Narrow passes cut out of mountains surround the medieval capital of Japan.

This ordinary set of steps is a must-see destination for fans of a certain romantic anime.

The traditional houses along the coast of this charming Japanese fishing village allow people to sleep above the sea.

One of the world's largest tanks mimics the experience of watching rare whale sharks, giant rays, and deep sea creatures from the ocean floor.

Largest graveyard in all of Japan surrounds a famous mausoleum.

The only thing sweeter than the potatoes is the canine proprietor of this roadside stall.

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

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

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

Legend holds eating just one of these black eggs can add seven years to one's life.

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

A bronze statue dating back as far as 1252, still has remnants of gold on its right cheek from ancient gilding.

A beautiful bamboo trail tucked in this famous Japanese Shrine.

This historical theme park celebrates all things noodle.

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

This spa theme park lets its guests take a dip in pools of coffee, wine, or ramen broth.