GAIJIN POT TRAVEL
Kyoto’s Undiscovered Gem.
Nijo Castle probably isn’t the first destination that comes to mind when one thinks of famous places to visit in Kyoto.
It is after all one of the 17 sites across Kyoto to be collectively designated by UNESCO as a world heritage site under the combined ...

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DEEP JAPAN
Do you know "Chinowa"?
"Chinowa" is a large ring made of grass and erected on the pathway leading to a shrine on the days of purification (harae). Photos are taken at Shinagawa Shrine.
 
At the shrine, you can pass through the ring as an act of purification from misdeeds (tsumi), impur...

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JAPAN TRAVEL
Relax at the Temple of Roses and wind chimes
A gem of a temple, located in a quiet suburb, invites worshippers to linger. No hurry here. This is the perfect place to take your time and rest a bit during your visit to Kashihara!
A bell tower greets visitors by the gate. Passing throug...

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GAIJIN POT TRAVEL
Where to contemplate the meaning of life
Heian Shrine is impressively large with lots to explore from beautiful gardens and ponds to stunning seasonal sakura trees and momiji (Japanese maple trees).
Unlike most ancient shrines in Kyoto, Heian Shrine was built relatively recently...

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JAPAN TRAVEL
A castle with a view
In the Kanto region around Tokyo, there are dozens of castle sites that testify to the long periods of conflict and struggles for control throughout Japan’s history. Some of these sites are merely foundations and moats.
Others retain original gates and towers, bu...

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JAPAN TRAVEL
Seaside shrine with 123 red torii gates
In northern Yamagata's Nagato City, Motonosumi Inari Shrine (元ノ隅稲成神社) and its 123 red torii gates have been attracting swathes of Instagrammers looking for that perfect addition to their feeds.
 
This unique shrine provides a memorable o...

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JAPAN TRAVEL
Supposedly, Japan's most exclusive shrine
Kyoto is well known as Japan's ancient capital, but Nara is in fact the oldest capital city of Japan (710-794), preceding Kyoto. Brimmed with historic treasures and UNESCO temples, Nara is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage site called "Sac...

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JAPAN TRAVEL
Half-day itinerary in Ota City
Seven Lucky Gods in Japan are believed to bring fortune and happiness, and its origins date back to early 15th century. By the 19th century, the tradition has spread among the people and the standardized seven members became what we know of today.
Count...

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JAPAN TRAVEL
 
A mystical journey in an ancient forest
It's the middle of June and the rainy season has arrived. Believe it or not, this is one of the best times to visit Saijoji temple.
A legend says that in 1393 an eagle seized the ceremonial garment of Ryoan Emyo Zenji of the Soto Zen Buddhist...

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JAPAN TRAVEL
A slice of tranquility in the heart of Matsue
If you're someone who enjoys finding pockets of tranquility among the hustle and bustle of city life, Gesshoji Temple in Matsue is a spot to check out. The grounds are incredibly peaceful, and were frequented by the well known writer Lafc...

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