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If you plan to visit Himeji in early spring, stop by Zuiganji (増位山随願寺). The oldest Tendai sect temple in the southern Hyōgo Prefecture has a plum grove. Aside from its cultural properties, you can also see the elegant Himeji Castle from the plum grove. Using a professional camera, a picture of the castle with plum […]
Zuiganji: A Hidden Gem to Adore the Plum Blossoms in Himeji Read More »
Sone Tenmangū (曽根天満宮), enshrining Sugawara no Michizane (菅原道真), was erected by his fourth son and 13 retainers after he passed away in Dazaifu, Kyushu. The spot proves that Michizane was wrongly demoted for a crime he didn’t commit. In addition to the pine that is the shrine’s symbol, around 200 plums of 40 varieties bloom
Sone Tenmangū: One of the Best Plum Blossom Spots Near Kobe Read More »
At the border between Ikeda City (池田市) and Minoo City (箕面市) is the Satsukiyama or Mt. Satsuki (五月山). The 315-meter-tall mountain is the symbol of Ikeda City. Known for its great viewpoint overlooking the Osaka Plain, many tourists would come to the summit of Satsukiyama for the night view as the lights down in the
Satsukiyama: One of Osaka’s Best Natural Destinations Read More »
Like other Tenman shrines in Japan, the Sanda Tenman Shrine (三田天満神社) has Sugawara no Michizane (菅原道真) as the main god. His favorite flower, plum blossom, is thus planted in the precinct. In fact, the 200-year-old plum isn’t just another plum on the street. The plum is called Tobi-Ume (飛び梅), the same plum as the one
A Guide to Sanda Tenman Shrine and the Plum Blossoms Read More »
While not as famous as Kobe, Awaji Island across the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge is one of the top tourist destinations in Hyōgo Prefecture. Many visit the island for the stunning scenery. It is also a historical and cultural rich part of the Kansai region. So, if Awaji Island is on your itinerary and you plan to
The Top Plum Blossom Spots on Awaji Island Read More »
If you are a history buff who loves ocean views, visit Oishi Park (生石公園) at the southeastern tip of Awaji Island. The park, located on a hill, was built from the Yura Fortress (由良要塞跡). In early spring, you can see the plum blossoms blooming on the slope leading to the sea from the Oishi Strait
Oishi Park: The Stunning Historical Spot on Awaji Island Read More »
Amagasaki is an industrial city in western Hyōgo Prefecture. While its tourist attractions are not mainstream, it is the closest city to Osaka. If you plan to stay around Osaka/Umeda Station in February, we highly recommend taking a short trip to visit the plum blossom spots in Amagasaki!
The Top Plum Blossom Spots in Amagasaki City, Next to Osaka Read More »
If you have heard about or have been to the Kumano Shrine in Wakayama Prefecture, you might wonder if Naniwa Kuamno Shrine (なにわ熊野神社) is related to the renowned Kumano Shrine. And your guess is correct! So, if you don’t have time to complete the pilgrimage, start your journey from Naniwa Kumano Shrine and get blessings
Naniwa Kumano Shrine and Its Gorgeous Plum Blossoms Read More »
Speaking of plum blossoms in Japan, many Japanese would think of Sugawara no Michizane (菅原道真). The famous scholar from the Heian period (794 – 1185) is known for his love towards plum blossoms. Therefore, most, if not all, of the Tenmangū shrines in Japan have plums planted. The Tsunashiki Tenmangū (綱敷天満宮) in Kobe isn’t an
Tsunashiki Tenmangū: The Plum Blossoms & Interesting Rituals Read More »
Many come to Japan for its cherry blossoms, but do you know plum blossoms are just as beautiful as cherry blossoms? Tatsuno City, located in the southwestern part of Hyōgo Prefecture, is home to two of Kansai region‘s best plum blossom spots. While getting there is more than just a train ride from the region’s
Hyōgo Prefecture and Tatsuno City’s Best Plum Blossom Spots Read More »
