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Japan Travel News - Japan Tourist Community

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Yokohama, Kanagawa
Japan Travel News - Japan Tourist Community

Japan Travel News - Japan Tourist Community Welcome to Japan tourist community! Please take time to join our community; so you can post Welcome! To Japan tourist community! Looking for things to do in Japan?

We will give you some great ideas to make your trip memorable and fun. From historic sites to shopping, Japan has a wide range of activities and attractions for all visitors. Here you will find our Japan Travel News and Photos. Please take time to join our community; so you can post your Japan travel questions, your comments, your travel experiences, your photo on the community forums. We would like to hear from you!. Visit us regularly and see our community grow!

31/12/2024

Start the New Year in Tokyo with a visit to Senso-ji Temple for Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit)!

As a beloved tradition in Tokyo, the New Year celebrations at Senso-ji Temple are truly a must-see. The temple comes alive with energy and excitement, as people gather to pray for good fortune and success in the year ahead. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and experience the beauty of Japan’s rich cultural heritage during this special time of year. Whether you're seeking peace, prosperity, or just the excitement of the festivities, Senso-ji offers a unique and unforgettable New Year's experience.

Don’t miss this iconic moment in the heart of Tokyo!
https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/

23/06/2024

Discover the Enchanting History of Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple in Kyoto!

First built in 766 by Emperor Shotoku, Otagi Temple was originally located in Higashiyama near Gion. Although the temple was washed away by floods from the Kamo River, it was re-established in the Heian Period by Senkan Naigu, a priest of the esoteric Tendai sect. In 1955, the temple began a new chapter of artistic transformation under Kocho Nishimura, a renowned Buddhist sculptor and monk, who led the creation of 1,200 unique rakan statues.

Relocated to its current location during the Taisho era, Otagi Nenbutsuji continues to blend Buddhism and art, overseen by the Nishimura family. Visitors are greeted by the 1,200 stone rakan statues, donated by pilgrims. The temple also houses many statues carved by the former chief priest, the late Kocho Nishimura, including those in the Fureai Kannon Hall.

Address: 2-5 Saga Toriimoto Fukatanicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, MAP
Phone Number: 075-285-1549
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Admission ends at 4:45 PM)
Note: From July 2024, visiting hours will change to 9:00 AM.
Admission Fee: 300 yen
Access: Kyoto Bus - Get off at "Atago Jinja-mae" stop
Website: Otagi Nenbutsuji

Visit Otagi Nenbutsuji and immerse yourself in its rich history and captivating art. Experience the unique fusion of religion and creativity that continues to thrive under the care of the Nishimura family. This hidden gem in Kyoto is a must-see!

#京都 #おたぎ念仏寺 #仏教寺院 #羅漢像 #秘境 #京都観光 #日本文化 #寺院アート #日本旅行

15/06/2024

Why not visit Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima, one of the most famous places in Japan and a World Heritage Site?

From the moment I stepped off the ferry, I was mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery. I will never forget the sight of the famous Torii gate emerging from the shimmering Seto Inland Sea. It was as if I had entered the world of a fairy tale! ⛩️

I felt a deep sense of peace and awe as I walked around the old halls of the shrine, surrounded by lush green forests and calm waters. The history and spirituality of this place is palpable.

And let's not forget the friendly local deer that roam freely around the island! They made my visit even more magical.

I also enjoyed delicious local delicacies like Momiji Manju and freshly baked oysters. My taste buds were in heaven!

If you ever come to Japan, visiting Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima is a must. It is a seamless blend of nature, history, and spirituality that makes for an unforgettable experience.

