Articles
Culture
Why Are Torii Gates Red?
Culture
Temizu（How to wash your hands）
Culture
6 sightseeing spots in Kyoto famous for cherry blossoms
This article introduces six sightseeing spots in Kyoto where cherry blossoms are recommended. Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Hirano Shrine, which are beautifully illuminated, and Maruyama Park, famous for its weeping cherry blossoms, are among the many highlights. The cherry blossom season is usually said to be from late March to early April, so if you are visiting Kyoto at that time of year, please be sure to check this page.
Culture
What is “wabi-sabi” ? Japanese aesthetic
In Japan, there is an aesthetic consciousness known as "wabi-sabi," which appreciates the beauty found within simple things. Comprising the words "wabi" and "sabi," this concept permeates various aspects of Japanese culture and art. In this article, we will introduce the meaning of "wabi-sabi" and recommend spots in Japan where you can experience it.
Food
20 Selected Sushi Toppings with Insights into Sushi Varieties and Etiquette
Sushi is a popular Japanese cuisine both domestically and internationally, but when it comes to placing an order, some may find themselves unsure of what to choose. This article introduces particularly popular sushi toppings such as maguro (tuna), salmon, and toro (fatty tuna). We will also introduce the types of sushi, such as nigiri and gunkan maki, as well as the etiquette of eating sushi.
Food
Yakitori: Japan's Grilled Chicken Skewers
Yakitori（焼き鳥） is a Japanese dish of grilled chicken meat on skewers. There are many yakitori menus available, ranging from standard yakitori such as momo and negima to slightly different yakitori such as tsukune and bonjiri. Yakitori is reasonably priced and can be found at izakaya (Japanese style pubs), convenience stores, and many other places. Let's enjoy Japanese food culture through yakitori.
Food
Syabu-Syabu: A Journey into Japanese Hot Pot Cuisine
Syabu-syabu (shabu-shabu) is a traditional Japanese one-pot dish consisting of thinly sliced fresh meat and vegetables, quickly boiled in hot water or soup stock. This section introduces the origin, etymology of the name, and how to enjoy syabu-syabu.
Food
Okonomiyaki: Exploring the Differences Between Kansai and Hiroshima Styles
Okonomiyaki is a Japanese dish made by mixing cabbage, green onions, pork, and other ingredients into a thin batter and baking it. It is served with toppings such as special okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and chopped green onions. It is usually cooked on a teppan and cut into plates before eating. There are regional variations of okonomiyaki, including Hiroshima-style, Kansai-style, and monjayaki (Tokyo-style).
Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kyoto
Ginkaku-ji
Kyoto
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Kyoto
To-ji Temple
To-ji temple (East Temple) was entrusted to the monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi), who studied Esoteric Buddhism. In addition to the five-story pagoda, there are many other attractions such as the Kondo Hall, Kodo Hall, and the Miedo Hall. To-ji temple is renowned for its beautiful autumn foliage and cherry blossoms. Additionally, the Kobo market (Kobo-ichi) is held on the 21st of every month.
Kyoto
Ryoan-ji Tample
Kyoto
Kyoto Tower
Kyoto
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine enshrines the god of learning, Sugawara no Michizane (Tenjin-sama). The cow is an animal associated with Sugawara no Michizane, and you'll likely come across many statues of cows within the shrine grounds. Besides being renowned as a plum blossom destination, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is not only known for that; you can also see green maple leaves in summer and vibrant autumn foliage in the fall. Additionally, on the 25th of every month, the Tenjin Market is held, attracting a bustling crowd of people.
Kyoto
Heian Jingu Shrine
Tokyo
Senso-ji Temple
Kyoto
Sanjusangendo Temple
Kyoto
Kifune Shrine
Kyoto
Amanohashidate
Kyoto
Nijo-jo Castle
Kyoto
Nanzen-ji Temple
Tokyo
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo
Tokyo Tower
Kyoto
Kyoto International Manga Museum
Kyoto
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto's most popular tourist attractions. The Kiyomizu Stage in the main hall is particularly famous, but there are many other attractions as well. Depending on the time of your visit, you can witness different aspects of the temple, with autumn foliage and cherry blossoms in spring being particularly recommended. During the special nighttime viewing periods held three times a year in spring, summer, and fall, you can see Kiyomizu-dera Temple illuminated.
Kyoto
Arashiyama
Arashiyama is an incredibly charming tourist destination with numerous attractions. The bamboo forest pathway, especially renowned for its approximately 400 meters of bamboo lining, is very popular and attracts visitors from both domestic and international locations. You can capture the beauty of the bamboo grove by wearing a kimono and taking photos or experience the natural surroundings by riding in a rickshaw. Other noteworthy attractions include the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and Tenryu-ji Temple, known for its famous gardens featuring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage.
Kyoto
Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine is adorned with numerous auxiliary shrines, each dedicated to various deities. Besides the main hall designated as a national treasure, there are 29 other buildings recognized as important cultural properties, contributing to the shrine's rich historical and architectural significance. In July, the renowned Gion Matsuri takes place at Yasaka Shrine, standing as one of Japan's three major festivals. This annual celebration adds an extra layer of cultural vibrancy to the shrine, drawing in visitors from near and far.
Kyoto
Ninna-ji Temple
Ninna-ji Temple, with its rich historical architecture, is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, the late-blooming Goshoin cherry blossoms are renowned and designated as a National Scenic Beauty. In this article, we will highlight specific structures within the expansive Ninna-ji grounds that are particularly worth visiting.
Travel
How to Ride Kyoto Buses: A Guide to One-Day Passes and IC Cards
Tips and Useful Information for Using Buses in Kyoto: This guide provides information on how to board buses, payment methods for fares, and details about one-day passes and IC cards like Suica. Use the buses to sightsee Kyoto efficiently.
Travel
10 Recommended Kimono Rental Shops in Kyoto - Feb 2024
Introducing recommended kimono rental shops among the many available in Kyoto. We cover a diverse range, including stores with foreign language support, those near popular tourist spots like Kiyomizu Temple and Arashiyama, and budget-friendly options. Experience the beauty of Kyoto by strolling through the streets adorned in a gorgeous kimono.
Travel
Discover 3 Kimono Rental Shops near Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto
There are many kimono rental stores available in the Kiyomizu-dera area. In this article, we will introduce some of the most recommended stores, Okamoto, Rika Wahuku, and Kyoetsu. We will also tell you about photo spots around Kiyomizu-dera Temple that you should definitely visit in kimono, such as Yasaka Koshindo, Ninenzaka-zaka, and Sanneizaka-zaka.
Travel
Top 3 Kimono Rental Shops near Arashiyama with a Glimpse of Nearby Attractions!
This article introduces you to Yume Kyoto, Kyoetsu, and Wakamurasaki, stores where you can rent kimonos around Arashiyama, one of Kyoto's most popular tourist destinations. We also introduce sightseeing spots around Arashiyama such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Bamboo Forest, and Kimono Forest, which you should visit while wearing a kimono.
Travel