shofukaku Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape offering tranquility and seasonal beauty.
Kenrokuen Garden Kodatsuno Gate
40.2 km
Discover Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa: A landscape masterpiece blending history, artistry, and natural beauty in one of Japan's most celebrated gardens.
Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well
40.3 km
Explore the serene Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well in Kanazawa, a historical landmark surrounded by nature's beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Ryuseki
40.3 km
Discover Ryuseki, a hidden gem in Kanazawa, offering a tranquil escape near the famed Kenrokuen Garden.
Sekirei-jima (Wagtail Island)
40.3 km
A symbolic island within Kanazawa's Kenrokuen Garden, representing life's journey through birth, marriage, and death.
Kenrokuen Garden Kamisaka Gate
40.4 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
40.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top gardens, featuring stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage in Kanazawa.
Yoshiro and Yoshio Taniguchi Museum of Architecture
40.4 km
Explore the architectural legacy of Yoshiro and Yoshio Taniguchi in a modern museum nestled in Kanazawa's historic temple district.
Gankou-Bashi (Flying Geese Bridge)
40.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kanazawa's Gankou-Bashi, the Flying Geese Bridge, nestled in the heart of Kenrokuen Garden.
Unmissable attractions to see
Myozenji
0.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Myozenji Temple in Ogimachi, a must-visit destination for every traveler in Japan.
Hachiman Shrine Shirakawa
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and cultural richness of Hachiman Shrine Shirakawa, a hidden gem in Gifu, Japan.
Nagase House
0.2 km
Explore the exquisite Nagase House, a traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Japan's cultural heritage.
Shirakawa-go
0.2 km
Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, where traditional Japanese farmhouses harmonize with breathtaking landscapes in Gifu Prefecture.
Kanda House
0.2 km
Explore Kanda House, a heritage marvel in Shirakawa, Gifu, showcasing traditional architecture and local history in a serene setting.
Shirakawa-go World Heritage Site Gassho Style Preservation Trust
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning gassho-zukuri farmhouses and breathtaking natural beauty.
Wooden Walkway
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Shirakawa-go with a stroll along the picturesque Wooden Walkway, offering stunning views of traditional Japan.
Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en
0.4 km
Experience the beauty of Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing traditional Japanese farmhouses in stunning natural surroundings.
Jin Homura Art Museum
0.4 km
Discover contemporary art in a traditional Gassho-style farmhouse at the Jin Homura Art Museum in Shirakawa-go, a unique cultural experience.
Wada House
0.4 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
0.5 km
Find serenity at Shirakawa-go's Water Lily Pond, a tranquil escape reflecting the beauty of the Japanese Alps.
Shirakawago Three Houses
0.5 km
Experience the timeless beauty of Shirakawago's Gassho-Zukuri houses, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by breathtaking mountains.
Shirakawa go no Yu
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Shirakawa go no Yu, a traditional onsen nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Shirakawa-go, Japan.
合掌村 Ogimachi
0.7 km
Explore the timeless beauty of Ogimachi, a UNESCO World Heritage village showcasing traditional gassho-style farmhouses in a stunning natural setting.
Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck
0.8 km
Discover breathtaking views of Shirakawa's gassho-zukuri farmhouses from the historic Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck, a must-visit tourist attraction.
Essential places to dine
Nomura
0.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese soba noodles at Nomura in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every bowl.
Yamamotoya
0.1 km
Discover authentic soba noodles at Yamamotoya in Shirakawa - where tradition meets deliciousness amidst breathtaking scenery.
Zensuke
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zensuke in Shirakawa-go—home to exquisite kushiyaki amidst breathtaking heritage scenery.
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.
Shiawaseya Kichibei
0.2 km
Experience authentic local cuisine at Shiawaseya Kichibei in Shirakawa-go, where tradition meets convenience amidst stunning scenery.
Tanaka-ya
0.3 km
Experience the essence of Japan at Tanaka-ya, where handmade soba noodles meet breathtaking views in Shirakawa-go.
Keyaki
0.4 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Keyaki in Shirakawa-go—where tradition meets flavor in a breathtaking setting.
