This massive, Edo Period, coin-shaped sand painting is believed to be a source of great luck.

A small museum in a ward on the east side of Tokyo showcases the works of one of Japan's greatest ukiyo-e artists.

This ancient burial cave along a roadside is also home to several Buddhist sculptures.

Though it won't take you far, the wood train housed at this station is the last of its kind in Japan.

A shrine dedicated to the sacred white snakes of Iwakuni, whose albinism has been passed down for generations.

Inaccessible by foot, Japan's most secluded train station sits in the middle of nowhere.

Run a wash cycle while sipping a latte at this community-oriented café.

See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.

The largest of its kind in Japan, this century-old wasabi farm is also known for its appearance in an Akira Kurosawa film.

Stretching for 22 miles, the world's longest tree-lined avenue dates back to the early 17th-century.

The seat of the lost Ryukyu Kingdom has survived numerous fires and wars over the centuries.

These tiny pine-covered islands have inspired art and poetry for centuries.

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

This kitsch-forward diner is dedicated to an almost-forgotten “one-cent” prototype of okonomiyaki.

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

Every spring, this walkway outside the Japan Mint turns into a cherry blossom tunnel.

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

Huts like this were once a hub for the female divers who collected pearls and seafood off Japan's coasts.

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

These unconventional "tub boats" let locals row around the island's turbulent coast.

Along the side of the road on a small Japanese island is an extensive garden of uniquely designed Shisa statues.

A deserted island in southwest Japan that once sheltered persecuted Christians.

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

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