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 bibliophile's heaven that contains hundreds of bookstores, offering over a third of secondhand books for sale in Tokyo.

An astounding annual light display honors the victims of one of Japan's most devastating earthquakes.

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

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

One of Japan's most famous sights, the bridge was originally built in 1673.

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

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

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.”

Every color in the rainbow awaits.

A magical place that lets you play in and explore the world of Studio Ghibli.

A Pythagorean funhouse that tries, successfully, to prove that math is the coolest thing ever.

A New York garbage depot holds a secret collection of weird and wonderful refuse.

This seaside Italian village doesn't just look Escher-esque, it actually inspired the mind-bending artist.

Southern Italy's spinning top village.

A complex, nine-layer maze on the grounds of a Venetian doge's playground.

Pilgrimage site for star-crossed lovers.

This shining multicolored metro station deep under Naples is said to be the most beautiful in Europe.

Crushed coral and crystals give the sand its signature coloration.

A Milanese café entirely designed by the American director Wes Anderson.

This enchanting 600-year-old tree is so magical it inspired the beloved tale of Pinocchio.

Stalactites and stalagmites in a beautifully lit cave.

This Venice bookstore has resigned itself to constant flooding by keeping its books in bathtubs and boats.

This delightful little museum is dedicated to only one thing: pasta.