History / Culture / Tour Spots in Japan

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Category

Travel / Tourism

History / Culture / Tour

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Travel / Tourism

Kyoto Kyoutoshi Fushimi-ku Fukakusa Yabunouchi cho 68

This shrine in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City, is the head of all Inari Shrines in Japan, which total to around 30,000 shrines. The shrine is particularly famous for its vermillion lacquered Torii gate tunnels, as well as to parishioners visiting the god for business, harvest, and fortune. Many of the buildings on the grounds are also painted with brilliant vermillion lacquer including the front shrine, main shrine, and tower gate, which has been designated an Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The torii gate corridor, said to consist of several thousand to 10,000 torii gates, twists and turns making it quite the spectacle. Beyond that is the rear shrine as well as the entrance to Mt. Inari-san which is dotted with countless small burial mounds. It is one of the most famous spots in the Kansai region to visit for the annual New Year Shrine Visit and draws huge numbers of visitors every year.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine

4.5

1778 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Nara Pref. Narashi Kasuganochou 160

This is a Shinto shrine located in Nara City. Kasuga Taisha Shrine is the grand head shrine of approximately 1,000 Kasuga shrines nationwide. The origins to the shrine lie in the early days of the Nara period, when Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto from Kashima-jingu Shrine was enshrined at Mt. Mikasa. The main shrine of the Kasuga structure which is a National Treasure has four buildings lined up, and in addition to the majestic and splendid south Gate and middle gate, there are many things such as fine and industrial art objects which have been designated as Important Cultural Properties. The Bantoro Festival (Lantern Festival) event is held on the day of Setsubun (Bean throwing night) and on the 14th and 15th of August when around 3,000 stone lanterns and hanging lanterns are lit with fire, and many worshipers come to look at this magical sight.

The local bus can bring you right to the shrine. The bus is a lot like a trolly and there are two companies. One is 220 yen per ride the other is 100 yen per ride. Otherwise, it’s a bit of a walk...
To-ji Temple (Kyo-o-gokoku-ji Temple)

4.5

1646 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kyoto Kyoutoshi Minami-ku Kujouchou 1

This Buddhist temple is the only remaining structure built during the days of the ancient capital of Heian-kyo (the former name of the city of Kyoto) and officially named Kyo-o gokoku-ji Temple. The temple was registered as a World Heritage site in 1994. The temple’s numerous National Treasures are worthy of note, such as its Kondo Hall (Main Hall), Daishido Hall (Miei House), and five tier pagoda, which is 55 meters (187 feet) tall and is the tallest wooden structure in Japan. Some of the temple’s many other historic and cultural assets include the southern gate and lecture hall, both registered as Important Cultural Properties.

this place was absolutely gorgeous. It was established towards the end of the 8th Century, with it being the only remaining site from the original Heiankyo. (meaning that it existed since Kyoto...
Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum

4.5

2014 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Nagasaki Pref. Nagasakishi Hiranomachi 7-8

The museum is located on a hill overlooking the center of the explosion from the atomic bomb that was dropped on Nagasaki. Pictures of Nagasaki before and after the bombing as well as structures and everyday items which survived the explosion are displayed in the museum in story-like fashion. Patrons are allowed to touch some of the exhibits which convey to the present the horrors of the atomic bomb. Multilingual exhibit descriptions and audio guides are available. A five-minute walk from the Hamaguchi-machi stop on the tramway.

A place to learn about the devastation of the atomic bomb on Nagasaki & its effect on her people. There is entrance fee to enter some parts of the museum. There is another section that it doesn’t...
Asakusa Shrine

4.5

1344 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Tokyo Taitou-ku Asakusa 2-3-1

This shrine is located next to the main hall of Senso-ji. Since it primarily enshrines the three deities Hinokuma-hamanari-no-mikoto, Hinokuma-takenari-no-mikoto, and Hajin-matsuchi-no-mikoto, it is referred to as “Sanja Gongen Shrine” and “Sanja Sama.” The hall of worship, the hall of offerings and the inner sanctuary of the current shrine, completed in 1649, have all been designated by the Japanese government as Important Cultural Properties. The Sanja Matsuri held regularly every year on the third Friday, Saturday and Sunday in May is famous for its dynamic mikoshi (portable shrine) and long procession of people.

