Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Nipponderful.com Kansai Travel Guide ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://2ponderful.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Nijo Castle (二条城) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/nijo-castle-kyoto/) - Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is surrounded by lush green spaces with cherry, plum, maple, and ginkgo trees lining scenic walking paths. - [To-ji Temple (Gokoku-ji) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/to-ji-temple-gokoku-ji-kyoto/) - To-ji Temple near JR Kyoto Station features a 53m-tall five-story pagoda and hosts a popular flea market on the 21st of each month. - [Nanzen-ji Temple / Higashiyama, Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/nanzen-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Nanzen-ji Temple in Kyoto features a unique Japanese rock garden and a large brick aqueduct that runs through the temple grounds, making it a must-see spot. - [Heian-Jingu Shrine / Higashiyama, Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/heian-jingu-shrine-kyoto/) - Heian-jingu Shrine, built in Kyoto in 1895, features a beautiful garden and is best known for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring. - [Gion Shirakawa / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/gion-shirakawa-kyoto/) - Gion Shirakawa-dori, as famous as Hanami Koji-dori, is a beautiful street along the Shirakawa River in Kyoto’s historic Gion district. - [Hirano-Jinja Shrine / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hirano-jinja-shrine-kyoto/) - Hirano Jinja in northwest Kyoto, linked to the imperial family, is one of the city’s top spots to enjoy cherry blossoms each spring. - [Koriyama Castle / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/koriyama-castle-nara/) - Koriyama Castle, a symbol of Yamato-Koriyama City, is one of Nara’s rare castle ruins, with its magnificent moats still a local pride. - [Kiyomizu-dera Temple (清水寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kiyomizu-dera-temple-kyoto/) - Visit Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, famous for its stunning wooden stage Kiyomizu-no-butai, attracting over 5 million visitors every year. - [Hikone Castle（彦根城）/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/hikone-castle-shiga/) - Hikone Castle in Shiga becomes a popular cherry blossom spot in spring, with around 1,200 trees creating a stunning scene and the perfect time to visit. - [Sasayama Castle Ruins/ Hyogo-Tanba](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/sasayama-castle-ruins-hyogo-tanba/) - Sasayama Castle in Hyogo offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside, with about 1,000 cherry trees around the moat creating stunning springtime blossoms. - [Tatsuno Castle and Park/ Hyogo-Harima](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/tatsuno-castle-and-park-hyogo-harima/) - Tatsuno Castle, just 15 km from Himeji Castle, offers a charming historic townscape and beautiful cherry blossoms, perfect for a spring stroll. - [Kodai-ji Temple（高台寺）/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kodai-ji-temple-「高台寺」-kyoto/) - Kodai-ji Temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district features two stunning Japanese gardens and is famed for historic figures and treasured cultural artifacts. - [Mimuroto-ji Temple/ Kyoto, Uji-city](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hydrangeas-garden-mimurotoji-temple-kyotouji-city/) - Mimuroto-ji in Japan is famous for its hydrangea garden, alongside seasonal cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves. - [Ishiyama-dera Temple (石山寺) / Otsu, Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ishiyama-dera-temple-shiga/) - Ishiyama-dera in Shiga features beautiful seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms, and is home to many historical and culturally significant treasures. - [Umekoji Park (梅小路公園) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/umekoji-park-kyoto/) - Umekoji Park, east of Kyoto Station, is one of the city’s largest open grassy areas, featuring seasonal flowers and gardens for strolling and relaxation. - [Osaka Castle(大阪城) and Osaka Castle Park](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/osaka-castle-and-osaka-castle-park/) - Osaka Castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is Osaka’s iconic landmark, and Osaka Castle Park is a top hanami spot for cherry blossom viewing each spring. - [Kitano Tenman-gu Shrine (北野天満宮) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kitano-tenman-gu-shrine-kyoto/) - Kitano Tenman-gu Shrine, enshrining Sugawara Michizane, is famous for plum blossom viewing in spring and vibrant autumn leaves in Kyoto. - [Daikaku-ji Temple (大覚寺) / Kyoto, Arashiyama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/daikaku-ji-kyoto/) - Daikaku-ji Temple in northern Kyoto’s Sagano district was originally Emperor Saga’s detached palace, now a serene historic temple and garden. - [The Expo’70 Commemorative Park/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/the-expo70-commemorative-park/) - Seasonal flowers bloom beneath the iconic Tower of the Sun at Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, with stunning plum and cherry blossoms in spring. - [Domyoji Tenmangu Shrine/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/domyoji-tenmangu-shrine-osaka/) - Domyoji Tenmangu in Fujiidera, Osaka, is a major Shinto shrine famous for the deity of study and its stunning plum blossoms each spring. - [The Kyoto Botanical Garden](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/the-kyoto-botanical-garden/) - Kyoto Botanical Garden, Japan’s oldest, north of Kyoto city, offers seasonal beauty with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful autumn leaves. - [Jonan-gu Shrine / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/jonan-gu-shrine-kyoto/) - Jonan-gu Shrine, south of Kyoto Station, offers Heian-era elegance with beautiful gardens, plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and seasonal flowers year-round. - [Zuishin-in Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/zuishin-in-temple-kyoto/) - Zuishin-in Temple in Yamashina, Kyoto, is linked to poet Ono no Komachi and features a beautiful plum garden, perfect for spring visits. - [Minabe Bairin Plum Orchard Grove/ Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/minabe-bairin-plum-orchard-grove-wakayama/) - Minabe Bairin Plum Orchard in Wakayama, Japan’s largest plum grove, offers stunning early spring scenery with 100,000 blooming plum trees. - [Nipponbashi Street Festa/ The biggest cosplay event](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/nipponbashi-street-festa-the-biggest-cosplay-event/) - Nipponbashi Street Festa in Osaka is a top cosplay and anime festival with 10,000+ cosplayers, robot shows, live music, and vibrant pop culture fun. - [Taizo-in Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/taizo-in-temple/) - Taizo-in is one of the sub-temples of Myoshin-ji Temple in Kyoto. In its garden, you will see pink weeping cherry trees stretching their branches gracefully. - [Bishamon-do Monzeki Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/bishamon-do-monzeki-temple-kyoto/) - Bishamon-do Temple, located in Kyoto is one of the Tendai sect of Buddhism. Autumn leaves is very famous, and the temple's grounds become colorful. - [Nintendo Museum](https://2ponderful.com/spots/nintendo-museum/) - Nintendo Museum is a facility renovated from the Nintendo Factory in Uji. You can discover the history of the entertainment offering through the many products. - [Nintendo KYOTO Official Store](https://2ponderful.com/spots/nintendo-kyoto-official-store/) - A giant Mario welcomes you at the place where Nintendo was founded. You can look out the variety of Nintendo's official products at Nintendo KYOTO. - [Ofusa Kannon Temple (おふさ観音) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ofusa-kannon-temple-nara/) - Ofusa Kannon Temple is located in Kashihara, Nara. This small temple treats you with a wide variety of roses, and other varieties of flowers throughout year. - [Koyasan (高野山) / Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/koyasan-wakayama/) - Koyasan,located in Wakayama,the World Heritage site, one of the greatest Buddhist centers in Japan is the peaceful site with over 100 temples and rich nature. - [Maruyama Park (円山公園) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/maruyama-park-kyoto/) - Maruyama Park is behind Yasaka Shrine in the Higashiyama District in Kyoto.The park is popular for both locals and visitors, specially when cherry trees bloom. - [Nakanoshima Park / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/nakanoshima-park-osaka/) - Nakanoshima Park is a waterfront greenery park in the center of Osaka, surrounded by skyscrapers, where roses bloom beautifully in spring and fall. - [Chokyu-ji Temple / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/chokyu-ji-temple-nara/) - A hidden temple of hydrangeas Chokyu-ji Temple, located in Ikoma, Nara Prefecture. is the only building in Ikoma City designated as a national treasure. - [Yata-dera Temple (矢田寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/yata-dera-temple-nara/) - Yata-dera Temple is one of the Shingon sect temples in Yamato-Kooriyama, Nara. People visit to see the 10,000 hydrangea plants in bloom during the season. - [Rurikoin Temple (瑠璃光院) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/rurikoin-temple-kyoto/) - Rurikoin, a buddhist temple is located in Yase, Kyoto's northern mountains to offer stunning sites and an amazing atmosphere in spring and autumn. - [Jakko-in Temple / Kyoto, Ohara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/jakko-in-temple-kyoto-ohara/) - Jakko-in, a tranquil temple, reached by a scenic walk through the traditional village of Ohara is located in a rural town in the mountains north of Kyoto City. - [Hosen-in Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hosen-in-temple-kyoto/) - Hosen-in Temple, located in Ohara, is known for its blood-stained ceiling and peaceful and welcoming atmosphere with its stanning gardens and autumn colors. - [Nintendo OSAKA Official Store](https://2ponderful.com/spots/nintendo-osaka-official-store/) - You can look out for a variety of Nintendo OSAKA original goods at Nintendo's official store "Nintendo OSAKA" of Daimaru Umeda Store. - [Kyoto Bus 1-day pass abolished](https://2ponderful.com/news/kyoto-bus-1-day-pass-abolished/) - FEB 10, 2023 Kyoto City will stop selling one-day bus passes (700 yen for adults) , popular among tourists in September 2023 and abolish them in March 2024. - [Himeji Castle / Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/himeji-castle-hyogo/) - Himeji Castle, the striking white edifice Castle is considered the most beautiful in Japan. The castle was constructed in the mid-14th century. - [Shogunzuka Seiryuden / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shogunzuka-seiryuden-kyoto/) - Shogunzuka Seiryuden is located on the mountaintop of Higashiyama, Kyoto. A spacious wooden observation deck offers spectacular panoramic views of Kyoto - [Shorenin Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shorenin-temple-kyoto/) - Shorenin, located in Higashiyama, is an attractive temple, delightful and quiet. you can enjoy 4 gardens to stroll and sit on the tatami room with a green tea . - [Uchiagegawa Ryokuchi Park/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/uchiage-gawa-ryokuchi-park-osaka/) - Uchiage-gawa Chisui Ryokuchi Park, a greenery park with a flood control pond is located in Neyagawa city of Osaka, to offer a stunning sight of cherry blossom. - [Tenjuan Garden (天授庵) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/tenjuan-garden-kyoto/) - In the Nanzen-ji Temple's grounds, a few steps away from the Sanmon-gate is the Tenjuan. In Autumn, the garden is colored with brilliant red autumn leaves. - [Wakayama Castle and Park/ Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/wakayama-castle/) - Wakayama Castle is on a small hill and gives you good views over the town. In spring, Wakayama's most popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. - [Suika Tenmangu Shrine / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/suika-tenmangu-shrine-kyoto/) - Suika Tenmangu Shrine is said to be the oldest Tenmangu Shrine in Japan. The small precincts of the shrine are covered with weeping cherry blossoms all over. - [Enko-ji Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/enko-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Enko-ji is located in northern Kyoto. It provides lovely views of greenery in summer and stunning autumn colours in late November. - [Entoku-in Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/entoku-in-temple-kyoto/) - Entoku-in, located in Southern Higashiyama of Kyoto, the most popular sightseeing area has delightful collection of art treasures and fine Japanese dry gardens. - [Kyoto Ebisu Shrine / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kyoto-ebisu-shrine-kyoto/) - Kyoto Ebisu Shrine, located just south of the Zen temple Kennin-ji, is known as one of the most popular shrines dedicated to Ebisu, the god of comarce. - [Chion-in Temple / Higashiyama, Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/chion-in-temple-kyoto/) - Chion-in temple is located in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. The temple is very famous for Sanmon gate, the largest wooden gate in Japan. - [Hase-dera Temple / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hase-dera-temple-nara/) - Hase-dera Temple, located in the the mountains east of the Asuka region, Nara, situated in a valley has over 30 buildings built up along the hillside. - [Hannya-ji Temple / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hannya-ji-temple-nara/) - Hannya-ji, located to the north of Todai-ji Temple in Nara is famous as cosmos temple. In Autumn, countless beautiful cosmos flowers are in full bloom. - [Onyu Pass Viewing Point / Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/onyu-pass-viewing-point-shiga/) - Onyu Pass, a spectacular viewing point created by autumn leaves and sea of clouds is an 820mhigh forest road located on the border between Shiga and Fukui. - [Mitarai Valley（みたらい渓谷）/ Nara](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/mitarai-valley-nara/) - Mitarai Valley, one of Nara's great natural wonders, is an ideal place for hiking in spring and autumn and for escaping the heat in summer. - [Genko-an Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/genko-an-kyoto/) - Genko-an is a Zen temple with a tranquil garden in Takagamine of northern part of Kyoto city. It's famous for its bloody ceiling and unique windows. - [Koko-en Garden (好古園) / Himeji](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/kokoen-garden-himeji/) - Koko-en, Japanese traditional garden in the west side of Himeji Castle consists of 9 various gardens of the Edo Period. Visitors can enjoy the seasonal changes. - [Minoo Park and the waterfall/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/minoo-park-and-the-waterfall-osaka/) - Minoo park , a forested valley is the closest dose of nature you can reach from the central Osaka to enjoy seasonal changes and the magnificent Mino Waterfall. - [Yuki-Jinja Shrine (由岐神社) / Kyoto, Kurama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/yuki-jinja-shrine-kyoto/) - Yuki-Jinja, a quiet Momoyama-style shrine in moss-covered grounds, located in sacred Mt. Kurama on the north side of Kyoto. The Fire Festival is held on OCT 22. - [Kozan-ji Temple (高山寺) /Kyoto, Takao](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kozan-ji-temple-kyoto-takao/) - Kozan-ji Temple in Takao mountainous area, has the oldest tea field and Japan's first manga. The area becomes very popular for a day hike and the autumn color. - [Jingo-ji Temple (神護寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/jingo-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Jingo-ji Temple, located on the hillside of Mt. Takao is one of the best spots for autumn leaves. Visitors can see a great view of the valley of Kiyotaki river. - [Go to see Maiko and Geisha in Kyoto!](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/go-to-see-maiko-and-geisha-in-kyoto/) - The Geisha and Maiko are the successors of the beauty of Kyoto. They entertain guests with Japanese traditional performances. You may see them in Gion, Kyoto. - [Tenryu-ji Temple (天龍寺) / Kyoto, Arashiyama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/tenryu-ji-temple-kyoto-arashiyama/) - Tenryu-ji is located in Arashiyama. Sogen-chi garden is a fine blend of aristocratic tradition and Zen culture, displaying the beauty of the four seasons. - [Jojakko-ji Temple (常寂光寺) / Kyoto, Arashiyama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/jojakko-ji-temple-kyoto-arashiyama/) - This mountainside Jojakko-ji was founded in 1596, is famous for autumn leaves. The temple has a quiet atmosphere, with small, attractive buildings and gates. - [Saiho-ji Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/saiho-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Saiho-ji Temple, commonly known as Koke-dera in the Arashiyama area offers a stunning Japanese garden. It's hard to believe that moss can be a reason to visit. - [Kegon-ji Temple : Suzumushi-dera / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kegon-ji-temple-suzumushi-dera-kyoto/) - Kegon-ji Temple, referred to as Suzumushi-dera in Kyoto, arashiyama attract visitors with mossy atmosphere and lovely singing of crickets in all seasons. - [Senko-ji Temple (千光寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/senko-ji-kyoto/) - Senko-ji, a small zen temple, located on the Arashiyama mountainside that offer a panoramic view of the city of Kyoto, and some peace and quiet. - [The Sagano Scenic Railway/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/the-sagano-scenic-railway-kyoto/) - The Sagano scenic train runs along the Hozugawa river to offer breathtaking landscapes. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of cherry blossoms, red maple trees. - [Matsuo-Taisha Shrine (松尾大社) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/matsuo-taisha-shrine-kyoto/) - Matsuo Taisha Shrine, one of the oldest shrine in Kyoto, Arashiyama houses a god of Sake, with Highly-reputed gardens created by a genius of landscaping. - [Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/adashino-nenbutsu-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, located at the end of the Saga-Toriimoto preserved street in Arashiyama is filled with hundreds of stone statues. - [Arashiyama (嵐山) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/arashiyama-kyoto/) - Arashiyama is a popular tourist site in Kyoto, nature and temples make up beautiful scenery, particularly during the cherry blossom and autumn color seasons. - [Gio-ji Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/gio-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Gio-ji, a quiet sub-temple of Daikaku-ji is located to the north of Arashiyama of Kyoto. Gio-ji is surrounded by trees and moss gardens, to offer tranquility. - [Nonomiya-jinja Shrine/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/nonomiya-jinja-shrine-kyoto/) - Nonomiya Jinja Shrine with a unique black torii-gate has a great reputation for women. It's an interesting stop along the Arashiyama bamboo grove walking path. - [Arashiyama 1-day Autumn Highlight Trip](https://2ponderful.com/autumn/arashiyama-1-day-autumn-highlight-trip/) - Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's biggest tourist destination, nature and temples make up beautiful scenery with autumn foliage. - [Seiryo-ji Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/seiryo-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Seiryo-ji, located in Kyoto Arashiyama is also known as the Saga-no-shaka-do. You can see attractive architecture and a unique statue along with autumn color. - [Hokyo-in Temple（宝筐院）/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hokyo-in-temple-kyoto/) - Hokyo-in is a small temple, located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, opposite Seiryo-ji. Its garden is especially beautiful in the autumn when the leaves change color. - [Kurumazaki Jinja Shrine / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kurumazaki-jinja-shrine-kyoto/) - Kurumazaki Jinja in Arashiyama, one of the most interesting shrines in Kyoto is famous for the god of the performing arts, power stones and cherry blossoms - [Eikan-do Temple (永観堂) / Kyoto, Higashiyama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/eikan-do-temple-kyoto-higashiyama/) - Eikan-do temple in Kyoto has more than 1,100 years of history and is dedicated to "Amida". The temple is also well-known as "Eikan-do in Maple Leaves". - [Kyoto 1day Highlight trip/ Fushimi-Inari to Kiyomizu-dera](https://2ponderful.com/1-day-trip/kyoto-1day-highlight-trip-fushimi-inari-to-kiyomizu-dera/) - If you only have 1 day to see around Kyoto, take a highlight trip from Fushimi-Inari to Kiyomizu-dera and stroll along the preserved historic streets to Gion. - [Sanjusangen-do Temple (三十三間堂)/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/sanjusangen-do-temple-kyoto/) - Sanjusangen-do Temple has 1001 Senju-Kannon statues (statues of “thousand-handed” goddesses of mercy) stand in the 120-meter-long main hall. - [Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社) / Kyoto, Higashiyama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/yasaka-shrine-kyoto-higashiyama/) - Yasaka shrine is considered the guardian shrine of neighbouring Gion, is particularly popular for the first shrine visit of the new year and Gion festival. - [A quieter Kyoto 2: Get up early and go out late!](https://2ponderful.com/a-quieter-kyoto/a-quieter-kyoto-2-get-up-early-and-go-out-late/) - You can only enjoy wandering around the Gion and Higashiyama area, if you get up early or go out late. A quieter Kyoto gives you an atmospheric tranquility. - [Ginkaku-ji Temple (銀閣寺) / The Silver Pavilion](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ginkaku-ji-temple-silver-pavilion/) - Ginkaku-ji,the Silver Pavilion, a UNESCO site, located at the end of the path of philosophy in Kyoto's Higashiyama is famous for its unique dry sand garden. - [Kennin-ji Temple (建仁寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kennin-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Kennin-ji is of the best Zen Temple in Kyoto, located just south of Kyoto's famous Gion geisha district. The temple has beautiful zen gardens and artworks. - [Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/yasui-konpira-gu-shrine-kyoto/) - Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine is located in the Gion geisha district between Kennin-ji Temple and Yasaka Pagoda, to end bad relationships and start good ones. - [The Path of Philosophy (哲学の道) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/the-path-of-philosophy-kyoto/) - The Path of Philosophy is a pleasant path through the northern part of Higashiyama district. The path is most popular in early spring for the cherry blossom - [Honen-in Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/honen-in-temple-kyoto/) - Honen-in temple, located near by the Philosopher's path provides calm atmosphere with an amazing scenic approach with a moss-covered thatched gate. - [Yasaka Koshin-do Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/yasaka-koshin-do-temple-higashiyama-kyoto/) - Yasaka Koshin-do, a small temple nearby Yasaka-no-to pagoda in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district welcome you with colorful monkeys and protect you from illnesses. - [Okazaki Shrine/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/okazaki-shrine-kyoto/) - Okazaki Shrine, located on the east of Heian-Jingu, filled with a lot of cute rabbits as its guardian deity, is a place to pray for safe births of children. - [Shirakawa Ippon-bashi bridge/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/shirakawa-ippon-bashi-bridge-kyoto/) - Ippon-bashi or Gyoja-bashi bridge, a 66 cm wide stone bridge with weeping willow trees on the both side of Shirakawa stream is located near Chion-in Temple. - [Konkai Komyo-ji Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/konkai-komyo-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Konkai-Komyo-ji Temple, located on Yoshida-yama hill in Northern Higashiyama, you can enjoy viewing nice cherry blossoms and autumn colors without crowds. - [Murin-an Villa & Garden/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/murin-an-villa-garden-kyoto/) - Murin-an villa and garden, located in the neighborhood of Nanzen-ji and Heian-jingu shrine is a wonderful place to relax or stroll the garden in all seasons. - [Kiyomizu-Gion 1-day Autumn Highlight Trip](https://2ponderful.com/autumn/kiyomizu-gion-1-day-autumn-highlight-trip/) - The Higashiyama area is a great place to experience traditional old Kyoto, especially between Kiyomizu and Gion, where the narrow lanes, wooden buildings. - [Nanzen-ji-Ginkaku 1-day Autumn trip](https://2ponderful.com/autumn/nanzen-ji-ginkaku-1-day-autumn-trip/) - A beautiful strolling path in northern Higashiyama between Eikan-do, and Ginkaku-ji, you can enjoy exploring while admiring the beauty of autumn colors. - [The Keage Incline/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/the-keage-incline-kyoto/) - The Keage Incline, located near the Nanzen-ji Temple in Kyoto is a slope with old railroad tracks. It is a famous spot for viewing cherry blossom in spring. - [Entsu-ji Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/entsu-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Entsu-ji Temple, located north of Kyoto is home to a beautiful dry garden with the borrowed scenery of the sacred Mount Hiei-zan. - [Kawai-Jinja Shrine (河合神社) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kawai-jinja-shrine-kyoto/) - Kawai-jinja Shrine is within the grounds of Shimogamo Shrine. The Shrine has a reputation for beauty, and you will see women wishing to be more beautiful. - [Ohara Sanzen-in Temple (三千院) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/sanzen-in-temple-kyoto-ohara/) - Sanzen-in temple is located in the Ohara area, Kyoto. You can enjoy walking on the pass along maple and cedar trees ,a moss garden with a tranquil atmosphere. - [Dr. Yellow/ Japanese yellow bullet train](https://2ponderful.com/spots/dr-yellow-japanese-yellow-bullet-train/) - This is Dr. Yellow! He is a "doctor" because his job is to check the train track and help with maintenance and keep the trains running on time. - [Shinnyo-do Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shinnyo-do-temple-kyoto/) - Shinnyo-do, located in Kyoto near Ginkaku-ji temple has a beautiful three-storied pagoda. The temple is a popular spot for cherry blossoms and autumn colors. - [Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/fushimi-inari-taisha-shrine-kyoto/) - Fushimi Inari-taisha is located on the mountain of Inari-san in Kyoto. The impressive tunnel of red torii gates is very popular among tourists from overseas. - [Shimogamo Shrine (下鴨神社) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shimogamo-shrine-kyoto/) - Shimogamo Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto, is located at the junction of the Takano and Kamo rivers. The Aoi Matsuri is held every year 15th May. - [Yamashina-sosui Canal / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/yamashina-sosui-canal-kyoto/) - Walking along the promenade of Yamashina-sosui. In spring, It create a 4-km long "cherry blossom tunnel," and rape blossoms bloom under the cherry trees. - [Gansen-ji Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/gansen-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Gansen-ji Temple is located on the border of Kyoto and Nara Prefectures. About 5,000 hydrangeas bloom in the grounds surrounding the three-story pagoda. - [Joruri-ji Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/joruri-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Joruri-ji Temple, located in the southern part of Kyoto, home to the only surviving Heian-period Amida Hall is famous for its autumn foliage and the pagoda. - [Draw an Omikuji fortune!](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/draw-an-omikuji-fortune/) - "Omikuji" are small pieces of paper on which your fortune is written. Many people draw an omikuji when they go to worship at Shrines and Temples in Japan. - [Ruins of Moto-yakushi-ji Temple / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/ruins-of-moto-yakushi-ji-temple-nara/) - Ruins of moto-yakushi-ji, located in the southeast of