South of Kanzeon-ji‘s grounds, you will find a temple called Kaidanin (戒壇院). It was originally a sub-temple of Kanzeon-ji when it was erected in 761 as a designated place for monks to receive Buddhist precepts. Apparently, the ceremony of passing down Buddhist precepts at Kaidanin had continued until 1554. In ancient Japan, there were only […]
Kaidanin: A Quaint Temple and the 1,000 Years Old Statue Read More »
If you are after a spot in Dazaifu that isn’t flooded with tourists, Kanzeon-ji (観世音寺), west of Dazaifu Station, is an ideal place to visit. In addition to the spectacular scenery at the Remains of Dazaifu Government Office (太宰府政庁跡), you will definitely be impressed by the Buddha statues over 5 meters tall! Moreover, there are
Kanzeon-ji: A Hidden Gem in Dazaifu and the Gigantic Statues Read More »
If you are an anime fan, Demon Slayer is probably one of your favorite anime. The spot for you to visit in Dazaifu is Kamado Shrine (宝満宮 竈門神社). Starting from the shrine’s name, it has many connections to the popular anime. The shrine is also a popular spot to pray for good relationships. Moreover, Kamado
Kamado Shrine: A Scenic Spot for Demon Slayer Pilgrimage Read More »
If you want to visit a shrine in Yanagawa, Mihashira Shrine (三柱神社), located on the northern outskirts of Yanagawa Station, is a good choice. Not only is the shrine a religious and historical spot, but a large part of its precinct has been turned into Takahatake Park (高畑公園). It is now a popular destination for
Mihashira Shrine: A Scenic Shrine That Excites History Buff Read More »
Although situated in Jiyūgaoka‘s bustling area, Kumano Shrine (自由が丘 熊野神社) manages to retain its quiet and solemn atmosphere. The historic shrine is said to have been founded before the 12th century. Despite the rapid urbanization, the shrine maintains its lush grounds.
Jiyūgaoka Kumano Shrine: An Ancient Spot Worth Visiting Read More »
In addition to the beckoning cat temple, Gōtokuji, there is another temple in Tokyo that is secluded from the capital’s hustle and bustle. Located west of Jiyūgaoka, Kuhonbutsu Jōshin-ji (九品仏淨眞寺) is an ancient temple with an enchanting dry landscape garden. It is a spot in the urban jungle that will make you feel like you
Kuhonbutsu Jōshin-ji Temple: The Hidden Gem in Tokyo Read More »
The city of Ōtsu has many stunning scenery and one of them is at the northern Ōtsu close to Biwako Bridge (琵琶湖大橋). The view of the worship hall of Mangetsu-ji Temple Ukimi-dō (満月寺 浮御堂) sticking out of Lake Biwa is one of the Eight Views of Ōmi (近江八景). Because of its fame, it is a
Mangetsu-ji Temple Ukimi-dō and the Eight Views of Ōmi Read More »
Saitō (西塔) is a quiet place deep in Mt. Hiei in beautiful cedar forests in the west founded by Enchō (円澄), also known as Jikukō Daishi (寂光大師). While the number of attractions here isn’t as many as in the Tōdō area, we loved our visit to Saitō. It wasn’t as busy as Tōdō. The atmosphere here
The Ultimate Guide to Mt. Hiei Enryakuji Temple’s Saitō Area Read More »
If you have read our Kinosaki Onsen article, do you remember our history talk about the monk, Dōchi Shōnin (道智上人), who uncovered the spring source of the hot spring town? The story continues and is the origin of Onsenji Temple (温泉寺) at Mt. Daishi. In the past, those who visited Kinosaki for the hot spring
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At the south of Japan’s largest lake, Lake Biwa, three temples were erected in the early 8th century. Each has a worship hall designated as a National Treasure in its precinct. Together, the three Tendai sect temples have been known as the ‘Konan Sanzan (湖南三山)’ since 2005. But nowadays, instead of the national treasures, what
Konan Sanzan – The Three Most Scenic Temples South of Lake Biwa Read More »