The Sakamoto Area (坂本) in Ōtsu City in Shiga Prefecture is located at the foot of Mt. Hiei. In the good old days, this is where the monks of Mt. Hiei’s Enryakuji lived after they were put out to pasture following their “retirement”. Shaped by all the Satobō (里坊), which are the temples/residences of the […]
Sakamoto – The Town that Thrived at the Foot of Mt. Hiei Read More »
When lunchtime approaches, it is time to finish exploring the temple or shrine in Sakamoto you are in and to find a restaurant. As a town in the countryside, Sakamoto has no vegan-friendly restaurants. The closest place to enjoy a vegan meal is the Enryakuji Kaikan in Mt. Hiei. But if you don’t mind bringing
Honke Tsuruki Soba: Sakamoto’s Most Famous Soba Restaurant Read More »
Just like any other Toshogū shrines in Japan, Hiyoshi Toshogū (日吉東照宮) is a shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined. A Tōshōgū was built here in 1634 because the monk Tenkai (天海), who glorified him as Tōshō Daigongen (東照大権現), is based at Sakamoto.
The Best Guide to Hiyoshi Tōshōgū Shrine in Sakamoto Read More »
Whether you are a traveler seeking a peaceful escape from the crowds of Kyoto or a history buff eager to explore Japan’s feudal past, Shiga Prefecture offers a treasure trove of experiences centered around the majestic Lake Biwa. As Japan’s largest freshwater lake, Biwako provides a stunning backdrop for everything from the iconic floating torii
11 Best Things to Do in Shiga, Japan’s Hidden Gem Near Kyoto Read More »
Although famed for the beautiful cherry blossom scenery, many places in Shiga Prefecture are worth visiting in autumn. So, if you find yourself at a loose end during the fall in Shiga, head down to these spots to experience the astonishing natural wonder of these secret places!
The Best Fall Foliage Destinations in Shiga Prefecture Read More »
Mt. Hiei or Hieizan (比叡山), a mountain lying on the border between Kyoto and Shiga Prefectures, is considered one of the Three Holiest Places in Japan together with Kōyasan (高野山) and Mt. Osore (恐山). The worship halls and pagodas of the World Heritage Enryakuji Temple (延暦寺) are scattered throughout the mountain. The temple, which is
The Best Guide to Mt. Hiei: Enryaku-ji and Mount Hiei Hike Read More »
Karuizawa‘s natural spots aren’t just about waterfalls and lakes. Driving up the Usui Pass, there is a park close to the summit at 1,200m. The Usui Pass Observation Platform (碓氷峠見晴台) in the park is one of our favorite places to visit in Karuizawa. The observation platform offers a spectacular panoramic view of the ragged mountain
The Best Guide to the Usui Pass Observation Platform Read More »
Japan’s Kansai region is best known for attractions such as the USJ, Osaka Castle, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kinkaku-ji. While these spots are surely stunning in the fall, the areas are now considered overcrowded and touristy. So if you are planning your second or even third visit to Osaka and Kyoto, how about venturing out of the
Japan 2 Week Itinerary: Explore Kansai’s Less-Visited Spots Read More »
If you are planning your next trip to Japan’s Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, and Shiga), you might be confused about the best transportation passes to use. After all, with so many train and bus companies in the region offering various passes, choosing the right one for your trip can be a hard task!
The Most Useful Kansai Travel Passes Read More »
Among the popular tourist destinations near Fukuoka City, Dazaifu tops the list. The city that is filled with cultural and historical spots is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle in the big city. Speaking of Dazaifu, Dazaifu Tenman-gū is a spot in the city that shouldn’t be missed. Besides being
Dazaifu: A Fascinating City Where History and Culture Blend Read More »
