Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the mountainous region of Gifu Prefecture, is a destination that feels like stepping into a fairy tale—especially in winter. Known for its iconic thatched-roof farmhouses called “gassho-zukuri,” this charming village attracts visitors from all over the world eager to witness its breathtaking beauty covered in snow.

My husband and I had long dreamed of experiencing this magical place, and we finally made it happen by booking a 2-day, 1-night tour with a Filipino travel agency in Japan. For 30,000 yen per person, the package included round-trip transportation by tour bus from Tokyo to Shirakawago, hotel accommodation in a 3-star hotel, and two meals—breakfast and lunch. Here’s how our adventure unfolded.

Day 1: The Journey Begins

Our trip started near Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, a place notorious for its labyrinthine layout. Despite our efforts to arrive early, we almost missed our meetup due to the confusing maze of exits. By the time we finally located the group, everyone was already seated, and the staff kindly ushered us to seats at the back of the bus.

The tour group consisted mainly of Filipinos, with my husband being the only foreigner along with a woman traveling solo. Interestingly, despite the agency being Filipino-run, our guide conducted the tour entirely in Japanese. She was incredibly warm and friendly, but unfortunately, we could barely understand her explanations about the sights we visited. Nevertheless, we were excited to embark on our journey.

 

The bus ride to Kanazawa, our first stop, took around six hours with a few breaks at rest areas where we could grab food and stretch our legs. It was a long ride, but the changing landscapes outside our window kept us entertained. We saw the city gradually give way to picturesque countryside views dusted in snow.

Upon reaching Kanazawa, we enjoyed a delicious meal at a local restaurant, featuring fresh fish and hotpot—a comforting meal perfect for the chilly weather. After filling our stomachs and exploring the nearby shops, we continued to our hotel for the night. We also visited Kenrokuen Garden and had a great time admiring the unique view of the pine trees being supported by traditional ropes. The 3-star hotel was modest but well-equipped with all the necessary amenities, including a clean and comfortable bathroom, which we greatly appreciated after the long journey.

Day 2: The Magical Snowy Village

 

The highlight of our trip came on the second day when we finally reached Shirakawago. As soon as we stepped off the bus, we were greeted by a winter wonderland—thick snow covered everything, creating a postcard-perfect scene. It was snowing heavily, adding an extra layer of charm to the already picturesque village.

Shirakawago is renowned for its gassho-zukuri houses, which feature steeply pitched thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Walking through the village felt like stepping back in time, with the houses standing as a testament to Japan’s traditional architectural ingenuity. Though many of the houses are now converted into souvenir shops and museums, they retain their historical charm.

 

We were given three hours to explore at our leisure. We spent time playing in the snow, taking countless photos, and wandering through the village’s quaint shops filled with handmade crafts, local snacks, and traditional souvenirs. One of the highlights of our visit was making friends with a man who was traveling alone for the holidays. He shared his story with us, explaining that he couldn’t visit his family this year, and our conversation made the experience even more memorable.

Before leaving Shirakawago, we stopped at a famous gold leaf ice cream shop. Shirakawago is well known for its gold leaf products, and indulging in a cone of ice cream covered in real gold leaf was an interesting experience. The ice cream itself was creamy and delicious, but the novelty of eating real gold made it all the more special. We laughed when I later joked that my “poop would be shiny” after consuming something so extravagant.

Heading Back Home

After an unforgettable time in Shirakawago, we boarded the bus back to Tokyo, feeling grateful for the experience. The ride back was long, and by the time we arrived in Shinjuku, we were exhausted but fulfilled. Navigating our way back home from Shinjuku Station once again proved to be a challenge, but it was all part of the adventure.

About Shirakawago

Shirakawago, located in Gifu Prefecture, is best known for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses. The term “gassho-zukuri” translates to “praying hands construction,” referring to the steep thatched roofs that resemble hands pressed in prayer. These houses were originally built by local farmers centuries ago and are designed to withstand the region’s heavy snowfall.

Visiting Shirakawago is a year-round delight, with each season offering a different charm. In winter, the snow-covered landscape creates a magical scene, while in spring and summer, the lush greenery and blooming flowers bring the village to life. Autumn, on the other hand, offers breathtaking views of colorful foliage.

Some popular attractions in Shirakawago include:

• The Wada House: One of the largest and best-preserved gassho-zukuri houses, showcasing traditional living.
• Observation Deck: Provides a panoramic view of the village, offering a stunning perspective, especially when the village is lit up in winter.
• Local Shops and Eateries: Selling handmade crafts, local snacks like Hida beef skewers, and the famous gold leaf ice cream.

Our trip to Shirakawago was an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, new friendships, and beautiful sights. Despite the language barrier and minor hiccups along the way, we truly enjoyed immersing ourselves in this historical gem of Japan. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a picturesque getaway, Shirakawago is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

If you’re planning to visit Shirakawago, be sure to prepare for the cold if traveling in winter, bring a good camera to capture the stunning scenery, and most importantly, take your time to enjoy every moment in this enchanting village.

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