Kashihara City, Nara is covered with the pale,light purple hollyhocks from late August to late September. - [Ryuougabuchi Pond / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/ryuougabuchi-pond-nara/) - Ryuougabuchi is a spring-fed pond located in Uda,northeastern Nara. The surface of the water reflects the surrounding scenery, creating a mystical atmosphere. - [Former Chikurin-in Temple/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/former-chikurin-in-temple-shiga/) - Former Chikurin-in Temple, located at the foot of Mount Hieizan in Shiga, originally a villa of Enryaku-ji monks, is famous for its huge and beautiful garden. - [Fujinomori Shrine (藤森神社) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/fujinomori-shrine-kyoto/) - Fujinomori Jinja is an ancient shrine located in southern Kyoto. The hydrangea garden blooms in June. You can enjoy strolling among them in full bloom. - [Nukata-Enchi Park (額田園地) / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/nukata-enchi-park-osaka/) - Nukata Enchi park is one of the prefectural nature parks in Osaka near Ikoma mountain top. Visitors can enjoy viewing different kinds of landscapes and flowers. - [Yoshimine-dera Temple (善峯寺)/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/yoshimine-dera-temple-kyoto/) - Yoshimine-dera is a hidden mountain temple with various flowers located in Kyoto's western mountains. You can enjoy cherry blossom, hydrangeas and autumn color. - [Nagare-bashi Bridge (Kozuyabashi) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/nagare-bashi-bridge-kozuyabashi-kyoto/) - Nagare-bashi bridge, over the Kizu River in Yawata City, Kyoto is one of the longest wooden bridges in Japan with a quaint atmosphere used in period dramas. - [Umeda Sky Building/A roof top observatory](https://2ponderful.com/spots/umeda-sky-building-a-roof-top-observatory/) - Umeda Sky Building is the world's first connected skyscraper. Enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka, from observation deck 173-meter above ground. - [Honman-ji Temple / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/honman-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Honman-ji, a small temple, located in a quiet residential area, close to Shimogamo Shrine and the Kamo River has one of Kyoto's finest weeping cherry trees. - [Takenaka inari Shrine / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/takenaka-inari-shrine-kyoto/) - Takenaka Inari Shrine, located near the top of Yoshida Mountain create a beautiful scene with the vermilion torii gates and pale pink cherry blossoms lining up. - [Takedao Abandoned Train Tracks Trail/ Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/takedao-abandoned-train-tracks-trail-hyogo/) - Takedao abandoned train tracks, located in the Mukogawa Valley is surrounded by the great nature with 6 tunnels and 3 bridges, to open as a unique hiking trail. - [Tofuku-ji Temple (東福寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/tofuku-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Tofuku-ji is a large Zen temple in Kyoto with unique and beautiful Zen gardens, is particularly famous for its spectacular autumn colors. - [Nara Park (奈良公園) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/nara-park-nara/) - Nara Park is a large park, home of hundreds of deer, located of many of Nara's main attractions including Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga-Taisha, Kofuku-ji Temple. - [Haradani-en Garden/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/haradani-en-garden-kyoto/) - Haradani-en Garden, located on top of a hill above Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto has a lovely hidden garden. It's truly superb in cherry blossom season to visit. - [Ajisai/ Mimuroto-ji temple](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/ajisai-mimurotoji/) - Mimuroto-ji temple garden has 10,000 Ajisai, hydrangeas in various pink, purple, blue and white hues and a path that snakes right through them. - [Amanohashidate/ Japan's three best scenic views (日本三景)](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/amanohashidate-japans-three-best-scenic-views/) - Amanohashidate, the meaning of which is roughly bridge to heaven, is a 3.6km long, pine tree covered sand bar. Miyajima and Matsushima are also best views. - [Nachi water falls/ Japan's three best water falls (日本三大名滝)](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/nachi-water-falls-japans-three-best-water-falls/) - The 133 meter waterfall - Nachi no taki - is the tallest waterfall in Japan.Visitors will be impressed by the natural power and beauty of the falls. - [The best viewing spots for Gozan Okuribi/ Daimonji, Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/the-best-viewing-spots-for-gozan-okuribi-daimonji-kyoto/) - "Daimonji Gozan Okuribi" is a famous as the Kyoto summer image. The best viewing spots for Gozan okuribi is Funaokayama park. You can have a panoramic view. - [Takada Senbon Sakura (高田千本桜) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/takada-senbon-sakura-nara/) - A thousand cherry blossom trees bloom along the river in Takada city. A pale pink "sakura" tunnel stretches around 2.5km to Onaka park. - [Biwako Valley (琵琶湖バレイ) / Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/biwako-valley-shiga/) - Biwako Valley, located at the west shore of Lake Biwa to offer a spectacular view of Lake Biwa, and a wide variety of activities throughout the year. - [Daibutsu-ike Pond (大仏池) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/daibutsu-ike-pond-nara/) - Daibutsu-ike Pond, located at the back of the Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Ginkgo and maple trees around the pond are changing its color in autumn. - [Matabei Zakura (又兵衛桜) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/matabei-zakura-「又兵衛桜」-nara/) - Matabei Zakura, beloved, giant weeping cherry tree, 13-meter tall, over 300 years old, named after the famous samurai warrior is located in Nara Prefecture. - [The Metasequoia Tree-lined Road/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/the-metasequoia-tree-lined-road-shiga/) - About 500 gigantic metasequoia trees lined along both side of the long straight road of 2.4 km, located in the north of Shiga create a magnificent scenery. - [Ono City Cherry-Blossom Viewing Corridor/ Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/ono-city-cherry-blossom-viewing-corridor-hyogo/) - Somei-Yoshino, among the four other varieties, planted in groups, making it the longest cherry blossom viewing passage in Ono city of the Kita-Harima region. - [Nishikinohama beach/ Osaka has Beaches!](https://2ponderful.com/spots/nishikinohama-beach-osaka-has-beaches/) - Osaka is not blessed with beaches, but here are a few of my recommendations to help people in the area enjoy the beach, ocean air and cool off with a swim. - [Pokémon Nests/ Parks and Gardens in Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/pokemon-nests-parks-and-gardens-in-kyoto/) - Kyoto has a number of public gardens and other green spaces affording visitors to relax, picnic, jog, stroll and to catch Rare Pokémon. - [Autumn colours: maple leaf viewing spots in Osaka/Nara/Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/autumn/autumn-colours-maple-leaf-viewing-spots-in-osakanarakyoto/) - Japan is also famous for autumn colour. the best viewing spots for maple leaves with historical site in Kansai area including famous spots to hidden spots. - [A Snowy Kyoto Experience!](https://2ponderful.com/spots/kyoto-snowy-experience/) - It snows in the city of Kyoto several times each winter, If you’re lucky enough to be in town when It snows for the magical transformation of snowy Kyoto. - [Hoshida-Enchi Park/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/hoshida-enchi-park-osaka/) - Hoshida-Enchi,a national park with the largest wooden foot bridge in Japan, is located in the east side of Osaka for a day hike or a picnic. - [A quieter Kyoto 5 : North Higashiyama area/ Enko-ji, Shisen-do and Manshu-in](https://2ponderful.com/a-quieter-kyoto/a-quieter-kyoto-5-north-higashiyama-area-enko-ji-shisen-do-and-manshu-in/) - North Higashiyama is a good place to wander around.Enko-ji.Shisen-do,Manshu-in and the Kitashirakawa area have an appealing, faded, past their prime atmosphere. - [Iwashimizu Hachiman-gu Shrine (石清水八幡宮) / Kyoto, Yawata](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/iwashimizu-hachiman-gu-shrine-kyoto-yawata-city/) - Iwashimizu Hachiman-gu Shrine is located on the top of Mt. Otokoyama in Yawata, Kyoto, a 30-minute walk uphill with bamboo forest and atmospheric surrounds. - [Keisoku-ji Temple/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/keisoku-ji-temple-shiga/) - Keisoku-ji, located in Nagahama of Shiga, an old abandoned temple is known for its beautiful "red carpet" approach, created by the falling red maple leaves. - [Eigen-ji Temple/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/eigen-ji-temple-shiga/) - Eigen-ji, located along the gorge of the Echi-gawa river in Shiga is a beautiful spot for autumn foliage. 3,000 maple trees color the whole mountain in red. - [Hoki-ji Temple / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hoki-ji-temple-法起寺-nara/) - Hoki-ji, located in Nara surrounded by rice paddies and cosmos fields, is one of the 7 temples erected by Prince Shotoku, and a part of the World Heritage Site. - [Horyu-ji Temple (法隆寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/horyu-ji-temple-nara/) - Horyu-ji in Nara, the world's oldest wooden construction, was founded in 607 by Prince Shotoku, who is credited with the early promotion of Buddhism in Japan. - [Fujiwara Palace Ruins / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/fujiwara-palace-ruins-nara/) - Fujiwara Palace Ruins, an ancient capital in Kashihara city, Nara, there are large fields filled with rapeseed in spring, lotus in summer and cosmos in autumn. - [The Holy land of Manga / Kyoto International Manga Museum](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/the-holy-land-of-manga-kyoto-international-manga-museum/) - The first manga museum in Japan, the Kyoto International Manga Museum has 300,000 items. In the "Manga Expo" section, you can read translated popular manga. - [Wakanoura Bay/ Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/wakanoura-bay-wakayama/) - Wakanoura bay, in Wakayama is a good choice for escaping to a less-known part of the Kansai area with rich scenic beauty, praised in the oldest Japanese poems. - [Tennouji 7 slopes/ A peaceful & secret path, Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/tennouji-7-slopes-a-peaceful-secret-path-osaka/) - This path in the middle of the city takes you up and down a series of historical slopes and leads you through all kinds of temples and other interesting sites. - [Panda Kuroshio Smile Adventure Train/ Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/1-day-trip/panda-kuroshio-smile-adventure-train-wakayama/) - The Kuroshio Express train runs as Panda Kuroshio Smile train with special Panda rapping to Wakayama, Shirahama, Nachi-falls that makes your journey memorable. - [A train trip around Lake Biwa/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/1-day-trip/a-train-trip-around-lake-biwa/) - The Biwako line runs along the east side of Lake Biwa and the Kosei line runs along the west side. you can make a day trip around the lake by using those lines. - [Ichijoji-Shugakuin 1-day Autumn Trip](https://2ponderful.com/autumn/ichijoji-shugakuin-1-day-autumn-trip/) - Ichijoji, a quiet outskirts of the city, is so peaceful and entertaining area to explore temples and shrines dotted across mountains in beautiful autumn colors. - [Kyoto Uji 1day highlight trip](https://2ponderful.com/1-day-trip/kyoto-uji-1day-highlight-trip/) - Uji is a suburb of Kyoto well known as the capital of Japanese green tea, located on the banks of the Uji-gawa River. It's a decent 1day trip out of Kyoto. - [Mount Hieizan 1day highlight trip](https://2ponderful.com/1-day-trip/mount-hieizan-1day-highlight-trip/) - Mount Hieizan, Kyoto’s eastern mountain range is known for Enryaku-ji. It's a decent 1day trip out of Kyoto to enjoy gardens, temples and shrines, and hiking. - [Yawata 1-day Autumn Trip](https://2ponderful.com/autumn/yawata-1-day-autumn-trip/) - Yawata is a home to Iwashimizu hachimangu Shrine on the top of Mt. Otokoyama in the south part of Kyoto.You can enjoy a rural area to explore with autumn color. - [Free observatory/ Abeno Harukas (あべのハルカス)](https://2ponderful.com/spots/free-observatory-abeno-harukas/) - The spectacular scenery from the 300m but there is a free entry Harukas garden on 16th floor, It's almost the same height as Tsutenkaku tower. - [Weather forecast/ Tsutenkaku (通天閣)](https://2ponderful.com/spots/weather-forecast-tsutenkaku/) - Tsutenkaku was built in 1912 as the symbol of Shin-Sekai (which mean "new world".) 600 yen admission to the 85m observation platform. - [Selfie with Abeno Harukas](https://2ponderful.com/spots/selfie-with-abeno-harukas/) - If you fancy a coffee after all your Tennouji area sightseeing, how about getting some fresh air at the same time! You can also take a selfie with Harukas. - [Air track/ 300m running track on the mall](https://2ponderful.com/spots/air-track-300m-running-on-the-mall/) - Morinomiya Q's mall is a "runable" shopping mall with the artificial 300-meter turf track on top the mall, If you want to try something new. - [Japanese best chocolate/ Carre´de Chocolate](https://2ponderful.com/foods/japanese-best-chocolate/) - カカオ感たっぷりで おいしいチョコ。