Temples & Shrines Temple of Aikido Arlene Bastion Kōzan-ji Temple is beautiful in its quiet peace, a fitting resting place for the founder of Aikido, the gentle art of self def..
Culture Kitsumoto Jinja - The "Mandarin" Shrine Alena Eckelmann The Shinto God of Mandarins is worshipped at Kitsumoto Shrine located in Kainan City. This is near the mikan orchards of Arida,..
Culture Tea Harvest in Kumano Alena Eckelmann Living in a village near Hongu on the the Kumano Kodo trail, I have watched my neighbors pick tea leaves from the tea bushes located..
11 Historical Shingu's Jofuku Memorial Park Allison Morris If you’re visiting Shingu – especially via train – there’s no excuse to not stop by Jofuku Park as it’s across the street from..
10 Temples & Shrines The Secret Garden of Koya San Bonson Lam Mount Koya or Koya san is one of the most revered mountain retreats in Japan. If you are here on a weekday, you can stroll the quiet..
8 Culture Nachi Taisha Shrine and Nachi Falls Takako Sakamoto Rare build-up of ice on the rocks of Nachi Falls, and beautiful Nachi Taisha Shrine in Wakayama Prefecture.
Museums Kumano Kodo World Heritage Center Kenny King Hin Choi The rich history of Kumano Kodo and its vital position as a religious hub is clearly described in this information center.
12 Culture Grand Shrine of Kumano Hongu Taisha Larry Knipfing The grand shrine for over 3000 Kumano shrines around Japan, Kumano Hongu Taisha is truly dignified and beautiful.