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Tag: Japan
Hello Kitty Haruka Express
Are you planning a trip to Japan and dreaming of whisking your way to adorable adventures? Then look no further than the Hello Kitty Haruka Express, a limited express train that takes you on a journey straight into kawaii paradise! Planning Your Purrfect Trip: This charming train whisks you from Kansai International Airport to three…
Tagawa Yamakasa: Unveiling One of Kyushu’s Hidden Festivals
While the vibrant spectacle of the Gion Yamakasa Festival draws crowds to Fukuoka in July each year, nestled in the foothills of northern Kyushu lies another Yamakasa event brimming with its unique charm: the Tagawa Yamakasa. Often overshadowed by its larger cousin, Tagawa’s Yamakasa offers a more intimate experience, immersing you in the heart of…
Hiraizumi Nature Trail: A Secret Path Between Temples
Located in Hiraizumi, Japan, the Hiraizumi Nature Trail is a nature preserve nestled in the space between Chuson-ji and Motsuji Temples. It also makes an excellent way to get from one to the other. About the Hiraizumi Nature Trail The trail is a series of trails that head through a forested wetland area. It is…
Otagi Nenbutsuji: A Whimsical Oasis Amidst Kyoto’s Serenity
Nestled amidst the bamboo groves and verdant hills of Arashiyama, Kyoto, lies Otagi Nenbutsuji – a Buddhist temple far removed from the usual Zen solemnity. Step inside its gates and prepare to be greeted by a vibrant, almost playful, atmosphere. Hundreds of Rakan (disciples of Buddha) statues, each boasting unique personalities and expressions, line the…
Kozenji: Unveiling the Enchanting Gardens in Kiso, Japan
Nestled amidst the verdant mountains of Kiso Valley, Japan, lies Kozenji, a Zen Buddhist temple exuding an ethereal charm. Founded in 1434 by the formidable Kiso Nobumichi, this historic gem transcends its physical form, transforming into a sanctuary of serenity and cultural significance. Kozenji: A Legacy Steeped in History Kozenji’s past is interwoven with the…
Bandokorobana Park: Where Ocean Breezes Meet Panoramic Bliss
Imagine this: you stand on a rugged coastline, the scent of salty air swirling around you. The endless expanse of the East China Sea stretches before you, a canvas of tranquil turquoise kissed by the golden rays of the rising sun. Gentle waves lap at the volcanic rocks, their rhythmic lull a symphony of serenity.…
Graduation Speech: 18 months at GenkiJACS in Fukuoka
If you have been following this blog for any length of time, you may remember that I was studying in an 18-month intensive programme to learn Japanese. I am happy to report that I graduated at the end of September. I am very proud of how far I have come since I started. I went…
Nokonoshima’s Charms: Sunflowers and Traditional Japanese Pottery
Near the Kyushu city of Fukuoka in Japan, Nokonoshima invites you to indulge in the natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry it weaves. This article unveils the island’s sunflower allure in August and the mesmerising craft of traditional Japanese tea cup pottery. The Allure of Nokonoshima Nokonoshima, a serene island near Fukuoka, embodies Japan’s unparalleled…
Zenko-ji Temple: A Spiritual Journey in the Heart of Nagano
Nestled amidst the tranquillity of Nagano, the city renowned for its snow-draped mountains and the 1998 Winter Olympics, resides Zenko-ji Temple, a cornerstone of Japan’s cultural and spiritual legacy. A pilgrimage site with over 1,400 years of history, it draws the devoted and those in search of an intimate interaction with Japan’s pulsating history and…
Kyoto River Walk: Kamo River Amidst Cherry Blossoms
Unfolding like a beautiful Japanese painting, Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, exudes a timeless charm. This city, where history resonates in every corner, is graced with the tranquil Kamo River, the heart of many cherished moments and memories. When cherry blossom season adorns Kyoto, the river walk along the Kamo River, often referred to…
Maruyama Park: The Jewel of Kyoto
Maruyama Park, widely known as Kyoto’s most beloved park, is the quintessential destination for locals and tourists alike. Nestled in the historic Higashiyama district, the park serves as a remarkable testament to Japan’s commitment to harmony between nature, culture, and urban life. The Unparalleled Beauty of Maruyama Park Maruyama Park is a tapestry of exquisite…
Munakata Shrine: Discover the Mystical Charm of Hetsumiya
Immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of Japan’s Fukuoka Prefecture, Munakata Taisha (or Munataka Shrine) beckons visitors with its spiritual allure and fascinating traditions. It is also known affectionately by the locals as Munataka Jinja. Known for its trio of shrines dispersed across three islands, our journey centres on the main shrine in Munataka Shrine,…
Mitaki-Dera: A Hidden Gem of Hiroshima
Tucked away on the verdant slopes of Mt. Mitaki, Mitaki-Dera temple is a serene sanctuary that whispers stories of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Hidden in the depths of a lush forest in Hiroshima City, Japan, this peaceful Buddhist temple invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in tranquillity, away from the…
Hakata Gion Matsuri: Fukuoka’s Spectacular Japanese Festival
Welcome to the Hakata Gion Matsuri, a captivating celebration of Japanese culture and tradition. It takes place annually in the historic city of Hakata, located in modern Fukuoka city. With its dazzling displays of ornate floats, mesmerizing performances, and delectable culinary delights, this festival has been captivating both locals and visitors for centuries. Steeped in…
Morioka Hachimangu Shrine: Spiritual Oasis
Tucked away amidst the lush green landscapes of Morioka, Japan, lies an unexpected gem of historical and cultural significance – the Morioka Hachimangu Shrine. An emblem of Shinto spirituality, this shrine takes visitors on an enchanting journey into Japan’s time-honoured traditions and tranquillity. Historical Background Morioka Hachimangu, also known as Hachiman Shrine, has long been…
