Kyoto, Japan
Ichijo Modoribashi Bridge
The “bridge of return” is haunted by a myriad of legends, from ghosts to demons to nuptial superstitions.
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Kyoto, Japan
The “bridge of return” is haunted by a myriad of legends, from ghosts to demons to nuptial superstitions.
Tokyo, Japan
This public bathroom takes the form of a 19th-century lighthouse that once stood on the spot.
Kamakura, Japan
Open since 1690, this former teahouse makes “strength mochi” based on the centuries-old recipe.
Tokyo, Japan
This one-of-a-kind indie publisher-bookshop specializes in archiving historic red-light districts and niche cultural topics of the Shōwa era.
Nagato, Japan
This phallic temple was erected in the forest to honor the tragic death of a samurai lord's son.
Aki, Japan
Over 40 species of fern cover the canyon walls of this lush green bowl, cut off from the bustle of the world by a cave entrance.
Tokyo, Japan
A shrine dedicated to a 10th-century samurai emperor, whose head is not buried on site (contrary to popular belief).
Itoshima, Japan
A culturally significant rural temple in the beautiful mountains of Itoshima.
Kyoto, Japan
A small shrine dedicated to a god of lightning and electronics.
Tokyo, Japan
Here lies Hattori Hanzō, a samurai who is remembered as a legendary ninja in today’s popular culture.
Tokyo, Japan
Losing lottery tickets are deposited at this shrine in hopes of better luck.
Yokohama, Japan
Passengers are not allowed to set foot outside this station, but you can still enjoy spectacular views of the sea from the platform.
Tokyo, Japan
A cursed torii gate still stands on the edge of Haneda Airport, decades after its shrine's relocation.
Kyoto, Japan
It is believed that this Buddhist temple stands right on the gateway to the underworld.
Hakone, Japan
Once the main gateway to Tokyo, sneaking through this checkpoint was a capital offense in feudal times.
Tokyo, Japan
Rumored to be a giant robot in disguise, this colossal chef has been the beloved symbol of Tokyo’s kitchenware district for decades.
Tokyo, Japan
Japan’s tallest Godzilla statue contains a piece of the original 1954 film within its base.
Kyonan, Japan
This giant seated Bhudda of Healing dates to the 1780s.
Osaka, Japan
This bathhouse includes an option to soak in radioactive water.
Tokyo, Japan
A Buddhist temple on an artificial island that houses a monument to the fugu fish.
Kyoto, Japan
An LED art installation composed of 600 poles wrapped in kimono fabric.
Miyazu-shi, Japan
Turn around and stick your head between your legs for the best view of this tree-covered sandbar.
Tokyo, Japan
Rice balls symbolize fate and relationship at this adorable shrine, which was once dedicated to the Buddhist Devil.
Tokyo, Japan
This 400-year-old noodle joint was once frequented by a fox-turned-monk, according to local folklore.