For more history and other details
Ikutushima Shrain Webpage:https://www.itsukushimajinja.jp/en/
Enjoy Kayak and SUP in Miyajimahttps://dive-hiroshima.com/en/feature/
Japan Rail Pass:https://japanrailpass.net/en/

Hot to get there:
From Tokyo to Itsukushima Shrine by Shinkansen
At Tokyo Station, take the JR Tokaido Sanyo Shinkansen to Hiroshima for about 4 hours, then take the local line for 30 minutes to Miyajima Station
From there, take the ferry for about 15 minutes

08/06/2024

Exploring Shirakawa-go: A Step Back in Time

Nestled in the remote mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are over 250 years old. The picturesque village offers a glimpse into Japan’s rural past and is a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

How to Get There
Shirakawa-go is accessible from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. Here are the most convenient routes:

From Tokyo: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Toyama (approx. 2 hours 15 minutes), then transfer to a bus to Shirakawa-go (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes).
From Osaka: Take the Thunderbird Limited Express to Kanazawa (approx. 2 hours 40 minutes), then transfer to a bus to Shirakawa-go (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes).

A visit to Shirakawa-go is like stepping back in time, offering a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the historic farmhouses, enjoying the natural scenery, or tasting local cuisine, Shirakawa-go is sure to leave a lasting impression.

https://shirakawa-go.gr.jp/en/

02/06/2024

Join the Aomori Nebuta Festival as a Haneto Dancer!

Experience one of the Tohoku region’s most spectacular summer festivals, the Aomori Nebuta Festival! Held annually in Aomori City from August 2nd to 7th, this vibrant event attracts over 3 million visitors.

Giant, beautifully illuminated "Nebuta" floats, some towering up to 5 meters, parade through the streets accompanied by the thrilling music of the Nebuta musicians. Surrounding these floats, you'll see Haneto dancers energetically jumping and dancing to the infectious beats.

And here's the exciting part—you can be one of those dancers! No dance experience? No problem! Simply wear the traditional Haneto costume, which resembles a yukata, and join a Nebuta group before the parade starts. There's no need for prior registration or complicated procedures.

On the day of the event, you can easily rent a c and immerse yourself in the festival. Shout “Rassera, Rassera!” and dance your heart out, making unforgettable memories.

Don’t miss this chance to dive into the vibrant culture of Aomori and dance alongside locals and fellow visitors at the Aomori Nebuta Festival!

●How to access the festival

The festival is located in the heart of Aomori City, making it easily accessible for everyone. It's just a 10-minute walk from JR Aomori Station, a 30-minute drive from Aomori Airport, and a 15-minute drive from the Aomori Chuo IC.

To get from Tokyo Station to Aomori Station:

By Shinkansen (Bullet Train):
Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Aomori Station. This journey typically takes about 3.5 hours.
From Shin-Aomori Station, transfer to the JR Ou Main Line and take a local train to Aomori Station. This leg of the trip takes about 5 minutes.

By Air:
From Tokyo Station, take a train or bus to Haneda Airport. This transfer takes about 30-40 minutes.
From Haneda Airport, fly to Aomori Airport. The flight takes about 1.5 hours.
From Aomori Airport, take a bus or taxi to Aomori Station. This trip takes approximately 30 minutes.

By Bus:
Long-distance buses are also available from Tokyo to Aomori. The journey by bus takes about 10-12 hours, offering an overnight travel option.
Choose the option that best suits your schedule and preferences for a smooth journey to Aomori Station.

Photo by Aomori-tourism
https://www.nebuta.jp/foreign/english.html
Rental Costume https://www.nebuta.jp/join/wear.html

Please contact us if you have any questions.
[email protected]

25/05/2024

Experience the splendor of the “Kaga Hyakumangoku Festival 2024!

Kaga Hyakumangoku Festival 2024” is a major event in Kanazawa.
Take the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo to Kanazawa in just 2 hours and 30 minutes and immerse yourself in the vibrant Japanese culture and rich history.

The festival is filled with a dazzling parade, traditional performing arts, and mouth-watering local cuisine!

The parade takes about 4 hours from Ishikawa Gate to the entrance of Kanazawa Castle.
The parade is a spectacle to behold, with a parade of brightly colored Kaga lions, a parade of heroic Kaga tobi in happi coats, and a parade of brave warriors, one after another.
Enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience at the “Kaga Hyakumangoku Festival 2024! 🎌.

Friday, May 31-Sunday, May 2, 2024
https://100mangoku.net/foreign/
https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/routemaps/hokurikushinkansen.html

Copyright:石川県観光連盟
https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/index.html
Hyakumangoku Festival festivals experiences

19/05/2024

The “Suigo Sawara Iris Festival” will be held at Suigo Sawara Iris Park from Saturday, May 25 to Sunday, June 23.

