Running through lush forests and across the Tadami River, this train line offers breathtaking views of rural Japan.

Located in a remote mountain valley in Yamagata Prefecture, these hot springs have attracted bathers for over 450 years.

The site of a famous samurai duel.

Is this cat asleep or just pretending?

Exploring crime and punishment in feudal and pre-modern Japan.

A Buddhist temple on an artificial island that houses a monument to the fugu fish.

Rubbing salt on this small stone dog is said to make wishes come true.

Daikon radishes are offered to the Japanese Buddhist counterpart of the Hindu god Ganesha at this historic hilltop temple.

Although damaged beyond recognition, this stone god is still said to bring good luck to those who tap on him with a pebble.

A culturally significant rural temple in the beautiful mountains of Itoshima.

This giant statue pays homage to this temple's furry residents who keep the landscape pristine.

The hometown of a beloved manga artist created a treasure hunt for his popular ghostly characters.

This phallic temple was erected in the forest to honor the tragic death of a samurai lord's son.

Passengers are not allowed to set foot outside this station, but you can still enjoy spectacular views of the sea from the platform.

The only Edo-period ferry that is still in operation in Tokyo today.

Birthplace of the Tendai sect and home to the marathon monks.

The only Buddhist temple in Japan dedicated to breasts.

This 400-year-old sweet shop serves a delicacy some have described as "edible incense."

Although it has never been a secret ninja base, this shrine still has plenty of tricks up its sleeve.

A unique Shinto shrine filled with bunnies and wordplay.

The site of Japan’s first archaeological excavation is also the birthplace of fingerprint forensics.

This museum showcases the art of ancient sword-making.

Have a soak at this retro bathhouse, where you will find Japan's first electric bath, tiling from Spain, and wood carvings representing the Japanese invasion of Manchuria.

This little town supplies Japan with most of its calligraphy brushes, still made by hand from animal fur.