Overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, the city of Nara is usually omitted from the itinerary of many time-pressed travelers. But as Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara boasts many important scenic and historical sites. Thus, it’s definitely worth spending one or two days here to enjoy the atmosphere of ancient Japan.
Continue reading Nara: The Ancient Capital of JapanGreen and soothingly beautiful, Kōyasan in Wakayama is a spiritual retreat and one of Japan’s holiest sites. It features long avenues of vast cedar trees, as well as hundreds of temples and gardens. It’s also here that Kōbō Daishi, one of the most significant religious figures in the country, established the first center of Shingon Buddhism some 1200 years ago.
Continue reading Kōyasan: A Trip to the Sacred MountainElegant and lustrous white, Himeji Castle appears like a giant heron flying in the sky. Together with a 400-year-long history, it’s undisputedly one of the most spectacular castles in Japan. After several years of extensive renovation, Himeji Castle was re-opened to the public in March 2015. The White Heron once again dominates the sky of Himeji.
Continue reading Himeji Castle: The Beautiful White HeronA forest of concrete buildings, Osaka is hardly Japan’s prettiest city in the conventional sense. But this brazen city packs more color than most, with eye-catching signs and vivid shopfronts that can be found at nearly every corner. From the bustling streets of Minami to spectacular skyscrapers in Kita, Osaka is a city that definitely isn’t afraid to express itself.
Continue reading Osaka: The Bold and the Colorful