森永カレ･ド･ショコラ Just the right amount of bitterness to compliment a hot cup of green tea, Cacao 70 by Carre´de Chocolate is our recommendation. - [Dorayaki/ Akanemaru-honpo (茜丸本舗)](https://2ponderful.com/foods/dorayaki-akanemaru/) - Dorayaki is a type of Japanese confection, а red-bean pancake which consists of two small pancake-like patties made from castella cake. Doraemon loves dorayaki! - [Otaku Paradise/ Nipponbashi Den Den Town](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/otaku-paradise-nipponbashi-denden-town/) - Electronic stores, maid cafés, toy stores, video game stores, hobby shops, music shops, and some duty free shops all can be found in Nipponbashi Den Den Town. - [Japanese chopsticks holder/ Hashioki (箸置き)](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/japanese-chopsticks-holder-hashioki/) - Japanese chopsticks holder, Hashioki are usually ceramic and very often cutely-designed. It's a collectable item - [Castle view point / Osaka castle](https://2ponderful.com/spots/osaka-castle-view-point/) - You can still have a quick look at Osaka castle from the distance at JR Morinomiya station on the loop line, if visiting the castle is not a priority. - [Himeji Castle/ Japan's three best castles (日本三大名城)](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/himeji-castle-japans-three-best-castles/) - Himeji Castle is the most beautiful castle and is one of the few that has escaped the ravages of civil war, earthquakes. Renovation was completed in 2015. - [Hayatama Taisha Shrine/ Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hayatama-taisha-shrine-wakayama/) - Hayatama Taisha Shrine, with a 800 year old conifer tree and a sacred rock, located in Shingu City on the southeast of Wakayama, is home of nature worships. - [Now it's even faster to travel from Osaka to Gion, Kyoto/ Keihan Railway](https://2ponderful.com/news/now-its-even-faster-to-travel-from-osaka-to-gion-kyoto-keihan-railway/) - The comfortable Keihan train has started a Saturday and Sunday rakuraku service that runs non-stop between Kyobashi, Osaka and Shichijo in Kyoto in 35 minutes. - [Arima Onsen/ Japan's three best hot springs (日本三大名湯)](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/arima-onsen-japans-three-best-hot-springs/) - Arima Onsen is one of the oldest hot spring towns in Japan. It has a recorded history going back to the 631 published Nihon Shoki, the second oldest book - [Tanabata - The Star Festival / Shitennoji Temple, Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/tanabata-the-star-festival-shitennoji-temple-osaka/) - Final preparations are underway for this year's festival which takes place on July 6, 7th and 8th: Shitennouji temple's workers are building the bamboo tunnel - [Tofukuji/ A quieter Kyoto 1: Far from the Madding Crowds](https://2ponderful.com/a-quieter-kyoto/tofukuji-a-quieter-kyoto-far-from-the-madding-crowds-1/) - Tofukuji covers a wide area and contains two main gardens and the Sanmon Gate is the oldest zen main gate in Japan. The temple is a quieter in September. - [Beat mosquito bites with Muhi!/ Japanese summer](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/beat-mosquito-bites-with-muhi-japanese-summer/) - If you can stand the heat, summer is a great time to visit Japan. there are fireworks, festivals. If you can not stand with mosquito bites, beat it with Muhi. - [A quieter Kyoto 3: Sesshuji/ Funda-in Temple](https://2ponderful.com/a-quieter-kyoto/funda-in-temple-sesshuji-a-quieter-kyoto-3/) - A quieter Sesshuji is lovely sub-temple of its sprawling neighbour Tufukujiuji temple. Sesshuji has the oldest beautiful dry gardens. - [Konoshima Shrine/ Hidden spiritual power spots](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/mihashira-torii-hidden-spiritual-power-spots/) - it's symbol, is an unusual "mihashira torii" gate - a triangular structure that appears to be formed from three individual torii - that stands in the pond. - [It’s a delicious street food in Osaka/ Takoyaki](https://2ponderful.com/foods/its-a-delicious-street-food-in-osaka-takoyaki/) - What is Takoyaki? It’s a delicious Osakan street food made of diced octopus in a wheat flour-based batter. The snack is lightly fried in special moulded pans - [Enjoy the Pokemon experience/ Pokémon lab in Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/spots/enjoy-the-pokemon-experience-pokemon-lab-in-osaka/) - People are finding all sorts of different ways to enjoy the Pokemon experience: from playing the video game itself to exercising and exploring parks. - [Iwafune Shrine/ Hidden spiritual power spots 2](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/iwafune-shrine-hidden-spiritual-power-spots-2/) - Iwafune Shrine houses a huge 12 meter high and 12 meter deep rock. Japanese mythology says that "Nigihayashi no Mikoto" (the grandson of the Sun Goddess) - [Wheat allergy/ intolerance and gluten free bread and pasta in Japan](https://2ponderful.com/foods/wheat-allergyintolerance-and-gluten-free-bread-and-pasta-in-japan/) - Public awareness that people with celiac disease cannot eat gluten is widespread these days. However, other people are avoiding bread, pasta and other gluten - [Fushimi town/ A quieter Kyoto 4: Sake tasting](https://2ponderful.com/a-quieter-kyoto/fushimi-town-a-quieter-kyoto-4-sake-tasting/) - Fushimi town is developed as a castle town in the 16th century and is now best known for its sake production. It's a nice place to visit after Fushimi Inari. - [Mii-dera Temple (三井寺) / Otsu, Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/mii-dera-temple-shiga/) - Mii-dera is originally the main inner temple of the Tendai-jimon sect. This temple is also famous for its cherry blossoms (1,500 cherry trees on the grounds) - [Daigo-ji Temple (醍醐寺)/ Yamashina, Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/daigo-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Daigo-ji, A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the five-storied pagoda is the oldest wooden structure in Kyoto. It’s particularly beautiful in the autumn season. - [Kibune Shrine (貴船神社) / Kurama, Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kibune-shrine-kurama-kyoto/) - Kibune shrine is located in a forested valley in the northern mountains Kurama, the headquarters of Kibune shrine. A hiking trail to Kurama Temple starts from. - [Kamigamo Shrine (上賀茂神社) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kamigamo-shrine-kyoto/) - Kamigamo shrine is the oldest shrine in Kyoto, is known for its Aoi Matsuri festival. The shrine is surrounded by stone walls and white earthen walls. - [Goza-bune/ Osaka Castle's Pleasure Boat](https://2ponderful.com/spots/goza-bune-osaka-castles-pleasure-boat/) - This Goza-bune was reproduced by referring to Hideyoshi’s Ho-Oh-Maru boat. The boat goes around the inner moat of Osaka Castle in approximately 20 minutes. - [Pokemon Nests/ Greenery and Parks in Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/pokemon-nests-greenery-parks-in-osaka/) - Osaka is dotted with greenery and parks, you can escape into. Osaka’s parks are beautiful all year round. Pokemon is hanging around parks. - [Bitter and Sweet/ Matcha sweets (抹茶)](https://2ponderful.com/foods/bitter-and-sweet-matcha-sweets/) - The Uji area in Kyoto has been a famous green tea production center. Matcha is powdered green tea and, is used in a wide variety of popular sweets. - [Ujigami Shrine (宇治上神社) / Kyoto, Uji](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ujigami-shrine-kyoto-uji/) - Ujigami shrine is the oldest standing shrine in Japan. this tranquil shrine, surrounded by trees, is located on the banks of the Uji-gawa river in Kyoto. - [Imamiya Ebisu-jinja Shrine (今宮戎神社) / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/imamiya-ebisu-jinja-shrine-osaka-tennouji/) - Imamiya Ebisu-jinja Shrine, located in Osaka, is known for “Ebessan” , the god of commerce. Tradition has it that when the prince Shotoku-taishi built - [Goshuin-chou / A special stamp collecting book](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/goshuin-cho-a-speciall-stamp-collecting-book/) - Goshuin “the honorable red stamp” has become popular among young people who seek out rare stamps and calligraphy from Japanese shrines and temples. - [A quieter Kyoto 6: A Temple filled with Raccoons!/ Tanukidani Fudo-in](https://2ponderful.com/a-quieter-kyoto/tanukidani-fudo-in-temple/) - Tanukidani Fudo-in is certainly be a temple that kids would enjoy. There are 250 steps to be counted, and tanuki to help you to keep count of the steps! - [Muro-ji Temple (室生寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/muro-ji-temple-nara/) - Muro-ji is a large temple located in the mountain Muro-yama, where the temple stands, has been considered a holy place since ancient times. - [Sumiyoshi-taisha Shrine (住吉大社) / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/sumiyoshi-taisha-shrine-osaka/) - Sumiyoshi-taisha Shrine in Osaka was built 1,800 years ago to serve as the main shrine of over two thousand Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan. - [Pokemon Center in Kansai](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/pokemon-center-in-kansai/) - The Pokémon Center Osaka is a special store selling the wide range of original Pokémon Center goods, Pokemon toys, clothing, accessories, statues. - [Shitennou-ji Temple (四天王寺) / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shitennou-ji-temple-osaka-tennouji/) - Shitennou-ji Temple, located in Osaka, is beautiful, historical buddhist architecture from the 6th and 7th centuries. It was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku. - [Keitakuen (慶沢園) / A hidden Japanese garden in Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/keitakuen-a-hidden-japanese-garden-in-osaka/) - Keitakuen is hidden Japanese garden in Osaka. The landscaping is both calming and majestic at the same time. You can extend your visit to Tennouji Park - [Kofuku-ji Temple (興福寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kofuku-ji-temple-nara/) - Kofuku-ji Temple in Nara used to be the family temple of the Fujiwara. The temple has the symbol of Nara, a 50 meter tall, Japan's seccond tallest pagoda. - [Capsule hotel/ Unique accommodation found only in Japan](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/capsule-hotel-unique-accommodation-found-only-in-japan/) - You can find capsule hotels all over Japan,and they range from plastic capsules in a sci-fi setting to comfortable sleeping mini-rooms with a window and a view. - [Let's enjoy and relax at Sento, A Public Bath house](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/sento-public-bath-house/) - Sento is a facility for taking a bath. This Japanese-style public bath house also functions as a social hub in its neighboring community. - [Toshodai-ji Temple (唐招提寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/toshodai-ji-temple-「唐招提寺」-nara/) - Toshodai-ji Temple was founded in the year 759 by the Buddhist monk Ganjin, a Chinese priest who was invited to Japan by the emperor in order to train priests - [Nishinomiya-jinja Shrine/ Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/nishinomiya-jinja-shrine-hyogo/) - Nishinomiya shrine is the home of the god of commerce. The Toka Ebisu Festival is always a lively event with many visitors wishing for prosperous business. - [Satsukiyama Park in Ikeda city / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/satsukiyama-park-in-ikeda-city-osaka/) - Satsukiyama Park is a great park for families in Osaka. In early April, 35000 cherry blossoms cover a large part of the park. There are also a free petting zoo. - [Omamori / Japanese Amulets keep you safe!](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/omamori-japanese-amulets-keep-you-safe/) - Omamori, "amulets" are imbued with Fuku (Good Luck, protective power, blessings). They grew to be popular both Shinto and Buddhism in Japan. - [Kinkaku-ji Temple, Golden Pavilion / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kinkaku-ji-temple-golden-pavilion/) - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto. The temple is covered in gold leaf and Its reflection on the water is striking. - [Instant Ramen Noodles Specialty Shop/ Den-den Town](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/instant-ramen-noodles-specialty-shop-den-den-town/) - Yakan-tei Sakura is located in Den-den town, Nipponbashi, Osaka. More than 250 kind of local instant Ramen noodles can be purchased here. - [Tennouji Park (天王寺公園) / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/tennouji-park-osaka/) - Tennouji Park is located , nearby the Tsutenkaku tower, the symbol of Osaka. The park has a number of attractions such as a Japanese garden, zoo, an art museum. - [Ninna-ji Temple (仁和寺) /　Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ninna-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Ninna-ji is one of the many great temples in Kyoto which are listed as World Heritage Sites. The temple is famous for viewing late blooming cherry blossoms. - [Kasagiyama Natural Park/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/kasagiyama-natural-park-kyoto/) - Kasagiyama Natural Park in the mountains to south east of Kyoto, is most famous for its cherry blossom and is considered one of Japan’s Top 100 cherry blossom. - [Kema Sakuranomiya Park/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/kema-sakuranomiya-park-osaka/) - Kema Sakuranomiya park is one of the most famous sites for cherry blossom viewing spot in Osaka. The park is just a few hundred meters from Osaka castle. - [Sewari Yodogawa Riverside Park / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/yodogawa-river-riverside-park-sewari-bank-district-kyoto/) - About 250 cherry trees are planted and make up a long tunnel of cherry blossom. You can view a vast panorama of cherry blossoms in Sewari Yodogawa riverside. - [The Lake Biwa Canal / Otsu, Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/the-lake-biwa-canal-otsu-shiga/) - The lake biwa canal is one of the best spots for cherry blossom in the Kansai area. Around 600 cherry trees grow along the canal and Mii-dera temple is nearby. - [Kaizu-Osaki "Sakura" viewing / Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/kaizu-osaki-sakura-viewing-shiga/) - Kaizu-Osaki has about 800 glorious cherry trees lining the northern shore of Lake Biwa for 4km. It's one of Japan's 100 greatest cherry blossom spots. - [Pokemon Expo Gym/ Pokemon themed site in Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/spots/pokemon-expo-gym-pokemon-themed-site-in-osaka/) - Pokemon Expo Gym is an entertainment facility produced by Pokémon in Osaka. You can try some Pokémon attractions. The store has a wide range of Pokémon goods. - [Nagahama Castle (長浜城) / Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/sakura/nagahama-castle-shiga/) - Nagahama castle is located in northern part of Shiga. You can see a layer of cherry blossoms from the castle tower during the cherry blossom season. - [Shukugawa Park (夙川公園) / Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/shukugawa-park-hyogo/) - Shukugawa park is Located both side of the Shukugawa River in the west of Nishinomiya City. The park is famous for the cherry blossom viewing spot. - [Nakaragi no Michi (半木の道) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/spots/nakaragi-no-michi-the-pink-weeping-cherry-path/) - "Nakaragi no michi" is the section of the path in front of the Kyoto Botanical Garden. The cherry trees here are all weeping cherry blossom. - [Butsuryu-ji Temple (佛隆寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/butsuryu-ji-temple-nara/) - Butsuryu-ji Temple in Uda city has the biggest and oldest cherry blossom in Nara. You can also see blossoms of "higanbana" in autumn. - [Yoshino-yama (吉野山) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/yoshinoyama-nara/) - Yoshino is perhaps Japan's most famous cherry blossom site. 30,000 wild trees spread over the dips and peaks of Mt.Yoshino in the second to third week of April. - [Osaka style food/ Konamono](https://2ponderful.com/foods/osaka-style-food-konamono/) - Osaka style food is reasonable, good taste which explains why they are so popular. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu are all categorized as "konamono" - [Doguya-suji shopping street/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/spots/doguya-suji-street/) - Sennichimae Doguya-suji shopping street in the Namba area, this unique shopping street is loaded with all kinds of cooking utensils and kitchen items. - [Todai-ji Temple (東大寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/todai-ji-temple-nara/) - Todai-ji Temple in Nara, one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples ,houses the largest metal statue of the Buddha in the world. - [Aoi Matsuri Festival/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/aoi-matsuri-festival-kyoto/) - Aoi Matsuri Festival is the most important annual rituals.The highlight is the parade with 500 people wearing splendid ancient costumes and traditional make-up. - [Shoden-ji Temple (正伝寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shoden-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Shoden-ji is a small, quiet zen temple in the northen part of Kyoto with a dry zen garden tugged at the British rock legend David Bowie's heartstrings. - [Enryaku-ji Temple/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/enryaku-ji-temple-kyoto-shiga/) - Enryaku-ji, located in Kyoto's eastern mountain range on Mt. Hieizan. You can go hiking or take the ropeway. The view from the ropeway is amazing. - [Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/ikoma-sanjo-amusement-park-nara/) - More than an amusement park, visitors come to Ikoma-sanjo amusement park for seeking some cool breeze and great night views of Osaka and Nara n in hot summer. - [Hozen-ji Temple (法善寺) / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hozen-ji-temple-osaka/) - Hozen-ji temple is located in Hozen-ji Yokocho, a stone-paved alley in Namba. Mizukake-fudo, a Moss-covered Buddhist statue is there to pray and sprash water. - [Omiwa Jinja Shrine (大神神社) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/omiwa-shrine-nara/) - Omiwa shrine in Sakurai city of Nara is the oldest shrine of Japan. It worship Mt. Miwa where the god lives through a extreamly rare triple torii gate. - [Kurama-dera Temple (鞍馬寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kurama-dera-temple-kyoto/) - Kurama-dera Temple is located on the wooded northern mountains of Kyoto City. Feel the energy from natural blessings. The area is famous for its hot-spring. - [Nyoirin-ji Temple (如意輪寺) / Nara, Yoshino](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/nyoirin-ji-temple-nara-yoshino/) - Nyoirin-ji Temple, a quiet temple in Mt. Yoshino has the tomb of Godaigo emperor, tells us the fleeing nature of this life. - [Asuka-dera Temple (飛鳥寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/asuka-dera-temple-nara/) - Asuka-dera Temple was founded in 596, about 60 years after the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. The Temple has high historic value in the Nara area. - [Saidai-ji Temple (西大寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/saidai-ji-temple-nara/) - Saidai-ji Temple, a high status, a large temple complex, is located on the western side of Heijo Palace. The temple is one of the 7 great temples in Nara. - [Komyo-ji Temple (光明寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/komyo-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Komyo-ji Temple in Nagaokakyo is filled with brilliant red maple trees in the late November. Visitors can see an awsome picturesque scenery. - [Yoshikien Garden (吉城園) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/yoshikien-garden-nara/) - Yoshikien garden is a pleasant Japanese garden located in Nara. visitors can see three different variations of beautiful Japanese gardens in one spot. - [Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/kobe-nunobiki-herb-garden/) - Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden is located in the top of Mt. Rokko, 400 meters above from the city. You can enjoy seasonal flowers with the great view of Kobe below. - [Nariai-ji Temple (成相寺) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/nariai-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Nariai-ji Temple is located in Kyoto's Miyazu area on the northen side of the Amanohashidate sandbar. Visitors can see the one of the best scenic views. - [Izakaya-Japanese dinning 「居酒屋」](https://2ponderful.com/foods/izakaya-japanese-dinning/) - Izakaya is a place you can enjoy fine foods, drink and the cultural exchange with local tipsy people in Japan. You may find one everywhere in town. - [Ramen restaurant with No name in Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/foods/ramen-restaurant-with-no-name-in-kyoto/) - There is no name or no sign, and no telephone number to contact, though this ramen restaurant in Kyoto has been very popular among ramen manias. - [Mt. Kongo/ Osaka has the mountain and snow!](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/mt-kongo-osaka-has-the-mountain-and-snow/) - Mt. Kongo is the tallest mountain in Osaka. During winter Mt. Kongo is covered in snow and beautiful scenery of juhyo (trees glazed with ice) can be seen. - [Byodo-in Temple/ Kyoto-Uji](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/byodo-in-temple-kyoto-uji/) - Byodo-in Temple (平等院), a world heritage site is located in Uji city, Kyoto,the capital of Japanese tea. The Phoenix Hall is featured on the back of 10 yen coin. - [Ono-ji Temple (大野寺) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ono-ji-temple-nara/) - Ono-ji Temple's Cliff-Carved Buddha stands before the water’s edge. The temple is also known for its two 300-year-old weeping cherry trees blooming in spring, - [Shirahige Shrine/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shirahige-shrine-shiga/) - The majestic red torii gate of Shirahige Shrine is floating in the western side of Lake Biwa in Shiga. Shirahige Shrine blesses visitors with a long life. - [Hiyoshi-Taisha Shrine/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/hiyoshi-taisha-shrine-shiga/) - Hiyoshi-Taisha,a shrine to protect people from misfortune and disasters is located at the foot of Mount Hieizan. The shrine is vey famous for autumn colors. - [Mangetsu-ji Temple/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/mangetsu-ji-temple-shiga/) - Mangetsu-ji, known as the Ukiumi-do, a floating temple is located on the southwest of Lake Biwa, to provide you one of the 8 beautiful landscapes of Shiga. - [Mount Wakakusa-yama/ Nara](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/mt-wakakusayama-nara/) - Mount Wakakusa-yama, a grassy mountain is located behind Nara Park between Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga-Taisha Shrine. You can have excellent views of Nara city. - [Kasuga-Taisha Shrine/ Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kasuga-taisha-shrine-nara/) - An atmospheric forest path, lined with hundreds of stone lanterns takes you to Nara’s most famous and impressive shrine, Kasuga-taisha in the east of Nara Park. - [Aizen-do Shomanin temple/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/aizen-do-shomanin-temple-osaka/) - Shoman-in, known as Aizen-do, a temple with the god of good matchmaking is located on the Uemachi plateau in the historic atmosphere of Osaka’s temple district. - [Ikutama Shrine/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ikutama-shrine-osaka/) - Ikutama shrine, the oldest shrine in Osaka, located in the heart of the city, loved by locals for long time, was an imperial shrine of the first rank. - [Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine/ Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kumano-hongu-taisha-shrine-wakayama/) - Kumano Hongu Taisha, a world heritage registered shrine with the biggest torii gate is located at the center of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage in Wakayama. - [Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine/ Wakayama-Kumano](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kumano-nachi-taisha-shrine-wakayama-kumano/) - Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, located in south Wakayama, is a part of a large religious complex site with Seiganto-ji Temple and Nachi-no-taki waterfalls. - [Shosei-en Garden (渉成園) / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/shosei-en-garden-kyoto/) - Shosei-en,a traditional strolling style Japanese garden, hidden behind large walls in the urban Kyoto area is located just 12-minute from Kyoto station. - [Kaju-ji Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kaju-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Kaju-ji Temple, located in Yamashina, is famous for its garden, to offer a peaceful getaway for those looking for a quiet retreat and the beauties of nature. - [Yoshino-Jingu Shrine (吉野神宮) / Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/yoshino-jingu-shrine-nara/) - Yoshino-Jingu, located on Mt. Yoshino, the highest sanctity, a tribute from one emperor to another, to offer a taste of Japanese history and a commanding view. - [Gion Matsuri, Kyoto/ Japan's three best festivals「日本三大祭り」](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/gion-matsuri-kyoto-japans-three-best-festivals/) - The highlight of Gion Matsuri festival is the "Yamaboko Junko" parade. Massive floats are pulled through the narrow, winding streets of Kyoto. See the schedule. - [Imai-cho Preservation District/ Nara](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/imai-cho-preservation-district-nara/) - Imai-cho,a well-preserved historical district, a temple town of Shonen-ji with 500 traditional Edo houses laid out in a 2 km grid, is located in Kashiwara,Nara. - [Kimii-dera Temple/ Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kimii-dera-temple-wakayama/) - Kimii-dera, an impressive temple with golden Buddhas, located in Wakayama is famous for its cherry blossoms, and the magnificent view of the Wakanoura Bay. - [Rakusai Chikurin Bamboo Park/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/rakusai-chikurin-bamboo-park-kyoto/) - Rakusai Chikurin Bamboo Park is located in south-west of Arashiyama. You can see beautiful bamboo forest without the crowds like Arashiyama's bamboo forest. - [Kinosaki Onsen (城崎温泉) / Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/kinosaki-onsen「城崎温泉」-hyogo/) - Kinosaki is a pleasant historical hot spring town, allows you to have a unique Japanese experience while strolling around in Yukata, and hot springs hopping. - [Tanzan Jinja Shrine/ Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/tanzan-jinja-shrine-nara/) - Tanzan Jinja, on the hillside, located in the Sakurai mountains in Nara is a shrine well-known for its brilliant autumn colors and bright red buildings. - [Shoju-in Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shoju-in-temple-kyoto/) - Shoju-in, a small and quiet temple, located outskirt of Kyoto city is the most photogenic temple in Kyoto with its heart-shaped window and ceiling paintings. - [Ankoku-ji Temple/ Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ankoku-ji-temple-hyogo/) - Ankoku-ji, a hidden temple, located in the north part of Hyogo, near by Kinosaki-Onsen offers a breathtaking scenery with red Dodan-Tsutsuji Azalea in autumn. - [Manshu-in Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/manshu-in-temple-kyoto/) - Manshu-in, a small temple in Higashiyama of Kyoto is known for its beautiful autumn color, to offer a fine dry garden, brilliant architecture and decorations. - [Shisen-do Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shisen-do-temple-kyoto/) - Shisen-do Temple, located in northern Higashiyama of Kyoto, a less-traveled part of the city offers a tranquil experience with its dry landscape garden. - [Konpuku-ji Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/konpuku-ji-temple-kyoto/) - Konpuku-ji, located in northern Higashiyama of Kyoto is a quieter small temple, one of the most important historic site of Haiku, a Japanese style poetry. - [Katsuo-ji Temple/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/katsuo-ji-temple-osaka/) - Katsuo-ji Temple, located in the forested region of Minoo, Osaka, filled with the daruma dolls is one of the best place for autumn color along with Minoo Park. - [Negoro-ji Temple/ Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/negoro-ji-temple-wakayama/) - Negoro-ji, an ancient temple, located in the sacred Katsuragi mountains in Wakayama is enhanced by the seasonal colors. You can explore a national trasure. - [Kogen-ji Temple/ Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/kogen-ji-temple-hyogo/) - Kogen-ji, located in Tanba-city, Hyogo is known as the historical zen temple and "Tenmoku maple". It's one of the best spots of red maple leaves in the area. - [Shoryaku-ji Temple/ Nara](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/shoryaku-ji-temple-nara/) - Shoryaku-ji, an ancient temple, located on the Bodaisen mountain in Nara is called as the "Village of Brocade", to offer an amazing scenery with autumn color. - [Ryoan-ji Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ryoan-ji-temple-kyoto/) - The World Heritage Site, Ryoan-ji, located near Kinkaku-ji, is well known for its zen style rock garden. This simple rock garden is more complex than it seems. - [Settsukyo Gorge National Park/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/settsukyo-gorge-national-park-osaka/) - Settsukyo Gorge