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
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
Jigsaw Japan 