Remarkable Landmarks, Part 9: Kyoto Gosho

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 9: Kyoto Gosho Kyoto Gosho, or the Kyoto Imperial Palace, is a truly remarkable and historically significant site that offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s imperial past. Located in the heart of Kyoto, this expansive palace complex was the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan for over a millennium, from the …

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 8: Toji Temple

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 8: Toji Temple Toji Temple, or the “East Temple,” is one of the most iconic and historically significant temples in Kyoto. Located just a short distance from the city center, this impressive Buddhist temple is renowned for its magnificent five-story pagoda, which stands as the tallest wooden structure in Japan. Entering the …

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 7: Himeji Castle

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 7: Himeji Castle Himeji Castle, also known as the “White Heron Castle,” is one of the most impressive and well-preserved feudal castles in all of Japan. Located in the city of Himeji, just a short train ride from Osaka, this magnificent castle is renowned for its striking white exterior and its intricate, …

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 6: Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 6: Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima Itsukushima Shrine, also known as the “Floating Torii Gate,” is one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks in all of Japan. Located on the island of Itsukushima (also called Miyajima) in the Seto Inland Sea, near Hiroshima. This stunning Shinto shrine is renowned for its dramatic setting, …

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 5: Todaiji

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 5: Todaiji Todaiji, or the “Great Eastern Temple,” is one of the most impressive and historically significant temples in the world. Located in the city of Nara, just a short train ride from Kyoto, Todaiji is renowned for housing the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue and for its magnificent temple architecture. As …

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 4: Kiyomizudera

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 4: Kiyomizudera Kiyomizudera, or the “Temple of the Pure Water,” is one of the most iconic and beloved temples in all of Kyoto. Perched on the side of the Higashiyama mountains, this stunning wooden temple offers breathtaking views over the city and is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Kyoto. The …

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 3: Kinkakuji

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 3: Kinkakuji Kinkakuji, is the famous Golden Pavilion in Kyoto. One of the city’s most iconic and breathtaking landmarks. This stunning Zen temple is renowned for its magnificent golden pavilion that seems to float atop the tranquil waters of its surrounding pond. Arriving at the temple, the first thing that catches your …

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 2: Fushimi Inari-taisha

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 2: Fushimi Inari-taisha Fushimi Inari-taisha is a stunning Shinto shrine located in the southern part of Kyoto, just a short train ride from the city center. This shrine is renowned for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that wind up the mountainside, creating a truly mesmerizing and otherworldly sight. Approaching the …

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 1: Senso-ji Temple

Remarkable Landmarks, Part 1: Senso-ji Temple Senso-ji Temple is one of the most famous and historically significant temples in all of Tokyo. Located in the Asakusa district, this impressive Buddhist temple dates back to the 7th century, making it the oldest temple in the city. As you approach this majestic site, you’ll first pass through …