Rinnoji temple Rinnoji temple is located in Nikko, a little village tucked away in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture. Not only is it a natural wonder, but it’s also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Yes, that’s right—Nikko is so special that even UNESCO couldn’t resist giving it its stamp of approval! Rinnoji […]
Hello, Espunis! Today we’re heading to one of the most spectacular places in Japan: Nikko. This little village tucked away in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture is like opening a treasure chest—full of surprises and magic. Not only is it a natural wonder, but it’s also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Yes,
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Daisho-in temple Located at the base of Mount Misen, Daisho-in is part of the Shingon sect, founded by Kobo Daishi, a significant figure in Japanese Buddhism. The temple is full of magical spots—each turn revealing something new. From the grand Kannon-do Hall to the serene Maniden Hall, there’s so much to explore. I loved wandering
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stand before that floating torii you’ve seen in countless magazines and postcards from Japan? In Miyajima, you can experience it firsthand. This enchanting island, often referred to as “Deer Island”, is the perfect place to escape the crowds and soak in its almost magical atmosphere. Itsukushima shrine
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Nara is a charming and picturesque city in Japan, ideal for a quick getaway due to its compact size and proximity to Osaka and Kyoto. As the imperial capital during medieval times, it is renowned for its numerous temples and the freely roaming sika deer. Be sure to bring your camera, as every corner of
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Todaiji temple and Nigatsudo hall Tōdai-ji Temple, known as the “Great Temple of the East”, is Nara’s most important and iconic temple. Built in 752 and rebuilt several times due to fires, it is a World Heritage Site. Despite being reduced in size by 33%, it remains the largest wooden building in the world, recently surpassed
Kofukuji temple Just a ten-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, the ancient Buddhist temple of Kofukuji is a must-see in Nara. This temple, along with other historic buildings, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 under the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara” designation. Originally built in 669, Kofukuji was moved to its current location
If you’re exploring Kyoto or nearby Osaka, don’t miss the charming town of Uji. Nestled between Kyoto and Nara, Uji is famously featured in the Tale of Genji, one of the most significant literary works in history. It’s also renowned for its green tea plantations, which have been cultivating Japan’s quintessential tea since the 12th
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Byodo-in temple Byodo-in Temple is Uji’s most popular attraction, showcasing Pure Land Buddhism architecture. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, the highlight is the Amida Hall, or the Phoenix Hall, named for the two large phoenix statues flanking it. Inside is a renowned depiction of the Amida Buddha. The image of this beautiful temple is featured on
