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Shizuoka
Yamanashi
On January 5, 2024, when Diamond Fuji is reflected as Upside Down Fuji on the surface of the lake, the sunlight creates two radiant rings, which is why this phenomenon is referred to as Double Diamond Fuji.
Fukui
Even in the harsh cold of winter, the monks continue their daily lives as usual, diligently practicing zazen (seated meditation) and samu (work practice). Witnessing their resilience against the cold reaffirms that Eiheiji is not merely a tourist destination, but a place of true practice. You can also see the monks shoveling snow, offering a glimpse into how their daily labor (samu) is an integral part of their training.
Tokyo
昭和34年（1959年）区画整理で遷座させた際、町名あるいはヱビスビールにあやかって兵庫県の西宮神社から事代主命（恵比寿神）を勧請してこれを合祀し、恵比寿神社に改名された。
Shiga
In the early Edo period, a flat mountain castle was built on Mount Hikone, located in present-day Kinki-cho, Hikone City, as the stronghold of the Ii clan, who were responsible for the defense of the western territories. The mountain is also known by the alternate name "Konkiseyama," which is why the castle is referred to as Konkijo. It served as the residence of the 14th generation of the Ii clan, a hereditary feudal lord known for producing many senior statesmen.
Wakayama
Founded in 816, Koyasan was established by Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi) after receiving the land from Emperor Saga as a base for training and the propagation of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Koyasan is located at an altitude of approximately 800 meters, nestled in the mountains, providing a tranquil environment ideal for practice.
Fukui
The tenshu (main keep) is characterized by its wooden construction and the use of "stone tiles" on the roof, which are unique features not found in other castles. This combination results in a structure that embodies both the functionality and beauty of a castle from the Warring States period.
Tokyo
The Northern Goshawk Living in the City
Fukui
The soba from the fields in Maruoka is incredibly delicious.
Kyoto
The Otowa Mountain Kiyomizu-dera was founded in the year 778, which is approximately 1250 years ago from modern times. As a sacred site dedicated to Kannon, the embodiment of great compassion, it has long been open to the public and cherished by a wide range of people.
Kyoto
The gardens of Buddhist temples are distinct from those in Christianity, being rooted in a Buddhist worldview. Together with the main hall and pagoda, the gardens embody this Buddhist perspective. By visiting the temple and immersing oneself in its environment, one can engage with the Buddhist world in a way that is often more compelling than sermons or teachings. The opportunity to share Zen and Zen culture with many people around the world through temple visits has led to a recognition of its value.
Kyoto
The main temple of the Rinzai sect, known as Ryuhōzan, is the head temple of the Daitoku-ji school. Founded in the 4th year of Shōwa (1315) during the late Kamakura period, it was established through the contributions of Akamatsu Enshin, the guardian of Banshū, by the Great Master Daitō Kōnshin. Later, it became a temple of imperial devotion supported by Emperor Hanazono and Emperor Go-Daigo, serving as a temple of the North and South courts. During the Muromachi period, it fell into ruin due to the Onin War, but was revitalized by the monk Ikkyū. In the Momoyama period, Toyotomi Hideyoshi held the funeral of Oda Nobunaga here, establishing Sōkōin to honor Nobunaga's soul and donating temple land, which triggered a wave of construction of sub-temples by warlords, leading to a peak in prosperity.
Nara
You can often see ancient tombs and ponds along the Yamawake Road. There are also many poems by poets, making it an enjoyable experience.
Shizuoka
Spring During the cherry blossom season, you can enjoy a stunning collaboration of Mt. Fuji and sakura. The warm daytime climate makes it easy to spend time outdoors, while the nights can still be a bit chilly, making it a perfect season for comfortable camping. Autumn In autumn, you can experience the beautiful combination of fall foliage and Mt. Fuji, especially when viewed against the clear air, the sight of Mt. Fuji is truly exceptional. Although it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, it remains an ideal time for pleasant camping.
Kanagawa
Yamanashi
The Waving of the Reed Gate (Chinowa Kuguri)
Oita
The area around the泉 (Izumi) is fantastic. Yufuin is also known for its delicious food. There are many fresh dishes made with local agricultural products, and particularly popular are the "Yufuin Burger," onsen eggs, and desserts made with locally sourced milk. Additionally, the hot spring town has many shops where you can enjoy casual street food, allowing you to experience both cuisine and sightseeing at the same time.
Kagawa
Ehime
Sajima Hachiman Shrine is the only shrine located in Sajima. In the past, Hachiman Shrine was situated in Motomiyama in the Eji district, but after it was relocated to the Honura district, it was further moved to its current location. At that time, it was part of the grounds of Itsukushima Shrine, but eventually, Hachiman Shrine became the central focus, and Itsukushima Shrine was established to the left of the main hall of Hachiman Shrine, which was reconstructed in the 4th year of the Keicho era (1599). In the ceiling of the worship hall, there is a uniquely Japanese reversed compass where the directions for the East (卯) and West (酉) are written inversely.
Fukui
Kokuryu Sake Brewery was established in 1804 (the first year of the Bunka era) in Eiheiji Town, Fukui Prefecture, and has over 200 years of history. Since its founding, the brewery has leveraged Fukui's rich natural environment and carefully selected ingredients to continue producing innovative sake while preserving traditional brewing methods.
