Places michaelamiller Wants to Go

Unusual hexagonal rocks formed by cooling lava named for their resemblance to traditional Japanese tatami mats.

Colloquially known as “piss alley,” this narrow street filled with tiny bars and barbecue stands looks like it was pulled straight out of “Blade Runner.”

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

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

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

A plaque marks the site directly below the mid-air detonation of the atomic bomb over Hiroshima.

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

This Japanese national treasure was originally built in 593.

A 70-foot-deep ice cave formed by lava from Mt. Fuji on the edge of Japan's "Suicide Forest." 

Every autumn, this hillside is ablaze with red summer cypress.

Hot springs monkey spa in the middle of Hell's Valley.

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

An exquisite tunnel of cascading flowers.

Underwater restaurant at the coral reefs of Eilat.

This ancient tomb in the West Bank is a holy site for Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike.

This dome-shaped mountain boasts amazing views and has a rich religious history.

Oldest Protestant church in the Middle East, designed to resemble a synagogue.

Idol made by King Jeroboam for the Israelites.

The only quarter of the Old City not dedicated to a major world religion.

The tallest waterfall in the Judean Desert is named for its connection to a biblical figure.

An iconic view point of the Sea of Galilee offers a look into Israel's past.

Squeezing inside this deep, narrow canyon reveals a festival of desert colors.

A serene desert oasis speckled with ancient artifacts.

A "miracle" that seems to produce more holy fistfights than holy revelations.