The area around the shrine is filled with shops and food in a market like setting. It was fun to wander around. It was very crowded and hard to navigate. It was raining and everyone had an umbrella...
Eikando Zenrin-ji

4.5

1727 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kyoto Kyoutoshi Sakyou-ku Eikandouchou 48

The head temple of Nishiyama Zenrinji Pure Land Sect of Buddhism, located in Eikando Town, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. The temple was erected by Shinsho, a disciple of the famed priest Kukai, in 853 to serve as a Pure Land Sect dojo. Thereafter, a man named Eikan joined the priesthood and began engaging in philanthropic works while spreading Pure Land Buddhism and encouraging people to pray to Amitabha. Accordingly, the name “Eikando” is derived from his name. The temple is famous for its standing figure of Amitabha, which is looking back over its shoulder. An exhibit of the temple’s treasure house is held in November. The temple has also been famous for its autumn foliage since ancient times.

One of famous autumn leaves temple. Here is special to maintain trees during year for autumn season. It’s said water is impotent for red leaves if few rain they put water to a lot of trees. There are...
Samurai Museum

4.5

1907 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Tokyo Shinjuku-ku Kabukichou 2-25-6 Yongwa 6th Building 1F

This museum is dedicated to generals and samurai of the Warring States period. There are displays of armor and swords by period, and explanations of the origins of the samurai. You can also rent armor to get your picture taken as a samurai! It's very popular with tourists from overseas. They also have an attraction letting you join in a sword battle, as well as lots of events like sword preparation and calligraphy classes. They also sell souvenirs and gifts like replica armor.

Very engaging and interactive experience at this museum! The guides were very knowledgeable on the history but also had really cool activities at the end (ninja and samurai) to make it a good...
Hasedera Temple

4.5

1733 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kanagawa Pref. Kamakurashi Hase 3-11-2

Hasedera Temple is located around five minutes’ walk from Hase Station on the Enoden Line. Besides the Kannon Hall, which houses an impressive statue of Kannon (the Goddess of Mercy) with eleven heads, the temple complex also includes six other main buildings, including the Amida-do, Taikoku-do, and Benten-do buildings. Hasedera Temple is situated in one of the most scenic parts of Kamakura, and there is an observation platform with spectacular views of Kamakura’s streets and coastline. With beautiful trees and flowers that change with the seasons, the Hasedera Temple has been called “Kamakura’s Western Paradise,” and is affectionately known as the “temple of flowers.”

Really great place to visit in Kamakura its a must see! The temple is beautiful however it also has a fantastic view next to it of the coastline which is great for some photos. There is also a...
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

4.0

1615 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kanagawa Pref. Kamakurashi Yukinoshita 2-1-31

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu was called the guardian deity of the samurai of Kamakura. The story of the shrine began when Minamoto no Yoriyoshi transferred the division of the kami (deity) from Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto, where he prayed for good fortune in warfare, to Yuigahama and re-enshrined Hachiman kami as the clan deity of the Minamoto clan after the Oshu region was pacified. Later, when Minamoto no Yoritomo entered Kamakura under the banner of reviving the Minamoto clan, the shrine was moved to its current location, and was later reorganized into two shrines, the upper and lower shrines, befitting the Kamakura shogunate's sosha (headquarters). The shrine is still popular today as a shrine associated with the samurai Genji clan and Minamoto no Yoritomo, and is sometimes counted as one of the three major Hachiman shrines. Yabusame (traditional horseback archery) ritual is held every year in spring and fall, performed by the samurai archer dressed in traditional hunting costumes from the Kamakura period. It is spectacular.

Huge compound surrounded by a few gardens, long flight of stairs to the top but cant go into the temple itself so its just walking around on the outside. Theres also a Maruyama Inari Shrine...
Makuhari Messe

3.5

449 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Chiba Pref. Chibashi Mihama-ku Nakase 2-1

A convention center capable of hosting domestic and international trade fairs, product fairs, exhibitions, events, and meetings. There’s always a host of fun programs being conducted at Makuhari Messe. In addition to 11 exhibition halls, there’s also numerous conference rooms, restaurants, and other facilities; the size of the structure will astound you. The shortest access routes for international exhibition halls 1-8 and 9-11, the Makuhari Event Hall, and the international conference rooms all differ, so be sure to check where the event you’re interested in is before heading out.

