This mysterious medieval grotto holds a grid of sacred wells of unknown purpose.

If you forgot something to read during your trip to Tokyo, this hostel has you covered.

These wondrously illuminated caverns extend under the mountains of the Fukushima Prefecture.

Hidden by the roadside in the Iya Valley, this gem brings together folk monsters and the region's unique geography.

Approximately 300 million years ago, a massive coral reef existed in what is now the largest limestone cave in Japan.

This exacting restaurant will charge a fine for every grain of rice you've left behind.

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

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.

An unlikely hit, this museum is dedicated to the inventor of instant ramen and cup noodles.

This Kyoto Starbucks takes coffee drinkers back in time.

A real-life replica of a home from Hayao Miyazaki's beloved movie "My Neighbor Totoro."

Cherry blossom season comes early in this Japanese town where pink flowers line the streets and riverbanks.

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

The self-mummified monks of Japan.

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

This historical theme park celebrates all things noodle.

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

This neighborhood thoroughfare is haunted by dozens of homemade monsters.

Bioluminescent firefly squid light up this Japanese fishing port.

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

Experience park where visitors are told to expect the unexpected.

This 700-year-old street food market features baby octopus and soy donuts.

The magical, mossy forest that inspired Princess Mononoke.

A beautiful, dense forest in the shadow of Mount Fuji, with a tragic reputation.