One of Kyoto’s most iconic shrines, Fushimi Inari Taisha, is famous for its vibrant vermilion Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates), a must-see destination for visitors from around the world. Walking through the tunnel of gates on a crisp winter day was a mystical and unforgettable experience. From the Main Shrine to the Thousand Torii Gates The visit began with a prayer at the main shrine, located near the entrance of the shrine grounds. The vivid vermilion buildings stood out against the blue sky, creating a serene yet majestic atmosphere. Local worshippers and tourists alike gathered to pray for blessings such ...

Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of towering bamboo in Kyoto's Arashiyama district. During my visit to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, I was captivated by the mystical scenery of bamboo stalks stretching endlessly toward the sky. Despite the crowds of tourists from around the world, walking deeper into the grove revealed a peaceful atmosphere and the overwhelming presence of nature's quiet strength. The Allure of the Bamboo Grove The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a scenic path approximately 400 meters long, lined with densely packed bamboo stalks. As you walk along the path, the interplay of light and shadow creates ...

Experience the tranquility of a Zen garden and the mystique of a mythical dragon in Kyoto's winter wonderland. Winter in Kyoto's Arashiyama district offers a unique, tranquil beauty. During my visit, I explored the historic Zen temple, Tenryu-ji. The light dusting of snow on the gardens and the powerful Cloud Dragon painting on the temple's ceiling created an unforgettable experience. Tenryu-ji temple The Elegance of Tatami Rooms and Historical Artwork Upon entering the main hall, I was greeted by meticulously arranged tatami mats, traditionally crafted from woven rush grass and soft rice straw, providing a tactile connection to Japanese culture ...

When people think of Arashiyama in Kyoto, famous landmarks such as Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove often come to mind. However, nestled quietly nearby is a lesser-known temple called Hōrin-ji (法輪寺). During my recent visit, I had the chance to experience the temple’s peaceful atmosphere, with traces of snow still lingering in the air. In this article, I will introduce the unique traditions of Hōrin-ji, including Jūsan Mairi, a special coming-of-age ritual, and Denden-gu Shrine, which enshrines the guardian deity of electricity and communication. What is Hōrin-ji Temple? Located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Hōrin-ji Temple is known for its Jūsan ...

The other night, an unexpected spectacle unfolded above Shibuya—a breathtaking drone show that transformed the city’s night sky into a canvas of glowing art. Against the backdrop of Tokyo’s dazzling skyline, over 2,200 drones moved in perfect synchronization, creating mesmerizing designs that felt like a glimpse into the future. What is a Drone Show? A drone show is a cutting-edge aerial performance that uses hundreds or even thousands of LED-equipped drones to create animations, text, and intricate visual designs in the sky. Unlike fireworks, drone shows offer a more precise and dynamic experience, bringing art to life in ways never ...

Introduction After several years of travel restrictions, I finally had the chance to visit Guam again with my family. It was a long-awaited trip, and the beautiful weather made it even more enjoyable. We booked our flights, hotel, and optional tours individually rather than through a travel agency. Although the preparation took some effort, everything went smoothly thanks to a relaxed schedule. Day 1: Arrival in Guam & Hotel Check-in The hotel in Tumon, Guam comes into view. Arrived in Guam around noon. Took a taxi from the airport to our hotel, Dusit Beach Resort Guam (about 15 minutes, $32 ...

Exploring Meiji Shrine from Sangubashi Located in Shibuya, Tokyo, Meiji Shrine is one of Japan’s most iconic shrines, attracting numerous visitors daily. While the main approach from Harajuku Station is well-known, a quieter and more nature-filled alternative is the route from Sangubashi Station. This path takes you through a serene, tree-lined walkway, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. In about 15 to 20 minutes, you will reach Meiji Shrine. Starting from Sangubashi Station After exiting the Odakyu Line’s Sangubashi Station, you will find the entrance to Meiji Shrine’s western approach nearby. Compared to the bustling Harajuku side, this entrance ...