Places samireland Wants to Go

An isolated "phantom bridge" doomed to crumble into ruin.

The origin of this bizarre, ghostly idol is a local mystery, even to the temple it calls home.

This often-overlooked monument was crafted in the shape of the iconic samurai coin to honor an Edo-period mint.

A train station decorated by a giant replica of the ancient Shakōki-dogū figurine found in the area.

A pair of rivaling shrines dedicated to Lady Oiwa, the most famous vengeful ghost in Japan.

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

A bizarre philosophy-themed park founded by an occult expert.

These ordinary blocks of stone are the last surviving remains of Tokyo's infamous red-light district.

They say the internet is forever but just in case, the shiba inu behind an iconic meme has been immortalized in bronze.

This unique museum explores the world of Japanese demons and spirits.

The centuries-old cobblestones of a feudal highway remain in the woods of Hakone.

Haunted by a giant white snake, this pond is said to bring the rain and pubic hair.

At a Japanese train station, a goddess emerges from a dumpling.

This massive, Edo Period, coin-shaped sand painting is believed to be a source of great luck.

This frescoed ancient burial mound is a colorful window into China’s influence in early Japan.

The site where the famous city gate once stood, now in the middle of a playground.

An open-air museum exhibiting a total of 52 century-old buildings, recreating Hokkaido’s “pioneer village.”

One of the best-preserved remains of "Tokyo's lost rivers."

These sculptures were created by a 17th-century artist who had never seen an elephant.

This Metabolist, retro-futuristic residential complex resembles a cyberpunk space colony established on Earth.

A lone torii arch stands on a coastal rock where a deity is said to have landed.

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

Home to herbal cosmetics, teas, and a unique set of dolls known as kitchen witches.

A small laundromat covered wall-to-ceiling with portrait drawings.