The Sawara area, located in the northeastern part of Chiba Prefecture, is a picturesque town that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period.

Let me introduce you to this historic Japanese riverside town, about 2 hours from Tokyo by train and 1 hour from Narita Airport by train.

First, arrive at Sawara Station on the JR Narita Line. From the station, it is a 10-minute walk along the Ono River.

Walk south along the peaceful Ono River. The nostalgic scenery of storehouses, wooden townhouses, and merchants' houses makes it seem as if you have stepped back in time, making it an excellent photo spot. There are also restaurants and souvenir stores along the way.

A ride on a traditional sightseeing boat called a “Sappa-bune,” which is steered by a single stick, is also recommended. You can enjoy the view of the town from the water.

After enjoying the Ono River area, take the local bus to Suigo Sawara Hanashobuen, where you can see 1.5 million irises in 400 varieties during the Hanashobu Matsuri (iris festival) held during May 25 to Sunday, June 23.

03/03/2024

The cherry blossom viewing season is just around the corner！

At Chidorigafuchi Tokyo, the annual "Chiyoda Sakura Festival" will be held from late March to early April, attracting over one million blossom-viewing visitors from Japan and abroad. The Chidorigafuchi Green Road stretches approximately 700 meters, with features such as LED illumination and evening operations at the Chidorigafuchi Boat Landing, creating a delightful atmosphere.

The reasons why Japanese people love cherry blossoms are said to be a combination of cultural and historical factors. Firstly, cherry blossoms symbolize spring in Japan and signify the arrival of this season as a significant event. Their blooming represents the transition of seasons and brings about feelings of new beginnings and hope. Additionally, cherry blossoms have a short lifespan, possessing a transient beauty that is cherished as part of Japanese aesthetic appreciation. This ephemeral quality resonates with the Japanese concept of "Ichigo ichie," or treasuring each moment as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Furthermore, cherry blossoms have deep roots in Japanese culture and history. Cherry blossom viewing, known as hanami, is a traditional Japanese custom where people gather with friends and family to enjoy the blossoms.

16/02/2024

Wouldn't you love to experience Japan's cherry blossoms?

The cherry blossom season in Japan is eagerly anticipated, heralding the arrival of spring and drawing people from all over the world to admire the beautiful blooms. Today, let me introduce you to Arakurayama Sengen Park in Yamanashi, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms. Typically, cherry blossoms are at their peak from early to mid-April, and in 2024, the FUJIYOSHIDA SAKURA WEEK will be held from March 30th to April 14th.

Ascend to the observation deck at Arakurayama Sengen Park, and you'll be treated to an unparalleled vista featuring Mount Fuji, cherry blossoms, and the five-storied pagoda, creating a stunning composition of natural beauty.

In Tokyo, cherry blossoms are usually seen around the end of March. Other major cities like Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka follow a similar timeline, with some variations depending on the year.

For cherry blossom forecast, you can refer to the link below: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/02/15/japan/sakura-forecast/

Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan's cherry blossoms. It's an experience you won't want to miss!

07/12/2023

Sanjusangen-do（三十三間堂）
Sanjusangen-do is an awe-inspiring Buddhist temple renowned for housing 1,001 statues of Senju Kannon, the Deity of Mercy.
Each of these statues is meticulously handcrafted from wood by over 70 skilled Buddhist sculptors, making them entirely unique as they are not crafted using molds. The incredible array of statues is believed to possess the ability to transform into 33 different forms, including representations of children, women, and even public servants. Legend has it that these manifestations can provide solace and aid to individuals grappling with profound challenges such as poverty and incurable illnesses.

In front of this mesmerizing congregation of 1,001 Kannon statues, visitors are told a captivating promise—that you can find the visage of the person you seek to meet among these individualized faces.

Sanjusangen-do was commissioned by the illustrious warlord Taira no Kiyomori for Emperor Go-Shirakawa in 1164. Its reputation extends not only for the sheer number of statues but also for the spiritual significance attached to these remarkable representations of compassion and salvation.

https://www.sanjusangendo.jp/
（Only Japanese）

05/12/2023

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a World Heritage Site with a history of approximately 1,200 years.

