This site commemorates the life of a Japanese scientist who dedicated his life to the discovery of diseases.

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

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

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

This sculpture bears a tragic backstory that may have inspired a hauntingly beautiful children's song.

In Asakusa, Tokyo's very own Walk of Fame.

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

Once the park closes at sunset, the greatest haiku poet of all time moves to face the Sumida River.

A beautiful work of art designed to impress the Allied Forces.

Since Tokyo's Kiyosu Bridge was inspired by a historic bridge that crossed over the Rhine, this viewing spot is known as a "view of Cologne."

The decommissioned steam engine’s whistle can still be heard three times a day at one of Japan’s oldest train stations.

A hidden gallery exhibits intricate, decades-old Buddhist reliefs.

This public bathroom takes the form of a 19th-century lighthouse that once stood on the spot.

The site where the poet Matsuo Bashō read one of the first haiku that comprise his famous travelogue.

Tatar Russian in origin, the largest mosque in Japan is now an Ottoman-style Turkish culture center.

Losing lottery tickets are deposited at this shrine in hopes of better luck.

Disused for decades, this freight railway bridge is finally being renovated into a scenic promenade.

This often-overlooked monument was crafted in the shape of the iconic samurai coin to honor an Edo-period mint.

A statue meant to celebrate peace has also been interpreted as a mother taking away her son's internet privileges.

Exploring crime and punishment in feudal and pre-modern Japan.

Although damaged beyond recognition, this stone god is still said to bring good luck to those who tap on him with a pebble.

The remains of the vast manor that once belonged to Lord Kira, villain in the 47 Ronin story, is now a shrine dedicated to the incident.

Rubbing salt on this small stone dog is said to make wishes come true.

A touching statue dedicated to Japan's first therapy dog.