A Timeless Adventure: Shirakawa-go, 2002

(61 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Luis Curbelo

Los Angeles, CA
Cuba Travel Agent Specialist

As a Cuban-America and native to the island, I will guide you to have a unique experience off the beaten path.  See the island through the eyes of the friendly locals. I will show you the best tourist-free destinations that the island has to offer...

Shirakawago Town

So, back in the fall of 2002, I found myself on this epic trip to Shirakawa-go, this super quaint village nestled in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Let me tell you, it was like stepping straight into a fairytale.The moment I rolled into Shirakawa-go, I was blown away. Picture this: houses with these crazy steep roofs, like they're reaching out to the sky. And the air was crisp, with that sweet smell of wood smoke. I just knew right then and there that I was in for one heck of an adventure.My first agenda was The Shirakawa-go Open-Air Museum. I was wandering around, checking out these traditional houses called Gassho-Zukuri or “praying hands” style. The word refers to how the triangular shape of the steeply slanted roofs resembles two hands pressed together in prayer. They're like these ancient masterpieces, and I was thinking, "How on earth did they even build these things?" Inside the museum, I learned all about the village's history, farming, and just how tight-knit the community is.I found this cozy little minshuku by the rice paddies to crash at. The host was awesome, and the dinner was the real deal. Traditional Japanese cuisine always blows my mind.The next morning, bright and early, I was ready to explore. I was strolling through the streets, checking out artisans making washi paper and weaving cool textiles. I stumbled upon one of the oldest soba restaurants in the town and had the best noodles of my life.The highlight had to be the Wada House. I step inside, and it's like I was time-traveling. The wooden beams, the tatami floors—it's all so surreal. I found myself sitting by this old-school hearth, swapping stories with locals, feeling like I'm part of the village.Days just rolled by, and I was soaking it all in—hiking through forests, shooting the breeze with locals over tea, and just taking in the vibe. The last night was up on this deck, watching the sun dip behind those iconic roofs. It was a peaceful moment to cherish before heading back to Tokyo.As I hopped on the bus back to reality, I have memories that will stick with me forever. Shirakawa-go got this magic that stays with you, a reminder of a time when life was simpler, and adventures were waiting around every corner.

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