Places MikeInSanFrancisco Wants to Go

The Hanshin Expressway goes right through its 5th, 6th, and 7th floors.

Blowtorches, tuna, and a jolly, chain-smoking proprietor mark this beloved street-food stand.

One of the world's largest tanks mimics the experience of watching rare whale sharks, giant rays, and deep sea creatures from the ocean floor.

The world's largest drain sits below the city of Kasukabe, Japan.

An astounding annual light display honors the victims of one of Japan's most devastating earthquakes.

This ancient temple is set up to take you on a pilgrimage of self.

The 43-mile route crosses through six islands with gorgeous views of the Seto Inland Sea.

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

A real-life replica of a home from Hayao Miyazaki's beloved movie "My Neighbor Totoro."

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

Discover the past, present, and future of packaging in this unique Japanese museum.

Learn about the indigenous people of Japan's northernmost islands.

This exacting restaurant will charge a fine for every grain of rice you've left behind.

A rare festival blending religion, blacksmiths, vagina dentata, sex workers, and the straight-up facts of life.

This little replica of Lady Liberty provides a bit of NYC in a Japanese city.

A disconnected rotary phone for "calling" lost loved ones offered a unique way of dealing with grief in disaster-stricken Japan.

Japan's largest area of "pink moss" turns the hillside bright pink every spring.

A Japanese corporation has turned this small island town into living modern art gallery.

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

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

People from around the world visit the shrine of Japan’s legendarily loyal dog.

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

Museum showcases Japanese sexuality and some amazing ocean views.

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