Arguing within this idyllic, circular volcanic lake is forbidden.

One of the biggest markets in Asia, under one of the continent's largest domes.

An exquisite tunnel of cascading flowers.

A 70-foot-deep ice cave formed by lava from Mt. Fuji on the edge of Japan's "Suicide Forest." 

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

Ever needed a chocolate-filled crepe in the wee hours of the morning?

A mysterious set of tunnels carved in the hills of rural northern Kyushu.

Be a ninja - or just act like one.

This active volcano's siren song to suicide jumpers forced authorities to build a fence.

A rare festival blending religion, blacksmiths, vagina dentata, sex workers, and the straight-up facts of life.

This ancient temple is set up to take you on a pilgrimage of self.

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

With over 12,000 different species of plants, this botanical garden is Japan's oldest and most diverse.

Steaming blood-red hot spring from hell.

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

Reportedly 1,400 years old, this may be the first of the Fiji Mermaids.

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

More than 300 years old, Kyoto's historic "teahouse" still operates as an invitation-only geisha club.

A train ride to the middle of nowhere gives its passengers some of the most iconic views of Japan's seasons.

This massive, beautifully-lit underground quarry leaves visitors in awe.

Believed to hold the remains of Japan's most infamous fox spirit, this stone is said to kill those who dare approach.

This village is home to the largest existing settlement of the Ainu, the Indigenous people of Japan.

A charming, homemade vending machine dispenses burgers and sandwiches at this hole-in-the-wall bakery.

One of Kyoto's oldest food establishments has supplied soba noodles to temple priests and the Imperial Palace.