This Japan Today article features a venerable mountainside temple with a history that pre-dates Buddhism in Japan and exudes a sense of mystery and serenity. (Archived article in Japan Today)
Tag: historic temples in Japan
Shinjuku-Yamanote Seven Lucky Gods: A walk to collect luck for the new year
In keeping with Japan Today tradition, this December article introduces a seven lucky gods walk in Tokyo's Shinjuku neighborhood. Seven lucky gods walks are a kind of mini-pilgrimage traditionally completed at the beginning of the year to secure luck for the year. This one, however, can be done at any time. (Archived article, first published … Continue reading Shinjuku-Yamanote Seven Lucky Gods: A walk to collect luck for the new year
Koyasan: The beating heart of esoteric Buddhism
This Japan Today article introduces Koyasan, one of the holiest places in Japan. This ancient Buddhist center of worship is relatively easy to reach from Osaka and well worth a visit. (Archived article, first published in Japan Today)
Saimyoji: Resilience and tranquility deep in the mountains of Tochigi
This Japan Today article takes readers off the beaten path to an ancient temple deep in the mountains near the Tochigi pottery village of Mashiko. (Archived article published in Japan Today.)
Shokoji: A Hidden Treasure of Edo Period Architecture Hiding on a Hilltop in Plain Sight
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).
Chinkokuji: preserving part of Kukai’s legacy
It was a dark and stormy night. A young Buddhist monk named Kukai was aboard one of four ships crossing the East China Sea from Kyushu to Tang China, fearing, as did all aboard, for his life. He prayed for rescue to Munakata Omikami, a goddess of the sea, and also invoked the help of … Continue reading Chinkokuji: preserving part of Kukai’s legacy
A tale of two temples: The historical competition between Enryaku-ji and Mii-dera
This article in Japan Today explores an odd rivalry between two ancient Buddhist temples in the Kansai region. (Archived article in Japan Today.)
Zojoji’s Sanmon: A Rare Look at a Gateway of Antiquities
Zojiji Temple in Tokyo's Shiba neighborhood was once considered a guardian of the southwest entry to Edo (the old name for Tokyo). Visitors approaching the city via the Tokaido Road would have passed nearby and would, inevitably, have seen the massive awe-inspiring structures of the expansive temple complex, which was a seminary and center of … Continue reading Zojoji’s Sanmon: A Rare Look at a Gateway of Antiquities
Rakuhoji and the Amabiki Kannon
My July 2022 article for Japan Today introduces a pretty mountainside temple in northern Ibaraki prefecture that has long historical connections to the imperial line.(Archived article in Japan Today)
Ancient Temples of the Deep North: Some of Tohoku’s Most Historical Temples
This article provides history and other information on four Ninth century temples in the Tohoku region that are still popular destinations for tourists and religious devotees alike. (Archived article – Originally published by Japan Today.)
Takkoku no Iwaya: history carved in stone
On the outskirts of the Iwate town of Hiraizumi stands a striking red and white Buddhist temple, built into a cliff-face: Takkoku no Iwaya. This is a temple steeped in history. It has been a sacred site since 801AD. Like many early Buddhist sites, it began with a cave, which was then enclosed by a … Continue reading Takkoku no Iwaya: history carved in stone
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