This little town supplies Japan with most of its calligraphy brushes, still made by hand from animal fur.

A railway station takeout shop sells boxed meals in containers shaped like trains and snowmen that hold the country’s abundant regional delicacies.

A dilapidated amusement park with a million-dollar view.

This ancient shrine has been rebuilt every 20 years since the eighth century.

One of the world's largest ancient burial mounds.

This bridge is so steep it looks like a rollercoaster.

An infamous house made famous by director Takashi Shimizu.

This retro underwater observation tower would make the perfect lair for a sea-loving villain.

Coast along one of Japan’s mountain railways for coveted views of magnificent hydrangeas.

These Japanese gardens are blankets of light for dark winter nights.

Unusual hexagonal rocks formed by cooling lava named for their resemblance to traditional Japanese tatami mats.

Shells collected from over a hundred different countries line the walls, floors and ceilings of this fantasy museum.

Steaming blood-red hot spring from hell.

One of Japan's most famous sights, the bridge was originally built in 1673.

Once a black market electronics marketplace, now an otaku shopper's paradise.

Japanese national treasure originally built in 593 CE.

This spa theme park lets its guests take a dip in pools of coffee, wine, or ramen broth.

Hanging over one of Japan's "hidden valleys," these vine bridges must be remade every three years.

The oldest hotel in the world has been operated by the same family for over 1,300 years, even catering to samurai.

This massive wooden building contains a giant Buddha, healing pillars, and tame deer wandering the grounds.

The sound of swaying stalks in this stunning grove has been named a governmentally recognized sound.

A magical place that lets you play in and explore the world of Studio Ghibli.

Fans line up at the crack of dawn for a slurpy bowl of deliciousness at this noodle counter inside a factory.

This futuristic public park includes large sculptures and an artificial geyser.