Station Mino Shirakawa

Sip Tradition, Savor the Journey at Mino Shirakawa

Nestled along National Route 41 in the heart of Gifu Prefecture’s serene White River Valley, Mino Shirakawa roadside station is a vibrant gateway to rural charm and local heritage. Its striking orange-roofed, European-style building, known as the Mino Shirakawa Hometown Pavilion Piazzale, stands out as a landmark where nature, culture, and community converge.

Here, visitors can sample authentic White River Tea, savor locally crafted White River Ham, and admire traditional silk weaving artistry. The site’s signature carillon tower, featuring eight bells that chime 20 melodies, adds a melodic elegance to every visit. With a seasonal market, relaxing onsen, and hands-on experiences, Mino Shirakawa offers a rich, sensory journey through the region’s traditions—perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and quiet moments of delight.

Visit Mino Shirakawa to experience the only roadside station in the region featuring a working kariyon—a hand-cranked eight-bell carillon that chimes daily with rich, melodic tones from its iconic tower. Here, you can taste authentic Shirakawa Tea, a rare regional specialty grown in the high-altitude fields of the area, and sample Shirakawa Ham, a distinctive dry-cured ham unique to this valley. These are flavors and traditions you won’t find anywhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to purchase the day’s first batch of fresh White River Tea (Shirakawa Cha) from the shop counter, as it sells out quickly after 10:30 AM
• Hidden Gems: Visit the "Tea Powder-chan's House" (茶粉ちゃんのおうち) exhibit to see a hands-on display of traditional White River Tea preparation using authentic wooden tea grinders and ceramic bowls
• Weekend Special: On the 4th Sunday of each month, visit the sales counter between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to buy White River Tea and White River Ham at discounted prices during the "Customer Appreciation Day"
• Best Food Experience: Order the White River Tea & Local Ham Bento at the restaurant between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM, as this is when the kitchen prepares the daily limited batch using fresh ingredients from the on-site market
• Unique Feature: Climb the Symbol Tower between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM on weekdays to experience the 8-bell carillon (Kalilon) play a full set of 20 melodies, with the best acoustics during the afternoon hours
• Parking Tip: Use the reserved parking spots near the entrance (marked as "駐車マス7台") when visiting during peak hours on weekends, as general parking fills up by 11:00 AM
• Relaxation Routine: Visit the "Roadside Station Spa" between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM on non-holiday days to enjoy the bath with a view of the White River Tea garden, as the facility is less crowded than in the evening

Spring (March–May): Peak season for canola flower viewing in late March to April and fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.

Summer (June–August): White River bathing season begins in July; enjoy cool drinks and seasonal snacks at the roadside station.

Autumn (September–November): White River autumn foliage peaks in late October; local chestnuts harvested and sold in October.

Winter (December–February): Winter tea tasting events in December; heated indoor seating available during cold months.