An underground world of gorgeous, palatial metro stations designed as a nuclear shelter complex.

Giant cauldrons overflow with Uzbekistan's favorite rice dish at this cavernous dining hall.

The ruins of an ancient Zoroastrian Tower of Silence believed to be the earliest example of the traditional funerary practice.

These "50 Fortresses" have been unearthed in the ancient oasis of Khwarezm.

Ancient barriers wrap around what was once an important stop along the Silk Road.

This "tower of death" has acted as an observatory, a religious hub, and an executioner's lair.

Where Stoddart and Connolly suffered in the infamous Bug Pit.

Home to what was once considered the largest gate in central Asia.

Light still pours into the ruins of this ancient Islamic observatory.

The Avenue of Mausolea is a series of grand palatial tombs.

An 18-meter-long sarcophagus of a constantly growing dead prophet.

Controversially restored in the 1970s, this giant 15th-century mosque is shrouded in legend.

One of the most ethnically diverse spots on the planet.

Witness traditional silk production in the Uzbek city that's been a hub of sericulture for over a thousand years.

Final palace complex of the last of 29 Kokand rulers.

Prowl through this sprawling bazaar under a massive Soviet-era dome for delicious eats.

Once a luxurious flagship of the Soviet Union, this Brutalist structure remains a landmark of Tashkent’s communist past.

Looking for a unifying history, Uzbekistan finds its answer in a 14th Century Turco-Mongol conqueror... despite the fact he wasn't Uzbek.

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

A shrine dedicated to a 10th-century samurai emperor, whose head is not buried on site (contrary to popular belief).

Starship-temple contains 400 tons of drinking water and offers free Japanese lessons.

A Buddhist temple to honor insects that died for science.

This lesser-visited gallery in a corner of the Tokyo National Museum complex is an architectural beauty dedicated to the ancient treasures of Hōryū-ji.

One of the top 100 sights of feudal Tokyo continues to impress those who visit the lesser temples of Ueno.