Top 3 Places to Eat in Shirakawa-go

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
Discover Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO heritage site with iconic gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses in a lush summer landscape.
NaturEye Conservation, Pexels

Shirakawa-go's dining scene primarily offers authentic Japanese traditional cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and regional specialties, suitable for families and couples seeking a cultural culinary experience.

1. Shirakawago Restaurant Irori

Cuisine: Traditional Hida Cuisine, Japanese Set Meals

Stepping into Shirakawago Restaurant Irori, one is immediately enveloped in the rustic charm of a traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse, complete with an irori (traditional hearth). The ambiance is truly authentic, offering both tatami mat and table seating. The focus here is on local Hida cuisine; one must try the Hoba Miso Yaki Set Meal, where miso is grilled on a magnolia leaf, often with Hida beef, offering a deeply savory and aromatic experience. The grilled tofu is also a standout, dense and flavorful. For those with dietary considerations, they thoughtfully provide clear vegetarian and vegan set meal options. Expect a bustling atmosphere, especially during peak lunch hours, but the service remains attentive and an English menu is available.

Price: ¥1,500 - ¥3,500 JPY (approx. $10 - $23 USD) per person for set meals

Getting There: Shirakawago Restaurant Irori is conveniently located just a one-minute walk from the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal, near the Ogimachi Bridge over the Shogawa River. It is easily accessible on foot from anywhere within the main village.

2. Gassho

Cuisine: Traditional Shirakawa-go Cuisine, Hida Beef

Housed within one of Shirakawa-go's iconic gassho-zukuri structures, Gassho offers a chance to dine amidst deep cultural heritage. The restaurant presents a menu rich in local flavors, including traditional set meals featuring premium Hida Beef. A particular highlight is the Suttate Nabe, a local hotpot dish, and their selection of soba and udon noodles. While the prices are a little higher, the opportunity to savor regional specialties in such an authentic setting makes it a worthwhile experience, particularly if you are seeking a full, immersive meal.

Price: ¥2,000 - ¥4,500 JPY (approx. $13 - $30 USD) per person

Getting There: Gassho is situated within the main Ogimachi village, making it easily reachable on foot from most points of interest. Specific walking directions can be found on local maps.

3. Local Street Food Stalls

Cuisine: Hida Beef Snacks, Traditional Japanese Sweets

For a quick and flavorful taste of Shirakawa-go, the various street food stalls scattered throughout the village are a must-try. These offer an excellent way to sample local delicacies while exploring. A popular choice is the Hida Beef skewer, grilled to perfection, allowing one to savor the tender, rich flavor of this regional specialty. Another essential experience is trying Gohei Mochi, a grilled rice cake coated with a sweet and savory miso glaze, and Mitarashi Dango, grilled rice dumplings with a soy sauce glaze. These stalls provide an affordable and casual dining option, perfect for a midday snack or light lunch.

Price: ¥300 - ¥1,000 JPY (approx. $2 - $7 USD) per item

Getting There: These informal stalls are widely available along the main streets and tourist paths within the Ogimachi village. They are walking distance from any point in the core area.

Check out our other pages on Shirakawa-go

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