This enormous monument is one of the most iconic structures in Tokyo, rudely nicknamed "The Golden Turd."

A 14th-century European chapel sticks out of the facade of a Japanese hotel.

The world's shortest escalator doesn't seem to have any reason to exist other than to hold a world record.

An eerie maze of industrial factories looks like something out of a dystopian sci-fi.

The largest collection of model trains in the world is actually run using full-size locomotive technology.

This 14th-century temple is also known as the "Temple of the Golden Pavilion" for its gorgeous gilded reliquary hall.

The largest of the Fuji Five Lakes is home to an impressive swan population—some real, some with paddles, and one with an observation deck.

This little replica of Lady Liberty provides a bit of NYC in a Japanese city.

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

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

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

After a profound show of devotion for his master, a dog becomes the symbol of loyalty for an entire nation.

Open-air museum with an elaborate sculpture garden, stretching for over 70,000 square-meters.

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

Once a black market electronics marketplace, now an otaku shopper's paradise.

Colloquially known as “piss alley,” this narrow street filled with tiny bars and barbecue stands looks like it was pulled straight out of “Blade Runner.”

This historical theme park celebrates all things noodle.

Not quite the menace it once was, this monster still has some chops.

The legendary birthplace of the Japanese maneki-neko is dotted with hundreds of lucky beckoning cats.

This massive wooden building contains a giant Buddha, healing pillars, and tame deer wandering the grounds.

Hot springs monkey spa in the middle of Hell's Valley.