Japanese shrines, known as Jinja are an integral part of the country’s culture and history. These sacred places offer a glimpse into the rich religious traditions of Japan, as well as the architectural and artistic styles that have developed over…
Buddhism is one of the major religions in Japan, with a rich history that dates back to the 6th century. It is believed that the religion was introduced to Japan from China and Korea, and has since developed into a…
Tea Ceremony, also known as Chanoyu or Sado, is a traditional Japanese art that involves the ceremonial preparation and presentation of matcha, a powdered green tea. The ceremony is a highly ritualized and meditative practice that has been passed down…
Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries. It is made from shade-grown tea leaves that are ground into a fine powder, resulting in a vibrant green tea with a distinctive taste…
Daigoji Temple is a magnificent Shingon Buddhist temple in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Japan, with its origins dating back to the early Heian period. The temple is dedicated to Yakushi,…
The Fushimi Sake District is a charming, traditional sake brewing district in southern Kyoto known for its nearly 40 sake breweries. The district is revered for the clean, soft water that flows in abundance from the river’s underground springs, which…
Toji Temple is a World Heritage Site in the Minami-ku ward of Kyoto, Japan. It is a significant cultural and religious landmark that has been standing for over a thousand years. The temple was founded in 796 and was one…
Fushimi Inari Shrine, in southern Kyoto, is an important Shinto shrine that attracts millions of visitors every year. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create a striking visual display and lead into the forested…
Japanese castles, also known as “shiro,” are an iconic symbol of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. These castles were built during the feudal period, which lasted from the 12th to the 19th century. They served as fortresses for samurais, powerful feudal…
Gyuto knives are a type of Japanese kitchen knife that have become increasingly popular in recent years. These knives are known for their precision and versatility, making them a favorite among professional chefs and home cooks alike. The word “gyuto”…
Jidai Matsuri is a traditional Japanese festival that takes place annually on October 22nd in Kyoto, Japan. It is one of Kyoto’s three biggest festivals, along with Aoi Matsuri in May and Gion Matsuri in July. The festival is also…
Aoi Matsuri is one of the most famous festivals in Kyoto, Japan. It is a celebration of piety and purification from Japan’s ancient history, still carried out at Kyoto’s Kamo shrines today. The festival celebrates the two Kamo shrines of…
The Gion Matsuri is one of the most famous and largest festivals in Japan, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The festival takes place over the entire month of July, with many different events happening throughout the city. One of…
If you’re traveling in Japan and want to experience a lesser-known district with lots to offer, Ehime Prefecture is a great place to start. Located on the island of Shikoku, Ehime Prefecture is surrounded by nature and offers great views…
Kurama is a small town in the northern mountains of Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, hot springs, and its famous Kurama Temple. The town is easily accessible from Kyoto by train, making it a popular…
Eizan Railway is a railway company in Japan that operates in Kyoto. It is a private railway company that has been in operation since 1925. Eizan Railway is known for its scenic routes and is a popular tourist attraction in…
Kifune Shrine is a beautiful and historic Shinto shrine located in the mountains of Kyoto, Japan. The shrine is dedicated to the god of water and rain, and is said to have been founded over 1,600 years ago. It is…
Kibune is a small town in the northern mountains of Kyoto City. The town is known for its beautiful scenery, lush forests, and Kifune Shrine. According to legend, a goddess traveled in a boat from Osaka all the way up…
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto’s city center, Ninnaji Temple could be just what the doctor ordered. Located in the northwest part of the city, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a…
Japan is a country that is steeped in tradition and history, and it is home to an incredible array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites are recognized for their cultural or natural significance, and they offer visitors a glimpse…
Miyamoto Musashi was a legendary Japanese swordsman who is widely regarded as one of the greatest samurai warriors of all time. Born in 1584, Musashi was a skilled swordsman from a young age, and he went on to become a…
Sakura, also known as cherry blossoms, is a beloved symbol of Japan and has become increasingly popular around the world. These delicate pink and white flowers are a stunning sight to behold and are often associated with the arrival of…
Prince Shōtoku was a legendary figure in Japanese history, known for his contributions to the development of Buddhism in Japan and his role in establishing a centralized government. Born in 574 CE, Shōtoku was a member of the powerful Soga…
Lafcadio Hearn was a writer of Greek-Irish origin who is best known for his writings about Japan. He was born on June 27, 1850, on the Greek island of Lefkada, and spent his early years in Ireland. In 1869, he…
Japanese craft beer has been steadily gaining popularity in recent years, both domestically and internationally. While Japan is often associated with its traditional rice-based alcoholic beverage, sake, the country has a growing craft beer scene that is making a name…
Okochi Sanso Garden is a stunning Japanese garden in Arashiyama, Kyoto. It is a private house composed of a villa and a Japanese garden, and it is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places to visit in Kyoto. The…