A Japanese cat island also populated by the descendants of a band of banished samurai.

This pair of small sea rocks has been "wed" using rope and ancient Shinto tradition.

The 43-mile route crosses through six islands with gorgeous views of the Seto Inland Sea.

The world’s first hotel to be run by robots.

The only thing sweeter than the potatoes is the canine proprietor of this roadside stall.

Abandoned Japanese ghost town gives a glimpse into what our own metropolises may leave behind.

Transport yourself to the 1980s era of video games at this themed restaurant and bar.

Japanese company creates clone dolls that reside in the "uncanny valley."

Colloquially known as “piss alley,” this narrow street filled with tiny bars and barbecue stands looks like it was pulled straight out of “Blade Runner.”

A plaque marks the site directly below the mid-air detonation of the atomic bomb over Hiroshima.

This pond is so stunning it looks like you've stepped into one of Monet's masterpieces.

A restaurant modeled after feudal Japan, where the waitstaff are trained as ninjas.

An ordinary pond with fish from out of this world.

The self-mummified monks of Japan.

Twelve hundred stone carvings guard this off-the-beaten-path Buddhist temple.

This mesmerizingly colorful pond looks like a scene straight out of a fairytale.

After a profound show of devotion for his master, a dog becomes the symbol of loyalty for an entire nation.

Nine Gardens in one—with tea service.

The quintessential Japanese rock garden has existed for more than 500 years.

The legendary birthplace of the Japanese maneki-neko is dotted with hundreds of lucky beckoning cats.

1,001 carved statues of the Buddhist God of Mercy, each with a unique face.

Not quite the menace it once was, this monster still has some chops.

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

A 20-meter (65-foot) robot towers over Tokyo Bay.