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Tag: sightseeing
Kiyomizu-dera Temple: An Icon with a View
Kyoto‘s Kiyomizu-dera is a stunning temple complex that has captured the hearts of countless visitors from around the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is in the Higashiyama district, a historic area known for its charming streets, traditional shops, and beautiful views. Kiyomizu-dera is not only a must-visit destination for its impressive architecture and rich…
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 is a city known for its rich cultural heritage and history. It is home to many iconic landmarks and attractions that have been attracting visitors from all over the world for years. However, it is not just heritage and history. Kyoto also combines the new with the old. One of the results is the…
Toji Temple: Viewing the cherry blossoms at night
In a previous post, I wrote about visiting Toji temple in 2022 when I first came to Kyoto. At that time it was May and the cherry blossoms were long past. This year during a two-week break, I was able to spend part of it in Kyoto during the cherry blossom season. Blooming of the…
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.…
Yufuin: An Idyllic Japanese Getaway
Nestled in the rolling hills of Oita Prefecture, Yufuin is a charming little town. It is known for its hot springs, picturesque scenery, and laid-back atmosphere. Located about 10 kilometres inland from the Beppu and near Mt Tsurumi, Yufuin has long been a popular destination for travellers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
