Hiraizumi is an ancient city located in Nishiiwai District, Iwate Prefecture. Once rivalled Kyoto for its beauty and elegant surroundings, Hiraizumi was the capital of the Northern Fujiwara in 1105. In 1189, however, Hiraizumi was razed by Minamoto Yoritomo, the man who would soon after become Japan’s first shogun. heContinue Reading
Originally known as Yamato, Nara is Japan’s first permanent capital from 710 to 794. Before that date, the capital used to be moved to a new location whenever a new emperor ascended to the throne. However, as the influence and political ambitions of the city’s powerful Buddhist monasteries grew toContinue Reading
Located just one hour south of Tokyo, Kamakura of Kanagawa Prefecture is home to the Great Buddha Hall, Tsuruhachimangu Shrine, and many other historic buildings, beautiful cafes, and cosy shops. This town became the political centre of Japan in the late 12th century. Today, Kamakura is a small city andContinue Reading
Also known as Itsukushima, Miyajima is a small island less than an hour outside the city of Hiroshima and best known for its giant torii gate which at high tide seems to float on the water. Miyajima is believed to be the island where God dwells. It is said thatContinue Reading
Hakone is a town in Kanagawa Prefecture, to a great degree regarded as a famous destination among Japanese and international tourists. Hakone is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, less than one hundred kilometres from Tokyo. In addition to hot springs, museums and other recreation activities, Hakone is known forContinue Reading
Located in the northwestern part of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is best known for its vast and rich nature as well as the many famous historical shrines and temples. As it used to be the sacred land of mountain worship for Shinto and Buddhist, many people visit the place for itsContinue Reading
Nestled between lush green mountains and the tranquil Seto Inland Sea with six rivers flowing through its centre, this capital city of Hiroshima Prefecture is a beautiful city blessed with a rich natural environment. On August 6, 1945, the city was reduced to ashes by the first atomic bombing inContinue Reading
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a mountain sightseeing route between Tateyama, Toyama and Ōmachi, Nagano, which is traversed by various means of transportation including cable cars, trolley-buses and a ropeway. The Alpine Route goes through Tateyama in the Hida Mountains with many scenic sites as well as walking trails,Continue Reading
Matsumoto is the second-largest city in Nagano Prefecture. Matsumoto is a gateway to the Japan Alps and a destination in its own right. Apart from being home to Japan’s oldest extant castle, it is also the birthplace of avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama. Other destination highlights include Nakamachi—former merchant districts, andContinue Reading
The name Kanazawa, which literally means marsh of gold, is said to be originated from a legend that the peasant Imohori Togoro was digging for potatoes when flakes of gold washed up. It is now the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture, best-known for its historical attractions, modern museums, and Kenrokuen—oneContinue Reading