Jumping off the Kiyomizu stage is a Japanese proverb meaning to make a bold decision. It means to take a serious decision to jump off the stage of the main hall of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which is overhanging a sheer cliff.

There are many attractions such as "Otowa Falls" known as a power spot for love fulfillment, buildings of national treasure and important cultural assets, and Buddhist statues.

A must visit temple when sightseeing in Kyoto!

https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/

05/12/2023

Would you like to see the world's only monkey that bathes in a hot spring?

See the interesting ecology of Japanese macaques up close. Jigokudani Yaen-Koen is located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, in the valley of the Yokoyu River, which originates in the Shiga Kogen Plateau of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park.
At an altitude of 850 meters above sea level, it is a harsh environment covered with snow for almost one-third of the year.

From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen or bullet train to Nagano Station. From there, take a 50-minute bus ride to the entrance of Jigokudani Onsen and walk another 30 minutes to get there.
You might see a monkey dozing off peacefully and a mother monkey with a very adorable baby monkey on her back.

In fact, at the adjacent Korakukan, a member inn of the Japan Association for Secluded Hot Spring Protection, we can also warm ourselves in the hot spring just like the monkeys. The spectacular open-air baths along the river, which are exclusively for humans, will cool you down from the fatigue of your trip.
Tattoos are also allowed.

https://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/
http://www.jigokudanionsen.com/

02/12/2023

Experience the enchantment of Motonosumi Shrine, a hidden gem awaiting your discovery in Japan.
Motonosumi Shrine earned recognition from CNN Travel as one of Japan's "31 Most Beautiful Places." The shrine's captivating setting creates a stunning visual contrast with its vibrant red gates set against the deep cobalt blue of the waves below.
In 1955, at the bedside of local fisherman Okamura Hito, a white fox appeared and delivered a message: "Establish a shrine for me at this place." This led to the establishment of the Moto no Sumi Inari Shrine. Known as a significant deity for the local community, it gathers faith for prosperity in business, bountiful catches, maritime safety, as well as blessings for good marriages, fertility, warding off misfortune, family happiness, safe travels, and academic success.

https://visit-nagato.com/en/sightseeing/naturalwonders/motonosumiinarishrine/

29/11/2023

Which do you prefer, the Kinkaku-ji Temple or the Ginkaku-ji Temple?
Both are representative tourist spots in Kyoto. It seems that Ginkaku-ji Temple is slightly more popular among both overseas travelers and Japanese tourists.

Both the luxurious grandeur of Kinkaku-ji and the wabi-sabi world of Ginkaku-ji are magnificent. If I had to say, perhaps the wabi-sabi essence of Ginkaku-ji reflects a unique Japanese worldview.

Kinkaku-ji, established in 1397, was reconstructed from a retired temple by the third sh**un, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, to resemble a villa comparable to the imperial palace. This lavish structure, funded by immense wealth obtained through trade with China, is said to have been where the sh**un conducted all political affairs. The current building dates back to 1955 when the original structure was rebuilt, and its exterior gold leaf was refurbished in the 1980s.

Ginkaku-ji, on the other hand, was created by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, who became sh**un at the age of fifteen in 1482. He spent his entire life projecting his aesthetic sensibilities into creating a grand villa that embodies the essence of the Higashiyama culture’s simplicity and refined beauty. Initially intended to be covered in silver foil similar to Kinkaku-ji, the economic situation after the Ōnin War resulted in a considerably more modest and compact structure compared to Kinkaku-ji. Nevertheless, it incorporated techniques that laid the foundation for modern Japanese architecture.

Both are spots in Kyoto that I would highly recommend visiting.

https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/en/kinkakuji/
https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/en/ginkakuji/

22/11/2023

Why are there so many Red Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha?

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto Prefecture has approximately 10,000 torii gates lining the entire approach.
There was a belief that ``by dedicating a Torii gate, your wishes will come true.'' It is said that people dedicated larger and larger Torii gates each time their wish came true, resulting in the current Torii gates.
In addition, vermilion has long been used to ward off evil spirits, and the torii gates are also vermilion to prevent disaster.

