Architecture, Japan

Sensoji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is a dazzling gem nestled in the heart of Asakusa. It's one of Tokyo's most cherished and colorful temples. Legend has it that way back in 628, two brothers stumbled upon a statue of Kannon, the goddess o

The Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー) stands tall as a beacon of modernity in Tokyo's skyline. Nestled in the Sumida City Ward, just a stone's throw from the historic Asakusa district, this architectural marvel is the heart of the Tokyo Skytree Town. Towering

The current Imperial Palace, known as Kōkyo in Japanese, stands proudly on the historical grounds of Edo Castle. This sprawling park area, nestled in the heart of Tokyo, is encircled by moats and imposing stone walls. It's just a short stroll from To

Odaiba is a buzzing shopping and entertainment district perched on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Its roots trace back to the Edo Period (1603-1868) when it started as a series of small fort islands, designed to shield Tokyo from potential sea attac

Nestled within the Akasaka Imperial Estate in the heart of Tokyo, the Tokyo State Guest House, known as 迎賓館 or Geihinkan, stands as a symbol of Japan's elegance and hospitality. It is one of two prestigious state guest houses maintained by the Japane

Nestled in the charming suburbs of Sapporo, the Historic Village of Hokkaido (開拓の村, Kaitaku no Mura) is a delightful open-air museum that transports you back in time. Imagine strolling through about 60 carefully preserved buildings, each telling tale

Constructed in 1936 as a holiday retreat for the Mitsui Partnership Company, this charming residence transitioned to the ownership of Hokkaido in 1953. Since then, it has played host to a variety of meetings and events, making it a hub of activity an

Imagine stepping into a world where history whispers through the stones beneath your feet. Kakuzan Park, situated on the storied ruins of Tsuyama Castle, offers just that. This ancient fortress was constructed around 400 years ago and still captivate

Constructed way back in 1240, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle stands as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and proudly ranks among the nation's top 100 castles. Perched on a mountain at an altitude of 430 meters, it holds the title of the highest fortre

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Japan, Iyama Hofuku-ji Temple has stood since 1232, originally established as a Zen temple. This historic site holds significant cultural weight as the early training grounds of Sesshu, the renowned Japanese master

Completed in 1597 after eight years of diligent construction, Okayama Castle stands proudly among Japan’s top 100 castles. The original keep faced destruction during the war, but it was lovingly rebuilt in 1966. Fondly nicknamed "U-jo" or "Crow Castl

Nestled in the heart of Japan's Okayama Prefecture, the ancient Saidaiji Kannon-in Temple has been standing proudly for around 1,200 years. As you stroll down the approach, you're greeted by charming rows of traditional shops lining the path. These q

Osaka Castle, or "Osaka-jo" as the locals say, is a sparkling gem in Japan's rich cultural crown. It's a place where history whispers through the walls, standing tall and proud for nearly 450 years. This five-story marvel isn't just a feast for the e

Abeno Harukas (あべのハルカス) is a towering marvel in Osaka, reaching a staggering 300 meters, making it Japan's tallest skyscraper. Conveniently perched above Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station and just across from JR Tennoji Station, this architectural ge

The Osaka Museum of History, which opened its doors in 2003, stands proudly next to NHK Osaka, just a stone's throw away from the iconic Osaka Castle. From the top floors of this impressive building, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the cas

In the heart of Osaka, the cherished shrine known as "Sumiyossan" draws in a staggering crowd every New Year. Between January 1st and 3rd, over 2 million visitors flock to Sumiyoshi Taisha for Hatsumode, the year's first shrine visit. As the head shr

Nestled in the heart of Osaka on Nakanoshima Island, the National Museum of Art (国立国際美術館, Kokuritsu Kokusai Bijutsukan) is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With two expansive underground floors, this museum is a treasure trove of both Japanese an

Shitennoji (四天王寺, Shitennōji) holds the title of one of Japan's oldest temples and has the distinction of being the first ever built by the state. Founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, this temple marks a significant moment in history as it represents th

Fushimi Inari Shrine, or Fushimi Inari Taisha, is a must-see gem nestled in southern Kyoto. This revered Shinto shrine is renowned for its countless vermilion torii gates, which form enchanting trails that weave through the lush forest of sacred Moun

The image of the temple, richly coated in gold leaf, reflects stunningly in the waters of Kyokochi, known as the mirror pond. It's perhaps the most iconic image of Kyoto. Kinkaku-ji Temple, or "The Temple of the Golden Pavilion," is a sight that trul

Kiyomizudera, or the "Pure Water Temple," is a gem among Japan's revered temples. Nestled in the lush hills east of Kyoto, it was established in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall, from which it draws its name due to the pristine waters cascading

Nijo Castle (二条城, Nijōjō) stands as a majestic testament to Japan’s rich history, its roots tracing back to 1603 when it was constructed as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the pioneering shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867). The castle's gran

Nestled in a lush, forested valley in the northern mountains of Kyoto City, Kibune (貴船) is a charming town that feels like a hidden gem. This quaint locale developed around the mystical Kifune Shrine, steeped in legend. According to local lore, a god

Standing proudly at 131 meters, just a stone's throw from Kyoto Station, Kyoto Tower is the city's tallest structure and a striking modern landmark in an area renowned for its historic temples and shrines. This iconic tower was completed in 1964, coi

Ryoanji Temple, or 龍安寺, is home to Japan's most celebrated rock garden, drawing in hundreds of curious visitors each day. Originally, this serene spot was an aristocrat's villa during the Heian Period, but was transformed into a Zen temple in 1450. I

The Higashiyama District, nestled along the gentle slopes of Kyoto's eastern mountains, is one of those magical places where time seems to stand still. It's a treasure trove of history, offering a glimpse into the enchanting world of traditional old

Nestled around the serene Ine Bay in the northern reaches of Kyoto Prefecture, about 15 kilometers north of the famous Amanohashidate, lies the charming town of Ine (伊根). With its roots deeply planted in its fishing village heritage, Ine is celebrate

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's enchanting Arashiyama district, Tenryuji (天龍寺, Tenryūji) stands as a beacon of Zen tranquility and historical significance. As the premier temple among Kyoto's revered five great Zen temples, Tenryuji holds the prestig

Hiroshima Castle, known locally as Hiroshimajō or the Carp Castle, is a stunning example of a castle set on a plain in the heart of a bustling city, rather than perched on a hill or mountain. Standing proudly with its five-story main keep, it's encir

Kosan Wajo, the heart behind Kosanji Temple, became a Buddhist priest following the passing of his mother. This temple, part of the Honganji sect of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, was built as a touching tribute to her memory. Spanning over 30 years from 193

Since the Edo era, Kokura has thrived as a charming castle town. At the heart of this historical gem is Kokura Castle, a proud symbol founded by Tadaoki Hosokawa in 1602. It's the only castle still standing in Fukuoka Prefecture, drawing countless to

Nestled on Japan’s enchanting Kyushu island, the Oita Prefectural Art Museum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike. While its collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art is undeniably impressive, what truly steal

Rakanji Temple, known as 羅漢寺, stands as one of Japan's top three Gohyakurakan, or Five Hundred Arhats. Imagine this: it all began back in 645 with the spiritual practices of the Hodo mountain hermits. This temple is not just a place of worship; it's