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

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

This 14th-century temple is also known as the "Temple of the Golden Pavilion" for its gorgeous gilded reliquary hall.

A moss-covered statue of a Japanese Buddhist deity stands at a quiet temple in downtown Osaka.

Established over a thousand years ago, this family-run teahouse continues to serve skewers of sweet rice cake to this day.

These Japanese gardens are blankets of light for dark winter nights.

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.

This sawtooth mountain range still bears the strangely lovely marks of its history as a medieval quarry.

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

This sprawling scenic burial ground is the final resting place of Japan's last shogun.

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

Shells collected from over a hundred different countries line the walls, floors and ceilings of this fantasy museum.

Coast along one of Japan’s mountain railways for coveted views of magnificent hydrangeas.

This isolated Japanese mountain village untouched by time showcases unique and stunning traditional architecture.

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

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

A massive cave complex boasts some of the clearest water (and most charming bats) in the world.

A beautiful bamboo trail tucked in this famous Japanese Shrine.

Nine Gardens in one—with tea service.

Shrine to Japanese water-goblins, complete with their preserved body parts.

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

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

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

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