Shirakawa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a very well preserved traditional mountain village located at the mountains of Gifu Prefecture. Winters bring very heavy snowfall, and due to this climate, gassho-zukuri, houses with steeply pitched thatched roofs, were created. Beautiful in any of Japan's four seasons, Shirakawa-go is a must-see location for the discerning traveler looking to explore some of Japan's hidden wonders.

Photo: Jeff Laitila

Even more so than Kyoto, the city of Takayama has preserved the feeling of a traditional Japanese town. From the latticed windows of the old private homes to the solitude of the historical temples and shrines of the Higashiyama area, the city itself is like a living museum. The Takayama festival held in spring and fall is widely known as one of the three most beautiful festivals in all of Japan. In Takayama you can savor the arts and culture of traditional craftsmen while enjoying the feel of an ancient city.

Photo: Jeff Laitila

Himeji castle, also known as White Heron Castle for its brilliant white exterior, is the largest and most famous of all castles in Japan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the year 1333. It is famous for its winding maze of paths leading up to the main keep and, unlike most other Japanese castles, Himeji Castle was never destroyed in wars, earthquakes, or fires and survives in its original form. Less than one hour from Kyoto and Osaka, Hemeji Castle is a must-see attraction.

Photo: Jeff Laitila

Omikuji are fortunes written on strips of paper available at most Shinto shrines in Japan. There are 12 levels of fortunes, ranging from Great Blessing to Great Curse. When the fortune is bad, it is customary for the person to fold up the strip of paper and tie it to a pine tree branch at the temple grounds, thus freeing the person from the bad fortune. In the event of the fortune being good, the bearer should keep it. What will your fortune be? Come to Japan and find out.

Photo: Jeff Laitila

"Kiyomizu" (pure water) Temple is a World Heritage site. It is believed that drinking from the three channels of water that drop into a pool on the site bestows upon the person wisdom, health, and longevity. However, it is said that if you are greedy and drink from all three you invite misfortune. Founded more than 1,200 years ago, it is one of the most popular temples in Kyoto and offers a spectacular panoramic view overlooking the city.

Photo: Jeff Laitila