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  • Todaiji Temple or Great Eastern Temple is one of Japan's most famous temples and a landmark of Nara. Todaiji was constructed in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples of Japan. Todaiji derives its name from its location east of Nara, which was the capital of Japan when it was built. It is the largest wooden structure in the world, housing the largest bronze Buddha in existance, the Daibutsu or Great Buddha.
    todai-ji-10.jpg
  • Todaiji Temple or Great Eastern Temple is one of Japan's most famous temples and a landmark of Nara. Todaiji was constructed in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples of Japan. Todaiji derives its name from its location east of Nara, which was the capital of Japan when it was built. It is the largest wooden structure in the world, housing the largest bronze Buddha in existance, the Daibutsu or Great Buddha.
    todai-ji-15.jpg
  • Horyuji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607, credited with the early propagation of Buddhism in Japan. Horyuji is one of the country's oldest temples with the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Horyuji's temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct   Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures which are: the central gate Chumon, the main hall Kondo and a five storied pagoda. They were built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction although they have been renovated many times over the centuries. The main hall houses some of Japan's oldest statues of Buddha where visitors can witness the evolution of Japanese Buddha statues which had lost the more East Indian appearance in earlier creations. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal shaped Yumedono Hall of Visions with life size statues of the founding prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and rakan disciples.
    horyu-ji-3.jpg
  • Horyuji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607, credited with the early propagation of Buddhism in Japan. Horyuji is one of the country's oldest temples with the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Horyuji's temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct   Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures which are: the central gate Chumon, the main hall Kondo and a five storied pagoda. They were built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction although they have been renovated many times over the centuries. The main hall houses some of Japan's oldest statues of Buddha where visitors can witness the evolution of Japanese Buddha statues which had lost the more East Indian appearance in earlier creations. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal shaped Yumedono Hall of Visions with life size statues of the founding prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and rakan disciples.
    horyu-ji-4.jpg
  • Horyuji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607, credited with the early propagation of Buddhism in Japan. Horyuji is one of the country's oldest temples with the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Horyuji's temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct   Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures which are: the central gate Chumon, the main hall Kondo and a five storied pagoda. They were built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction although they have been renovated many times over the centuries. The main hall houses some of Japan's oldest statues of Buddha where visitors can witness the evolution of Japanese Buddha statues which had lost the more East Indian appearance in earlier creations. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal shaped Yumedono Hall of Visions with life size statues of the founding prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and rakan disciples.
    horyu-ji-2.jpg
  • Horyuji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607, credited with the early propagation of Buddhism in Japan. Horyuji is one of the country's oldest temples with the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Horyuji's temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct   Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures which are: the central gate Chumon, the main hall Kondo and a five storied pagoda. They were built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction although they have been renovated many times over the centuries. The main hall houses some of Japan's oldest statues of Buddha where visitors can witness the evolution of Japanese Buddha statues which had lost the more East Indian appearance in earlier creations. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal shaped Yumedono Hall of Visions with life size statues of the founding prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and rakan disciples.
    horyu-ji-1.jpg
  • Shimogamo Shrine or Shimogamo jinja in Japanese is an important Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto.  Its official name is Kamo-mioya-jinja and is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.  Importantly, it is one of the seventeen Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto which have been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
    shimogamo-3.jpg
  • 4. Kofukuji 興福寺 was once an important center for Buddhism in Japan.  Since it was established by the Fujiwara clan who ruled Japan at the time, it also retained influence over the imperial government.  One of the great temples of the Nara Period it features a five storey pagoda and many Buddhist art treasures. Today only a handful of the temple's 175 buildings remain standing, most of which date from the 15th century.  Although its pagoda dominates the scene, octagonal halls contain most of Kofukuji’s treasures, rarely open for viewing.  The Octagonal Halls are noteworthy because of their unique architectural design and part of the Western Japan Pilgrimage of 33 Temples.
    4.NARA-KOFUKUJI-01.jpg
  • 24. Byodo-in 平等院 is well known in Japan, so much so that its outline is featured on the 10 YEN coin. Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the 8 foot tall statue of Amida inside it and several other items at Byodoin have been declared Japanese National Treasures. The pond garden at Byodo-in is considered to be one of best examples of a Pure Land garden in Japan.
    24.KYOTO-BYODO-IN-01.jpg
  • Shimogamo Shrine or Shimogamo jinja in Japanese is an important Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto.  Its official name is Kamo-mioya-jinja and is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.  Importantly, it is one of the seventeen Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto which have been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
    shimogamo-1.jpg
  • 24. Byodo-in Phoenix  平等院 is well known in Japan, so much so that its outline is featured on the 10 YEN coin. Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the 8 foot tall statue of Amida inside it and several other items at Byodoin have been declared Japanese National Treasures. The pond garden at Byodo-in is considered to be one of best examples of a Pure Land garden in Japan.
    24.KYOTO-BYODO-IN-02.jpg
  • 8. Yakushiji Temple 薬師寺 was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji is one of Japan's oldest temples and is laid out on a central axis flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity - considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have destroyed the temple repeatedly over the years.  It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symmetry with the West Pagoda. The East Pagoda, the only building to have survived since the 8th century, is considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese architecture.
