Things to Do
Shrines & Temples
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Miyagi
Shrines & Temples
Entsuin Temple
4.03 3A temple known for its colorful garden.
Related Articles
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Travel Guide to Zuiganji, Tohoku’s Leading Zen Temple
Zuiganji is one of Tohoku’s leading Zen temples and is designated as a National Treasure. Its simple Zen exterior and dazzling interior-rich with Momoyama-period architecture and art-captivate visitors. Rebuilt by the Sengoku warlord Date Masamune, the temple reflects his refined aesthetic throughout. To fully enjoy Zuiganji, a site of great historical and cultural value, read this article to learn its history and key highlights.
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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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Nara
Shrines & Temples
Kohfukuji Temple
4.03 3Designated as a World Heritage, Kohfukuji Temple was one of the four leading temples during the Nara period (710-784).
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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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[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 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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Saga
Shrines & Temples
Yutoku Inari Shrine
4.03 4Get powered up by one of Japan’s three great Inari shrines with gorgeous red architecture.
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Be Amazed by a Collection of Lavish, Ornate Architecture! A Travel Guide to Yutoku Inari Shrine
Yutoku Inari Shrine is counted among Japan’s three major Inari shrines. It is also one of Saga’s leading spiritual spots and draws 3 million worshippers each year. Its beautiful historic buildings and scenic surroundings are also major highlights. This article introduces the highlights of Yutoku Inari Shrine, access information, and other things to know before your visit. With a bit of knowledge in advance, you’ll be able to enjoy sightseeing in Saga, including Yutoku Inari Shrine, even more.
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Experience Grand Nature and Timeless History: 14 Must-Visit Places in Saga
Saga is packed with attractions, from archaeological sites and hot springs to scenic viewpoints. With highlights like the Yoshinogari Ruins, mysterious caves that showcase the wonders of nature, and mineral-rich hot springs, there’s plenty to see and do. Facing both the Genkai Sea and the Ariake Sea, Saga is also blessed with abundant seafood-so local seafood dishes are a must. Here, we’ve carefully selected sightseeing spots that first-time visitors to Saga should prioritize. Use this article to help plan a trip that lets you enjoy Saga to the fullest.
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Miyazaki
Shrines & Temples
Aoshima Shrine
4.03 4The shrine which stands on a holy island covered with tropical plants.
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One of the best resort areas in Kyushu Miyazaki "Aoshima" Area Fun Guide
"Aoshima", one of the best resort areas in Kyushu, is located in the southern part of Miyazaki City. It is conveniently located only 30 minutes by car from the city center. One of the charms of the Aoshima area is that the sea, mountains, and rivers are all close together, and the scenery can change at a moment's notice with just a short drive.
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[A Stunning Tropical Power Spot] Aoshima Shrine Travel Guide
Aoshima Shrine, one of Japan’s leading power spots, floats in the blue waters of Miyazaki. With a subtropical forest on its grounds, the unique rock formations known as “Devil’s Washboard,” and blessings for love and matchmaking plus one-of-a-kind wish-making rituals, there’s plenty to see and do. In this article, we’ll introduce the charms of Aoshima Shrine, along with spots and ways to enjoy it that you might miss if you don’t know about them.
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Tochigi
Shrines & Temples
Nikkosan Rinnoji Temple
4.03 4The famed Sanbutsudo, the largest wooden hall on Mt. Nikko awaits here.
Related Articles
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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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