Places dstarr7517 Wants to Go

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

A museum dedicated to the history of Tokyo's often-overlooked working-class district.

Shells collected from over a hundred different countries line the walls, floors and ceilings of this fantasy museum.

Thirty architectural gems from the 19th- and early 20th-century Tokyo were restored and relocated to this space.

This retro underwater observation tower would make the perfect lair for a sea-loving villain.

One of Kyoto's oldest food establishments has supplied soba noodles to temple priests and the Imperial Palace.

The cutest shrine in Kyoto is dedicated to bunnies.

A Japanese cat island also populated by the descendants of a band of banished samurai.

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

Coast along one of Japan’s mountain railways for coveted views of magnificent hydrangeas.

A King Kong-like gorilla hangs from the top of this commercial building in Tokyo.

One of Japan's most famous sights, the bridge was originally built in 1673.

Dedicated to the armor and weapons used by the legendary Japanese warriors.

Reportedly 1,400 years old, this may be the first of the Fiji Mermaids.

Drinkslinger is an unlikely vocation for a Buddhist monk, but at this Tokyo bar the enlightenment is served in a martini glass.

Steaming blood-red hot spring from hell.

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

This sprawling scenic burial ground is the final resting place of Japan's last shogun.

The self-mummified monks of Japan.

This Kyoto Starbucks takes coffee drinkers back in time.

The bartenders at this crime-fighting theme cafe are actual private detectives by day.

A train ride to the middle of nowhere gives its passengers some of the most iconic views of Japan's seasons.

A massive cave complex boasts some of the clearest water (and most charming bats) in the world.

This pond is so stunning it looks like you've stepped into one of Monet's masterpieces.