Kappa Bridge (河童橋) is the landmark of Kamikochi. The most important facilities in the area are located close to the bridge, including the Kamikochi Bus Terminal and visitor centers. This part of Kamikochi is almost like a transport hub that allows tourists to gain the necessary information to explore the area and rejuvenate. The suspension […]
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Planning a visit to Enoshima Island? One must-see attraction is the mysterious Enoshima Iwaya Cave (Iwaya Grotto). Carved by the waves over centuries, these historic sea caves are steeped in legend, including tales of dragons and Buddhist pilgrims. Discover why the Enoshima Iwaya Cave is a top destination on the Shonan Coast and how to
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Upon commencement of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics yacht competition, the previously hidden beauty of a small island floating on Sagami Bay was suddenly revealed to the world. A sacred religious destination, Enoshima’s history centers on the Enoshima Shrine (江島神社). Before the separation of Shintoism and Buddhism, Enoshima was the precinct of Kinkizan Yogan-ji Temple (金亀山与願寺)
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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
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Ready to find your “winning luck” in Japan? Venture beyond the buzz of Osaka’s city center to the serene, forested hills of Minoh City and discover Katsuo-ji Temple (勝尾寺), famously known as the Temple of Victory or the Daruma Temple in Osaka. This extraordinary 1,300-year-old site has a powerful history of granting success to everyone
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Nestled in a verdant river basin at the foot of the twin-peaked Mount Yufu, the charming town of Yufuin (由布院 or 湯布院) is one of Kyushu’s most beloved hot spring retreats. Unlike the bustling geysers of neighboring Beppu, Yufuin offers a tranquil, “boutique” onsen experience characterized by misty morning views of Lake Kinrinko, and the whimsical,
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If you are a big Ghibli fan, Ghibli Park Japan (ジブリパーク) is probably at the top of your bucket list. The theme park is where you can meet characters from classic Ghibli films, such as Totoro from My Neighbor Totoro and Yubaba from Spirited Away! But the problem is you can’t just turn up on
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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
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While Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is the most renowned shrine in Kawagoe, Kawagoe Kumano Shrine (川越 熊野神社) is also a shrine you won’t want to miss out on. There are various fascinating rituals and activities you can do in its precinct, such as ball-throwing for good luck and cleansing your money to bring more money your
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Whether you are a regular visitor or are discovering Minoh Park (箕面公園) in Minoh City in Osaka for the first time, the Takimichi Hiking Course (滝道ハイキングコース) should be on your itinerary. Completed in 1886, this well-maintained 2.7 km course (which takes around 40 – 50 minutes) starts at Hankyū Minoh Station (阪急箕面駅) and ends at
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