Makuhari Messe looked a little shabby compared to Tokyo Big Site. The site was big enough but it looked so much outdated.
Kodai-ji Zen Temple

4.5

1499 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kyoto Prefecture Kyoto-shi Higashiyama-ku Kodaiji Shimogawara-machi 526

This temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City was founded in 1606 to pray for Toyotomi Hideyoshi's happiness in the next life by his wife, Nene. Along with a mausoleum for the both of them, you can also visit the front gate of former Fushimi castle, the Kasatei teahouse, the Shiguretei teahouse, the Kaisando hall which holds favorite mementos of the two, and the Mizukidai pavilion (all of which are Important Cultural Properties of Japan). The fine gold lacquer work on the Buddha dais and miniature shrine within the mausoleum are masterpieces of Momoyama-period artwork and known as Kodai-ji Temple Makie. The garden on site surrounding a small pond is not to be missed and has been nationally designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty as well as a Historic Site. It is lit up during the sakura cherry blossom season in spring, at night in summer, during the gorgeous foliage season in fall, and on New Year's Eve.

This is a smaller but beautiful temple in the heart of Kyoto. There are nice walking trails through the complex.
Kushida-jinja Shrine

4.0

1639 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Fukuoka Pref. Fukuokashihakataku Kamikawabatamachi 1-41

A Shinto shrine dedicated to Amaterasu (left shrine), Ohatanushi (central shrine), and Susanoo (right shrine); and the oldest patron shrine of Hakata. Famous for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival held in July, the stunning yamakasa floats used in the festival are on permanent display on the shrine’s grounds. The waters of the Well of the Crane of the Miraculous Spring which well up from beneath the main shrine building are said to grant health and long life and are quite the attraction for tourists and locals alike.

This is an interesting one right between commercial and residential blocks. Small compound with enough things to see while taking a break from the walking.
Ninna-ji Temple

4.5

1264 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kyoto Kyoutoshi Ukyou-ku Omuroouchi 33

This temple built in 888 by Emperor Uda is also known as Omuro Gosho. It is a World Heritage site and head temple of the Omuro sect of Shingon Buddhism, with a number of Important Cultural Properties on the expansive grounds including the National Treasure main building, five-storied pagoda, Goei-do building and Deva gate. The late blooming “Omuro Sakura” cherry blossom are best seen from mid to late April, and in autumn one can enjoy the beautiful and symbolic Kyoto sight of red and yellow leaves covering the road up to the main temple.

Plenty of things to do here. If you go in April you may want to go to Omuro Zakura (Cherry Blossoms) as well. I went there on a rainy Tuesday but I still enjoyed it. There werent as many tourists as...
Matsue Castle

4.5

1523 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Shimane Pref. Matsueshi Tonomachi 1-5

A flatland mountain castle located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture which was completed in 1611, the castle tower, a designated National Treasure, is said to be the only orthodox-style original castle tower still standing in Japan. Covered with black-painted siding on most of its walls, the castle is designed as a watchtower and the top floor offers a sweeping view of the city of Matsue. Relatively simple in design, a characteristic of castles built in the early Momoyama period, the castle is also known as “Chidori Castle.” The area surrounding the castle has been turned into the Matsue Jozan Park; a famous cherry blossom-viewing destination, in spring some 200 cherry trees come into bloom on the park’s grounds. The park has even been selected as one of the 100 best places for cherry blossom viewing in Japan.

Matsue Castle is gorgeous - inside and out. Such beautiful views of it from outside and its definitely worth going inside (shoes off) to climb up the five flights to the top. There are various...
Tokyo International Forum

4.0

943 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Tokyo Chiyoda-ku Marunouchi 3-5-1

A multipurpose public culture facility with eight halls of various sizes as well as 34 meeting rooms. The facility frequently hosts cultural events that help share with the world the unique charms of Japan. The airy Glass Building hall, walled in by huge glass panels, has been awarded three Michelin stars, and is a popular tourist spot in and of itself. The entire facility is decorated with works of art, and visitors can come and enjoy the building like an art museum.

