This article takes readers on a walk in Kyoto's southwest, seeing some of the oldest religious sites in the ancient capital. (Archived article originally published in Japan Today.)
Tag: historic temples in Japan
Katsunuma: A wine country weekend
This Japan Today article introduces several of the highlights of a visit to the Yamanashi Prefecture wine-producing region of Katsunuma. It's only a couple of hours from Tokyo, with beautiful landscapes, interesting wineries, and surprising history. (Archived article originally published in Japan Today)
A Springtime Stroll in a Southwestern Tokyo District
This Japan Today article outlines a short pleasant stroll in an easy to access neighborhood of Tokyo, perfect for a spring day outing. The walk finishes at a hot springs bath in Musashi Koyama. Serious hikers/walkers in Japan always try to finish walks with a rejuvenating soak, but that's not so easy to do in … Continue reading A Springtime Stroll in a Southwestern Tokyo District
Matsue: A taste of the traditional Japan so loved by Lafcadio Hearn
My February Japan Today article highlights the many historical sites to visit in Matsue, capital of Shimane Prefecture. Matsue is a 400 year old castle town, but also has some interesting history related to the end of the nineteenth century. Plenty to see and do! (Archived article, originally published in Japan Today.)
Kameido Seven Lucky Gods: A walk for luck that finishes at Tokyo Skytree
In keeping with Japan Today tradition, this December article introduces a seven lucky gods walk in Tokyo's Kameido neighborhood, one of the oldest districts of the city. Seven lucky gods walks, mini-pilgrimages that can be completed in a few hours, are a popular new year's activity. (Archived article, originally published in Japan Today.)
Sennyoji Daihio-in: A mountainside temple full of wonder
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)
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.)