What is Fushimi Inari Taisha?
“Oinari-san” can be said to be the most familiar shrine for us.
It is said that there are 30,000 shrines across the country, and the main shrine is Fushimi Inari Taisha. It was 1,300 years ago that Inari Okami, the deity enshrined at our company, was enshrined on this mountain.

These long years are not just the passing of time, but due to the deep faith of the people, it has been widely worshiped in Japan as a god of abundant crops, prosperous business, family safety, and the fulfillment of various wishes.

11/11/2023

"See Naples and then die"
"See Nikko and then die. (Don't say wonderful until you've seen Nikko)"

These phrases express the idea that seeing certain places is so awe-inspiring or beautiful that one can feel fulfilled or complete after the experience.

"Nikko Toshogu Shrine," one of Japan's top historical tourist attractions, is located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, in the northern part of the Kanto region. It serves as the head shrine of the Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first sh**un of the Edo period. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it houses numerous national treasures and important cultural properties, making it a valuable repository of architectural wonders and artistic treasures.

The "Yomeimon Gate" [National Treasure] is considered one of Japan's most beautiful gates, bestowed with the name of the main gate of the imperial palace. Known as the "Gate of Sunset" because it never gets tiresome to look at, it features over 500 sculptures depicting anecdotes, children's games, and sages.

The "Five-story Pagoda" [Important Cultural Property] raises the question: Why does a Shinto shrine have a pagoda? Typically, Shinto shrines do not have pagodas, as pagodas are associated with Buddhist temples and were originally built to enshrine Buddhist relics. However, during the Edo period, due to the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, Nikko Toshogu Shrine features a five-story pagoda. Syncretism refers to the belief that Shinto gods and Buddhist deities are inseparable. This integration is evident in the construction of Buddhist halls within Shinto shrines or the establishment of Shinto shrines within Buddhist temple grounds, along with shared worship of deities.

"Divine Stable and Three Wise Monkeys" [Important Cultural Property] features a stable for divine horses and sculptures of three monkeys. The monkeys, symbolizing the proverbial "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil," depict a moral principle urging one to ignore the faults and shortcomings of others. Three Wise Monkeys signifies the practice of avoiding conflicts with others by refraining from seeing, hearing, or speaking of their faults and shortcomings. It is believed to lead to a peaceful coexistence without unnecessary conflicts.

How about taking a two-hour train journey from Tokyo Asakusa to Nikko during the beautiful autumn foliage season?

07/11/2023

Temples and shrines can be found everywhere in Japan, but did you know that they are different?

What is a Shrine?

In ancient Japan, mountains, waterfalls, rocks, forests, and giant trees were objects of sacred worship, believed to be inhabited by gods. It is also said that there are many gods in Japan. Today's shrines are permanent structures of ritual halls enshrining these gods.
Since weddings and other ceremonies are held at shrines, an increasing number of shrines have wedding halls attached to them.
Shrines are surrounded by a forest called “Shinju no mori”, and within the forest are sacred trees called” Goshinbokui”.
The shrine's Torii gate marks the boundary between the shrine grounds and the secular world. There is a hand-watering basin on the approach to the shrine, and it is customary to purify oneself before entering the shrine.
No funerals are held at shrines, and no cemeteries are built.

What is a Temple?

The term "Temple" refers to a place of worship and its grounds in Islam and Christianity, as well as to a temple and its grounds in Buddhism.
There is a "Sanmon" at the entrance, and the "Kondo" (main hall), where the "Pagoda" representing the Buddha and Buddhist statues are enshrined, can be viewed at all times, with the Buddhist statues placed inside.
Buildings in temples are divided into "Garan," which enshrines objects of worship such as statues of Buddha, and "Shobo," where monks live.
The temple is usually responsible for holding and managing the graves of parishioners, and for organizing funerals and annual memorial services.
At temples, it is believed that people wish for happiness in the Buddhist paradise after death or in this life, and which they wish for depends on the sect of the temple.

住所

Yokohama, Kanagawa