The Tokyo International Forum truly is a photography wonderland. Head into the main building and take the elevator to the 7th floor. There are so many cool angles to shoot in this architectural...
Tokyo Metropolitan Edo-Tokyo Museum

4.5

2178 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Tokyo Sumida-ku Yokoami 1-4-1

Located near Ryogoku Kokugikan, the museum has been popular since its opening in 1993 as a place to reflect on the history and culture of Edo Tokyo and to consider the future of the city and people's lives. Many foreign tourists visit this facility to enjoy learning about the city, its culture, and the lives of the people of Edo Tokyo.

Well worth a trip - lovely exhibition, amazing building. I spent around 3 hours looking at the various displays. Truly fascinating and gives a great understanding of the Edo period. Staff were...
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

4.5

1525 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Aichi Pref. Nagoyashi Nishi-ku Noritakeshinmachi 4-1-35

This is the corporate museum of the Toyota Group, which transitioned into the automobile industry from the textile machinery industry and has now become a global automobile manufacturer. The museum uses the brick building that was the former Sako Plant of Toyoda Automatic Loom Works. The exhibits inside the museum are divided into the Textile Machinery Pavilion and the Automobile Pavilion, and in the Textile Machinery Pavilion visitors can learn about textile machinery and the evolution of technology. The Automobile Pavilion introduces the mechanism of automobiles and the exercise of developmental technology and production technology. There is also a monozukuri (Japanese craftsmanship) corner intended for children.

Who would have thought that Mr Toyoda, who wanted to make a better cotton weaving machine, would end up with a massive corporation including car manufacturing, machines that make things, and a wide...
National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

4.0

1089 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Tokyo Koutou-ku Aomi 2-3-6

This is a national science museum on Odaiba island. The permanent exhibits cover a broad range of subjects from the simple science questions to those regarding the latest technologies including the earth environment, space exploration, and the wonders of life. The dome shaped theater that plays 3D science films and other three-dimensional planetarium presentations is very popular. The director of this museum is the famous astronaut, Mamoru Mohri.

If you come expecting a museum of emerging science and technology, you might be a tad disappointed. This really is more of a set of more or less sophisticated art pieces and exhibits showcasing...
Nagoya Castle

4.5

363 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Aichi Pref. Nagoyashi Naka-ku Honmaru 1-1

Nagoya Castle was built in 1612 as the castle of the feudal lord, Yoshinao who was the ninth son of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The large donjon and the small donjon with their characteristic golden dolphins were destroyed during the air raids of Nagoya in 1945, but they were rebuilt in 1959. The pictures on room partitions which are Important Cultural Properties and historical materials are on display in the large donjon, in addition, you can also observe a “full-scale replica of the Golden Dolphin” and you can experience stone pulling and palanquin riding. Nagoya Castle was selected as one of Japan’s 100 Great Castles, and it has also been designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan.

As the entrance is included in the castle entry fee it is well worth the visit to see the superb craftsmanship in the reconstruction.
Shimogamo-jinja Shrine

4.5

1037 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kyoto Kyoutoshi Sakyou-ku Shimogamoizumigawachou 59

Formally titled the Kamomioya Shrine, this historic Shinto shrine is one of Kyoto’s oldest. The entire grounds of the shrine are registered as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto” World Heritage listing. Dedicated to the guardian deity of Kyoto as well as the guardian deity of woman’s duties, since ancient times the shrine has been seen as providing divine aid in receiving guidance, achieving victory, and starting new projects. The grounds are also dotted with women-oriented shrines and sites, such as the Aioi-sha, a shrine dedicated to luck in marriage, and Kawai Shrine, a guardian shrine for women.

We walked from Kawaramachi to Shimojima Jinja. It was busy because it was New Years Day so everyone was buying amulets and fortunes. At this shrine, you can pay your respects to your zodiac sign...