natural park, located in the north of Osaka that can be enjoyed throughout the year with the beauty of the seasonal nature and flowers. - [Inunaki-san(犬鳴山) / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/nature-and-scenery/mt-inunaki-osaka/) - Inunaki-san, located in Izumisano of Osaka is well known for its hidden hot spring resort with mountain scenery and spiritual sanctary, Shipporyu-ji Temple. - [Ushitaki-san Daiitoku-ji Temple/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ushitakisan-daiitoku-ji-temple-osaka/) - Daiitoku-ji Temple, located in the mountain of Ushitaki-yama, Kishiwada City of Osaka is a famous for autumn color, beautiful waterfalls and silky smooth bath. - [Momoyama no misasagi / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/momoyama-no-misasagi-kyoto/) - Momoyama no misasagi, the tomb of the Emperor Meiji, located on the hill in the Fushimi area of southeastern Kyoto offer a fantastic view across the town.Autumn - [The Ebisu Tower/ Dotonbori](https://2ponderful.com/spots/the-ebisu-tower-dotonbori/) - The Ferris wheel, called the Ebisu Tower that named for the figure of the god Ebisu, is located near the famous Glico Man signboard along the Dotonbori River. - [Koetsu-ji Temple / Kyoto, Kitayama](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/koetsu-ji-temple-kyoto-kitayama/) - Koetsu-ji, a Buddhist temple in the north west Kyoto, flourished as a village of artists, and the heart of tea ceremony was named after a master of arts. - [Takeda Castle Ruins/ Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/historical-sites/takeda-castle-ruins-hyogo/) - Takeda Castle, a stunning set of castle ruins located in the mountains of Hyogo is often called as the Castle floating in the sky or the Machu Picchu of Japan”. - [Mikane Jinja Shrine/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/mikane-jinja-shrine-kyoto/) - Mikane Jinja Shrine, a deity of gold in Kyoto attracts people wishing for economic fortune, located near Nijo Castle. A shining golden trii gate welcomes you. - [Kamo-gawa Delta/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/gardens-and-parks/kamo-gawa-delta-kyoto/) - The Kamo-gawa Delta is home to Tadasu no mori, the famous woods of Shimogamo Shrine. A triangular shaped delta by Kyoto's iconic Kamo-gawa River, to chill out. - [Ishikiri-Tsurugiya Shrine/ Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/shrines-and-temples/ishikiri-tsurugiya-shrine-osaka/) - Ishikiri-Tsurugiya Shrine, well known as Ishikiri-san in Osaka is a very popular shrine since ancient times as the home of a deity who cures tumors and boils. - [New year's eve Temple bell ceremony](https://2ponderful.com/tradition-and-culture/new-years-eve-temple-bell-ceremony/) - Temple bell rings 108 times on December 31st, "Joya-no-kane" event is held at temples all over Japan. It has existed in Japan since ancient times. ## Pages - [Event Calendar](https://2ponderful.com/) - Find out what's going on in the Kansai area, including seasonal events, festivals, fireworks and illuminations. - [Hydrangeas viewing spots in Kansai](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/hydrangeas-viewing-spots-in-kansai/) - Japan is famous for its spring carpet of cherry blossom and autumnal red leaves. Less well known are the hydrangeas – ajisai in Japanese – that brighten up the dreary June rainy season. - [Cherry Blossom Viewing spots in Kansai](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/cherry-blossom-viewing-spots-in-kansai/) - As you know the cherry blossom is Japan's unofficial national flower. The seasonal spectacle is celebrated with hanami (cherry blossom viewing). - [The best viewing spots for autumn colors in Kansai](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/the-best-viewing-spots-for-autumn-colors-in-kansai/) - Japan may be known for the cherry blossom, but the autumnal colors are no less spectacular. The leaves start to change in October and last till mid-November. - [Sitemap](https://2ponderful.com/sitemap/) - ["Ume" Plum blossom Viewing Spots in Kanasai](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/ume-plum-blossom-viewing-spots-in-kanasai/) - Cherry blossom won't bloom until the end of March. However, there is an equally rewarding treat for flower lovers who can't wait : plum blossom! - [春](https://2ponderful.com/spring/) - Spring is probably the best time to visit Japan, as of course, you have plum and cherry blossom to enjoy with mild weather. - [Gardens & Parks](https://2ponderful.com/interests/gardens-and-parks/) - A list of gardens and parks in the Kansai area, you might want to visit. - [Osaka Travel Guide / 大阪](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/osaka-travel-guide/) - Osaka, the hub of the Kansai area is a charming, lively city best known for easy-going, friendly locals and its fantastic food culture, with some history. - [Shiga Travel Guide / 滋賀](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/shiga-travel-guide/) - Surrounding Japan’s largest lake, Shiga is blessed with water and greenery. It’s a great place to get away from the crowds and outdoor activities in any season. - [Wakayama Travel Guide / 和歌山](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/wakayama-travel-guide/) - Wakayama, Japan's spiritual heartland attracts visitors with the temple complex of Mt. Koyasan, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, and picturesque beaches. - [Hyogo Travel Guide / 兵庫](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/hyogo-travel-guide/) - Hyogo Prefecture is stretching from the Seto Inland Sea to the Sea of Japan. Ancient castles, a lively port city and renowned hot springs draw visitors. - [Nara Travel Guide/ 奈良](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/nara-travel-guide/) - Nara, Japan's first permanent capital is easily accessed from Osaka and Kyoto. The city remains full of historic treasures along with the famously tame deer. - [Kyoto Travel Guide/ 京都](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/kyoto-travel-guide/) - Kyoto is the cultural and historical heart of Japan. It’s the best place to experience temples, shrines, Japanese Zen gardens, graceful geisha, and festivals. - [Destinations](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/) - We help you to plan your trip in the Kansai area (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Hyogo, Wakayama, Shiga). - [Discover more](https://2ponderful.com/discover-more/) - We help you to discover more and find something very impressive in the Kansai area! - [Nature & Scenery](https://2ponderful.com/interests/nature-and-scenery/) - A list of nature and onsen in the Kansai area, you might want to visit. - [Shrines & Temples](https://2ponderful.com/interests/shrines-and-temples/) - A list of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in the Kansai area, you might want to visit. The best cities to visit temples are Kyoto and Nara. - [Historical Sites](https://2ponderful.com/interests/historical-sites/) - A list of Japanese castles and historical sites in the Kansai area, you might want to visit. - [Interests](https://2ponderful.com/interests/) - We provide a list of places to visit sorted by your interests in the Kansai area (Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara, Wakayama, Shiga). - [News](https://2ponderful.com/news/) - We bring you up to date with the latest news, travel and tourist information in the Kansai area (Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara, Wakayama). - [About us](https://2ponderful.com/about-us/) - Our goal is to be a part of Japanese government's promotion aiming to become a "Tourism-Oriented Country". - [Privacy Policy](https://2ponderful.com/privacy-policy/) - Our goal is to be a part of Japanese government's promotion aiming to become a "Tourism-Oriented Country". - [Home](https://2ponderful.com/wp-travel-dashboard/) - We bring you up to date with the latest tourist information, destinations, event schedules, news & hidden spots in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Wakayama, Hyogo, Shiga. - [冬](https://2ponderful.com/winter/) - Winter is cold, but snow creates beautiful landscape and makes Onsen hot springs even nicer. - [秋](https://2ponderful.com/autumn/) - Autumn is one of the best times to visit Japan with stunning autumn foliage and mild temperatures. - [夏](https://2ponderful.com/summer/) - Summer is an amazing season for visitors to experience the exciting Japanese summer festivals and events. - [Kansai Fireworks Festivals 2019](https://2ponderful.com/destinations/kansai-fireworks-festivals/) - Fireworks festivals are on nearly every week from late July through August in Kansai. You can enjoy fireworks, dressing in Yukata, food and game stalls. - [Contact us/ お問合わせ](https://2ponderful.com/contact/) - お問い合わせを希望される場合は、必要事項をご記入の上、送信ボタンを押してください。 Please fill out the form below and submit for your inquiry. [contact-form to='admin@2ponderful.com'][contact-field label='Name/お名前' type='name' required='1'/][contact-field label='Email' type='email' required='1'/][contact-field label='Title' type='text'/][contact-field label='Details/本文' type='textarea' required='1'/][/contact-form] ## Events - [Inagawa Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/inagawa-fireworks-festival/) - See 4,000 fireworks illuminate the sky at the Inagawa Fireworks Festival, spanning the border of Osaka and Hyogo along the scenic Inagawa River! - [Kodai-ji Temple Special Night Visit in Summer](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kodai-ji-temple-special-night-visit-in-summer/) - Experience summer night illuminations at Kodai-ji Temple in Kyoto! Explore glowing Zen gardens, illuminated bamboo groves, and digital projection mapping. - [Gojo-zaka Pottery Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/gojo-zaka-pottery-festival/) - Discover Gojo-zaka Toki Matsuri, Kyoto's largest summer pottery market. Find iconic Kiyomizu, Arita & Shigaraki-yaki across 500+ open-air stalls. - [Nara To-Kae Candle festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/nara-to-kae-candle-festival/) - Experience Nara Tokae at Nara Park, where tens of thousands of candles illuminate historic sites including Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga-taisha Shrine, and Ukimi-do. - [Takamiya Noryo Fireworks](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/takamiya-noryo-fireworks/) - Takanomiya Noryo Fireworks Festival welcomes summer in Shiga with 4,000 fireworks lighting up the eastern shore of Lake Biwa in a spectacular display. - [Shirahama Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/shirahama-fireworks-festival/) - The Shirahama Fireworks Festival dazzles with a stunning 1,000-meter Niagara Falls fireworks display launched from Shirarahama Beach in Wakayama. - [Yoshino River Matsuri NOHRYO Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/yoshino-river-matsuri-nohryo-fireworks-festival/) - Experience the Yoshino River Nohryo Festival with 20,000 floating lanterns, spectacular fireworks, and a magical summer celebration in Nara. - [Nara Daimonji Fire Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/nara-daimonji-fire-festival/) - Watch the enormous 「大」 character blaze on Mount Takamado above Nara, symbolizing the universe. The spectacular Daimonji Okuribi is best viewed from Nara Park. - [Arashiyama Floating Lantern Event](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/arashiyama-floating-lantern-event/) - Experience Arashiyama's magical summer night with Gozan Okuribi bonfires glowing on the mountains and lanterns floating along the Katsura River. - [Daimonji Gozan Okuribi](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/daimonji-gozan-okuribi/) - Discover Daimonji Gozan Okuribi, Kyoto's iconic Bon festival held on August 16, when giant bonfires honor and send off ancestral spirits. - [Takebe-taisha Shrine Senkou-sai Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/takebe-taisha-shrine-senkou-sai-festival/) - Experience the Senkou-sai Festival, one of Otsu's three major festivals, featuring Takebe Taisha Shrine's summer ritual and spectacular fireworks. - [Ukai Cormorant Fishing in Arashiyama](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/ukai-cormorant-fishing-in-arashiyama/) - Ukai is a 1,300-year-old Japanese fishing tradition using trained cormorants to catch fish. Visitors can experience it in Arashiyama, Kyoto. - [Tenjin-Matsuri Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/tenjin-matsuri-fireworks-festival/) - Tenjin Matsuri Fireworks Festival offers a grand Kansai display: 100 boats, 5,000 fireworks, and accessible riverfront viewing. - [Sumiyoshi Festival at Sumiyoshi Taisha](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/sumiyoshi-festival-at-sumiyoshi-taisha/) - Aizen Matsuri is Osaka’s first summer festival, featuring Aizen Musume parades to Aizen-dō Temple, rare display of Aizen Myōō, and 300 food stalls. - [Aizen-Matsuri Festival at Aizen-do Temple](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/aizen-matsuri-festival-at-aizen-do-temple/) - Aizen Matsuri is Osaka’s first summer festival, featuring Aizen Musume parades, Aizen Myōō’s rare display, and around 300 lively food stalls. - [Ajisai (hydrangea) Festival at Sanzen-in Temple](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/ajisai-hydrangea-festival-at-sanzen-in-temple/) - Kyoto Ohara Sanzen-in Temple features over 1,000 hydrangeas blooming June to July amid moss gardens and mountain maples. - [Hydrangeas garden lit up at Mimuroto-ji](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/hydrangeas-garden-lit-up-at-mimuroto-ji/) - Mimuroto-ji Temple in Uji features 10,000 hydrangeas and rare illuminated night blooms in Kansai. - [Kyoto Gion-matsuri Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kyoto-gion-matsuri-festival/) - Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri began as a purification ritual in the Heian period. Today, the Yamaboko Junko parade features massive, floats through Kyoto’s streets. - [Tanabata illumination at Kibune Shrine](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/tanabata-illumination-at-kibune-shrine/) - Every summer, illuminations at Kibune Shrine in Kyoto celebrate Tanabata, the myth of star-crossed lovers shared across Japan. - [Ofusa Kannon Wind Chime Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/ofusa-kannon-wind-chime-festival/) - Over 