Soba dojo Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic soba noodles in the heart of Shirakawa-go's breathtaking landscape at Soba Dojo.
Yukinko
0.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yukinko in Shirakawa-go amidst stunning landscapes and traditional architecture.
Kita no Sho
0.4 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kita no Sho in Shirakawa—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Soba Wakimoto
0.4 km
Savor authentic handmade soba noodles in Shirakawa's scenic Ogimachi village, where tradition meets breathtaking views.
Hakusuien
0.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese dining at Hakusuien in Shirakawa – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
忠兵衛
0.5 km
Discover the essence of Japanese cuisine at 忠兵衛, where traditional soba noodles meet authentic regional flavors in picturesque Shirakawa.
Shirakawago Restaurant Irori
0.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, nestled in the scenic beauty of Shirakawa-go's heritage village.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shirakawago Purin no Ie (Pudding House)
0.0 km
Experience the sweetness of Shirakawa-go at Purin no Ie, renowned for its delicious puddings and delightful desserts in a charming café setting.
”Kyoshu” Traditional Coffee Shop
0.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese coffee culture at Kyoshu Traditional Coffee Shop in scenic Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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.
Ebisu-ya
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese souvenirs at Ebisu-ya in Shirakawa-go, a treasure trove of local crafts and traditional gifts.
Sanrakudo
0.1 km
Discover the essence of Japan at Sanrakudo, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go offering handcrafted treasures and local delicacies.
Ichihi
0.1 km
Explore Ichihi, a charming souvenir store in Shirakawa-go, offering unique local crafts and delicacies that capture Japan's rich heritage.
Shin ge do
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship and unique offerings at Shin ge do, a must-visit souvenir store in the enchanting Shirakawa-go village.
Kinu Yukari
0.1 km
Discover the exquisite world of silk at Kinu Yukari, a traditional silk store in the heart of Shirakawa-go, offering unique garments and cultural insights.
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.
Kataribe
0.2 km
Explore Kataribe Souvenir Store in Shirakawa for authentic Japanese crafts and unique gifts that embody the spirit of traditional culture.
白川郷HAKKO堂
0.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of tradition and taste at 白川郷HAKKO堂, where exceptional coffee meets the serene beauty of Shirakawa.
Ochuudo
0.2 km
Discover Ochuudo, the perfect café retreat in Shirakawa-go, offering exquisite coffee and traditional sweets amidst stunning mountain views.
佐藤民芸品店
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Japanese craftsmanship at Sato Mingei Handicrafts Shop in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Oishinbo
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local delicacies at Oishinbo in the enchanting Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
てづか民芸品店 Neo
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting てづか民芸品店 Neo in Shirakawa for authentic Japanese souvenirs and handcrafted treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
だんご屋 ゆたか
0.3 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
0.7 km
Experience the essence of Japan at Shiroyamakan, a traditional inn offering authentic cuisine and stunning views in Shirakawa.
Koshiyama
1.1 km
Discover Koshiyama in Shirakawa for authentic soba noodles and unique antiques, a perfect blend of culinary delight and cultural charm.
Tenkara, Shirakawa
1.5 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of authentic Yakiniku at Tenkara, Shirakawa, where quality meets tradition in a picturesque setting.
Yamakoshi
1.8 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.
ヒダノオクブルワリー
25.3 km
Experience the best of Gifu's craft beers at Hida No Oku Brewery in the charming town of Hida.
Shinanoya
25.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of traditional Japanese izakaya dining combined with exquisite wines at Shinanoya in Hida, Gifu.
Marin Blue
25.3 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
33.2 km
Experience the charm of Takayama at Cinq, a cozy bar offering exquisite drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Barrl
33.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Barrl, a cozy pub in Takayama, where locals and tourists come together for a memorable evening.
Yu
33.6 km
Discover Yu in Takayama, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a cozy ambiance, perfect for a memorable night out.
Hids' cafe & bar
33.6 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
33.6 km
Discover the charm of Botchini, a cozy bar in Takayama, serving local delights and exquisite drinks in a warm atmosphere.