Wakayama
Daimon (Great Gate) • Overview: This is an important gate that serves as the main entrance when entering Mount Koya. The current Daimon was rebuilt in 1705 and is a massive vermilion gate standing approximately 25 meters tall. Flanking the gate are statues of the fierce-looking Nio guardians, who protect the entire mountain. • Location: It is located on the western side of Mount Koya, leading visitors through to the central area of the mountain.
Kagoshima
Yakushima "Eternal Forest" Yakushima is located about 60 kilometers off the southern coast of Kagoshima Prefecture and is a unique island that symbolizes a miniature garden of Japanese beauty.
Kyoto
The establishment of Otowa Mountain Kiyomizu Temple dates back to 778, which is approximately 1250 years ago from the present day. Symbolizing great compassion, the temple has long been a sacred place for the Kannon deity, open to the public and cherished by a wide range of people throughout the ages.
Chiba
Inage Seaside Park is a comprehensive park located along the Tokyo Bay coastline, stretching approximately 3 kilometers and covering an area of about 83 hectares, right in front of the Kaihin New Town. Within the park, you'll find Japan's first artificial beach, "Inage no Hama," as well as the Chiba City Museum of Flowers, a swimming pool, sports facilities, and a yacht harbor, making it a place to enjoy throughout the four seasons.
Ehime
Ikojima Island, known as the "Island of Blue Lemons," is thriving in the cultivation of lemons and other citrus fruits, with shipbuilding also serving as a fundamental industry for the island. In spring, over three thousand cherry blossom trees bloom magnificently on Mount Seisen, which rises to an elevation of about 370 meters in the center of the island, making it famous as one of the leading cherry blossom spots in the country. Additionally, due to its historical significance as a vital transportation hub in the Inland Sea, the Iyo Matsuyama Domain established its island headquarters during the feudal period, contributing to a prosperous history as a key maritime focal point.
Yamanashi
The Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine has a history of over 1,900 years and is a spiritually significant shrine that serves as the entrance to the Mount Fuji climbing trail. Every year, on the eve of the opening of the climbing season, June 30, the "Fuji Mountain Opening Eve Festival" is held.
Shizuoka
Located on the border between Shizuoka Prefecture and Yamanashi Prefecture, this mountain is part of the Kenasuyama mountain range. From a distance, it appears blue and beautiful alongside the neighboring Ryugadake. The summit is covered with sasa grass, providing an unobstructed view from the top, where one can gaze at Mount Fuji.
Nara
In the past, there were two shrines associated with Otsuki: Yatoki Shrine and Kasuga Shrine. It is said that the land of Yatoki Shrine was exchanged for the three-ken mound pond in Takenouchi, located approximately 400 meters to the southeast (now the site of Juuni Shrine), and Otsuki was thus reduced to a single shrine, which was renamed Yatoki Shrine.
Fukui
Fukui
The main keep of Maruoka Castle is one of the 12 remaining keeps in Japan and is considered a very rare "existing keep." This keep maintains its original structure built from the Sengoku period through the Edo period, and it has a very high historical value.
Okinawa
The humpback whale is a mammal that can reach lengths of 13 to 15 meters and weigh approximately 30 tons. It has long pectoral fins, which are about one-third the length of its body, and the width of its tail fin is also about one-third of its body length. Additionally, the distinctive bump on its head is about the size of a fist.
Tokyo
Tokyo Tower
Kyoto
The Zen temple Ryōan-ji was founded in 1450 by Hosokawa Katsumoto, a prominent figure in the Muromachi Shogunate. It is now known worldwide for its karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden, but its fame surged after Queen Elizabeth II officially visited Ryōan-ji in 1975 and praised the rock garden. This coincided with the zen boom of that era, leading to its international breakthrough. Additionally, the exact period of creation, the designer, and the intention behind the rock garden remain uncertain, sparking various speculations about this mysterious garden. Another highlight of the premises is the Kyōyōchi pond, famous for its water lilies, which reach their peak bloom from May to July.
Tokyo
Kyoto
Founded during the Edo period, "Tawaraya Ryokan" is Japan’s top ryokan, cherished by celebrities both domestic and international. From the historic external walls and entrance approach, one can sense the remarkable aesthetic sensibility of the 11th head of the family, Mr. Toshinori Sato, evident in every detail. Here, guests can experience the ultimate in refined Japanese hospitality while being pampered by exceptional service.
Nara
Tenrikyo Church Headquarters. The South Worship Hall as seen from the front. Scattered throughout the grounds are buildings known as "Oyasato Yakata," planned to encircle the precincts. At the center, there are four buildings comprising the worship hall, the Founder’s Hall, the Hall of Ancestral Spirits, interconnected by a corridor, along with facilities related to the religious organization.
Kagoshima
Kaimondake stands at an elevation of 924 meters and is an active volcano classified as a double structure, with a cone overlaid on a broad, gently sloping base. Its well-formed summit and gentle ridgelines are beautiful, earning it the nickname "Satsuma Fuji," and it is also counted among Japan's "100 Famous Mountains." Due to the lack of surrounding mountains, its conical shape can be seen from most areas of southern Satsuma, making it a true symbol of the region.
Kanagawa
Nagano
Kanagawa
Tokyo 東京

