kyoto
-
Otani Sobyo: A Hidden Gem in Kyoto
Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is a city heaving with history, culture, and tradition. With so many beautiful temples and shrines to visit, it can be difficult to decide which ones to prioritize during your trip. One temple that does not place very high on lists is Otani Sobyo. While it may not be…
-
Ryozen Kannon: The giant sitting Buddha statue overlooking Kyoto
Sitting east of Kyoto is a statue of a Budda that looks over the skyline. This is Ryozen Kannon, located just to the southeast of Maruyama Park. History Ryozen Kannon was built in 1955 to commemorate the Japanese soldiers who died during World War II. It was constructed in a location overlooking Kyoto to ensure…
-
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…
-
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…
-
Tofuku-Ji Temple and Tsuten-Kyo Bridge, Kyoto, Japan
After visiting Fushimi Inari and Mt. Inari, the next stop on my trip to Kyoto was Tofuku-ji Temple (東福寺) and Tsuten-Kyo Bridge. Tofuku-Ji is one of the “Five Great Zen Temples in Kyoto” and it is easy to see why. Combined with its garden, which contains the Tsuten-Kyo (covered) bridge, it is easy to see…
-
Toji Temple, Kyoto – The Temple for the Defence of the Nation by Means of the King of Doctrines
-
Fushimi Inari and Mt. Inari, Kyoto – The path of 1000 gates
