Shirakawa-Go

Previously:
Kanazawa & Shirakwa-Go (Part 1)

We made a short stop at Shirakawa-Go before caught the evening bus.  Shirakawa-Go is a UNESCO heritage.  The traditional low roof houses are preserved in this area.  It was a nice feeling to be able to see this place in different season.  First time we went there was in autumn and the second time it was end of winter.  But the snow was still covering the roof.  Some people said that winter is actually the best season to visit here.  As the touch of white snow gave a pretty contrast color to the roof and the town became very charming.  I believe all the seasons bring the charms in its time.  Should I visit all??  Have any of you ever visit this place in summer or spring?  And How was it?

However, the atmosphere around here wasn't that peaceful and quite like in the past.  So many tourists, too much tourists actually,  made us cannot fully enjoy the moment and the view.  I personally always prefer off the beaten track.

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A must-try snack matcha ice creams and hida beef skewered

At that time was the hype about this peach coca cola

Stay tune fore the next blog still in Japan:
Tenaga Ashinaga, Takayama

Day 11: Shirakawa-Go

Previously:
Day 10: Dinner at Takayama


Early morning we went to the same bus stop with yesterday, but this time we were heading to Shirakawa-Go.  Only about 50 minutes away from Takayama by bus.  This town is very unique, unique with their house shape.  Only less than 2,000 local people populate in there, very very quite town.  A day tour is probably enough, but if you want to indulge deeper with the way people live there and sample their local food cooked by the local people, do stay in one of their minshuku.  It would be one of your memorable experiences.

Since Shirakawago became a UNESCO site, the number of tourists visiting this place grew rapidly, therefore it also helps increasing their economy.  However, in the down side, there was an outbreak of damage to the area from tourists entering people's homes to see how they lived, taking pictures and other such manners.  There is also a fear growing that the change to catering to tourists will harm the charm of the area's simplicity and fundamental Japanese scenery.

Therefore, Please do care of the environment and surroundings when you are visiting anywhere!!  Help in protecting and preserving the World Heritage sites, so others still have a chance to see this beautiful scenery.  And respect the ancestors and local people who actually build this magnificent place with their own hand and hard work.

Hidagyu Kushiyaki (Beef Skewers)

They smartly use the natural spring water flow from the mountain to keep the bottle of drinks cool.  Fridge is not needed around here. 

Stay tuned for the next blog still in Japan:

Day 11: Dinner at Tenaga Ashinaga, Takayama