Saio Festival in Mie
May 30, 2022 By Bert Wishart
From Elsa to Cinderella to Snow White, princesses are held in extremely high regard in Japanese culture. But it isn't just your common-or-garden Disney princess that enraptures the attention of the Japanese public; the adoration of Princess Aiko, and the furor surrounding the marriage to a commoner of Princess Mako,...[ Click to read more ]
The Highlights of Suma Temple in Kobe
May 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus
A highlight of Kobe (and, in fact, Kansai as a whole) is Suma Temple. Dating back to 886, it is the main temple of the Sumadera branch of the Shingon Buddhists. The great thing about Suma Temple is the grounds, which feature many interesting statues and other highlights. There are...[ Click to read more ]
Must See Shrines and Temples of Tokyo
Apr 25, 2022 By Michael Stigall
Many of Japan’s most famous shrines and temples are in the old capital of Kyoto. While not as historic as the city it replaced as the nation’s political, social, and economic base, Tokyo still has plenty of beautiful and important shrines and temples – hundreds even. Below is a selection...[ Click to read more ]
The Worst Tourist Traps in Japan
Mar 24, 2022 By Justin Hanus
There are plenty of wonderful places to visit all over Japan, but many tourists go to just a few of the same spots. This results in these destinations becoming overcrowded — and decreases enjoyment. Besides, hot spots are not always the most interesting or unique. To make the most of...[ Click to read more ]
Getting Away in Japan: Tottori
Feb 28, 2022 By Bert Wishart
On the Sea of Japan, Tottori Prefecture is something of an anomaly in that it abounds with natural beauty, is steeped in history, has some exquisite food, but somehow manages to remain off the radar for many tourists. All of which adds up to it being a perfect place to...[ Click to read more ]
Setsubun Festivals in Nagoya 2022
Jan 25, 2022 By Ray Proper
Setsubun, or "That Bean-Throwing Festival," celebrates the beginning of spring in Japan. Celebrated yearly on February 3 as part of the Spring Festival, its association with the Lunar New Year makes this festival a sort of New Year's Eve. A special ritual accompanies this association to cleanse away the evil...[ Click to read more ]
Hatsumode in Tokyo – Shrines to Visit for New Years
Dec 24, 2021 By Bert Wishart
In Japan, celebrating New Year is all about 'firsts.' Perhaps the most important 'first' is the first trip to a shrine, a tradition called hatsumode. While this visit can happen at any time, usually over the first three days of the year, the most dramatic time will be at midnight...[ Click to read more ]
Visit UNESCO Sites Galore and More in Historical Shingu
Nov 30, 2021 By Bert Wishart
Some people travel around the world to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Some people will never visit one in their entire life. But with a single trip to Shingu in Wakayama Prefecture, you can be surrounded by them all day! About Shingu Situated near the southern tip of the Kii...[ Click to read more ]
Daisho-In Temple: The Alternative to Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima
Nov 29, 2021 By Michael Stigall
While it may not be as famous or frequently photographed as Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-In Temple on Miyajima is just as beautiful and absolutely worthy of a visit. It’s so beautiful that when I go to Miyajima, I skip Itsukushima (and the crowds!) and head straight for Daisho-In. Unlike shrines, which...[ Click to read more ]
Let’s Tour: Kamakura
Oct 19, 2021 By Jason Gatewood
Despite being one of the most densely populated parts of the world, containing the capital city and Japan's most significant urban area, Greater Tokyo is historically newer than many places in the country. It wasn't until the 1600s during the Edo Period that the area, then called Edo, became important;...[ Click to read more ]
