Culture Matsuyama Castle Matsuyama Castle is one of the twelve "original castles" in Japan, i.e. castles that have survived the post-feudal era since 1868 unscathed. It is located..
Culture Haruna Shrine This beautiful Shinto shrine in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture, was founded in 586 during the first year of Emperor Yomei's reign. The Haruna Shrine is..
Culture Yakushiji Temple Yakushiji Temple is regarded as one of the oldest and most important temples in Japan, which is no surprise given its impressive status. The temple is..
8 Culture Ikaho's Initial D Manhole Covers Linka Wade In 2020, Shibukawa City celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Initial D anime by installing 7 Initial D themed manhole covers in..
Culture Oyamazumi Shrine In the middle of Honshu and Shikoku, there's an island named Omishima which plays host to a Shinto shrine that served as a samurai mecca for more..
Culture Moving of the Seto Canal Carp 2025 Sunday - Nov 30th Hida embraces the arrival of winter by organizing an event to remove carp from the canal. The labor-intensive and—perhaps time..
Museums The Grand Ise Jingu Chris Glenn The Grand Shrine of Ise comprises two separate shrines, the Naiku and Geku. From ancient times, worshippers would visit the Geku..
Culture Shiba Daijingu Daradara Matsuri 2025 Mid - Late Sep Held over 11 days in September, the Shiba Daijingu Daradara Matsuri is the longest running festival in Japan.