2,500 wind chimes at Ofusa Kannon Temple in Nara create a cool, soothing summer atmosphere that helps visitors forget the heat. - [The legend of Amanogawa Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/the-legend-of-amanogawa-osaka/) - July 7 marks the Tanabata Festival, where the legend of Amanogawa comes alive with floating LED lights creating a breathtaking river display. - [Ikutama Shrine Summer Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/ikutama-shrine-summer-festival/) - Enjoy traditional performances and food stalls at Ikutama Shrine, followed by the lively evening Mikoshi portable shrine procession. - [Mitarashi Festival at Shimogamo Shrine](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/mitarashi-festival-at-shimogamo-shrine/) - During the Mitarashi Festival at Shimogamo Shrine, visitors wade through Mitarashi Pond, light candles, and pray for good health. - [Motomiya Festival / Fushimi Inari Shrine](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/motomiya-festival/) - Experience Fushimi Inari Taisha's Yoimiya lantern festival: two nights of glowing paths, taiko drums, and dances—free admission in Kyoto. - [Tenjin-Matsuri Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/tenjin-matsuri-festival/) - Experience Tenjin Matsuri: witness stunning fireworks, 100 illuminated boats, and traditional pyrotechnics—free admission with easy Osaka access. - [Rurikoin Spring Special Viewing](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/rurikoin-spring-special-viewing/) - Rurikoin is open to visitors only during special viewing periods in spring, summer, and autumn. Visitors may enjoy its iconic scenery of reflected maple leaves. - [Beautiful azalea gardens at Mimuroto-ji Temple](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/beautiful-azalea-gardens-at-mimuroto-ji-temple/) - Mimuroto-ji in Uji, nicknamed the “Temple of Flowers,” in spring, visitors can enjoy 20,000 azaleas and 1,000 rhododendrons blooming in the beautiful gardens. - [Aoi Matsuri Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/aoi-matsuri-festival/) - Kyoto’s Aoi Matsuri is a 1,400-year-old festival and key ritual of Shimogamo and Kamigamo Shrines, famed for its elegant Heian-era procession. - [Fujinomori Matsuri Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/fujinomori-matsuri-festival/) - Fujinomori Matsuri Festival is held every year from MAY 1 to 5.During the festival, there are many food stalls, and portable shrines are carried. - [Osaka Mint bureau special opening for the cherry blossom](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/osaka-mint-bureau-special-opening-for-the-cherry-blossom/) - The Japan Mint in Osaka opens a passage of 560 meters long to the general public for the cherry blossom viewing about 370 trees of over 100 varieties. - [Nijo Castle Sakura Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/nijo-castle-sakura-festival/) - At Nijo castle, the cherry orchard features about 400 late-blooming cherry trees, with special night illuminations during the blooming season. - [Entoku-in Spring illumination](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/entoku-in-spring-illumination/) - Entoku-in, a sub-temple of Kodai-ji along Nene no Michi, features a stunning illuminated garden in the North Shoin. - [To-ji Temple Spring Illumination](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/https-2ponderful-com-calendar-to-ji-temple-spring-illumination/) - Kyoto’s landmark, the five-story pagoda at To-ji Temple, is illuminated during cherry blossom season, just a short walk from JR Kyoto Station. - [Sakura viewing boat ride at Okazaki canal](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/sakura-viewing-boat-ride-at-okazaki-canal/) - Okazaki Canal, located just outside Heian-jingu Shrine, is lined with cherry trees along Reisen Street, stretching all the way to Nanzen-ji Temple in Kyoto. - [Gion Shirakawa Sakura Light up](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/gion-shirakawa-sakura-lit-up/) - Gion Shirakawa-dori in Kyoto, lined with cherry blossoms, is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical springtime atmosphere. - [Hirano Jinja Cherry Blossom illumination](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/hirano-jinja-cherry-blossom-illumination/) - Hirano Shrine, famous since the Heian period, offers stunning cherry blossoms and lantern-lit gardens for a magical viewing experience. - [Oshiro Matsuri Festivals at Koriyama Castle](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/oshiro-matsuri-festivals-at-koriyama-castle/) - Koriyama Castle is a top cherry blossom spot, where the Oshiro Matsuri Festival draws visitors with blooms and seasonal events. - [Kiyomizu-dera Spring Illumination](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kiyomizu-dera-spring-illumination/) - Enjoy a spring night at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, with its illuminated stage, three-story pagoda, and stunning night views of the city. - [Hikone Castle Cherry Blossom Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/hikone-castle-cherry-blossom-festival/) - Hikone Castle in Shiga offers a stunning view of around 1,200 cherry blossoms, beautifully illuminated at night and reflected on the castle’s moat. - [Tamba Sasayama Cherry Blossom Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/tamba-sasayama-cherry-blossom-festival/) - Sasayama Castle Ruins is a popular cherry blossom spot, featuring stunning spring blooms and beautiful evening light-ups during sakura season. - [Tatsuno Cherry Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/tatsuno-cherry-festival/) - Tatsuno Park is one of Japan’s best cherry blossom spots, featuring a samurai parade, traditional tea ceremony, and festive food stalls. - [Kodai-ji Temple Special illumination in Spring](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kodai-ji-temple-special-illumination-in-spring/) - Spring nights at Kodai-ji Temple glow with special illuminations, where beautiful gardens and weeping cherry trees create a magical atmosphere. - [Omihachiman fire festival/ Sagicho Matsuri](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/omihachiman-fire-festival-sagicho-matsuri/) - At Sagicho Matsuri in Omihachiman, a handcrafted Zodiac animal made from marine products and grain crowns the festival’s blazing pine-tree float. - [Nipponbashi Street Festa/ Cosplay event](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/nipponbashi-street-festa-cosplay-event/) - Nipponbashi Street Festa is Osaka’s top cosplay and anime festival, featuring 10,000+ cosplayers, robot shows, live music, and vibrant pop culture fun. - [Minabe-Bairin Plum Blossom viewing](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/minabe-bairin-plum-blossom-viewing/) - Minabe Bairin Plum Grove in Wakayama is Japan’s largest plum garden, home to about 100,000 plum trees and stunning spring blossoms. - [Osaka Expo Park Plum blossoms Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/osaka-expo-park-plum-blossoms-festival/) - Plum blossoms peak at Osaka Expo Park, with 600 trees in the Natural & Cultural Gardens and 80 trees in the Japanese Garden. - [Japanese plum blossoms viewing at Domyoji Tenmangu Shrine](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/japanese-plum-blossoms-viewing-at-domyoji-tenmangu-shrine/) - Viewing plum blossoms is a popular spring attraction in Japan. Domyoji Tenmangu features 800 plum trees in 80 varieties during its annual festival. - [The Setsubun Festival at Yoshida-Jinja](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/the-setsubun-ritual-festival-at-yoshida-jinja-shrine/) - Yoshida-jinja in Kyoto, on Yoshida-yama’s west slope, hosts the famous Setsubun festival, where visitors throw beans at Oni to drive away evil spirits. - [Plum Festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/plum-festival-at-kitano-tenmangu-shrine/) - Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine hosts the annual Plum Festival on Feb 25, featuring beautiful plum blossoms and a special outdoor tea ceremony, Baikasai. - [Wakakusayama Mountain Burning Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/the-mountain-burning-festival-at-wakakusayama/) - Mt. Wakakusayama, just behind Nara Park, is set ablaze each year with fireworks during a spectacular New Year event, attracting visitors from near and far. - [Imamiya To-ka ebisu festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/imamiya-to-ka-ebisu-festival/) - Imamiya Ebisu-jinja Shrine in Osaka hosts the Tōka Ebisu Festival, attracting over a million visitors praying for business success and prosperity. - [Toka Ebisu Festival / Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/toka-ebisu-festival-kyoto/) - Visit Kyoto Ebisu Shrine for the Tōka Ebisu Festival, where women in traditional costume hand out lucky bamboo for business prosperity and good fortune. - [Osaka Aquarium kaiyukan illumination](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/osaka-aquarium-kaiyukan-illumination/) - Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan shines with 1.2 million lights themed on the sea, creating a stunning illuminated display in the open space outside the aquarium. - [Midosuji Illumination/ Osaka Festival of Lights](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/midosuji-illumination-osaka-festival-of-lights/) - Experience Osaka’s Midosuji Street illumination, a spectacular winter light display stretching 4 km from Yodoyabashi to Namba, lighting up the city at night. - [Nishinomiya To-ka Ebisu Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/nishinomiya-to-ka-ebisu-festival/) - Nishinomiya-jinja Shrine, home to the god of commerce, hosts the lively Toka Ebisu Festival, drawing large crowds of visitors and merchants each year. - [Osaka Hikari Renaissance/ Osaka Festival of Light](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/osaka-hikari-renaissance-osaka-festival-of-light/) - The Osaka Hikari Renaissance illumination event is stretching from Osaka City Hall to Nakanoshima Park creating a festive atmosphere. - [Tanzan Jinja Shrine Autumn Lit Up](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/tanzan-jinja-shrine-autumn-lit-up/) - Maple trees are lit up creating a fantastic scenery along with a unique pagoda and a wooden terrace decorated by traditional lanterns at Tanzan-Jinja Shrine. - [Ishiyama-dera Temple Autumn Color Illumination Event/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/ishiyama-dera-temple-autumn-color-illumination-event-shiga/) - Approximately 1,000 maple trees show their beautiful autumn foliage at Ishiyama-dera Temple. You can enjoy magical beauty of Japanese maples lit up. - [Evening illumination at Hiyoshi-Taisha/ Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/evening-illumination-at-hiyoshi-taisha/) - The leaves of 3000 maples and other trees color the vast precincts of Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. The special night illumination creates a fantastic atmosphere. - [Minoo Momiji Festival / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/minoo-momiji-festival-osaka/) - Minoo Momiji Festival is the annual event of the autumn. Visitors can see the different look of Minoo waterfalls and temples lit up fantastically. - [Hosen-in Temple Autumn Night Visit](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/hosen-in-autumn-night-visit/) - At Hosen-in Temple in Ohara, you can enjoy the beautifully illuminated autumn leaves between the pillars like a painting. - [Shoren-in Temple Special Night Visits](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/shoren-in-temple-special-night-visits/) - Shoren-in Temple’s beautiful gardens make a mysterious atmosphere at night. Visitors can enjoy strolling the path along 4 beautiful gardens, and all the wooden buildings are nicely lit up with autumn leaves. Shoren-in (青蓮院） Address : 69-1 Awadaguchi Sanjobocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0035 Access : 5-minute walk from Higashiyama station on the subway Tozai line Bus - [Kibune Autumn leaves lantern Festa/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kibune-autumn-leaves-lantern-festa/) - It is an area with many maple trees. From the train windows, you can see colorful leaves lit up nightly. During the period Around Kibune Shrine is also lit up. - [Koko-en Garden Autumn Lit-up / Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/koko-en-garden-autumn-lit-up-hyogo/) - Koko-en garden is particularly beautiful with autumn color. From sunset, Visitors can enjoy a fantastic view different from that during the daytime. - [Hitaki-sai Fire Festival – Fushimi Inari Shrine](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/hitaki-sai-fire-festival-fushimi-inari-shrine/) - Tens of thousands of the ritual tossing prayer sticks gathered from around Japan are burned in bonfires at Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. - [Nariai-ji Temple autumn illumination/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/nariai-ji-temple-autumn-illumination/) - Nariai-ji temple's impressive five-story pagoda with autumn colors are lit up and make a stunning scenery for only 2 days. - [To-ji Autumn Illumination/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/to-ji-autumn-illumination-kyoto/) - Kyoto’s landmark, The five story pagoda at To-ji Temple is lit up with autumn colors. Easy access from JR Kyoto station. - [Maple tree garden illumination at Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/maple-tree-garden-illumination-at-kitano-tenmangu-shrine/) - Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine opens its maple tree garden to the public. Illuminations are held during the peak of the autumn leaf season. - [Daigo-ji Temple Autumn Illumination](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/daigo-ji-temple-autumn-illumination/) - Daigo-ji in Yamashina, is open for special night visit to show it’s illuminated autumn colors. