Located on the outskirts of the former post town of Ouchijuku near the Aizu Nishi Kaido trade route, the Takaura Shrine is a gorgeous little shrine dedicated to Prince Mochihito who died in June 1180. Near the beginning of the Genpei War (1180–1185) during the Uji battle [...]
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For those who've been interested in traveling to Japan, Nikko needs no introduction. Famous for its magnificent waterfall and many temples, Nikko is definitely a place to visit when in Japan. Less popular yet really worth experiencing is Nikko’s amazing National Park, especially in winter or autumn. [...]
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Located just an hour away from Mt Fuji in Yamanashi prefecture, Minobusan Kuonji Temple is the head temple of the Nichiren Shu sect of Buddhism. The temple was founded in 1275 during the Kamakura period which saw a series of epidemics and natural disasters. [...]
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Kyorinbo Temple (Shiga) is said to have been built by Crown Prince Shotoku in 605 and named as such for being originally a place of teaching ("Kyo") surrounded by a forest ("Rin"). Featuring gorgeous moss-covered stones lined-up all over its garden, Kyorinbo temple is reminiscent of the famous Japanese artist [...]
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Hyakusaiji Temple is the oldest temple in Shiga. It was erected in 606 in what used to be the town of Omi. Omi merged into the expanded city of Maibara in 2005. Portuguese missionary Luís Fróis called Hyakusiji, “Heaven on Earth” when he visited Japan in 1563. [...]
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Tarobogu is a picturesque shrine located about halfway up the 350m high Mt. Akagamiyama in Shiga prefecture. Tarobogu is known by the nickname "Tarobo-san" in Japanese. Said to have been founded around 1,400 years ago, it is connected to warding off disaster and bringing good luck and success in business. [...]
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Known now as Ama or “sea-women”, these ladies have been recognized for their importance in the development of Japan after the Mikimoto Kokichi discovery and unique production of cultured pearls in 1983. [...]
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Donkaiin temple is part of Kongosho-ji which is located on top of Mount Asama, Mie’s highest mountain. Built-in 825 by Kobo Daishi (774~835) who was a Buddhist saint and founder of the Shingon or “True Word” school of Buddhism. [...]
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Having been around since the beginning of the Kamakura period (1192 - 1333) Saimyoji represents beautiful examples of architecture from that time featuring a nail-free structure. Saimyoji is also Japan’s first National Treasure! The temple includes a stunning approach of over 1,000 maple trees and a gorgeous three-tiered pagoda. [...]
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The State Guest House Akasaka Palace was originally built in 1909 as the Imperial Palace for the Crown Prince Togu Gosho. In 1974 the State Guest House Akasaka Palace was designated by the Government of Japan as an official accommodation for visiting state dignitaries. [...]
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On many occasions, we’ve covered the beautiful private garden that is Happo-En that is located in the center of Tokyo. But today’s video of Happo-en is a bit different. Every night from November 1st to December 15th, you will be able to enjoy a beautiful illumination [...]
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Located near Meoto Iwa in Ise Shima (Mie), Hinjitsukan is a former guesthouse built-in 1887. Originally constructed to host the most important guests of the time such as members of the Imperial family. Primarily made of wood, Hinjitsukan was built in a record time of just three months. [...]
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