This mountain's identity is stuck somewhere between a nightmare and a scenic tourist attraction.

A small Japanese village claims to be the final resting place of the son of God (and God's other son's ear).

A 59-ft. robot statue looks over the citizens of earthquake-ravaged Kobe.

Nestled in an unassuming residential area, this "forbidden forest" is rumored to spirit away those who dare enter it.

After being lost for decades, this striking mural depicting the atomic bomb covers the wall of a busy Tokyo metro station.

The iconic castle that withstood a magnitude 6.2 earthquake has become a symbol of resilience.

An anthropological theme park that depicts the cultures of around 20 different countries.

The traditional houses along the coast of this charming Japanese fishing village allow people to sleep above the sea.

This adorable birdlike police box is designed based on a play on words.

A sobering scientific reminder of the human damage caused by the advent of the nuclear age.

Kawaii meets poisonous at this unique art gallery.

This bar is filled with Star Wars merchandise from around the world, all of it unlicensed knockoffs.

Elaborate series of tunnels where traces of mass suicide are still visible.

Dedicated to the armor and weapons used by the legendary Japanese warriors.

This 14th-century temple is also known as the "Temple of the Golden Pavilion" for its gorgeous gilded reliquary hall.

Make your own fake treats at this factory and workshop in the epicenter of Japan's food replica industry.

A mysterious set of tunnels carved in the hills of rural northern Kyushu.

Established over a thousand years ago, this family-run teahouse continues to serve skewers of sweet rice cake to this day.

You can still find treasures on the pebbly beaches of one of the world's oldest jade-producing areas.

The Buddhist temples of Yamadera, built into a mountain side, feature a viewing deck with sweeping views.

This tiny museum hidden above a restaurant houses thousands of modern and traditional kites.

This bridge is so steep it looks like a rollercoaster.

The small candy-colored ride is the last rooftop Ferris wheel in Tokyo.

The largest of the Fuji Five Lakes is home to an impressive swan population—some real, some with paddles, and one with an observation deck.