If you’re a traveler keen on experiencing Japan’s heritage side, Takayama and Shirakawa-go present a wonderful chance to delve into an environment that’s a stark contrast to the chaotic vibes of bigger cities. Takayama remains the preserve of a faithfully restored old town, comprising three main streets and many side lanes. The sight of crystal clear water flowing alongside streets, coupled with historical wooden buildings, grants you a glimpse of age-old Japanese architectural grandeur. Conversely, Shirakawa-go, appealing in its own right, has persistently been a charming village of thatched roof houses, which have sustained agriculture and small-scale industries for hundreds of years. Today, it’s known as one of the few villages in Japan that still maintains a large quantity of houses with thatched roofs. Your tour can kick off from either Takayama or Kanazawa, and can wrap up at either point too.