Places to Visit

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Jakkō-in Temple – Ōhara’s Somewhat Sad but Gorgeous Landmark

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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Hōsen-in and Its Amazing Gardens and Blood-Stained Ceiling

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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Sanzen-in – One of the Most Stunning Hidden Gems in Kyoto

Since ancient times, Ōhara has been a tranquil affair where nobles, Shugendō practitioners, and monks retired. The quiet yet breathtaking township is ideal for those seeking a place to spend their later lives quietly. Among the many Buddhist temples in Ōhara, Sanzen-in (三千院), situated on high ground, is of the highest rank. Since the late

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Shirahone Onsen: One of the Best Onsen Resorts in Matsumoto

Surrounded by mountains, Matsumoto City has a wealth of hot spring sources. Among them, Shirahone Onsen (白骨温泉) tops the list with its picturesque natural scenery and cultural elements. Putting its somewhat scary name aside, you will surely be enchanted by the onsen town’s charm!

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Awa no Yu Ryokan: The Must-Stay Ryokan in Shirahone Onsen

Although Awa no Yu (泡の湯旅館) is located away from Shirahone Onsen‘s town center, it is the ryokan that represents hot spring town. In fact, the biggest onsen pool in Nagano Prefecture is found at Awa no Yu! The ryokan, which was opened in 1912, is known for its mixed-gender hot spring pool. But don’t worry.

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Matsumoto Museum of Art Matsumoto Nagano Japan

Matsumoto City Museum of Art: The Must-Go Spot in Matsumoto

Apart from the Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art (松本市美術館) is another primary landmark of the city. The museum dedicated to artists related to Nagano Prefecture is the best place in the world to experience the world of Yayoi Kusama, one of the world’s favorite contemporary artists, born in Matsumoto. Before you even

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The Instrument to Determine the Silkworms' Cocoons' Gender at Matsumoto City Hakari Museum Nagano Japan

A Guide to the Fascinating Museums in Matsumoto City

Matsumoto’s most valuable and perhaps most popular historical attraction is the national treasure, Matsumoto Castle. But if that is the only historical attraction on your itinerary, you might be missing out! Within 5 km of the castle, there are a couple more museums with different themes that you might want to check out when you

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Explore the Old Schools in Matsumoto, Japan’s Education Prefecture

While not existing anymore, Matsumoto City once belonged to a prefecture called Chikuma (筑摩県) between 1871 to 1876. Although the prefecture lasted less than five years, Chikuma Prefecture is known for its passion for education. In a short period of time, many schools were established with a high enrolment rate. Even after Chikuma Prefecture was

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