30 Secret Travel Spots You’ll Wish You Discovered Sooner

21. The Hidden Villages of Shirakawa-go, Japan

Tucked away in the mountainous Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a step back in time. This UNESCO-listed village is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses, unique wooden homes with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Visiting in the winter feels like walking through a fairytale snow globe, while spring and summer bring lush green landscapes. You can even stay overnight in a traditional guesthouse, experiencing the slow, peaceful rhythm of rural Japan. Unlike the touristy spots of Kyoto and Tokyo, Shirakawa-go remains an authentic cultural escape—one that few travelers take the time to explore.