Things to Do
Kansai Region
Shrines & Temples
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![Eastern Golden Hall and Five-storied Pagoda]()
Nara
Shrines & Temples
Kohfukuji Temple
3.87 2Designated as a World Heritage, Kohfukuji Temple was one of the four leading temples during the Nara period (710-784).
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A Travel Guide to Gango-ji, Japan’s Oldest Full-Scale Buddhist Temple
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed “Gango-ji” is home to many buildings and Buddhist statues designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Often said to be the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism, it is renowned as a temple of great historical and cultural value. From the “East Gate,” the main gate, to highlights such as the “Main Hall” and other grounds buildings, there is plenty to see, and seasonal flowers charm visitors year-round. This article introduces everything you need to enjoy “Gango-ji,” from its history to recommended sightseeing spots-use it as a helpful reference.
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[Horyu-ji Travel Guide] Experience Timeless History at Japan’s First World Heritage Site
Horyu-ji, the world’s oldest wooden building, is one of Japan’s most celebrated historic temples. Around 3,000 structures and artifacts have been designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties, giving it immense historical and cultural value. Closely associated with Prince Shotoku, the temple remains deeply familiar to many Japanese people, and its traditions continue to this day. This article introduces the charms of Horyu-ji, focusing on recommended highlights that even first-time visitors can fully enjoy.
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A Tōdai-ji Travel Guide to Timeless History and Culture
Tōdai-ji, famous for the Great Buddha of Nara. Beyond its many historic structures designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, the temple also offers easy-to-join Buddhist experiences like sutra copying and Buddha image tracing that can help calm the mind. Don’t miss the daily “Eleven-Faced Goma Fire Ritual Prayer” and the Tōdai-ji Museum, where you can learn more about its history. Here’s the history and must-see spots to know so you can fully enjoy Tōdai-ji, packed with highlights.
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![It is about 2 km away from Ichinohashi Bridge to the Mausoleum.]()
Wakayama
Shrines & Temples
Koyasan Okunoin
3.58 1Surrounded by a grove of cedar trees over 800 years old, this is a holy place in Koyasan where many spirits, including Kobo Daishi's Nyujo (Entering Meditation) and the warring feudal lords, rest.
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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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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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![Standing on Mt. Yoshino’s plateau]()
Nara
Shrines & Temples
Kinpusenji Temple
3.58 1You can enjoy cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino at this world heritage head temple for mountaineering asceticism.
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Kansai, where you can “Experience the Real Japan” that you have been looking for.
The Kansai region is a “treasure house of Japanese culture” with a rich cultural resource remaining from its history as a former prosperous capital. There is a new, high-quality cultural tour that offers multiple cultural experiences in special settings with top-notch people who have mastered culture, art, or faith rooted in the Kansai region. Here are some travel reports from actual tour participants. Take part in this tour that is sure to become a once-in-a-lifetime precious trip.
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Meet "real Japan" in Kansai - an exclusive experience.
Kansai Region hosted a capital city in ancient times and has served as the nation’s hub. It has produced many types of culture, which are handed down to this day. Touring the Kansai Area allows you to trace back the source of Japanese culture. The guide by the Japanese-culture-and-arts expert and the exclusive space are woven together into this acclaimed video. Enjoy a simulated cultural experience in the space usually closed off from the public.
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