A dilapidated amusement park with a million-dollar view.

The giant figure on the back of this turtle-shaped temple actually hides a memorial pendulum.

Giant art made in Japanese rice fields.

The world's shortest escalator doesn't seem to have any reason to exist other than to hold a world record.

This ordinary set of steps is a must-see destination for fans of a certain romantic anime.

A statue erected on an infamous cliff where young boys would hold dangerous "pee offs" to prove their mettle.

This giant bronze Buddha, the third largest in Japan, is the last in an ill-fated series of statues.

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

This bridge is so steep it looks like a rollercoaster.

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

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

A network of sandy streets lined with verdant fukugi trees weaves throughout this tiny seaside town.

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

The third-tallest statue in the world depicts the "Buddha of Infinite Light," complete with observation deck in his chest.

This Kyoto Starbucks takes coffee drinkers back in time.

A cool dive bar, off the beaten track.

People from around the world visit the shrine of Japan’s legendarily loyal dog.

One of the world's largest tanks mimics the experience of watching rare whale sharks, giant rays, and deep sea creatures from the ocean floor.

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.

A museum dedicated to the history of Tokyo's often-overlooked working-class district.

Founded over a thousand years ago, this shrine is said to be built on the site of a warlord's harem prison.

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

A calico cat named Tama was the wildly popular Super Station Master at this train stop in southeast Japan.

A King Kong-like gorilla hangs from the top of this commercial building in Tokyo.