Distinguishing between Japanese Shrines and Temples
Did you know the differences between a shrine and a temple in Japan? There are some unique observable feature that can help you find the differences.
January 9, 2017
Tag: Shrine
Japan's Most Famous Bridges
Bridges are essential here and come in all shapes and sizes from traditional wooden bridges to modern masterpieces. Let’s take a look at some of Japan’s most famous bridges.
December 6, 2016
Kyoto’s Northeast Momiji Walk: An Itinerary Through the Extraordinary
Late November marks the beginning of fall colors in western Japan, and there is no better place to enjoy them than Kyoto. This three-hour walking tour guides you through the city’s northeast Sakyo ward without paying any entrance fees.
November 26, 2016
Awaji Island: The Birthplace Of Japan
Awaji Island is a small island off the coast of Kobe, home to about 150,000 people. For anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature and traditional Japan, this is a wonderful place to do it.
November 22, 2016
A Flower Power Event: The Bunkyo Chrysanthemum Festival
The Bunkyo Chrysanthemum Festival contains over two-thousand colorful chrysanthemum flowers, creating an overwhelming site along the shrine paths.
November 21, 2016
Kyoto Covered in Red & Yellow
Living in one of the most beautiful places in Japan, I was curious to explore the beauty of momiji (maple leaves) in Kyoto.
October 28, 2016
An Unplanned Weekend Trip to Ise Jingu and Nagoya
How did our one day trip unexpectedly turned into a two day trip? Let's find out below.
September 17, 2016
Fushimi Inari Shrine: The 1,000 Gate Shrine
Quite possibly one of Japan’s most famous shrines, Fushimi Inari lies at the base of Inari Mountain, Kyoto. You may well know of it without even knowing the name; it’s famous for it’s “Senbon Torii”, or “thousand gate” walk, which takes you to the summit of the mountain with which it shares its name. Read on to discover more about this fascinating tabernacle, and discover the history behind the beauty.
September 10, 2016
Towada Shrine: A Holy Site Deep in the Forest by the Lake
Situated by Lake Towada (十和田湖 Towadako) which holds it’s water in the crater of a dormant volcano; hidden in it’s own sanctuary is a Shinto shrine recognized as a holy place in Aomori Prefecture. Once you enter from the village and pass the Tori (gate of entrance) the path to Towada Jinja Shrine is called "Suginami", a shortened version of the word from the Edo period “Suginamiki”, which, when translated means "avenue of Cedars". The trees are tall, sturdy and magnificent!
September 6, 2016
Ema Boards: Meaning and Use
Have you ever visited a shrine or temple in Japan? If so, you may have noticed a common theme; little wooden plaques adorned with art and handwriting. But what are they? And what purpose do they serve? Say hello to the Ema board, or Japanese wishing plaque.
August 29, 2016
Kyoto Temples and Philosopher’s Walk
Usually when we hear about Kyoto, we think of a city mostly undisturbed, placid and preserved in the richest and most authentic setting of traditional Japan - and rightfully so! Many travelers usually go straight to Kinkakuji. We cannot blame them, however, on the other side of the town are a handful of other amazing temples. Nanzen-ji and Zenrin-ji are worth a mention. Take the Philosopher's Walk and get off the beaten track!
AttractionsShoppingCultureKansai
August 27, 2016
Homotsuden: The Treasure Museum of the Meiji Era
Meiji Shrine may already be on the top of anyone's “must-visit” list when visiting Tokyo. Make sure that your visit is scheduled on the weekend so as not to miss one of the highlights of this 700,00 square meter Shinto shrine located in the middle of Tokyo. Amidst all of that property, there is one part of the shrine that cannot be discarded.
August 25, 2016
Tenjin Matsuri: The Best of Osaka
With summer in Japan come a few regular certainties - the annual celebrations, parties and fireworks that come with the various summer festivals. Festivals are a big deal here in Japan, with entire city centres sometimes coming to standstill at the height of the festivities. Liam Carrigan shares his experiences from the most famous festival of Osaka, the Tenjin Matsuri!
CultureFood & DrinkEventsKansai
August 6, 2016
15 Things to Do in Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Besides getting to know more about Japan through major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, Japanese culture also can be seen from historical prefectures, such as Ishikawa Prefecture, located in Japan's central Honshu. To visit Kanazawa, capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture, is to explore the well-preserved Edo Period districts, samurai culture as well as Japanese handicrafts products and beautiful nature.
August 4, 2016
Cape Hedo: Northern Okinawan Beach of Hope
Cape Hedo is the Northernmost point of Okinawa, Japans Southernmost prefecture. It resides in the village of Kunigami Village, and overlooks both the South China sea to the West, and the Pacific ocean to the East. It’s a great vantage point for being where these two bodies of water collide in a harmony of azures and beryl.
August 4, 2016
The 5 Best Shrines, Temples in Okinawa
Immerse yourself in some local culture with this, my 5 favourite shrines and temples of Okinawa.
July 8, 2016
Top Things to Do in Tokyo
With virtually unlimited sights to choose from, we have picked out the top 15 things to do that you must experience in Tokyo!
July 2, 2016
Sun, Fun and Festivals: The Top Kansai Summer Spots
It may only be the end of June as I write this, but already, rainy season is ending, the sun is shining, the skies are blue and the beer gardens are calling to me. Yes, dear readers and friends, summer is here in Osaka.
June 27, 2016
