Sightseeing

Sapporo White Illumination and Sapporo Snow Festival: Two Excellent Reasons to Visit Hokkaido in Winter!

Sapporo, the vibrant capital of Hokkaido, turns into a magical winter paradise every year with two iconic events: the Sapporo White Illumination and the Sapporo Snow Festival. These events showcase the city’s creative spirit, combining the beauty of light and snow for an unforgettable seasonal experience. Here’s your guide to enjoying both events and tips for making the most of…

Disney Christmas at Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo DisneySea’s Christmas Extravaganza: Santa, Mickey, Minnie, and Picture-Perfect Moments!

On November 15, 2024, Tokyo DisneySea, located in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, kicked off its annual highly anticipated Christmas event. The park held a special preview performance on November 14, offering an early glimpse of their spectacular Disney Christmas Greeting event. Here’s a detailed report on the event and what you can expect! Disney Christmas Greeting at Mediterranean Harbor At Tokyo…

三峯神社

Experience the Spiritual Power of Mitsumine Shrine: A Sacred Spot at 3,600 Feet in Chichibu, Saitama

Mitsumine Shrine, located in the Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture, boasts a history spanning over 1,900 years. The shrine is set within Mount Mitsumine, a sacred site that draws many visitors annually. At approximately 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) above sea level, the journey to Mitsumine Shrine involves some preparation—but the unique experience awaiting you is well worth the effort. Feel…

長谷寺

A Must-Visit in Kamakura, Peaceful Hase Temple Provides Stunning Views, Vibrant Hydrangeas and Cultural Treasures

Hase Temple (“Hasedera” in Japanese) is a beloved tourist destination in Japan, known year-round as the “Temple of Flowers.” Located in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, the area is surrounded by historic temples, serene shrines, and charming eateries. This makes it an ideal spot for combining sightseeing with relaxation. Refresh your mind and body at the nature-filled Hase Temple Upon arrival…

花園神社

A Must-Visit Spot in Shinjuku! Discover Hanazono Shrine, the Guardian of Prosperity and the Arts

Shinjuku is a lively area of Tokyo, teeming with activity day and night, and a hotspot for tourists. But did you know that within walking distance from Shinjuku Station, there’s a historic shrine waiting to be discovered? Hanazono Shrine is renowned as a place of worship for local shop owners, office workers, and even entertainers. And yet, you might be…

日枝神社

The Shrine of Good Matches: Hie Shrine and Its Iconic Red Torii Gates

Located just a 3-minute walk from Akasaka Station and Tameike-sanno Station in Tokyo, Hie Shrine is a historic site established in the Kamakura period (1185–1333). Known affectionately as “Sannō-san,” it enshrines the deity Ōyamakui no Kami. The shrine is believed to bless visitors with household safety and other good fortunes, making it a popular destination for worshippers and tourists alike….

秩父神社

A Perfect Day Trip from Tokyo: Discover The 2,000-Year Old Chichibu Shrine’s Breathtaking Carvings and Sacred Trees

Just a 90-minute journey from central Tokyo, the Chichibu area in Saitama Prefecture has become an increasingly popular destination for day trips in recent years. Chichibu Shrine is one of the most iconic spiritual and cultural landmarks of this fascinating region. The spiritual heart of the ancient Chichibu Province Chichibu Shrine was founded over 2,100 years ago, making it a…

根津神社

Tokyo’s Nezu Jinja Shrine: A Serene Sanctuary of Edo Architecture, Lush Nature and Beauty

When you visit Nezu Jinja Shrine, lush, towering trees create an atmosphere that makes it hard to believe you’re in the middle of Tokyo. This calm, serene space feels like time itself moves slower here, offering visitors a moment of peace and relaxation. Magnificent Edo-era architecture As you pass through the torii gate on the main approach leading into the…

湯島天神

Yushima Tenmangu Shrine in Tokyo: Where Students Seek Blessings and Plum Trees Bloom

Yushima Tenmangu Shrine enshrines the deification of Sugawara no Michizane, scholar and poet of the Heian period (794-1185), and deity of academics, literature, poetry, calligraphy, and the arts. It’s well-known as a place where students come to pray for success in their entrance exams. Additionally, it’s famous for its beautiful plum blossoms. Notice the plum crest in the shrine grounds…

穴守稲荷神社

Just by Haneda Airport: Visit Anamori Inari Shrine for Travel Safety

The Anamori Inari Jinja Shrine, located near Haneda Airport, is said to offer blessings for safe air travel and journeys. The nearest station is Anamori-Inari Station, just three stops away from Keikyū Airport Line’s Haneda Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Station, making it a convenient spot to visit during your travels. The shrine is known for offering various blessings,…

鬼子母神

Discover a Serene Temple Near Ikebukuro, Zōshigayakishimojindō, Dedicated to Family and Protection

In the midst of a quiet residential neighborhood, there is a scene that looks as though time has stood still. Deep within the grounds of a temple, surrounded by lush greenery, stands a solid and majestic hall. This is Zōshigayakishimojindō, a Buddhist temple dedicated to the deity of safe childbirth and childrearing. You may find the scene familiar, as it…

Japan’s Ashikaga Flower Park: Home to World-Famous Wisteria, Dazzling Illuminations, and Unmissable Photo Opportunities

Ashikaga Flower Park is one of Japan’s most celebrated floral destinations, gaining worldwide attention for its breathtaking beauty. At the heart of this park lies the iconic wisteria flowers, which continue to captivate visitors from around the globe. The expansive wisteria trellises and tunnels are must-see attractions, offering an unparalleled visual spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. The wisteria experience…

小田原城の写真

Breathtaking Views from the Odawara Castle Keep! The Only Castle Keep in the Kanto Region

Odawara Castle, one of Kanagawa Prefecture’s top tourist attractions, is believed to have been constructed in the mid-15th century. It is famous as the stronghold of the Hōjō clan, who ruled the Kanto region. Although much of the original structure was destroyed by earthquakes and other disasters, the castle keep was reconstructed in 1960, with additional buildings respectively restored in…

阿佐ヶ谷神明宮の写真

Boost Your Fortune With a Lace Bracelet at Asagaya Shinmeigu Shrine

In Japan, it’s believed that there are many gods, a concept captured in the phrase yaoyorozu no kami, literally meaning “eight million gods.” Among these, however, the goddess of the sun, Amaterasu Ōmikami, is considered the supreme deity. One notable place where Amaterasu Omikami is enshrined is Asagaya Shinmeigu Shrine, in the Asagaya neighborhood of Tokyo. The shrine is known…