History & Culture in Japan

One of the only two archaeological sites in Japan to feature petroglyphs, which some believe to be a long-lost writing system of the gods.

A giant gorilla guardian of the neighborhood, warning people to drive safely.

There's light and a dreamlike panorama at the end of this tunnel.

The Port of Yokohama’s customs headquarters building resembles a Moorish kasbah, complete with a minaret.

This unassuming office building is home to what was once the world's largest pendulum clock.

This dazzling three-story shop showcases the art and history of music boxes, a popular novelty in Japan.

A long-worshipped mountain, considered a "power spot" and suspected to be an ancient pyramid by some.

Two ogres stand guard at the Oga Visitor Center.

A strip of traditional hand towel serves as an admission ticket at this modern tenugui museum.

This museum celebrates the history of Japanese advertising, from feudal business tricks to modern T.V. commercials.

A small laundromat covered wall-to-ceiling with portrait drawings.

This park boasts a unusual collection of curious monuments from around the world, from Micronesia to Antarctica.

Guarding the city of Chiyoda is a bizarre insectile creature with a name no one can pronounce.

The enigmatic symbol on this incineration plant's smokestack is, in fact, a one-of-a-kind clock.

“Historical” markers commemorating the sites of fictional events depicted in a popular jidaigeki novel series.

This historic castle is one of the oldest and most impressive in all of Japan.