東京

Tokyo

Kyoto 京都

京都

Kyoto

Osaka 大阪

大阪

Osaka

Hokkaido 北海道

北海道

Hokkaido

Shizuoka 静岡

静岡

Shizuoka

Aichi 愛知

愛知

Aichi

Fukui 福井

福井

Fukui

Nara 奈良

奈良

Nara

Hiroshima 広島

広島

Hiroshima

Nagasaki 長崎

長崎

Nagasaki

Okinawa 沖縄

沖縄

Okinawa

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Kyoto
Post image
Nagano
Nagano Prefecture's Sakaki is a town known for its swordsmiths, and the installation of this exhibition facility has long been anticipated. It is rooted in the legacy of the late National Living Treasure, swordsmith Yukihira Miyairi, who nurtured many swordsmiths. Japanese swords, such as those featured in "Demon Slayer" and other anime and manga, are traditional weapons that often appear in the world of these stories. They are required to possess both hardness for sharpness and softness to prevent them from breaking easily, embodying opposing qualities.
Tokyo
Kyoto
The Hōjō garden was created by Mirei Shigemori during the Shōwa era and consists of four gardens that represent the directions: north, south, east, and west. - **South Garden**: A stone garden that represents the vast ocean, with rock arrangements symbolizing islands. - **North Garden**: Features a modern design characterized by a checkerboard pattern created with moss and paving stones. - **West Garden**: Known for its unique tortoiseshell pattern made from moss, it exudes a serene atmosphere. - **East Garden**: A garden with a Shichi-Go-San pattern, marked by impressively neat and beautiful lines.
Fukui
The Takeda River is a local presence that symbolizes the climate and culture of Maruoka Town.
Nagano
Sakaki in Nagano Prefecture has long awaited the establishment of a facility dedicated to its identity as a town of swordsmiths. This facility pays homage to the late Living National Treasure, Master Kiyotaka Miiairi, who trained many swordsmiths. Japanese swords, known as nihontō, frequently appear in the worlds of anime and manga, such as in "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba." Nihontō are traditional Japanese weapons that embody a combination of qualities: they must possess hardness for sharpness yet have softness to ensure they do not easily break, thus balancing two opposing properties.
Okinawa
The humpback whale is a mammal that can reach lengths of 13 to 15 meters and weigh about 30 tons. Its pectoral fins are long, measuring about one-third of its body length, and the width of its tail fin is also approximately one-third of its body length. Additionally, the distinctive lump on its head, which is about the size of a fist, is quite unique.
Oita
Kagawa
Post image
Saitama
Tokyo
Saitama
Saitama
Kagoshima
Downstream from "Chihiro Falls," there is a small, white round rock trapped between two enormous rocks, and that is the origin of "kotodama."
Nara
The Nara Basin, surrounded by low hills, was traversed in ancient times by a road that wound from the foot of Mount Miwa, passing through Ishikami Furu, and leading to Nara, alongside the beautiful blue mountains that extend to the east.
Kyoto
Yamanashi
Mount Fuji in spring is full of charm.
Tokyo
There are adorable kingfishers here. It's Mizumoto Park in Katsushika Ward.
Kyoto
Kenninji Temple was established in the second year of the Kenin era (1202) when General Minamoto no Yoriiye donated the land to the temple, with the Zen master Eisai as its founding priest. The temple adopted its era name as its temple name and is referred to as East Mountain (Tōzan). At the time of its founding, it had two halls dedicated to Shingon and Shikan, and served as a training ground for the three teachings of Tendai, Esoteric Buddhism, and Zen, adapting to the circumstances of the time. Later, in the first year of the Shōka era (1258), the founder of Tōfukuji Temple, Enni Ben’en, entered Kenninji and restored its precincts, leading to a revival of Zen practice.
Kagawa
Nara
