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Vegetarian's Japan Guide

Kobe’s Plum Blossom Spots

Tsunashiki Tenmangu Plum Blossoms Kobe Hyogo Japan

Tsunashiki Tenmangū: The Plum Blossoms & Interesting Rituals

Speaking of plum blossoms in Japan, many Japanese would think of Sugawara no Michizane (菅原道真). The famous scholar from the Heian period (794 – 1185) is known for his love towards the plum blossoms. So, most, if not all, of the Tenmangū shrines in Japan have plums planted. The Tsunashiki Tenmangū (綱敷天満宮) in Kobe isn’t […]

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Nakayama-dera-Five-Story-Pagoda-Takarazuka-Hyogo-Japan

Nakayama-dera: The Safe Delivery Rituals & Stunning Flowers

Close to Kobe in Takarazuka City, Nakayama-dera (中山寺) is a well-known plum blossom spot in the region. The temple has long been known for granting child-related prayers, including safe delivery. So, it was worshipped and supported by the imperial family and power samurais, such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Escalators and elevators are in the temple, making it

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Cherry Blossoms at Sumaura Sanjo Yūen Park Kobe Hyogo Japan

Sumaura Sanjō Yūen Park and the Plum and Cherry Blossoms

Away from Kobe‘s city center, the Sumaura Sanjō Yūen Park (須磨浦山上遊園) is a scenic amusement park on the slopes of Mt. Tekkai (鉄拐山) and Mt. Hatsubushi (鉢伏山) overlooking Awaji Island (淡路島) and Akashi-Kaikyō Bridge (明石海峡大橋). Once a battlefield for the Battle of Yashima (屋島の戦い) back in 1185, this park is now a famous place to

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