Located in a mountainous region, Shirakawa-go has always been surrounded by a rich natural environment. However, this situation also meant that the area was viewed as remote and wild, especially during the winter when snowfall cut access, causing the region to be known as an “inland island”. However, there are also benefits to living in this environment. Fresh ingredients from the mountains and rivers, blessed by nature’s four seasons, have created the rich regional cuisine that is found in Shirakawa-go to this day.
Recently, the local suttate, a hotpot dish cooked in a nabe pot, is particularly popular.
The restaurants presented here all have English menus. There are also other restaurants available. Find a place to eat while wandering the village, or by checking this map.
We hope that you will enjoy the unique cuisine of Shirakawa-go.