A shrine dedicated to Japan's oldest water deity. The tradition of offering a black horse to pray for rain and a white horse to pray for clear skies is said to be the origin of the ema (votive tablets). It is ranked among the Myojin Taisha (a title bestowed by the state upon deities believed to have particular spiritual efficacy since ancient times) and is counted as one of the Twenty-Two Shrines (shrines that received special offerings from the imperial court during significant national events or natural disasters), becoming a designated government shrine during the Meiji period.
Shizuoka
Fumotoppara is a highly popular campsite where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and refresh yourself in the great outdoors. It is a versatile location that can accommodate various camping styles, from solo camping to family camping.
Kyoto
Tokyo
Migratory birds on their way to Siberia.
Nara
This shrine enshrines Japan's oldest water deity. The practice of offering a black horse to pray for rain and a white horse to pray for clear weather originates from the Ema (votive tablets). It ranks alongside the Myojin Taisha, a title bestowed by the state upon deities known for their significant spiritual efficacy since ancient times. This shrine is also counted among the twenty-two shrines that received special offerings from the imperial court during major national events or natural disasters, and it became an official kanpei-taisha during the Meiji era.
Saitama
Kyoto
Saitama
Nagano
Saitama
Oita
Tokyo
The intersection in front of Atre has a calm atmosphere that is neither Shibuya nor Meguro.
Nara
The name "Nigatsudo" originates from the fact that the Shuni-e ceremony is held here in the second month of the lunar calendar. It is said to have been founded by the high priest Rōben's esteemed disciple, Jicchū. However, during the Shuni-e in the seventh year of the Kanbun era (1667), a fire broke out inside the hall, resulting in its destruction. The current building was reconstructed two years later. It seems that the original structure was quite small, and over time, it was expanded to accommodate the rituals of the Shuni-e ceremony.
Kanagawa
From Todoroki Athletics Stadium to Musashi Kosugi.
Kyoto
The founding of Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera was in the year 778, approximately 1,250 years ago from the present day. As a sacred site of Kannon, the symbol of great compassion, it has long been accessible to the general public and has been cherished by a wide range of people.
Wakayama
Fukui
Kyoto
Tokyo
Fukui
Ten days before the Shuni-e ceremony at Todai-ji Temple, the "Mizuk送り" ritual is held at Jingu-ji Temple in Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, in advance of the Todai-ji's Shuni-e. Water sent from Unose in Fukui Prefecture through this ritual is said to reach the Nigatsu-do hall at Todai-ji in Nara, and scooping up that water connects to the "Mizutari" ceremony.
Kanagawa
Ehime
Okinawa
Zanpa Cape features a sheer cliff rising 30 meters high, stretching for about 2 kilometers.
Nara
Yamanashi
Nara
Oita
Kyoto
The charming streets typical of Kyoto attract many tourists every day.
Kagawa
Post image
Fukui
"Takedagawa River in Maruoka Town" is the name of a river flowing through Maruoka Town in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture. The Takedagawa River flows through Maruoka Town and its surrounding areas, playing an important role in the region's history and natural environment.
Kyoto
Tokyo
Wakayama
Origin of the Temple Name: The name "Kongōbō-ji" originally referred to the entire central temple of Mount Kōya, but in 1869 (the second year of the Meiji era), the temple that became the administrative center of Mount Kōya was given the name "Kongōbō-ji."
Tokyo
Fukui
Maruoka Castle is a historic Japanese castle located in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture, and is known as one of the oldest existing tenshu (castle keep) in Japan. Due to its beautiful structure and historical significance, it has become a popular attraction visited by many tourists.
Tokyo
The Urban Living Accipiter.
