After Tokyo and Kyoto, I was ready to explore the countryside of Japan. When I first researched my trip, I was looking for something unique and came across the traditional villages of Shirakawa and Gokayama. These UNESCO villages in Japan looked like the perfect escape from the big cities.
I didn’t want to join a tour or stay in one of the little houses for another traditional Japanese experience (read below), so I decided to base myself in Kanazawa and rent a car for the day. That way, I could drive and explore at my own pace, giving me the perfect chance to see both, Shirakawa and Gokayama in one day. It was a great day trip!
Read about my Mt Fuji Japanese experience trip here: Mt Fuji and my Kyoto travel experience.
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Kanazawa
The city Kanazawa is the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture in central Japan, and is known for its historic architecture, traditional culture and great food. It also felt much calmer and less crowded than Kyoto. And although I didn’t spend too much time exploring, I liked the vibe and feel of Kanazawa.
Renting a car in Japan was quite easy and straightforward as well. So was driving into the mountains. Despite the unfamiliar signs, I managed to find my way and the traffic wasn’t too heavy either. So, before long, I was out of the city and enjoying the scenery, quickly approaching the unique region of Shirakawa and Gokayama. The UNESCO Villages of Japan.
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Shirakawa and Gokayama
The historic town, Shirakawa and Gokayama are famous for their traditional thatched-roof houses, built in a style known as gasshō-zukuri. These UNESCO villages look picture-postcard perfect and definitely worth visiting!
It was lovely to have my own car and drive through the mountains. The landscape was really beautiful! I headed to Gokayama first, and the little village I visited was exactly as I’d imagined. Smaller and less busy than Shirakawa-go, it was my favourite of the two stops.
The scenery changes with the seasons, from spring blossoms and green rice fields to autumn colours and snowy rooftops. My visit fell somewhere between summer and autumn. Shirakawa and Gokayama look different in every season. During my visit, I enjoyed green fields and the first hints of autumn colour.
I couldn’t believe how thick the thatched roofs were. They certainly looked ready for winter! And I guess those thick roofs help keep everyone nice and warm. Although, I was quite glad it was warm during my visit. That said, I am sure it looks magical in Winter as well. All covered in snow! What an incredible part of the world!
Gokayama
Shirakawa-go
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And so…
Visiting Shirakawa and Gokayama was a great idea and my trip to Kanazawa finished with a great dinner at another tiny restaurant. The family prepared some amazing sashimi and happily chatted with me about Australia and Japan. It was a lovely way to end my stay in this part of Japan.
Both UNESCO villages, Shirakawa and Gokayama should definitely be on your list to visit!
Let’s go back to Kyoto and the Four Seasons Hotel… read more below.
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Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
After Kanazawa, I headed back to Kyoto for one last night. I didn’t feel like doing much exploring, so I settled into the Four Seasons and relaxed. Apart from heading out for a teppanyaki dinner I’d booked in advance. It was a great experience. The wagyu steak was delicious, and our own personal chef was full of good cheer.
I’m glad I made the side trip to the two UNESCO villages in Japan. After the busy streets of Tokyo and Kyoto, this was a great change of scenery. Mountains, little villages and time to explore without rushing. My visit to Shirakawa and Gokayama showed me another side of Japan. And having my own car made it all so easy. I would certainly recommend it.
Click DiscoverCars Japan to find the best renting car options for your trip!
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