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.
Historical Obi Town - the 'Kyoto of Kyushu' Iain Stanley Obi Town, in Nichinan city, Miyazaki, is often labeled as the ‘Kyoto of Kyushu’ – it is very popular with tourists and domestic travelers, for good reason
Culture Kyoto: My Alternative Top 3 Temples Peter Sidell Japan's ancient capital of Kyoto is home to hundreds of shrines and temples: here are three of my favourite less visited ones.
10 Culture Fukuju-In Temple in Tokyo Peter Sidell In the Nakano district west of Shinjuku in central Tokyo, Fukuju-In is a peaceful Buddhist temple with some interesting features.
Festivals Okinawa Zento Eisa Festival 2026 Mid Sep Held annually on the weekend after obon festivities since 1956, the Okinawa Zento Eisa Festival is a large-scale celebration of dance and traditional music
11 Culture Kansho-in Temple in Mariko Peter Sidell In the leafy Mariko district of Shizuoka in central Japan, Kansho-in is a charming Buddhist temple, home to a population of fun, interesting statues.
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.