Particularly after World War I (perhaps earlier and continuing even now), it was not unusual for military forces to build underground facilities. The principal reasons were doubtless concealment--their presence was harder to detect--and protection--they were harder to be destroyed by the enemy if they were detected. Examples include the facilities of France's Maginot Line, Singapore's … Continue reading War goes underground: Japan’s former Naval headquarters in Okinawa
This article introduces Bessho Onsen, an historical onsen town in Nagano Prefecture that is easily accessible from Tokyo and perfect for a weekend getaway. Stay in a ryokan and let yourself be pampered by omotenashi hospitality and lots of amazing food. (Archived article originally published by Japan Today.)
Even when I'm not in Japan I frequently find myself drawn to "things Japanese". So I felt very lucky when I realized I was going to be on the Gold Coast of Queensland, Australia during the annual Japan and Friends Day organized by the Japanese Society of the Gold Coast (held on Saturday, 23 March … Continue reading Japan to the World: A matsuri in Queensland
Jomyo-in sits between Ueno's National Museum and Yanaka Cemetery, yet it feels off the beaten track and perhaps even somewhat forgotten. A 17th century Tendai sect Buddhist temple that began its life as accommodation for monks associated with nearby Kanei-ji temple, Jomyo-in's principle claim to fame these days is the thousands of stone jizo statues … Continue reading Jizo by the thousands at Jomyo-in
I previously introduced jizo, a bodhisattva especially popular in Japan as the guardian and protector of children and travelers. Small statues of jizo can be found all over Japan. In many locations, the donors who place the statues do so as a good deed, a way to earn merit, the reward for which is manifested … Continue reading Six Jizo to watch over Edo
A bodhisattva is a would-be Buddha who, instead of attaining enlightment, chooses to remain in the world and help others. In a sense, he represents supreme optimism, compassion, and salvation. Jizo (地蔵) is one of the most popular bodhisattva in Japan, and one of the most prolific. It is unusual to visit a Buddhist site in Japan … Continue reading Jizo – the ubiquitous protector
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