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

A steaming, boiling hellscape sources Hokkaido's thermal baths.

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

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

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

Hanging over one of Japan's "hidden valleys," these vine bridges must be remade every three years.

Steaming blood-red hot spring from hell.

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

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

The self-mummified monks of Japan.

This public bathroom takes the form of a 19th-century lighthouse that once stood on the spot.

This bizarre residential building is the masterpiece of Von Jour Caux, the “Gaudí of Japan.”

Mythical beasts symbolizing the city of Tokyo guard a historic bridge.

Watch out for the two-story Godzilla made out of tires.

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

This subterranean spot might be the epitome of Japan's baroque, retro coffee houses.

If Hello Kitty were Mickey Mouse, this would be Disneyland.

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.”

This battleship of a building was designed by a famed "mad architect."

Not quite the menace it once was, this monster still has some chops.

Tokyo’s only Ainu restaurant serves Indigenous food from northern Japan.

One of the best-preserved remains of "Tokyo's lost rivers."

These unique toilets feature transparent glass covered in PDLC film.

Go through the looking glass in Tokyo's Wonderland-themed shop.