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

This pair of small sea rocks has been "wed" using rope and ancient Shinto tradition.

This ancient temple is set up to take you on a pilgrimage of self.

A rare festival blending religion, blacksmiths, vagina dentata, sex workers, and the straight-up facts of life.

Unusual hexagonal rocks formed by cooling lava named for their resemblance to traditional Japanese tatami mats.

A disconnected rotary phone for "calling" lost loved ones offered a unique way of dealing with grief in disaster-stricken Japan.

This retro underwater observation tower would make the perfect lair for a sea-loving villain.

The 43-mile route crosses through six islands with gorgeous views of the Seto Inland Sea.

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.

A railway station takeout shop sells boxed meals in containers shaped like trains and snowmen that hold the country’s abundant regional delicacies.

Museum showcases Japanese sexuality and some amazing ocean views.

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

Drinkslinger is an unlikely vocation for a Buddhist monk, but at this Tokyo bar the enlightenment is served in a martini glass.

Reportedly 1,400 years old, this may be the first of the Fiji Mermaids.

Steaming blood-red hot spring from hell.

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.

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

It is said that coins washed in the waters here will miraculously multiply.

This depiction of the earth mother welcomes new life into Aurora Highlands.

See 150 million-year-old dinosaur tracks and bones dating back to the Jurassic period.

The final resting place of a legendary science fiction author and his fraternal twin sister who died as an infant.

This Rocky Mountain mansion was the luxurious home of the authoritarian leader of a company town.