On the western end of Nikko lies the massive complex that is collectively known as the Shrines and Temples of Nikko. The complex is comprised of the Futarasan Shrine, Tosho-gu Shrine, Rinno-ji Temple, and Taiyu-in Temple. This very culturally significant site is further enhanced by the gorgeous forest surrounding it.
Read MoreThe main reason we came to Koyasan, besides staying at a shukubo, was to visit Okunoin. Okunoin (pronounced: Oku-no-in) is the largest graveyard in Japan, with over 200,000 tombstones, and is the holiest place in all of Koya. It is here that the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, rests. It is believed that he, instead of dying, is awaiting the return of the future Buddha: Maitreya.
Read MoreKoyasan is on Mount Koya and is the headquarters of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. We were fortunate enough to be able to stay at Fudou-in, a Buddhist temple, in the town. Koyasan is located in the mountains just a two-hour train ride south of Osaka. Getting to Koyasan required a ride on a rural train with a few change-overs. Eventually we got to Gokurakubashi Station and took a cable car up the mountain to our final stop. From the station we took a cab through Koyasan to our lodgings at Fudou-in.
Read MoreKinkaku-ji Temple, otherwise known as the Golden Pavilion, is the most famous temple in Japan. Kinkaku-ji Temple is located in northwestern Kyoto and is easily reached by bus or taxi. It is a short 5 minute bus ride or 20 minute walk from Ryoan-Ji Temple to the west. We arrived at the temple on a rainy day just before lunch time. Even the inclement weather did not stop crowds of tourists from visiting one of the most popular temples in the country.
Read MoreAt the heart of Asakusa lies the most famous temple in Japan: Senso-Ji. Originally built in 645 AD, Senso-Ji is the oldest temple in Tokyo. In 1945 it was destroyed during a bombing raid on March 10th and was later rebuilt as a symbol of peace and the rebirth of the Japanese people. Now Senso-Ji is the most visited spiritual site in the world.
Read MoreWe visited the Tokyo temple where the legend of the maneki neko originated!
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We’re Taylor and Michelle and welcome to our blog documenting our travels and food we eat. We hope this inspires you to visit new places and try some delicious food!
Nom Nom the Adventure Cat
