Among all the castles in Japan, only twelve have a castle keep from the Edo period (1603 – 1867). Furthermore, among the twelve, only five are designated national treasures. So if you are searching for the best castle to visit for your next Japan trip, consider Matsumoto City‘s symbol, Matsumoto Castle (松本城), a national treasure […]
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Fukuoka, the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of the best cities in Japan to experience unique Japanese culture and enjoy a wide range of recreational activities. The city also has abundant historical attractions and destinations with breathtaking scenery for you to discover!
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After you have your fill at Ōhara‘s landmark, Sanzen-in, you can follow the Rosen River (呂川) and enjoy a 5-minute hike to Raigō-in (来迎院). The temple, surrounded by rich nature, sits quietly at the top of a small hill. In autumn, the approach to Raigō-in will be one of the most vivid paths you will
Raigō-in: The Temple where a New Buddhist Sect Was Born Read More »
Next to Sanzen-in, Jikkō-in (実光院) is another temple with stunning garden views in Ōhara (大原). While the ground of the gardens of Jikkō-in is covered by moss, the flowers of around 150 different kinds of plants will catch your attention from spring to autumn. In winter, another highlight of Jikkō-in is the cherry tree that
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Situated at the foot of Mt. Hiei, most temples in Ōhara (大原) belong to the Tendai sect. However, Shōrin-in (勝林院) is different. While the teachings of the Tendai sect are taught at Shōrin-in, it is a temple where people chant the name of Amida Buddha, a practice of the Pureland sect. In the past, Shōrin-in
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In Ōhara, other than Sanzen-in, Jakkō-in (寂光院) is another characteristic attraction. The temple on the village’s west side has many maple trees planted in its precinct. During the fresh green and fall foliage season, the scenery in the temple attracts many tourists who are more than happy to make an effort to enjoy the masterpieces
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Just a 5-minute walk from Kyoto Ōhara’s (大原) prime attraction, Sanzen-in, is the Hōsen-in Temple (宝泉院). While the scale of Hōsen-in is smaller than Sanzen-in, think twice before giving it a pass. Because in addition to two gorgeous gardens, the temple also has a historical element that can be traced back to 1600!
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Apart from Kamikōchi, Norikura Kōgen (乗鞍高原) is another breathtaking place in Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture. The best thing about the relatively off-the-beaten-path destination is that it isn’t as crowded as Kamikōchi, and you can drive there without relying on public transport. So read on, and find out more about the charm of Norikura Kōgen!
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If you are walking towards Matsumoto Castle from Matsumoto Station, you might walk past one of Matsumoto’s most revered shrines, Yohashira Shrine (四柱神社). But before you reach the shrine, you will see some frog monuments on Nawate Street (繩手通り)!
Yohashira Shrine and the Delicious Shops in Nawate Street Read More »