    8.NARA.YAKUSHIJI-02.jpg
  • 8. Yakushiji Temple 薬師寺 was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji is one of Japan's oldest temples and is laid out on a central axis flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity - considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have destroyed the temple repeatedly over the years.  It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symmetry with the West Pagoda. The East Pagoda, the only building to have survived since the 8th century, is considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese architecture.
    8.NARA.YAKUSHIJI-01.jpg
  • Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-7.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-6.jpg
  • Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-1.jpg
  • Ninomaru garden was designed by the famous landscape architect and tea master, Kobori Enshu. It is located between the two main rings of fortifications, next to the palace of the same name. The garden has a large pond with three islands and features numerous carefully placed stones and topiary pine trees.  Nijo Castle and its garden are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninomaru-7.jpg
  • 8. Yakushiji Temple 薬師寺 was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji is one of Japan's oldest temples and is laid out on a central axis flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity - considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have destroyed the temple repeatedly over the years.  It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symmetry with the West Pagoda. The East Pagoda, the only building to have survived since the 8th century, is considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese architecture.
    8.NARA.YAKUSHIJI-03.jpg
  • 23. Daigo-ji 醍醐寺 Within its grounds, Daigo-ji houses eighteen of Japan’s National Treasures. Among them are buildings belonging to Sanbo-in famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden was laid out with a large pond, paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  Sanbo-in was designed for viewing from a specific perspective within the temple’s buildings. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden’s islands depict ‘fortuitous crane’, the ‘tortoise’ and the ‘"isle of eternal youth’ - poetic terms that show stones and ponds can be poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship.
    23..KYOTO-DAIGOJI-01.jpg
  • 16.  Tenryuji 天龍寺 has been ranked first among Kyoto's ‘Five Great Zen Temples’.  Muso Soseki, the temple's founding abbot and famous garden designer, is said to have created Tenryuji's garden which, unlike the temple buildings,  survived several fires intact and is considered one of the oldest gardens of its kind. This is a shakkei or borrowed landscape garden, integrating the background scenery of the hills of Arashiyama as part of the garden's composition. Rather than physically entering the garden, it shows a 3D effect and was meant to be viewed from a distance.  It is often cited as a one of the best examples of the use of borrowed scenery gardens in Japan.
    16.KYOTO-TENRYUJI-03.jpg
  • 16.  Tenryuji 天龍寺 has been ranked first among Kyoto's ‘Five Great Zen Temples’.  Muso Soseki, the temple's founding abbot and famous garden designer, is said to have created Tenryuji's garden which, unlike the temple buildings,  survived several fires intact and is considered one of the oldest gardens of its kind. This is a shakkei or borrowed landscape garden, integrating the background scenery of the hills of Arashiyama as part of the garden's composition. Rather than physically entering the garden, it shows a 3D effect and was meant to be viewed from a distance.  It is often cited as a one of the best examples of the use of borrowed scenery gardens in Japan.
    16.KYOTO-TENRYUJI-02.jpg
  • 16.  Tenryuji 天龍寺 has been ranked first among Kyoto's ‘Five Great Zen Temples’.  Muso Soseki, the temple's founding abbot and famous garden designer, is said to have created Tenryuji's garden which, unlike the temple buildings,  survived several fires intact and is considered one of the oldest gardens of its kind. This is a shakkei or borrowed landscape garden, integrating the background scenery of the hills of Arashiyama as part of the garden's composition. Rather than physically entering the garden, it shows a 3D effect and was meant to be viewed from a distance.  It is often cited as a one of the best examples of the use of borrowed scenery gardens in Japan.
    16.KYOTO-TENRYUJI-01.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-5.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-3.jpg
  • 12. Shimogamo Shrine 下鴨神社 or Shimogamo jinja is an important Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto.  The shrine occupies a ‘power spot’ at the confluence of two rivers.  Shimogamo gives us the sense of being surrounded by nature as it sits within a forest, a remnant of a primeval forest mentioned in Tales of Genji.  The shrine is approached by a long trail through a forest of broadleaf trees, rare in Japan where so many of the forests have been cut down and replanted with cedar.  That is what makes this forest and shrine particularly special, considering that it is within a large city.
    12.KYOTO-SHIMOGAMO-02.jpg
  • Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-8.jpg
  • Kofuku-ji Pagoda - Kofukuji is a Hosso Buddhist temple in Nara.  One of the great temples of the Nara period (710-794), it features a tall five-story pagoda and many Buddhist art treasures.  Today only a handful of the temple's 175 buildings remain standing, most of which date from the 15th century.  Kofukuji was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 along with other historic sites in Nara.
    kofukuji-1.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-4.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-2.jpg
  • 23. Daigo-ji 醍醐寺 Within its grounds, Daigo-ji houses eighteen of Japan’s National Treasures. Among them are buildings belonging to Sanbo-in famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden was laid out with a large pond, paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  Sanbo-in was designed for viewing from a specific perspective within the temple’s buildings. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden’s islands depict ‘fortuitous crane’, the ‘tortoise’ and the ‘"isle of eternal youth’ - poetic terms that show stones and ponds can be poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship.
