Time capsule of a museum, in which the Soviet Union remains alive and kicking.

Extremely isolated Silk Road caravanserai in the middle of nowhere.

This was once the largest city in Kazakhstan, and a major stop on the Silk Road.

A brilliant turquoise lake in the mountains.

Mysterious spherical rocks in the semi-desert of western Kazakhstan.

Granny Smiths and Fujis can both be traced back to Kazakhstan, where apples still grow wild.

Submerged trees jut ghost-like out of an idyllic turquoise mountain lake.

Weighing nearly 7 tons, this massive sculpture was carved out of 500-year-old wood and decorated with thousands of jewels.

White beach sands made of the remains of tiny, star shaped creatures.

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.

A train ride to the middle of nowhere gives its passengers some of the most iconic views of Japan's seasons.

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

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

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

This Kyoto Starbucks takes coffee drinkers back in time.

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.

This Japanese national treasure was originally built in 593.

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

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

The oldest hotel in the world has been operated by the same family for over 1,300 years, even catering to samurai.

Every autumn, this hillside is ablaze with red summer cypress.

The 10,000 Torii shrine.

The magical, mossy forest that inspired 'Princess Mononoke.'