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20251217 Shirakawa-go's, Japan

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17-12-25 We all piled into the car for a 45-minute drive to visit the historic town of Shirakawa-go. Its history centres on a unique, isolated mountain way of life that led to the development of the distinctive gasshō-zukuri style of architecture—meaning “constructed like praying hands.” This building style first appeared in historical records around 1176, with evidence of human life in the region dating back between 7000 BC and 2300 BC. What an incredible village, one that has held onto its traditions along with its communal living and farming practices, which led to its World Heritage status in 1995. Since then, the village has been protected under a strict “no sell, no rent, no destroy” policy to preserve its centuries-old character and communal spirit. Shirakawa-go is surrounded by the Hida Mountains to the east and southeast, and the Ryōhaku Mountains to the west and southwest—a volcanic mountain range that includes Mount Hakusan, one of Japan’s Three Sacred Mountains. Mount Hakus...
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20251217b Japan, Takayama

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20251217b After a little research, Sharyn struck gold with her dinner choice. Suzuya Restaurant, quietly rooted in Takayama since 1966, is a celebration of regional flavours and the passing of seasons. Housed in a traditional folk dwelling, its weathered exterior stands as a gentle reminder of a time when craftsmanship and patience shaped everyday life. Step inside and the world softens. Warm Hida wood surrounds the room, and the floor—laid with thick, woven tatami mats—absorbs sound and slows the pace. Seated in this traditional Japanese space, you feel less like a diner and more like a guest welcomed into history. Then comes the moment the menu truly speaks. The Magnolia Leaf Miso Steak arrives, fragrant and deeply comforting. Sweet, beautifully marbled Hida beef is grilled over a magnolia leaf, its aroma mingling with savoury miso, forest mushrooms, and wild vegetables gathered from the surrounding land. Each bite tells a story of place—of mountains, seasons, and a food culture shap...
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Location: Takayama, Gifu, Japan
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20251217a Takayama, Japan Retro Museum

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20251217 We arrive home from Shirakawa-go’s and head up the street to check out a Retro Museum, just a few minutes walk from the old town and a popular spot for children. As for the adults it’s like taking a step back in time and reliving your youth, and for a couple of hours, and that’s exactly what we did, the kids ravelled in the the different machines like the: Space Invaders: Released in 1978.  Asteroids:  A vector graphics space-themed shooter from 1979 where players must destroy incoming asteroids and flying saucers. Galaga:  From 1981, fixed shooter features waves of insect-like aliens Donkey Kong: Released by Nintendo in 1981, this platformer introduced the world to both Mario, originally "Jumpman". And the ever popular PAC-Man, released in 1981, featuring new maze designs and slightly different gameplay mechanics. Not to mention the many retro toys, games and even the lollies for the sweet tooth. The sign politely asked us to take our shoes off on the mat. I pol...
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Location: Takayama, Gifu, Japan
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