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

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

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

Cherry blossom season comes early in this Japanese town where pink flowers line the streets and riverbanks.

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

Shells collected from over a hundred different countries line the walls, floors and ceilings of this fantasy museum.

Drinkslinger is an unlikely vocation for a Buddhist monk, but at this Tokyo bar the enlightenment is served in a martini glass.

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

Museum showcases Japanese sexuality and some amazing ocean views.

Steaming blood-red hot spring from hell.

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

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.”

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

Reportedly 1,400 years old, this may be the first of the Fiji Mermaids.

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

Disused penal colony features prisoner artwork, some sketched in human blood.

A secret climbing tree hides along the side of a Costa Rican road.

These mysterious ancient stone spheres were created by a civilization lost to time and are now mostly lawn ornaments.

This Costa Rican topiary park is a surreal garden of unearthly delights.

This neon blue river gets its color from a unique mix of bacteria and volcano minerals.

Sloth rehabilitation center in the jungle of Costa Rica.

The self-mummified monks of Japan.

Twelve hundred stone carvings guard this off-the-beaten-path Buddhist temple.

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