Things to Do
Kansai Region
Shrines & Temples
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Wakayama
Shrines & Temples
Koyasan (Mount Koya)
3.24 1The whole town is on the temple’s premises! A spiritual city up high with 1200 years of history.
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40 Things to Do in Wakayama
Wakayama Prefecture, blessed with oceans, mountains, and rivers, is a popular travel destination filled with historical sites, World Heritage locations, leisure spots, hot springs, and more. From scenic attractions that showcase Japan’s beautiful seasonal landscapes to accommodations, cuisine, and hot springs, we’ve carefully selected the best recommendations for your visit.
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Experience Japan’s Traditions and Buddhist Culture! A Travel Guide to Mount Koya
Mount Koya (Koyasan) is a sacred center of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism founded by Kobo Daishi, Kukai. Spread across its vast grounds are 117 temples, and with a history of over 1,200 years, it remains a place where many monks continue their training today. Its appeal lies in experiencing Japanese traditions and Buddhist culture, drawing crowds of visitors from Japan and around the world. In this article, we’ll подробно introduce recommended highlights so even first-time visitors can fully enjoy sightseeing at Mount Koya.
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World Heritage Site – Mt. Koya (Part 1) – Autumn Leaves at Kongobu-ji and Danjogaran
Wakayama Prefecture. Mt. Koya, a sacred place of which Kobo Daishi (Kukai), a famous poet, sang praises of its autumn leaves. He was fascinated by the brilliant autumn leaves during clear weather.
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World Heritage Site – Mt. Koya (Part 2) – Walking Around “Okunoin,” Mausoleum for Kobo Daishi
Wakayama Prefecture. After enjoying the autumn leaves at Kongobu-ji and enjoying sesame tofu and shojin-ryori for lunch, let’s continue on and walk around “Okunoin.” Okunoin hosts the graves of historical figures and daimyo from across the country, is filled with interestingly shaped graves and memorial towers, and is home to Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum. In this second part, I’ll provide information on accessing Mt. Koya and some great value tickets.
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Shiga
Shrines & Temples
Shirahige Shrine
3.21 5The symbol of the shrine is a large torii gate in the middle of Lake Biwa, which is known as a power spot with a spectacular view.
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Not Just Lake Biwa! 17 Must-Visit Spots to Make the Most of Shiga
Shiga Prefecture is home to Japan’s largest lake, Lake Biwa, which covers about one-sixth of the prefecture. When people think of Shiga sightseeing, they often picture Lake Biwa and its nearby attractions, but Shiga offers much more. From historic shrines and temples such as the UNESCO-listed Enryaku-ji Temple on Mt. Hiei to local cuisine like Omi beef, there are plenty of lesser-known highlights. This article introduces not only Lake Biwa and its surroundings, but also other attractions, food spots, and places to stay in Shiga.
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A Guide to Shirahige Shrine, Famous for Its Mystical Scenery Created by the Torii Gate in the Lake and Lake Biwa
Shirahige Shrine, the oldest shrine in Shiga Prefecture, is a popular sightseeing spot known for the spectacular view created by its torii gate standing in Lake Biwa. Many people planning a trip to Shiga or Lake Biwa will likely want to visit. If you are going to Shirahige Shrine, be sure to enjoy not only the torii gate but also the highlights within the shrine grounds. This article introduces in detail the history and highlights of Shirahige Shrine, as well as access information and nearby sightseeing spots to know before your visit.
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