Things to Do
Shrines & Temples
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![Crossing the Uji Bridge to the Naiku Shrine]()
Mie
Shrines & Temples
Ise Jingu
4.77 8A two-thousand-year-old Shinto shrine, filled with the origins of Japanese history, nature, and architecture.
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Best Street Food Near Ise Jingu: A Guide to Oharaimachi & Okage Yokocho
If you’re visiting “Ise Jingu,” be sure to stop by “Oharaimachi & Okage Yokocho” as well. This historic street stretches for Approx. 800 meters and is filled with a retro Ise atmosphere, lined with many restaurants, snack stands, and souvenir shops-perfect for strolling and tasting local bites before or after your visit. In this article, we’ll cover key details about Oharaimachi & Okage Yokocho and introduce the best street food for lunch or a quick snack. They’re all classic, popular picks-so you can’t go wrong.
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Ise Jingu Travel Guide : A Complete Guide to Highlights, Visiting Order, and Access for Geku & Naiku
Ise Jingu, regarded as the most prestigious Shinto shrine in Japan, is a special and sacred place often called “the spiritual hometown of the Japanese people.” With 7 to 8 million visitors each year, this sacred area has a history of over 2,000 years and offers a powerful sense of Japanese culture and faith. This article covers everything from essential basics like Ise Jingu’s history and blessings to must-see spots, worship etiquette, and how to get around. We’ve compiled key information that’s especially helpful for first-time visitors, so be sure to read to the end.
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30 Things to Do in Mie
Mie Prefecture is home to many spiritually significant sites, such as Ise Jingu, one of Japan's premier power spots, and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The picturesque scenery, surrounded by both sea and mountains, is sure to soothe your soul. Additionally, you can enjoy delicious gourmet dishes made from the bounty of the land and sea. Why not visit Mie for a trip that will recharge both your mind and body?
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![A magnificent and splendid Yomeimon Gate.]()
Tochigi
Shrines & Temples
Nikko Toshogu
4.72 25Japan’s Iconic World Heritage Site and Shrine Dedicated to the Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa.
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Nikko Toshogu Shrine Travel Guide:Top Highlights, How Long to Visit, and a Model Itinerary-Fully Explained!
Nikko Toshogu Shrine, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site “Shrines and Temples of Nikko,” enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616), the legendary leader who brought an end to Japan’s Warring States period. One of Japan’s most iconic sightseeing destinations, it captivates visitors with its lavish buildings, many designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. This article clearly introduces the must-see spots, key attractions, and the best ways to enjoy Nikko Toshogu Shrine-perfect even for first-time visitors.
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Day 2 of Winter Travel in Nikko ~Mt. Nikko Rinno-ji and Nikko Toshogu Shrine~
This article will introduce day 2 of my winter trip to Nikko. Starting off with breakfast at my hotel, I also visited Mt. Nikko Rinno-ji and Nikko Toshogu Shrine.
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![The "Main hall" with the famous "Stage of Kiyomizu" built on the slope of the mountain]()
Kyoto
Shrines & Temples
Mt. Otowa Kiyomizu-dera Temple
4.71 28A place that should be visited when traveling to Kyoto, the temple selected as a World Cultural Heritage.
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[Yasaka Shrine Travel Guide] A Famous Kyoto Power Spot for Beauty, Connections, and Good Fortune
With a long and storied history, Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine is the head shrine of Yasaka Shrines and Gion Shrines across Japan. Enshrining a variety of high-ranking deities, it’s known as one of Kyoto’s most famous power spots, even in a city filled with temples and shrines. Beyond that, the grounds are packed with historically valuable architecture and plenty of highlights. To help you fully enjoy Yasaka Shrine and receive its many blessings, we’ll introduce the main must-sees, the best seasons to visit, and noteworthy events.
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Experience Japan’s Timeless Charm, Woven from History and Nature: A Kiyomizu-dera Travel Guide
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing spots, as famous as Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama. It’s packed with highlights, from many historically valuable buildings designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties to beautiful natural scenery. To help you fully enjoy Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s must-visit attractions, we’ll introduce not only the can’t-miss highlights, but also its history and the best seasons to visit.
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Special outdoor lighting of Kyoto’s autumn leaves at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
I went to Kyoto and saw Kiyomizu-dera Temple at night for the first time. They had special outdoor lighting set up to make the autumn leaves appear even more magical than usual.
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![Sensoji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate © Sensoji Temple]()
Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree
Shrines & Temples
Sensoji Temple
4.69 59One of Japan’s most frequented destinations! Over 1300 years of history here at the oldest temple in Tokyo.
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“Fukumitsuya”; a must-visit souvenior shop in Asakusa “Kaminarimon”
If you are one of people who would not know where to look in for souvenirs, we recommend visiting “Fukumitsuya”. It is a gift shop in Asakusa. We asked the shop owner what they recommend for tourists looking for gifts.
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Kaminari-mon, the "Thunder Gate" and central landmark of Asakusa.
In Asakusa, you can really sense the good old age of traditional Tokyo. Asakusa is highly popular as a place where one can experience authentic Tokyo.
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![World Heritage Site: Itsukushima Shrine]()
Hiroshima
Shrines & Temples
Itsukushima Shrine
4.68 25A Shrine Registered as a World Heritage Site as of 1996.
