Visiting the Cradle of Japan
Miyazaki occupies a special place in Japanese history for a mountain town called Takachiho. For it was here the deity Ninigi-no-Mikoto, grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, is said to have descended to Earth.
Tanzan Shrine Kemari Festival
A game played by royals 1,400 years ago, held at this nature-rich shrine in Nara. Japan's football starts here!
5 Tips for Enjoying Kagura
This thousand-year-old Shinto dance is both graceful and opulent. But watching outdoors can be cold!
Enoshima: The Perfect Beach Escape from Tokyo
Blessed with an abundance of beautiful natural sights, this island is only a short 60 minute train ride away from the hustle and bustle of central Tokyo.
Follow the Footsteps of Poet Matsuo Basho
Pack your hiking boots and get ready for an adventure as we take you to the most fascinating and beautiful spots of Japan's deep north by way of the poet Matsuo Basho.
5 Vital Temple & Shrine Etiquette Tips
Temples & Shrines Life in Japan
While going to a temple or shrine simply to observe is satisfactory on its own, it's well worth learning how to fully participate to get the most out of the experience.
Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo
This museum beside Izumo-taisha Grand Shrine attempts to unravel the mysteries of one of the most important religious sites in all of Japan.
Kagura: A Dance Fit for the Gods
Kagura is a ritual dance associated with autumn that, according to legend, was entertaining enough to coax the goddess of the sun to come back out of a cave and light the world again.
5 Kyushu Shrines You Can't Miss
Shinto shrines can be found just about everywhere in Japan. But shrines in Kyushu are special, because Kyushu is, according to legend, home to the first places where the Shinto gods descended to Earth.
Searching for the Imperial Regalia of Japan
Japan's Imperial Regalia have only ever been seen by a select few. Here we try to demystify these national treasures, hunting down the sites where they are said to be located.
Revered Animals at Japan's Temples & Shrines
How can a cow heal your knee? Find out at these Tokyo-area temples and shrines!
3 Ways to Worship Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is an object of faith for Japanese people, and a place their hearts draw support from, as expressed by the official name under which it's registered as a Cultural World Heritage Site: 'Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration.'
The 3 Dragon Gates of Tokyo
Historical Site Temples & Shrines
Who needs Dragon Balls? There are three Dragon Gates in Tokyo said to grant the wish you make while touching them!
Brush Up on Your Japanese Buddhism Knowledge
Impress your friends by showcasing your knowledge of the differences between Japan's two main religions, Shinto and Buddhism—or wow them with the origin of those cute, one-eyed, red 'daruma' dolls.
5 Stunning Walks in the Japanese Countryside
Japanese Countryside Tohoku Resorts
Locals share secret trails with incredible views of the Japanese countryside!
Living Heritage: Ise Grand Shrine
With more than 1,500 years of history, this complex of Shinto shrines nestled in the forests of Ise is a living piece of Japanese culture.
10 Iconic Japanese Gods
Between its traditions of Shinto and Buddhism, Japan has a rich pantheon of gods and goddesses. Here are 10 that you're likely to encounter while shrine and temple hopping around the country!
10 Beautiful Spots to Take Photos in Japan
Photography Japanese Countryside
It's hard to take a bad picture at these gorgeous locations!
Top 10 Japanese Companies Over 800 Years Old
Just how old is the oldest Japanese company? You might be surprised to learn that most of the companies on our list date back centuries before the Black Plague!
5 Amazing Things to Experience in Ise
Canadian 'rakugo' storyteller Katsura Sunshine tries out some of the amazing things you can do only in the Ise area—including some that happen just once every 20 years! Check the list to make sure you don't miss out!