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the the Benten-do in the dark. - [Evening illumination with autumnal colors at Kiyomizu-dera/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/evening-illumination-with-autumnal-colors/) - Kiyomizu-dera Temple is filled with a sea of autumnal colors. The famous wooden stage affords visitors a nice view of the maple trees lit up below. - [Autumnal Night Visit at Eikan-do Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/autumnal-night-visit-at-eikan-do-temple/) - The tree colors of autumn are so prominent in Eikan-do Temple. There are some three thousand maples on the grounds, which are lit up at night in fall. - [Evening light up at Chion-in Temple/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/evening-light-up-at-chion-in-temple/) - Chion-in, The massive head temple of the Buddhist Jodo sect attracts autumn color viewers by illuminating its temple grounds and its gardens. - [Suito Kurawanka Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/suito-kurawanka-fireworks-festival/) - Hirakata has held a large fireworks festival since 1956. Suito Kurawanka Fireworks will launch as many fireworks as the number of children born in the area. - [Zuiki Festival at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/zuiki-festival-at-kitano-tenmangu-shrine/) - Zuiki Festival at Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine is held in appreciation for the year's grain harvest. You can enjoy the parade of portable shrines around the shrine. - [Rurikoin Autumn Special Viewing](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/rurikoin-autumn-special-viewing/) - Rurikoin is open to visitors only during special viewing periods in spring, summer, and autumn. Visitors may enjoy its iconic scenery of reflected maple leaves. - [Tanabe Fireworks Display / Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/tanabe-fireworks-display/) - Fireworks light up the autumn sky over Tanabe Bay in Wakayama at this annual fireworks display. This is a part of Benkei matsuri Festival. - [Otsu Matsuri Festival （大津祭）](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/otsu-matsuri-festival/) - Otsu Matsuri is one of Shiga’s three major festivals.13 floats with performances of mechanical dolls, are gorgeously decorated and are carried through the city. - [Nada Fighting Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/nada-fighting-festival/) - Nada Fighting Festival is the popular festival in Himeji City. The portable shrines are jolted awhen carried on the shoulders of the men in the parade. - [Jidai Matsuri Festival （時代祭り）](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/jidai-matsuri-festival/) - The highlight of Jidai Matsuri is about 2,000 people dressed in costumes representing various eras of Kyoto’s 1,200-year history parade through the city. - [Kurama Fire Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kurama-fire-festival/) - The Kurama Fire Festival is counted as one of the three great unusual festivals of Kyoto. Held at Yuki-jinja Shrine, in Kurama. - [Kodai-ji Temple Autumn Evening Illumination/Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kodai-ji-temple-autumn-illuminations/) - Kodai-ji Temple's garden has a pond with autumn trees planted around it. During the fall leaf season, the area is lit up, creating a magical atmosphere. - [Takasegawa boat festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/takasegawa-boat-festival/) - The Takasegawa is an old canal running through the city. There are lots of little shows going on in the street, including the tea ceremony performed by Maiko. - [Kishiwada Danjiri Festival ”だんじり”](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kishiwada-danjiri-festival/) - The highlight of the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival has to be the elaborate floats that are pulled through the narrow streets of Kishiwada at high-speeds. - [Iwashimizusai festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/iwashimizusai-festival/) - Iwashimizu Hachimangu shrine in Yawata city of Kyoto, situated on a quiet hillside hosts one of the three religious festivals in Japan. - [Moon Viewing Festival "Kangetsu-no-Yube"](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/moon-viewing-festival-kangetsu-no-yube/) - At Daikaku-ji Temple, you can enjoy moon-viewing from a floated boat on the Osawa-no-ike Pond on the night of the full moon nearest the Autumn Equinox. - [Himeji Castle Moon Viewing](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/himeji-castle-moon-viewing/) - Visitors can see beautiful Himeji Castle lit-up under the brilliant full moon in the night sky while having a picnic meal and a few drinks with friends. - [Kangetsu-sai Festival / Sumiyoshi Taisha](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kangetsu-sai-festival/) - The Moon Viewing Festival "Kangetsu-Sai" at Sumiyoshi Taisha must be worth visiting. You can enjoy viewing the full moon over the famed Taiko-bashi bridge. - [The Comb Festival ”櫛まつり”](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/comb-festival/) - The Comb Festival at Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, features a colorful parade of women having their hair done in various coiffures representing each era. - [Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/naniwa-yodogawa-fireworks-festival/) - A festival held at the Yodogawa river near Osaka station, with 10,000 fireworks and star-mines. (a rapid-fire series of fireworks) - [The Summer Festa Minoo Park / Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/the-summer-festa-minoo-park/) - Minoo Waterfalls will be lit up for the Summer Festa The Summer Festa Minoo Park is the annual event of the summer. - [Itami Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/itami-fireworks-festival/) - A spectacular firework display that can be seen from Osaka Itami Airport. You can see exhibition fireworks and also the golden willow fireworks. - [Rurikoin Summer Special Viewing](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/rurikoin-summer-special-viewing/) - Rurikoin is open to visitors only during special viewing periods in spring, summer, and autumn. Visitors may enjoy its iconic scenery of reflected maple leaves. - [Ofusa Kannon Spring Rose Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/ofusa-kannon-rose-festival-spring-nara/) - Visitors can enjoy about 2,300 varieties of roses and smell their fragrances while strolling through Ofusa Kannon temple's grounds in Nara. - [Wakayama Castle Sakura Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/wakayama-castle-sakura-festival/) - Wakayama Castle is located very close to Wakayama city center. From late March to early April, 600 cherry trees turn the park into a sea of light pink. - [Cherry Blossom Night Viewing at Osaka Castle](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/cherry-blossom-night-viewing-at-osaka-castle/) - Enjoy cherry trees in Nishinomaru garden at night with the illuminated Osaka Castle. The scenery of the castle risen up over the cherry trees is beautiful. - [Uchiagegawa Park Cherry Blossom Lit Up](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/uchiagegawa-park-cherry-blossom-lit-up/) - About 200 cherry trees in Uchiagegawa Ryokuchi Park will be lit up. Those beautifuly lit up cherry blossom reflected on the surface of the pond is breathtaking. - [Heian Jingu Shrine Setsubun Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/heian-jingu-shrine-setsubun-festival/) - At Heian Jingu Shrine, setsubun festivals is, to drive away those evil spirits and celebrate the new spring season. The impressive fire ritual takes place too. - [Yasaka Shrine Setsubun Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/yasaka-shrine-setsubun-festival/) - This Setsubun Festival is on at the one of Kyoto's most famous shrine, Yasaka-Jinja Shrine. Geisha will perform dance and bean-throwing ceremony. - [Japanese Ceramics and Pottery market](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/japanese-ceramics-and-pottery-market/) - The annual Himeji Pottery Market gathers japanese traditional pottery and ceramics from across the country to display their wares for sale at Otemae Park. - [Daikaku-ji Autumn illumination/ Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/daikaku-ji-autumn-illumination-kyoto/) - Autumn color illumination is held at Daikaku-ji Temple in Arashiyama. The reflection of autumn leaves on the Osawa-no-ike pond’s surface are so beautiful. - [Nagahama and Kita-Biwako Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/nagahama-and-kita-biwako-fireworks-festival/) - [Lake Biwa Big Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/lake-biwa-big-fireworks-festival/) - [Kameoka Hozugawa Fireworks Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/kameoka-hozugawa-fireworks-festival/) - [Shogunzuka Seiryuden Special Lit-up in Spring](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/shogunzuka-seiryuden-special-lit-up-in-spring/) - At Seiryuden, visitors can enjoy a fantastic view of lit-up cherry blossom in the night with spectacular panoramic views over the city of Kyoto below - ["Joya-no-kane" bell rings at Chion-in Temple](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/joya-no-kane-bell-rings-at-chion-in-temple/) - At Chion-in Temple, 17 monks work together to ring a massive, three-meter tall, about 70 tons great temple bell at 108 times on December 31st. - [Fushimi Inari Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/fushimi-inari-festival/) - Inari festival is the most important festival for Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. The Inari God makes a parade to give blessings once a year. - [Himeji Castle Cherry blossom Night Viewing](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/himeji-castle-cherry-blossom-night-viewing/) - Himeji Castle at night with the special illuminated cherry trees with the striking white castle is truly beautiful. - [Shoren-in Temple Special Spring Night Visits](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/shoren-in-temple-special-spring-night-visits/) - Shoren-in Temple's beautiful gardens make a mysterious atmosphere at night. Visitors can enjoy strolling the path along beautiful gardens lit up. - [Osaka Expo Park "Sakura" Festival](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/osaka-expo-park-sakura-festival/) - Expo park is well-known as a place for viewing cherry blossoms, featuring around 5000 trees. During the season, the park holds special sakura festival events. - [Byodo-in Temple Special Night Visit](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/byodo-in-temple-special-night-visit/) - Byodo-in, well known as its feature on the 10 yen coin will be lit up to create fantastic atmosphere with cherry blossoms and the image reflected in the pond. - [Shogunzuka Seiryuden Autumn color Lit up](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/shogunzuka-seiryuden-autumn-color-lit-up/) - The Shogunzuka mound, located on a top of Mt. Higashiyama, it offers you a spectacular night view of the entire city of Kyoto below with the red leaves lit up. ## Categories - [News](https://2ponderful.com/category/news/) - [Spots](https://2ponderful.com/category/spots/) - [Foods](https://2ponderful.com/category/foods/) - [Nature & Scenery](https://2ponderful.com/category/nature-and-scenery/) - [A quieter Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/category/a-quieter-kyoto/) - [Shrines & Temples](https://2ponderful.com/category/shrines-and-temples/) - [Gardens & Parks](https://2ponderful.com/category/gardens-and-parks/) - [Tradition & Culture](https://2ponderful.com/category/tradition-and-culture/) - [Sakura](https://2ponderful.com/category/sakura/) - [Historical sites](https://2ponderful.com/category/historical-sites/) - [Autumn](https://2ponderful.com/category/autumn/) - [Hidden spots](https://2ponderful.com/category/hidden-spots/) - [Plum](https://2ponderful.com/category/plum/) - [1-day trip](https://2ponderful.com/category/1-day-trip/) - [UNESCO World Heritage](https://2ponderful.com/category/unesco-world-heritage/) ## Tags - [Tennouji](https://2ponderful.com/tag/tennouji/) - [Osaka](https://2ponderful.com/tag/osaka/) - [Kansai](https://2ponderful.com/tag/kansai/) - [Kyoto](https://2ponderful.com/tag/kyoto/) - [Hyogo](https://2ponderful.com/tag/hyogo/) - [Wakayama](https://2ponderful.com/tag/wakayama/) - [Shiga](https://2ponderful.com/tag/shiga/) - [Pokemon](https://2ponderful.com/tag/pokemon/) - [Otsu](https://2ponderful.com/tag/otsu/) - [Ohara](https://2ponderful.com/tag/ohara/) - [Yamashina](https://2ponderful.com/tag/yamashina/) - [Uji](https://2ponderful.com/tag/uji/) - [Nara](https://2ponderful.com/tag/nara/) - [Rakuhoku](https://2ponderful.com/tag/rakuhoku/) - [Nipponbashi](https://2ponderful.com/tag/nipponbashi/) - [Plum](https://2ponderful.com/tag/plum/) - [Sakura](https://2ponderful.com/tag/sakura/) - [Namba](https://2ponderful.com/tag/namba/) - [Hydrangeas](https://2ponderful.com/tag/hydrangeas/) - [Yoshino](https://2ponderful.com/tag/yoshino/) - [Takao](https://2ponderful.com/tag/takao/) - [Kobe](https://2ponderful.com/tag/kobe/) - [Himeji](https://2ponderful.com/tag/himeji/) - [Tanba](https://2ponderful.com/tag/tanba/) - [Harima](https://2ponderful.com/tag/harima/) - [Kumano](https://2ponderful.com/tag/kumano/) - [Calendar](https://2ponderful.com/tag/calendar/) - [Nagahama](https://2ponderful.com/tag/nagahama/) - [Rakusai](https://2ponderful.com/tag/rakusai/) - [Rakunan](https://2ponderful.com/tag/rakunan/) - [Rakuchu](https://2ponderful.com/tag/rakuchu/) - [NOV](https://2ponderful.com/tag/nov/) - [DEC](https://2ponderful.com/tag/dec/) - [OCT](https://2ponderful.com/tag/oct/) - [Yearly](https://2ponderful.com/tag/yearly/) - [cosmos](https://2ponderful.com/tag/cosmos/) - [Ikaruga](https://2ponderful.com/tag/ikaruga/) - [Kashihara](https://2ponderful.com/tag/kashihara/) - [SEP](https://2ponderful.com/tag/sep/) - [Uda](https://2ponderful.com/tag/uda/) - [Yawata](https://2ponderful.com/tag/yawata/) - [FEB](https://2ponderful.com/tag/feb/) - [MAR](https://2ponderful.com/tag/mar/) - [APR](https://2ponderful.com/tag/apr/) - [MAY](https://2ponderful.com/tag/may/) - [JUL](https://2ponderful.com/tag/jul/) - [JUN](https://2ponderful.com/tag/jun/) - [AUG](https://2ponderful.com/tag/aug/) - [JAN](https://2ponderful.com/tag/jan/) - [Rakuto](https://2ponderful.com/tag/rakuto/) ## Event Categories - [Events](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/category/events/) - [Festivals](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/category/festivals/) - [Illuminations](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/category/illuminations/) - [Fireworks](https://2ponderful.com/calendar/category/fireworks/)