When visiting Sendai, a must-see shrine is Osaki Hachimangu Shrine (大崎八幡宮). It is the only place in the Tohōku region that houses a National Treasure. The shrine was erected in 1607 as the guardian shrine of Sendai and carries Date Masamune’s (伊達政宗, the first lord of Sendai Domain) hope of bringing happiness to his subjects. […]
Ōsaki Hachimangū: The Magnificent Guardian Shrine of Sendai Read More »
Buried deep in the mountain, whether it is in Sendai City or within the Miyagi Prefecture, Jogi Nyorai Saihoji Temple (定義如来 西方寺) is one of the top tourist attractions. It is no wonder Hanyu Yuzuru and his family were willing to visit the temple regularly. The temple, located in the west of Sendai City, can
Saihōji – One of Hanyu Yuzuru’s Favorite Spots in Sendai Read More »
If you are a big fan of Japanese gardens, you would be interested in stopping at Rinnō-ji Temple (輪王寺) when you visit Sendai. It is where you will find the city’s best garden! In addition, the temple holds free meditation sessions on Saturday nights. Moreover, it is probably the only temple in the world that
Rinnoji: The Temple that Houses Sendai’s Best Garden Read More »
If you ever get a chance to head up to the observatory area at Sendai’s SS30‘s top floor on a clear day, you should see the white Kannon Buddha statue sticking out of a residential area. The Sendai Daikannon (仙台大観音) is the second-tallest Buddha statue in Japan (the tallest is the Ushiku Buddha (牛久大仏) in
Sendai Daikannon – Explore Japan’s Tallest Kannon Statue Read More »
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
Enoshima Iwaya Cave Guide: History & Must-See Japan Grotto Read More »
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)
The Complete Guide to Enoshima Shrine Read More »
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
The Best Guide to Mt. Hiei: Enryaku-ji and Mount Hiei Hike Read More »
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
Katsuo-ji: The Daruma Temple in Osaka to Pray for Victory Read More »
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
The Ultimate Guide to Kawagoe Kumano Shrine Read More »
Besides the Kurama-dera Temple, Kifune Shrine (貴船神社) is another must-visit spot in the Kurama and Kibune area. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the shrine is extra stunning with the foliage’s vivid colors. During this part of the year, nighttime illumination creates a mysterious atmosphere. In winter, the shrine gives a different impression when covered
Kifune Shrine: The Scenic Shrine and the Origin of the Ema Plaque Read More »