This article in Japan Today introduces Shokoji, a hilltop temple near Toyama Bay. The temple is a fascinating example of Edo Period architecture (Archived article published in Japan Today).
Sea goddesses and ancient rituals thrive at Munakata Grand Shrine
This article in Japan Today describes Munakata Taisha, an ancient shrine with three locations to house three sea goddesses. The locations themselves contain fascinating history, which is celebrated in an annual festival taking place October 1-3 (Archived article published in Japan Today.)
The Centenary of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel
One hundred years ago, on September 1, 1923, Tokyo was hit by a M7.9 earthquake that badly damaged the city. Because the quake struck just as mid-day meals were being prepared across the city, fires broke out across the city causing even further (some say even more serious) damage. Altogether, between 100,000 and 150,000 lives … Continue reading The Centenary of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel
Mojiko: Forgotten gateway or fascinating backwater
This article in Japan Today introduces the port of Mojiko at the top of Kyushu, a maritime "crossroads" with all kinds of interesting history to explore. (Archived article published in Japan Today.)
A Japanese Corner in Southeast Queensland
The Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mt. Coot-tha are 56-hectares of lush woodland, ponds and examples of the flora of Queensland and from around the world. Not far from the entrance, in a pleasant little hollow, is an unexpected surprise: a small Japanese garden. Like many Japanese gardens, once visitors step through the gate the central … Continue reading A Japanese Corner in Southeast Queensland
Leafing through Kanazawa’s golden legacy
This article in Japan Today outlines the history and craftsmanship of gold leaf, 99% of which is produced in Kanazawa. (Archived article published in Japan Today.)
Staying on Top: Izu Panorama Park
The heat and humidity of the Japanese summer leaves many people looking for a bit of elevation to catch whatever cooling breeze might be available. For people in the Kanto region, one such pleasant respite can be found in a few hours spent at Izu Panorama Park. The park sits atop Mt. Katsuragi at the … Continue reading Staying on Top: Izu Panorama Park
Ogasawara: An amazing island getaway…without leaving Tokyo
This article in Japan Today introduces a World Natural Heritage site that is one of the most remote spots in Japan, but technically a part of Tokyo. (Archived article published in Japan Today.)
Yoyogi Hachiman Shrine: sacred hilltop with prehistoric roots
Yoyogi Hachiman Shrine sits on a small wooded hill next to Yamate-dori, one of Tokyo's famed ring roads, just a short walk from Yoyogi Park and an even shorter walk from the shrine's namesake train station on the Odakyu Line. The shrine was founded in 1212, dedicated to Hachiman, a deification of the Emperor Ojin … Continue reading Yoyogi Hachiman Shrine: sacred hilltop with prehistoric roots
Glass in Toyama: Turning former industry into modern art
This article in Japan Today describes how the city of Toyama has leveraged its glass-blowing history into support for modern glass art. (Archived article published in Japan Today.)
Yutoku Inari Shrine: Kyushu’s largest shrine dedicated to the god of basic human needs
Japan has been called "the land of the gods" because of its many gods, mostly associated with the Shinto religion. Perhaps one of the most popular, or best known, among these is Inari, a god believed to be dedicated to meeting such basic human needs as food, clothing, and shelter. As a god of food, … Continue reading Yutoku Inari Shrine: Kyushu’s largest shrine dedicated to the god of basic human needs
Island Hopping from Korea to Japan: A Journey Across Water and Time
This article in Go Nomad Travel magazine describes a ferry journey across the Tsushima Straits, island hopping from Korea to Kyushu. Lots of interesting things to see, do, and experience! (Archived article originally published in Go Nomad Travel.)
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