Otagi Nenbutsuji: Enjoy Autumn Leaves in Kyoto with Whimsical Stone Statues
Otagi Nenbutsuji features 1,200 stone statues, each with its own distinct face, standing against the fiery autumn colors of Arashiyama, Kyoto.
Ogouchi Shrine: Remnant of the Former Ogouchi Village
When a water reservoir displaces a village, its gods and goddesses need rehoming, too.
Mugiyama Floating Bridge: An Arresting Spectacle across Lake Okutama
One of the two pontoon bridges on Lake Okutama, Mugiyama Floating Bridge bobs on green waters and leads hikers to the foot of Mt. Mito.
Asagaya Shinmeigu: Bracelet Charms & Crescent Moon Prayer Plaques
Fancy protective charms that can be worn as accessories and adorable prayer plaques shaped like the crescent moon—Asagaya Shinmeigu has some of the cutest shrine goods out there.
Taya Caves: An Eerie Adventure in Kanagawa
Would you dare venture into a dimly lit cave armed only with a candle?
Iya Valley in One Day: Forest Monorail, Vine Bridges & Scarecrows
Any adventurer would find themself enchanted with Iya Valley’s breathtaking views, ranging from dramatic landscapes to the lonesome beauty of a depopulated village.
Inside Japan’s Scarecrow Village: The Fascinating Life-Sized Dolls of Nagoro
Deep in Iya Valley, a tiny village replaces its lost people with dolls.
The Whirlpools of Naruto in Tokushima
Yes, there’s a town called Naruto in Japan. Its charm? Whirlpools!
Ehime’s Botchan Train
Ticket prices and other information about Matsuyama’s tiny matchbox train.
Tonaru: Ehime’s Machu Picchu
The site of a former copper mine, the corroded bricks of Tonaru tell the story of a time past but not forgotten.