How to Purify Yourself at a Japanese Shrine
Purify yourself in 15 (not-so-complicated) steps!
Tokyo Temple Renovated in Minimalist Concrete
An old, dilapidated temple in Tokyo looks to architect Satoru Harota for a modern makeover.
No Trees, No Kiyomizu-dera
What are the three most notable woody materials used in the construction of Kiyomizu-dera?
4 Day Trip Destinations to Escape from Tokyo!
Mount Takao , First Time in Japan
Tokyo is definitely one of the most exciting and interesting cities in Japan, but there are so many other places that are definitely worth visiting!
The Snowscape of Daigo Temple
The hidden Daigo Temple is one site you won't want to miss—especially in winter when snow blankets the grounds!
A Guide to the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails
Winding through the Kii Peninsula, these are the only UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage trails in Japan.
Top 5 Sakura-Viewing Sites in Osaka
From castles to riverbanks, Osaka has some amazing spots for viewing cherry blossoms with your friends and family. Check out these sites during your next visit!
Photos from Japan to You
Ranging from skin care and shoes to kimono and charms from shrines, blogger and model Matsu-you* introduces her favorite aspects of Japan for the G7 Japan 2016 Ise-Shima Photography Contest.
The Biggest Temple You've Never Heard Of
While many regions of Japan are world-renowned for their shrines and temples, sometimes it's the ones you've never heard of that leave the biggest impression.
Hit 3 Sites in Hiraizumi in Just One Day!
World Heritage , Tohoku Resorts
The UNESCO-registered temples and gardens of Hiraizumi represented an attempt to create an ideal world on Earth.
These Charms are Simply, Well, Charming!
A Buddhist temple in Tokyo has taken it upon itself to customize charms that are then blessed by a priest.
Take a Breakneck Video Tour of Japan!
Filmed during a three-week railway journey through Japan, this stupendously edited collection of memories reminds us of what can be so fascinating about this island nation.
When You Wish Upon a Pun
New Year's , Temples & Shrines
There’s a special reason why Japanese people offer ¥5 coins at temples and shrines.
See Kyoto Mapped as it Once Was
So long as you have this map, you can feel as though you've slipped back into the Heian Period of Kyoto.
10 Top Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots
Between March and April, people flock outdoors to enjoy the brief life of Japan's blooming cherry blossoms. But just because the day ends doesn't mean the 'hanami' (flower viewing) has to as well. Take a look at our 10 recommended night viewing spots!
Take the Path of Faith to Discover Nature
Temples & Shrines , The Wonder 500
Rediscover yourself in mystical places deep in the mountains.
6 Differences Between Temples & Shrines
I decided, once and for all, to figure out the differences between a temple and a shrine.
48 Hours in Kyoto on a Budget
This isn’t Kyoto for the faint-hearted. So lace up your comfy shoes and get ready to hit the pavement!
Brush Up on Your Japanese Buddhism Knowledge
Impress your friends by showcasing your knowledge of the differences between Japan's two main religions, Shinto and Buddhism—or wow them with the origin of those cute, one-eyed, red 'daruma' dolls.
Take the Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage
The Chichibu Valley is home to beautiful mountains and rivers—and a centuries-old temple pilgrimage unlike any other in Japan.
