These are Japan's three most famous castles. Along with Nagoya Castle and Himeji Castle, they're all really well-known. I've visited all three, and each one has its own unique historical significance.
Tower of Osaka Castle | Review by Jessie Cheng
Other Reviews by Jessie Cheng
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Ninna-ji Temple
The head temple of the Omuro school of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto" The construction of the temple began in the early Heian period (886) at the request of Emperor Koko, the 58th emperor, and was completed in 888 by Emperor Uda, the next emperor. The temple name, Ninna, comes from the Japanese era name.
You need a ticket to enter the imperial garden. Every part of the garden has its own unique scenery—definitely worth checking out.
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Kashihara Jingu (Kashihara Shrine)
In Nihon Shoki, Japan’s first imperial-commissioned history book, Kasihara is noted as the land of Japan’s founding. The coronation of the first emperor, Jinmu, took place in the palace in Kashihara, according to Nihon Shoki. Based on that record, Kashihara Jingu was built to enshrine Emperor Jinmu and his wife Empress Himetataraisuzuhime.
This shrine is dedicated to Emperor Jinmu, the first emperor of Japan. The grounds are huge—you'll need a few hours to walk around. The environment is fantastic, and it's considered a place with great feng shui.
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Honpukuji Water Temple
This temple is of the Omuro school of the Shingong sect of Buddhism, and it is said to have been built in the latter half of the Heian period (794-1185). Located atop a small hill, visitors can look out over Osaka Bay from the temple’s grounds.
The temple is built under a lotus pond, which you can't tell at all from the outside. That's the genius of architect Tadao Ando.