Japan


  • A Weekend in Nara: From Nature’s Bliss to Architectural Mastery

    A Weekend in Nara: From Nature’s Bliss to Architectural Mastery

    Packed with natural splendour, historical depth and spiritual sanctity, Nara is a city that compels one to pause and ponder. This ancient capital of Japan, nestled in the Kansai region, is home to some of the country’s most significant temples and awe-inspiring gardens. Let’s not forget to mention the friendly deer who freely roam in…


  • Hiraizumi, Japan – A day-trip itinerary

    Hiraizumi, Japan – A day-trip itinerary

    Nestled in the picturesque Iwate Prefecture of Japan, Hiraizumi is a small town steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, Hiraizumi transports visitors to the golden age of the Fujiwara clan during the 11th and 12th centuries. This serene town flourished as a political, cultural, and religious power…


  • Daisho-in Temple: An Unforgettable Spiritual Journey

    Daisho-in Temple: An Unforgettable Spiritual Journey

    Nestled on holy Mount Misen’s slopes on Miyajima Island, the Daisho-in Temple is a lesser-known gem of Japan’s religious and cultural heritage. It is a crucial cornerstone of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. The temple offers a serene sanctuary, far removed from the bustling energy of urban life. Brimming with history, spiritual significance, and…


  • Kenninji: A Journey Through Zen in Kyoto’s Oldest Zen Temple

    Kenninji: A Journey Through Zen in Kyoto’s Oldest Zen Temple

    Kyoto, the city of a thousand temples, resonates with the echo of ancient chants, the fragrance of incense, and the sight of age-old traditions and architecture. In this city, where culture and history intertwine, one finds a quiet oasis of serenity known as Kenninji. As Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, Kenninji beckons to those seeking to…


  • Minamikyushu: One of Japan’s Ancient Samurai Villages

    Minamikyushu: One of Japan’s Ancient Samurai Villages

    Japan has a depth and breadth of history and culture that has long fascinated travellers from around the globe. From its bustling, neon-lit cities to the quiet, serene countryside, Japan seamlessly weaves the old with the new. At the heart of this rich tapestry is the village of Minamikyushu, located in the stunning Kagoshima Prefecture…


  • Nezame-no-toko Gorge: Serene Beauty in Agematsu, Kiso

    Nezame-no-toko Gorge: Serene Beauty in Agematsu, Kiso

    Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Agematsu in Kiso, Nagano Prefecture lies a hidden gem of natural beauty and tranquillity. Nezame-no-toko Gorge, with its awe-inspiring vistas and serene atmosphere, beckons travellers seeking an escape into the wonders of Japan’s countryside. From the emerald-green waters of the Kiso River to the vibrant hues, this enchanting gorge…


  • Kiso-ji: A Journey Through Japan’s Historic Nakasendo Trail

    Kiso-ji: A Journey Through Japan’s Historic Nakasendo Trail

    Japan is a country where the ancient and the modern coexist in perfect harmony. It is a place where skyscrapers tower above centuries-old shrines and temples. One such testament to this harmonious blend is the Nakasendo trail. An integral route during Japan’s Edo period (1603–1868), the Nakasendo (“path through mountains”). It connected the grandeur of…


  • Osaka Castle Park and Cherry Blossoms: A Match Made in Heaven

    Osaka Castle Park and Cherry Blossoms: A Match Made in Heaven

    When it comes to cherry blossom season in Japan, Osaka Castle is a must-visit destination. This magnificent castle has stood for centuries, bearing witness to important moments in Japanese history and culture. But during cherry blossom season, the castle and its surrounding grounds take on a special kind of magic. The air is filled with…


  • Mount Wakakusa: A Moderate Hike with Major Payoff

    Mount Wakakusa: A Moderate Hike with Major Payoff

    Nestled in the heart of Nara Prefecture in Japan, Mount Wakakusa is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, hiking trails suitable for all levels of experience, and a rich cultural history, there is something for everyone. From the annual Yamayaki festival to the tranquil beauty of…


  • Ukimido and Ara Pond: Nara’s Hidden Gem

    Ukimido and Ara Pond: Nara’s Hidden Gem

    Nara, Japan’s first capital city, is a cultural and historical treasure trove that attracts visitors from all around the world. One of the most serene and picturesque spots in Nara is Ara Pond and Ukimido, a tranquil pond with a small temple in the middle. The pond is said to have been created in the…


  • Kofukuji Temple: A Testament to Japanese Buddhism and Art

    Kofukuji Temple: A Testament to Japanese Buddhism and Art

    Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. Among its many treasures, Kofukuji temple stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese Buddhism, art, and architecture. Founded in 669 AD, Kofukuji temple has a long and storied past that has shaped the city’s history and culture. Today, the…


  • Isui-en Garden: A Masterpiece of Japanese Garden Design

    Isui-en Garden: A Masterpiece of Japanese Garden Design

    Nestled in the heart of Japan’s ancient capital Nara, Isui-en Garden is a stunning oasis of tranquillity and natural beauty. This meticulously designed garden, with its tranquil ponds, winding paths, and lush foliage, has been enchanting visitors for centuries. From its origins as a private garden created by a wealthy merchant, Isui-en has evolved into…


  • Yoshikien Garden in Nara: A Peaceful Escape from the City

    Yoshikien Garden in Nara: A Peaceful Escape from the City

    Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, contains one of its many treasures – Yoshikien Garden. This stunning garden is a place of peace and tranquillity, designed to bring harmony to the senses and evoke a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature. Yoshikien Garden is located in the heart of Nara and is an important landmark in…


  • Todai-ji in Nara: A Must-Visit Destination for Travelers to Japan

    Todai-ji in Nara: A Must-Visit Destination for Travelers to Japan

    Nestled in the charming city of Nara, Japan lies the majestic Todai-ji temple, an iconic landmark of the country’s cultural heritage. Built in the 8th century, the temple is home to the Great Buddha Hall. It is one of the largest wooden structures in the world and a testament to the skills of ancient Japanese…


  • Higashi Hongan-ji: Exploring One of Kyoto’s Most Impressive Temples

    Higashi Hongan-ji: Exploring One of Kyoto’s Most Impressive Temples

    Kyoto, Japan exudes history, culture, and spirituality. As the former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto boasts an array of temples, shrines, and other religious and cultural landmarks that have survived for centuries. One such landmark is Higashi Hongan-ji, a large temple complex located in central Kyoto. Higashi Hongan-ji is the head temple of the Jodo…