honshu
-
Chion-in Temple: Beauty, History, Magnificence
Kyoto, Japan is a city rich in history and culture, and one of its most spectacular destinations is Chion-in temple. This ancient temple dates back to the 13th century and is known for its stunning architecture, including its massive San-mon gate and impressive main hall. But Chion-in is more than just a monument of architectural…
-
Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa: An awe-inspiring example of traditional Japanese architecture
Nestled in the serene district of Shimogamo in Kyoto, the Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa stands to the city’s rich cultural history. This estate was built in 1925 with its meticulously preserved architecture and compact gardens. It offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Mitsui family. The family was one of the…
-
Daikaidan illumination at Kyoto Station
Kyoto, known for its rich cultural heritage and history, is home to many iconic landmarks and attractions. However, it is not just heritage and history; Kyoto also combines the new with the old – sometimes in surprising ways. One of the results is the Daikaidan (Grand Stairs) on top of Kyoto Station. At night, these…
-
Toji Temple: Viewing the cherry blossoms at night
-
Hirano Jinja: A Blossoming Cherry Blossom Sanctuary in Kyoto
Kyoto is a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful shrines and temples. One such shrine that deserves a visit is the Hirano Jinja, located in the northwest part of the city. Hirano Jinja’s draw is its beautiful gardens, which are especially stunning in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full…
-
Daishoin Temple: Tranquility in a Buddhist Temple
Nestled on the tranquil island of Miyajima, Daishoin Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan. This serene and spiritual site is one of the oldest and most significant temples in the region. Located just a short ferry ride from the mainland, Miyajima is a small island steeped in history and…
-
Itsukushima Jinja: Miyajima’s Iconic Shrine and Floating Torii Gate
Nestled on the shores of the tranquil Seto Inland Sea in Japan, Miyajima Island is home to one of the country’s most iconic and breathtaking shrines: Itsukushima Jinja. Also known as the “floating shrine,” Itsukushima Jinja is built entirely on stilts over the water. During high tide, the water makes seem as though it’s floating.…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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,…
-
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…
-
Tanabata Festival in Sendai, Japan
If you are thinking about visiting Sendai in the summer, the best time to visit is around 7 August. Known for its famous Tanabata Festival (arguably the most well-known and definitely the largest one held in Japan), or the Star Festival, Sendai is decorated to the nines! What is the star festival? The legend The…
-
Sansa Odori – The World’s Biggest Taiko Drumming Festival in Morioka, Japan
