Places Lisa De Vriese Wants to Go

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

The legendary Japanese filmmaker’s tombstone is marked by a single letter meaning “nothing," and bottles of sake.

Thanks to wordplay, the earthquake-causing catfish monster has become a god of confidence at this shrine.

A hidden alley with seven corners and handmade cat decorations.

A collection of nostalgic items from the Showa era with an exhibit on the local ghost story of the Snow Woman.

The strange “kaiju” of Lake Imba that allegedly killed over a dozen men with a single strike of lightning.

Two ogres stand guard at the Oga Visitor Center.

A natural resemblance of the monster of film lore.

Visitors to this temple are greeted by a massive collection of wooden dolls said to bring good fortune.

A stretch of the Iwai River that features beautiful rocky cliffs, rapids, and flying dango.

See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.

Is this cat asleep or just pretending?

Only recently added to the shrine, this googly-eyed snail demon of unknown origin is said to have eye-healing powers.

This phallic temple was erected in the forest to honor the tragic death of a samurai lord's son.

A touching statue dedicated to Japan's first therapy dog.

Rubbing salt on this small stone dog is said to make wishes come true.

A statue of a mischievous raccoon towers over this city park.

A hole-in-the-wall antiquities museum in one of Tokyo's most popular megamalls.

A whimsical museum dedicated to the mischievous kappa, a mythical cucumber-loving water sprite.

A Japanese shrine to dolls.

Tell this pair of "love-inviting" cats in Ginza your romantic hopes.

This western-themed amusement park is host to a large number of decaying animatronic cowboys.

Shrine dedicated to boars that is believed to cure foot and leg injuries.

Hidden by the roadside in the Iya Valley, this gem brings together folk monsters and the region's unique geography.