Japanese temples and shrines are not just beautiful to look at they’re also a chance to take part in some of Japan’s traditional and cultural activities. Though the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines do have some differences, the activities themselves are quite similar. Here are 5 different activities you can partake in at either a temple or a shrine.

Known as the Temple of Flowers, Mimuroto-ji sits amidst an expansive garden that offers a wonderful array of plants and trees coming in to bloom at different times throughout the year.

My friends and relatives visiting Japan always ask me this one question before visiting: should I rent a car? It really depends on which part of Japan you are visiting, but in general, unless you are visiting a major city like Tokyo and Osaka and planning to stay in the city throughout your trip, there are many benefits to having a car to travel in when you are here.

Back in 2011 after the Great Earthquake and Tsunami, everyone in the Tohoku region of Japan came together to renew their land and their spirit by creating “Tohoku Rokkonsai (Six Festivals).” Tohoku Rokkonsai sewed together the six prefectures into one breakthrough event, touring around the region to celebrate all of their summer festivals.

Japan has many earthquakes every year, making people extremely cautious. Foreign expats are often not prepared for these natural wonders. Here's how I always coped with them.

Niigata City is the biggest city in Niigata prefecture, the city is bordered by the Sea of Japan and is an exciting place to visit. An extremely underrated part of Japan with a mixture of the old and modern parts of Japanese history. This blend makes it a sight to behold with much to see and do. I decided to see for myself what was on offer in Niigata by taking a bus tour.

Okinawa always brings people the lovely imagine of a blue clear ocean. Many tourists both from within and outside the country visit Okinawa every year to enjoy the time in the water. What if you want to see more ocean life? Or you are visiting during a season not suitable to swim? Or, if you are someone like me, what if you cannot swim?

The moment you venture into the infoshop, be prepared to gaze upon reams of posters, books, “zines,” t-shirts, and other goods that favor countercultural ideas. From anarchist thinkers such as Mikhail Bakunin to early Japanese nonconformists like Noe Ito and Kotoku Shusui, you’ll find something to sink your political teeth into without much trouble.

Have you thought about trying camping in Japan? It can be a fun way to bond with friends or family, and even meet new friends. A great spot for camping is Togakushi, which is located in Nagano, Japan.

Aichi Prefecture's Tennogawa Park will dazzle you with its exceptional wisteria displays during the Owari Tsushima Wisteria Festival, held between late-April and early-May. There's festival food and games, and at night the flowers are beautifully lit from below.

Every year from mid May to early June, the people of the greater Kesennuma area in Miyagi Prefecture bask in the beauty of spring with the blooming of wild mountain azalea flowers (yama tsutsuji) on Mt. Tokusenjo. The Kesennuma Azalea Festival is also held to celebrate, with local musical artists and activities.

But Omiya is more than just a gateway between differing versions of Japan. Omiya is quintessential Japan. With shrines dating back thousands of years to being the centre of bonsai culture, the city is a rich treasure trove of art, culture and history.