Nestled between the mountains and the ocean, the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple in Kamakura, Japan, is well more than just a place of worship. Minamoto no Yoritomo created the temple in the 12th century. This emblematic Shinto temple is a true oasis of serenity. It offers visitors an unforgettable cultural and spiritual experience. Origins of Tsurugaoka …
Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple: A Historical Treasure Read More »
Nestled in the heart of the peaceful countryside of Ikaruga, in Japan’s Nara Prefecture, Horyu-ji Temple emerges as a historical gem. It offers visitors a true immersion in the millennial past of the Land of the Rising Sun. Famous for its architectural splendor and serenity, Horyu-ji is a treasure trove of cultural harmony that attracts …
Horyu-ji Temple in Ikaruga: An Ancient Japanese Treasure Read More »
Hana Matsuri is also known as the Flower Festival or Buddha’s Birthday. Hana Matsuri is an annual Buddhist celebration celebrated in Japan and other parts of the world in honor of the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha and founder of Buddhism. The celebration takes place on April 8 each year. Hana Matsuri: Origin of …
Hana Matsuri: The Celebration of the Birth of the Buddha Read More »
Japanese mythology is a fascinating kaleidoscope of deities and entities representing the natural forces that shape the world. Among these divine figures, Fujin and Raijin occupy pride of place as guardians and respective personifications of wind and thunder. Their rich stories and varied depictions offer a captivating insight into the relationship between ancient Japanese and …
Fujin and Raijin: Discovering the Deities of Wind and Thunder Read More »
Japan, steeped in centuries-old history and rich customs, is home to a fascinating array of superstitions that have evolved over time. Among these beliefs, the “Meishin”, often translated as “sign of destiny” or “omen”, is of particular importance in Japanese culture. This article delves into the depths of Japanese superstitions. It will highlight the historical …
Nestled in the heart of historic Kamakura, Kencho-ji Temple stands as an age-old treasure. This temple is imbued with peace and spirituality. Founded in the 13th century, this iconic Zen temple is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Japan. Every year, it attracts visitors from all over the world in search of serenity …
Japanese folklore is rich in mystical creatures and captivating legends. Among these supernatural entities, the Jorogumo spider stands out as one of the most fascinating and frightening figures. This creature is often depicted as a giant spider. Indeed, it has unique characteristics that make it memorable in the pantheon of Yokai, the supernatural creatures of …
Jorogumo, the demonic spider of Japanese folklore Read More »
Yasaka-jinja Shrine, located in the Gion district of Kyoto, is a spiritual pearl that embodies the essence of Japanese tradition and culture. Known as Gion-san, this venerable spiritual oasis is one of Kyoto’s most iconic shrines and attracts thousands of visitors each year seeking serenity and connection with Japan’s ancient history. Founded in the 7th …
Deep in the mountains of Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, lies Mount Kōya, or Koyasan in Japanese. This sacred site is one of the most important spiritual centers of the esoteric Shingon Buddhist tradition, and is also a place of stunning natural beauty. Mount Kōya is a place where travelers can experience spirituality, traditional Japanese culture and …
Mount Kōya in Japan: A Sanctuary of Serenity and Spirituality Read More »
The Kasa Obake, literally translated as “haunted umbrella”, is one of the most iconic and intriguing yokai in Japanese folklore. It belongs to the category of Tsukumogami, which are everyday objects that come to life after reaching a venerable age of one hundred years. The Kasa Obake stands out for its astonishing transformation and unique …
The Kasa Obake is a Japanese yokai in the shape of an animated umbrella. Read More »
