Located just south of central Kyoto, Fushimi is one of Japan’s most important sake-producing areas. Thanks to its exceptionally pure underground water, the district has been brewing sake for centuries and still preserves the atmosphere of a traditional merchant town. …
In Japan, people enjoy cherry blossoms not only by viewing them, but also by tasting them. When spring arrives, many cafés, restaurants, and shops offer special products inspired by sakura. From sweets and drinks to seasonal desserts, these sakura-flavored items…
Have you ever wanted to feel like you’re in a dream, entirely surrounded by sakura trees? As someone who has lived in Japan for several years, I’ve seen my fair share of cherry blossoms, but Mount Yoshino (Yoshinoyama) remains one…
As we work closely with temples and spiritual landmarks across Japan to offer the best, most authentic experiences to travelers, we recently had the profound opportunity to meet with a practicing Esoteric Buddhist monk currently serving in the sacred area…
After 4 years in Japan, I finally had the opportunity to go see Mount Fuji from up close. If you’re living in Japan, you probably get to see Mount Fuji at some point pretty rapidly. However, I have spent most…
Have you ever heard of Jiro-style ramen? Among ramen lovers in Japan, it has almost cult-like popularity.Once you try it, many people become addicted to its powerful and unforgettable flavor. There is even a famous joke among regular customers: “If…
The World’s Oldest Continuing Construction Company — Founded in 578 Did you know that the world’s oldest continuously operating construction company was founded in Japan? Established in 578 AD, Kongo Gumi has upheld more than 1,400 years of temple and…
We had the rare opportunity to experience Ise not simply as visitors, but from a deeply Japanese perspective, taking part in a tour centered on Shinto tradition and sacred blessings. Instead of simply sightseeing, we got to experience a true…
Japan is home to thousands of shrines, but none holds a place as sacred and revered as Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu, officially ‘Jingu’). Ise Shrine is located in Ise, Mie Prefecture and is Japan’s most sacred Shinto site, with…