A Summer Night in Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go, a place that embodies the quintessential Japanese countryside. I stayed overnight at a traditional Gassho-style inn and enjoyed a relaxing summer in Japan. This area remains cool even in summer, with lush greenery all around. Despite being August, the rice plants are already bearing grains, sunflowers are in bloom, and even cosmos and hydrangeas are flowering, creating a mixed seasonal atmosphere. The water here is crystal clear, with charming waterways scattered throughout, adding to the picturesque scenery. I accessed the area by bus from Kanazawa Station, and right near the bus stop, the Gassho-style houses begin to appear. The Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observation Deck offers truly stunning views and is highly recommended. During my stay, I visited the deck in the morning when there were no people around, and the mist created a magical atmosphere. Unfortunately, it rained the night before, so I couldn’t see the stars, which was a bit disappointing. However, walking through Shirakawa-go in the pouring rain, with no one else around, felt like stepping into the world of Totoro—a truly wonderful experience.