From ancient times, the people who lived in Beppu (別府) in Ōita Prefecture suffered from the heat generated by volcanic activities. Crops could hardly be grown on the field, causing serious food shortage problems. And because the terrifying landscapes shaped by volcanic activities are nowhere to be found elsewhere in Japan, various myths and legends […]
A Tour to the Hells of Beppu – Japan’s Scariest Onsen Town Read More »
If you are a cat lover and are after a cute cat cafe, visit Temari no Oshiro (Cat cafe てまりのおしろ) in Kichijōji Petit Mura! The cafe, home to around 20 fluffy and friendly cats, is basically a cat castle. Walking through the unusually cute door is like entering the world of cats!
Tokyo’s Most Fantastic Cat Cafe: Temari no Oshiro Read More »
Obuse (小布施) is a lovely town in Nagano Prefecture, famous for its delicious chestnuts and ukiyo-e artist, Katsushika Hokusai, from the 16th century. Apart from the super sweet chestnuts, the best thing about this town is that it isn’t filled with tourists (*’▽’). You are guaranteed that you won’t be pushed around while exploring the
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On the bridge leading to Inokashira Boathouse, you might notice a traditional building at the other end of the lake. It is the home of the Benzaiten, who gets jealous of happy couples rowing boats in Inokashira Park. The Inokashira Benzaiten Temple (井の頭弁財天) in the park’s northwest corner is serene and ideal for contemplation. The
Inokashira Benzaiten: The Must-Visit Temple in Kichijōji Read More »
If you are a Japanese history buff or love to examine Japan’s cultural properties, the temple you have to stop by when you get to Kawagoe is Kita-in (喜多院). The temple that has a deep connection with the Tokugawa clan not only houses the most cultural properties in Kawagoe, but it is also the last
Kawagoe Kita-in Temple and Its Connection With Tokugawa Clan Read More »
When you stroll around Kawagoe, you will notice a couple of the traditional confectionery shops are named Kameya (亀屋). A few centuries ago, the confectionery maker was chosen as a dedicated sweets maker for Kawagoe Domain’s lord. Even today, the family business is still prosperous. Thus, unsurprisingly, a few of the old houses and residences
Yamazaki Family’s Cultural Properties in Kawagoe Read More »
Konjō-in Hōkō-ji (金乗院 放光寺) at the top of a hill is a temple in Tokorozawa erected by the Kōbō Daishi (弘法大師). The scenery and buildings in the precinct are gorgeous. We reckon it is the best temple in the area! Not only does the temple have a scenic precinct, but you will also find Buddhist
Yamaguchi Kannon: The Best Scenic Temple in Tokorozawa City Read More »
People with a bit of knowledge of Aomori Prefecture will most likely have heard about the famous Hirosaki City. What they might not know or hear of is its sister-like city, Kuroishi (黒石市), which prospered with Hirosaki City as Hirosaki Castle’s castle town.
Kuroishi – Your Guide to Hirosaki’s Gorgeous Sister City Read More »
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine (川越氷川神社) is arguably the most famous and popular shrine in Kawagoe. The old shrine, more than 1,500 years old, is where the locals pray for marriage ties. In addition to the normal things you would do at a Japanese shrine, such as writing wishes on the back of an ema plaque, there
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine – The Must-Visit Attraction in Kawagoe Read More »
Tucked away in the scenic Sayama Hills of Tokorozawa in Saitama, Totoro Forest (トトロの森) and Kurosuke’s House offer Studio Ghibli fans a magical escape into the real-life landscape that inspired My Neighbor Totoro. Located just an hour outside of central Tokyo, this hidden gem allows you to wander through pristine nature trails and step inside a traditional Japanese home guarded
How to Visit Totoro Forest & Kurosuke’s House from Tokyo: A Complete Day Trip Guide Read More »