Oita
Wakayama
Kyoto
Tokyo
From the top floor of the hotel, 150 meters above ground, the beautiful and ever-changing streets of Shibuya unfold before your eyes.
Fukui
Maruoka Castle holds several legends, among which the most famous is the tale of "Oshizu's Tears." During the castle’s construction, Takeda Eiji, a vassal of Ikeda Terumasa, struggled with a lack of funds. At that time, it is said that Oshizu, Eiji's wife, sacrificed herself, wishing for the castle to be completed safely. Subsequently, a legend arose that water, resembling tears, began to seep from between the castle’s stone walls.
Kyoto
Nara
Mount Miwa is a particularly well-shaped conical mountain among the Aogaki Mountains surrounding the Nara Basin. Since ancient times, it has been revered as a sacred mountain where the great deity Ōmononushi dwells. In texts such as the "Chronicles of Japan" and the "Records of Ancient Matters," it is referred to as Mimoroyama, Miwayama, and Mimorodake. Standing at a height of 467 meters, with a circumference of 16 kilometers and an area of 350 hectares, this mountain is covered with large trees such as pine, cedar, and cypress, and is esteemed as a place where the divine resides in every single tree and blade of grass.
Kagoshima
Hyogo
1. Mani-den Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the Mani-den serves as the main hall and is located at the summit, earning it the nickname "the Hieizan of the West." From the Mani-den, one can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Himeji City and the Harima Plain. 2. Great Lecture Hall The central venue for training at Enkyo-ji, the Great Lecture Hall hosts large-scale religious ceremonies and lectures. This building is also protected as an Important Cultural Property, characterized by its dignified presence.
Kyoto
Kyoto
The Zen temple Ryōan-ji was founded in 1450 by Hosokawa Katsumoto, a prominent figure in the Muromachi shogunate. Today, it is globally renowned for its rock garden, but it achieved this fame after Queen Elizabeth II officially visited Ryōan-ji in 1975 and praised the rock garden. The subsequent Zen boom helped propel its popularity worldwide. Additionally, the exact period, creator, and intent behind the construction of the rock garden remain uncertain, giving rise to various speculations about this mysterious garden. Another highlight of the premises is Kyōyōchi Pond, particularly famous for its water lilies, which bloom beautifully from May to July.
Oita
Mount Yufu, standing at an elevation of 1,583 meters in the northeastern part of Yufuin, is affectionately known as "Bungo Fuji" due to its beautiful and majestic appearance featuring twin peaks.
Hiroshima
Onomichi, renowned for its picturesque scenery facing the Seto Inland Sea.
Nara
The founding of Ishigami Jingu is uncertain, but it is recorded in the Nihon Shoki and the Kojiki, indicating that it has a very ancient history. In particular, it is closely associated with the Mononobe clan, an ancient powerful family that played a role in managing weapons and armaments.
Okayama
Ehime
Hyogo
Nagano
Ehime
Ehime
Shiga
Hikone Castle was built as a fortress for the defense of western lords, and therefore has various ingenious defensive features. The arrow slits are designed to be invisible from the outside, while the stairs are steep (with a maximum angle of 62 degrees) to allow defenders to push enemies off from above, and are also structured to enable them to kick adversaries down.
Yamanashi
Niikura Sengen Shrine
Fukui
Mikuni Port has been a thriving harbor since the Edo period, playing a particularly important role as a stop for the Kitamae-bune ships. The Kitamae-bune were merchant vessels that transported goods along the Sea of Japan coast from the Edo period to the Meiji period, and Mikuni Port was one of the major ports among them. - From this port, many merchants engaged in trade with various parts of Japan, with a lively exchange particularly of rice, sake, seafood, and marine products.
Yamanashi