According to local legend, ringing the Dragon’s Love Bell brings eternal happiness to couples. I love the scenery here and the romantic meaning behind the bell.
Dragon’s Love Bell (Ryuren no Kane) | Review by 黃國維
Other Reviews by 黃國維
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Imamiya Shrine (Kyoto)
This shrine is said to have begun in 994, when a goryo-e ritual called the Murasakino Goryo-e was held at Funaokayama to calm the epidemic that was spreading through the Heian capital, by enshrining the plague deity worshipped here. Later, when an epidemic broke out again in 1001, another goryo-e ritual was held, after which the plague deity was transferred back to this shrine, three main sanctuary buildings and a shrine building for the plague deity were newly established, and it was named Imamiya-sha.
It’s super pleasant to walk around here. The whole atmosphere is quiet and has a bit of that old Kyoto charm.
The grounds aren’t very big, but they’re clean and really photogenic. The red torii gates and traditional architecture feel especially atmospheric.
There’s also a famous grilled dango shop nearby, and strolling around while snacking is seriously the best. If you want to avoid the shrines packed with tourists, Imamiya Shrine feels really relaxing. It’s the kind of place where you can take a slow walk, snap a few photos, and leave feeling refreshed. -
Sengakuji Temple
Sengakuji is a Buddhist temple of the Soto sect. It is famous as the final resting place of the 47 samurai known as Ako-Gishi, who avenged the death of their master, Naganori Asano, in the famous historical drama, "Chushingura". Inside the temple grounds is the Ako-Gishi Memorial Hall, where precious articles that belonged to these samurai are stored. Another highlight is the bronze statue of Kuranosuke Oishi, said the be the main character of "Chushingura".
I was interested because the temple shares its name with the station. I spent JPY 300 to buy incense for prayers, but I don't really get the point of that.
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Lake Kussharo
Lake Kussharo is Japan's largest caldera lake, stretching approximately 20 kilometers north to south, and the largest freshwater lake that freezes over on its entire surface. Mt. Mokoto, which created Lake Kussharo, is known for its volcanic eruptions that covered the entire Hokkaido region with its ash in ancient times.
If you dig in the sand at the beach, you'll find natural hot springs bubbling up! There's also a free foot bath nearby where you can soak your feet. In winter, you can relax in the foot bath while watching swans that have flown in all the way from Siberia. Such a unique experience!
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