The self-mummified monks of Japan.

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

The quintessential Japanese rock garden has existed for more than 500 years.

Nine Gardens in one—with tea service.

A beautiful bamboo trail tucked in this famous Japanese shrine.

This neighborhood thoroughfare is haunted by dozens of homemade monsters.

This Japanese national treasure was originally built in 593.

1,001 carved statues of the Buddhist God of Mercy, each with a unique face.

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

This 700-year-old street food market features baby octopus and soy donuts.

The 10,000 Torii shrine.

The original "capsule building" is a masterpiece of Metabolist architecture.

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

A beautiful, dense forest in the shadow of Mount Fuji, with a tragic reputation.

Once home to a Scottish baronet, this 18th-century historic house doubles as a legendary art space.

Touching this 18th-century Scottish philosopher’s toe allegedly conjures good fortune.

This otherwise ordinary close on the Royal Mile constituted the end of the world for Edinburgh’s poorest residents.

This small museum in a 17th-century building honors three iconic Scottish writers.

A six-ton wedding present for the King of the Scots.

Near the former site of numerous witch burnings, this lavish Edinburgh mainstay pays homage to Scotland's brutal history.

Remnants of the 16th-century defensive wall still stand unassumingly within Edinburgh.

Overlooked by many, the two famous Scottish warriors guard the main gate of Edinburgh Castle.

The tomb of one of Scotland's bloody historic villains is a magnet for bumbling desecrators.

The most loyal of little dogs, or a Victorian era publicity stunt?