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One of Japan’s Top Scenic Spots! 9 Must-Visit Miyajima Attractions
Miyajima is one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views. The mystical, grand scenery created by Itsukushima Shrine and Mt. Misen is exceptionally beautiful. Of course, Miyajima is also filled with other great attractions, local food, and places to stay. In this article, we’ll introduce Miyajima’s sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and accommodations-use it to help plan your trip.
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[Itsukushima Shrine Travel Guide] Visit a Breathtaking View Where Grand Nature and a Shrine Blend in Harmony
Famous for its iconic torii gate rising from the sea, “Itsukushima Shrine” is a symbol of Miyajima. With spectacular scenery where Miyajima’s grand nature and beautiful architecture come together, it welcomes countless visitors every day. To fully enjoy the many charms of “Itsukushima Shrine,” use this article to preview the highlights, the best seasons to visit, and nearby food and sightseeing spots.
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The Timeless Charm of Japan’s Three Great Views: Matsushima, Amanohashidate, and Miyajima
Known for their beautiful seas and nature, Japan’s Three Great Views are sometimes called “nature’s sculpted beauty.” Even if you’ve heard the phrase, many people aren’t quite sure which landscapes it refers to. In this article, we’ll introduce where Japan’s Three Great Views are and what makes each one special-perfect for anyone who’s new to the topic.
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![The Great Buddha Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in the world
Photo Credit: Todaiji Temple]()
Nara
Shrines & Temples
Todaiji Temple
4.67 18The temple was built in the Nara period (710-794) and is registered as a World Heritage Site as a "cultural asset of the ancient capital Nara”.
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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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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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![Cherry Blossoms and the Pagoda with Mount Fuji]()
Yamanashi
Shrines & Temples
Arakurayama Sengen Park
4.64 11A Popular Spot for Sakura Cherry Blossoms, a Pagoda and Mount Fuji.
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A Guide to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: Panoramic Views Full of Japanese Charm
Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine is a scenic spot where you can take in a quintessentially Japanese view, with Mount Fuji, one of Japan’s most iconic symbols, beautifully framed by a torii gate and cherry blossoms. This article introduces access to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, highlights within the grounds, and nearby sightseeing spots. Read this before your visit to enjoy Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine even more.
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Enjoy Nature in All Seasons! Top 17 Popular Tourist Spots Around Lake Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko, where you can see the “upside-down Fuji,” one of Japan's most scenic views, is easily accessible from the city center and is a popular tourist destination for enjoying the natural scenery throughout the seasons. There are accommodations where you can soak in open-air hot springs with views of Mt. Fuji and dining options where you can savor Yamanashi's gourmet cuisine, offering a variety of enjoyable experiences.
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Experience the Breathtaking Beauty of the Mountains! 32 Tourist Spots in Yamanashi
Surrounded by majestic mountains such as Mt. Fuji, Yatsugatake, and the Southern Alps, Yamanashi offers stunning views in every season. The picturesque landscapes featuring Mt. Fuji and the lakes are a must-see. In this article, we'll introduce you to the best spots to enjoy Yamanashi's natural beauty, along with recommended accommodations, dining, and shopping areas.
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![The main hall at a plateau 251m above sea level]()
Kagawa
Shrines & Temples
Kotohiragu Shrine
4.60 10Known as "Konpira-san," it is one of the most famous spiritual spots in Shikoku.
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[Ritsurin Garden Visitor Guide] A Scenic Spot Where You Can Experience Japanese Atmosphere and Culture
Ritsurin Garden is a place where you can enjoy scenery full of Japanese charm and experience Japanese culture across its vast grounds. It changes with the seasons, and even a short walk reveals landscapes with different kinds of beauty. Here is useful information to know before your visit, including the best seasons to go and the garden’s highlights.
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Plenty to Enjoy Even on a Short Trip! 9 Classic Kagawa Attractions
Kagawa is Japan’s smallest prefecture by area, so even with a short stay you can fully enjoy must-see sights like historic shrines and castles, plus beautiful natural scenery. The remote islands floating in the Seto Inland Sea, such as Shodoshima and Naoshima, are also part of Kagawa’s appeal. If you’re sightseeing in this charm-packed prefecture, here are the attractions, places to stay, and local food you won’t want to miss.
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![Konponchuudo]()
Yamagata
Shrines & Temples
Yama-Dera (Hōjusan Risshakuji Temple)
4.55 11Climb 1,015 Stone Steps to Reach the Top to Worship! A Temple Said to Cut Out Bad Relationships.
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In Awe of Sheer Nature: Top 18 Autumn Foliage Spots in Tohoku
Tohoku is a destination replete with unbeatable nature and remarkable spots to catch vibrant leaves in autumn. Across the region you’ll find an array of foliage spots so vast it may be hard to pick, with anything from mountains blanketed in autumn colors, beautifully tinted valleys and mountain roads perfect for a drive amidst the autumn scenery, to lakeshores adorned in seasonal hues and more.
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15 Things to Do in Yamagata
Yamagata is blessed with beautiful natural scenery, including mountains such as Mt. Zao and Mt. Gassan, both of which are listed among Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, and the Mogami River, affectionately known as the Mother River. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Yamagata is home to many traditional hot spring towns and historic buildings. Visiting Yamagata lets you enjoy both picturesque landscapes and the charm of traditional Japan.
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Yamagata Prefecture’s “Yamadera” – Amazing Snowy Scenery!
You can reach Yamadera Station from Tokyo Station by taking the Yamagata Shinkansen for 2 hours and 30 minutes, then changing to the Senzan line at Yamagata Station and riding for about 20 minutes.
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