In the quiet green mountains of Takao, northwest of Kyoto, there’s a beautiful old temple called Kōzan-ji (高山寺). It’s over 1,200 years old, and when you walk there, it feels like stepping into another world — one filled with tall trees, singing birds, and peaceful air. A Wise Monk Named Myōe A long time ago, […]
In the stillness of a tatami room, a single sound breaks the silence — the whisper of water pouring into a lacquered bowl. Steam curls upward, the faint scent of matcha filling the air. Every motion, every breath, feels deliberate, almost sacred. This is the Japanese tea ceremony, or chanoyu, where simplicity hides centuries of […]
The Art and Ritual of the Temizuya 💧⛩️ When you enter a Shinto shrine, one of the first things you’ll notice is a small pavilion with water flowing from bamboo spouts into a stone basin. This is the temizuya (手水舎) — the purification spot — and it’s where visitors prepare themselves before approaching the sacred […]
Top 5 Zen Temples to Visit — History & Highlights 🏯🌿 Zen temples are not just places of meditation — they are living monuments of Japanese history, culture, and artistry. Each temple tells a story, from famous monks and political events to legendary gardens and artistic achievements. Step softly into these sacred spaces and let […]
7 Must-Have Travel Apps 🌸✨ Traveling in Japan is magical, but having the right apps makes it smoother, safer, and more fun. From navigating trains to discovering hidden restaurants, these apps are your ultimate travel companions. 1. Japan Travel by NAVITIME — Train & Subway Navigation 🚄 Why you need it: Japan’s rail system is […]