Shirakawa Village, a World Heritage Site with 1,400 Residents, to Host Local Market Focusing on Daily Life Beyond Tourism on May 23

Hidakara Co., Ltd. (Hida City, Gifu), which operates a tofu shop in Shirakawa-go, will host the 4th 'Mebuki Dokidoki Marche' (commonly known as 'Mebudoki') on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Sakura Kaido Shirakawa-go Hirase Campsite.

While Shirakawa village attracts approximately 2 million tourists annually, its resident population stands at only about 1,400. This event started in 2023 with the desire to 'shine a light on the lives and challenges of the villagers.' Held in May, when late spring arrives in Shirakawa-go, it offers a local experience of the everyday atmosphere that is often invisible to tourists.

### Event Details - **Date & Time:** May 23 (Sat), 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM - **Location:** Sakura Kaido Shirakawa-go Hirase Campsite (766-1 Nagase, Shirakawa Village, Gifu) - **Exhibitors:** 17 shops/groups connected to Shirakawa-go - **Admission:** Free (Rain or shine)

### Background: Focusing on Life Outside the Tourism Economy According to Shirakawa village, tourist numbers exceeded 2.08 million in 2024, yet the resident population has steadily declined to 1,433 as of April 2026. Despite being a world-renowned destination, the village faces limited options for daily living and careers. This market was launched to create a platform for villagers to take on new challenges and showcase their lifestyles beyond the tourism industry.

### Featured Activities and Stalls (17 total) - **Basket Weaving Workshops:** Creating traditional horse-shaped ornaments or pot mats using natural vines (by K-Basket). - **Woodcraft Experience:** Making bird calls and wooden slingshots using branches from Shirakawa-go's forests (by Toyota Shirakawa-go Eco-Institute). - **Unique Local Cuisine:** Special spice and koji-based menus offered by local hostels (by Sargabamba). - **Traditional 'Ishi-dofu' (Stone Tofu):** Selling skewers and pickled versions of Shirakawa-go's uniquely firm traditional tofu (by Miyama Tofu Shop).

### Goal: Exceeding the Local Population Since its inception in 2023, the event has grown steadily. This year, the organizers aim for more than 1,500 visitors, surpassing the village's population. Over the years, the market has evolved into a 'grand reunion' for residents of all ages. The event also invites visitors from outside the village to experience a side of Shirakawa-go that is rarely seen in standard tourism.