One Week in Osaka: A 7-Day Itinerary [Travel Guide]
Osaka
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Buddhism
Nara: Japan’s ancient capital and its friendly deer
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
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
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
Uji: the heart of Japanese green tea culture
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
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
Kyoto itinerary: A 7-Day Travel Guide
Kyoto, what an incredible city! Among its narrow streets and lush nature, history comes alive, taking you back in time. With over 2000 temples, palaces, and gardens, every corner of Kyoto whispers secrets of the past. Remarkably, unlike many other Japanese cities, Kyoto emerged virtually unscathed from the horrors of World War II. This fortunate
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Kinkakuji Temple: Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion
Would you like to visit Kinkakuji Temple, one of Japan’s most beautiful and iconic sites? Are you curious about the temple’s history and the symbolism behind its shimmering appearance in the sunlight? Our article covers all you need to know about this magnificent place—from its origins and evolution to the best times for a visit.
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Kappa: the Japanese water demon
Are you a fan of horror stories? Have you ever delved into the lore of the kappa, the mystical aquatic creatures from Japanese folklore? Interestingly, these beings possess an unusual weakness that renders them harmless. Join us in this post as we uncover everything about the origins, characteristics, and legends surrounding them. Keep reading if
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Kinkakuji
Kinkakuji temple Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, stands as one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites. Originally constructed in 1397 as a retreat for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, a profound patron of art and culture, it was later transformed into a Zen temple of the Rinzai school by his son, honoring his father’s