Places lovexdumpling Wants to Go

Cherry blossom season comes early in this Japanese town where pink flowers line the streets and riverbanks.

The world’s first hotel to be run by robots.

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

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

One of the first hotel rooms in a pod.

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

Museum showcases Japanese sexuality and some amazing ocean views.

The only thing sweeter than the potatoes is the canine proprietor of this roadside stall.

With over 12,000 different species of plants, this botanical garden is Japan's oldest and most diverse.

Steaming blood-red hot spring from hell.

Transport yourself to the 1980s era of video games at this themed restaurant and bar.

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

The self-mummified monks of Japan.

A beautiful bamboo trail tucked in this famous Japanese shrine.

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

Shrine to Japanese water-goblins, complete with their preserved body parts.

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

Twelve hundred stone carvings guard this off-the-beaten-path Buddhist temple.

This mesmerizingly colorful pond looks like a scene straight out of a fairytale.

Go through the looking glass in Tokyo's Wonderland-themed shop.

Nine Gardens in one—with tea service.

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

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

This Japanese national treasure was originally built in 593.