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 […]
Itsukushima shrine At the heart of Miyajima is Itsukushima shrine, the island’s main attraction. The island is officially named Itsukushima, but it’s commonly called Miyajima, meaning “shrine island”. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a symbol of Japan since 1996, and its serene beauty is enhanced by the friendly wild deer that roam the
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
Miyajima: Japan’s magical island and its iconic floating torii Read More »
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
Nara: Japan’s ancient capital and its friendly deer Read More »
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
Kasuga Taisha shrine One of the most iconic places in Nara is Kasuga Taisha Shrine, also known as the “Lantern Shrine”. Dedicated to the city’s patron deity, this Shinto shrine is famous for its history, architecture, and the thousands of bronze and stone lanterns that decorate the grounds. Built in 768, Kasuga Taisha Shrine used
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
Uji: the heart of Japanese green tea culture Read More »
Ujigami shrine A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ujigami Shrine, is considered Japan’s oldest shrine, believed to have been built around 1060. The main hall follows the nagare-zukuri architectural style with an asymmetrical curved roof. One highlight is the Kiriharasui Well, one of the oldest water sources in the country. Access Just 20 km from Kyoto, the easiest way to get to Uji is
