Category: Japan
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Exploring the Natural Wonders of Japan’s Ikeda Lake
Nestled in the southern part of Japan’s Kyushu island lies the stunning Ikeda Lake, a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lake sits near the city of Kagoshima, surrounded by lush green forests and stunning mountain ranges. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers…
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Ascending the Togakushi Shrine Hike (Kodo), Japan
The Togakushi Shrine hike is one of the most popular and scenic hikes in Japan. It offers breathtaking views of the Togakushi Mountains and a chance to explore the ancient Shinto shrines that are scattered throughout the area. The hike takes visitors on a journey through lush forests, past crystal-clear streams, and up to the…
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Exploring the magnificent Zuihoden Mausoleum Complex in Sendai, Japan
The Zuihoden Complex in Sendai offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Japan. The complex houses the mausoleum of the famous samurai lord, Date Masamune, as well as several other historical buildings and structures. History Date Masamune, the powerful daimyo (feudal lord) of the Sendai region, began constructing his mausoleum in…
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Visiting beautiful Inuyama Castle, Japan
Japan is a country long steeped in history and tradition. One of the best ways to experience this is by visiting its many castles, especially the ones that have withstood the tests of time. One such castle that stands out is Inuyama Castle, located in Aichi Prefecture. It is one of only 12 remaining original…
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Ise Grand Shrine: Japanese Imperial Divinity
Ise Grand Shrine in the city of Ise in Mie Prefecture, Japan, is one of the most sacred shrines in Japan. Located (by train) about 2 hours south of Nagoya, it also has a close relationship with the Japanese imperial family. The shrine complex has two main shrines, the Inner Shrine (Naiku) and the Outer…
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Kagura – How to see Japanese Intangible Folk Cultural Properties
This weekend I had the opportunity to see one of Japan’s Intangible Folk Cultural Properties: the Buzen Kagura. This weekend, there was a day of festivities and demonstrations north of Fukuoka at Munakata Shrine, featuring local cultural activities. What is Kagura? “Kagura” refers to a specific form of traditional Japanese dance-drama, performed as part of…
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Setsubun Festival in Japan
On 3 February every year, people across Japan go to Shinto temples to participate in the Japanese Setsubun Festival or Bean-Throwing Festival. It marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring; it is one of the most important traditional events in Japan. The festival has been celebrated for centuries and has roots in…
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Matsushima, Japan – One of Japan’s most beautiful areas
Matsushima is a small town located in the Miyagi Prefecture of Japan. The town is renowned for its beautiful natural scenery – over 260 small islands scattered around Matsushima Bay. The islands feature pine trees/forests, hence the name Matsushima (Pine Islands). Matsushima’s history dates back to the 8th century. This is when it was first…
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Geibikei Gorge – Japanese natural beauty
Geibikei Gorge is a stunning natural wonder located in the Iwate prefecture of Japan. The Gonokawa River flows through the gorge and the rugged terrain of the Kitakami Mountains. The area is renowned for its picturesque beauty and is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike. You may have seen images from autumn,…
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Chuson-ji – One of the Tohoku region’s premiere temples
Hiraizumi’s Chuson-ji is a Buddhist temple located in Hiraizumi in the Iwate Prefecture of Japan. A quick ride on the bus or train from Ichinoseki and you are ready to explore one of Tohoku’s most elaborate and impressive temple complexes. History of Chuson-ji The temple was founded in the late 11th century by the local…
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Hatsumode (初詣) – Visiting a Shinto Shrine for New Year
Have you ever heard of Hatsumode? It’s a traditional Japanese practice that happens during the New Year. During this time, people visit shrines and temples to pray for good luck and fortune in the coming year. It’s similar to making New Year’s resolutions but in a more spiritual way. During Hatsumode, people generally offer prayers,…
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Kokura Castle, Kitakyushu, Japan
Nestled in the middle of Kitakyushu, a small city on the northern coast of Kyushu sits Kokura Castle. Kokura Castle, which dates back to the start of the Edo period (finished in 1608), was the seat of the Kokura domain in Kyushu. At the time, it was separate from Fukuoka (which didn’t exist yet as…
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Karatsu Kunchi Festival, Japan
Just across the border of Fukuoka in Saga Prefecture on the coast lies Karatsu, a large coastal town. In addition to having a well-known castle, Karatsu is also one of three places in Japan that host a Kunchi festival. A Kunchi festival? What is that? It is one of Japan’s intangible folk cultural properties. In…
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The Hells of Beppu (別府の地獄), Japan
On the northeastern coast of the island of Kyushu lies Beppu, one of Japan’s best-known resort towns. For centuries, Japanese people have been flocking to this hot spring paradise to relax and cure their ailments. In addition to all the onsen (Japanese hot spring baths), Beppu also hosts 7 “Hells” – amazing hot springs near…
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Climbing Mt Tsurumi in Beppu, Japan
Located in the northeastern portion of Kyushu (one of Japan’s largest 4 islands – the southwestern one), Mt Tsurumi overlooks the onsen town of Beppu. While Beppu is primarily known for its abundance of hot springs, especially the Beppu Hells, it is also well-placed to explore some of Kyushu’s natural areas. Mt Tsurumi is one…
