One of the best temples to visit in Kōka is Daichi-ji (大池寺). The temple erected by Gyōki (行基) has a gorgeous garden and a torii gate almost submerged in a lake! It is quietly tucked in Shiga Prefecture‘s countryside. Not known by many people, it is a great spot to visit if you are after […]
Daichi-ji Temple: The Hidden Picturesque Gem Close to Kyoto Read More »
There is something magical about cherry blossoms. It is probably the alluring scenery created by millions of tiny white or pink flowers or the spirit behind the tradition of hanami that has existed for centuries. Whatever it is, there are many reasons why it is a great idea to visit Japan around the season.
Okayama Prefecture’s Hidden Cherry Blossom Destinations Read More »
At the west shore of Lake Biwa on the Hira Mountain Range (比良山系), the Biwako Valley (びわ湖バレイ), situated at an elevation of 1,100 meters, is a famous ski resort in Kansai. From spring to autumn, it is also a well-known mountain resort. In addition, in July 2016, a long-waited observatory called Biwako Terrace (びわ湖テラス) was
Biwako Valley: The Best Place to Adore Lake Biwa Read More »
Amongst all the Satobō (residence of retired monks) in Sakamoto, the Former Chikurin-in (旧竹林院) is probably the most famous. Not only is it known to be one of the highest-rank temples in Enryakuji, but its garden was also designated the National Place of Scenery Beauty in 1998. Nowadays, this garden is known as a spot
Former Chikurin-in Temple and the Stunning Garden Reflection Read More »
If you fancy yourself a bread connoisseur, you must give Fukukuru Woodfire Bakery (薪窯パンふくくる) in Kameoka a try! Although it is a little far from Kameoka Station, the bread is very flavorful and delicious. The little store in an old folk house has a relaxing atmosphere. The couple who run the bakery are very nice
Fukukuru:The Hidden Wood-Fired Bakery in Kameoka, Kyoto Read More »
Because Kameoka City (亀岡市) is situated in a basin, it is usually covered by a thick fog in the morning from late autumn to early spring. The locals refer to the fog in Kameoka as Tamba Fog (丹波霧), and the fantastic sea of clouds scenery earned Kameoka the title of “The City of Fog” (霧の都)!
Kameoka Fog Terrace: Kyoto’s Best Spot to See Adore Sea of Clouds Read More »
If you are already bored with ordinary temples and shrines in Kyoto, you might still want to check out Anao-ji Temple (穴太寺) when you visit Kameoka. The Buddha is covered in a Japanese futon! Known as the 21st temple in The 33 Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, Anao-ji, boasting a history of more than 1,300 years, is
Anao-ji: The Temple Where a Buddha Is Lying In Bed Read More »
Okususobana Valley (奥裾花渓谷) is one of the most scenic spots in Nagano. Located in Kinasa Village‘s north, the picturesque valley was chosen to be one of the 100 Landscapes of Japan. Especially in October, when the 5 km valley is decorated with vivid fall color, it receives numerous visitors for the masterpiece created by mother
Okususobana Valley – One of the Most Stunning Places in Nagano Read More »
Kyotamba is a quiet town in the central part of Kyoto Prefecture with abundant nature. With large temperature differences between daytime and nighttime, the town is renowned for its black beans and chestnut production. When the part of Kyoto Jūkan Expressway (京都縦貫自動車道) was finally completed for the Kyotamba section, the town became one of the
Kyotamba – The Black Beans, the Chestnuts and the Sceneries Read More »
Takashima City (高島市), northwest of Shiga Prefecture, is a trove of photogenic spots. There is a torii gate standing in the ocean-like Lake Biwa, a 4 km long cherry blossom road, a garden full of lilies covering a part of a mountain, and much more! The city is less than a 45-minute train ride from
Takashima City – Shiga’s Trove of Photogenic Spots Read More »
