This enormous monument is one of the most iconic structures in Tokyo, rudely nicknamed "The Golden Turd."

This 14th-century temple is also known as the "Temple of the Golden Pavilion" for its gorgeous gilded reliquary hall.

This whimsical garbage disposal facility receives around 12,000 accidental tourists each year.

Turn around and stick your head between your legs for the best view of this tree-covered sandbar.

Japan's largest collection of Western-style mansions in the port city of Kobe includes a recreation of Sherlock Holmes' 221B Baker Street quarters.

A sobering scientific reminder of the human damage caused by the advent of the nuclear age.

Devoted Buddhists can earn enlightenment in the next life by crawling through this symbolic nostril.

A shrine contains nearly 200 statues of the Buddhist deity Jizo, dressed in bibs by parents who have lost a child.

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

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

A bronze statue dating back as far as 1252, still has remnants of gold on its right cheek from ancient gilding.

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

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

After a profound show of devotion for his master, a dog becomes the symbol of loyalty for an entire nation.

A beautiful bamboo trail tucked in this famous Japanese Shrine.

The quintessential Japanese rock garden has existed for more than 500 years.

Japanese national treasure originally built in 593 CE.

Not quite the menace it once was, this monster still has some chops.

1,001 carved statues of the Buddhist God of Mercy, each with a unique face.

This neighborhood thoroughfare is haunted by dozens of homemade monsters.

A 20-meter (65-foot) robot towers over Tokyo Bay.

The 10,000 Torii shrine.

One of the few remaining casualties of the London Blitz, this destroyed church has become an enchanting public garden.