    23.KYOTO-DAIGOJI-02.jpg
  • The Kyu-Kagoshima Bosekisho Gishikan or Old Kagoshima Spinning Engineers House is like its counterparts in other Japanese towns such as the foreigners' houses in Yokohama, Nagasaki or Kobe simply known as Ijinkan "Foreigners Residence".  This classic Meiji period building was constructed in 1866 to house seven British engineers and one of the earliest Western-style wooden buildings in Japan.It was designated as an important cultural asset of Japan in 1953 and registered as UNESCO World Heritage as one of the sites of Industrial Meiji Japan in July 2013.
    Ijinkan-kagoshima-05.jpg
  • The Kyu-Kagoshima Bosekisho Gishikan or Old Kagoshima Spinning Engineers House is like its counterparts in other Japanese towns such as the foreigners' houses in Yokohama, Nagasaki or Kobe simply known as Ijinkan "Foreigners Residence".  This classic Meiji period building was constructed in 1866 to house seven British engineers and one of the earliest Western-style wooden buildings in Japan.It was designated as an important cultural asset of Japan in 1953 and registered as UNESCO World Heritage as one of the sites of Industrial Meiji Japan in July 2013.
    Ijinkan-kagoshima-04.jpg
  • The Kyu-Kagoshima Bosekisho Gishikan or Old Kagoshima Spinning Engineers House is like its counterparts in other Japanese towns such as the foreigners' houses in Yokohama, Nagasaki or Kobe simply known as Ijinkan "Foreigners Residence".  This classic Meiji period building was constructed in 1866 to house seven British engineers and one of the earliest Western-style wooden buildings in Japan.It was designated as an important cultural asset of Japan in 1953 and registered as UNESCO World Heritage as one of the sites of Industrial Meiji Japan in July 2013.
    Ijinkan-kagoshima-02.jpg
  • The Kyu-Kagoshima Bosekisho Gishikan or Old Kagoshima Spinning Engineers House is like its counterparts in other Japanese towns such as the foreigners' houses in Yokohama, Nagasaki or Kobe simply known as Ijinkan "Foreigners Residence".  This classic Meiji period building was constructed in 1866 to house seven British engineers and one of the earliest Western-style wooden buildings in Japan.It was designated as an important cultural asset of Japan in 1953 and registered as UNESCO World Heritage as one of the sites of Industrial Meiji Japan in July 2013.
    Ijinkan-kagoshima-01.jpg
  • Ryoanji Temple garden is one of the world's best known gardens. The main attraction is its rock garden, the most renowned of its kind in Japan. The simple Zen garden consist of nothing but rocks and neatly raked gravel. Though the meaning of the garden's arrangement is unknown and up to each visitor's interpretation it is said that if you can see all of the 15 stones at one time you have reached enlightenment.
    ryoanji-crop.jpg
  • Ryoanji Temple Pond - Ryoanji Temple garden is one of the world's best known gardens. The main attraction is its rock garden, the most renowned of its kind in Japan. The simple Zen garden consist of nothing but rocks and neatly raked gravel. Though the meaning of the garden's arrangement is unknown and up to each visitor's interpretation it is said that if you can see all of the 15 stones at one time you have reached enlightenment.
    ryoanji-temple-pond-1.jpg
  • To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is  54.8 meters high and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan.The pagoda has long been the icon of Kyoto.
    toji-temple-2.jpg
  • 13. Toji Temple  東寺 To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto founded by Kobo Daishi. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is the tallest wooden tower in Japan and has long been the icon of Kyoto.  Though it was first built in the year 826 it has burned down four times and been rebuilt exactly as before each time.  Toji is far more than merely a pagoda. Toji is an enormous 24 acre compound of temples and sub-temples and hosts a centuries-old antique market once a month in its huge domain.
    13.KYOTO-TOJI-01.jpg
  • To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto founded by Kobo Daishi. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is 54.8 meters high and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan. The pagoda has long been the icon of Kyoto.  However, Toji is far more than merely its pagoda.  It hosts a centureis old antique market once a month and the huge compound just south of Kyoto Station makes it almost never crowded except during market days.
    toji-12.jpg
  • To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto founded by Kobo Daishi. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is 54.8 meters high and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan. The pagoda has long been the icon of Kyoto.  However, Toji is far more than merely its pagoda.  It hosts a centureis old antique market once a month and the huge compound just south of Kyoto Station makes it almost never crowded except during market days.
    toji-11.jpg
  • To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto founded by Kobo Daishi. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is 54.8 meters high and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan. The pagoda has long been the icon of Kyoto.  However, Toji is far more than merely its pagoda.  It hosts a centureis old antique market once a month and the huge compound just south of Kyoto Station makes it almost never crowded except during market days.
    toji-4.jpg
  • To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto founded by Kobo Daishi. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is 54.8 meters high and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan. The pagoda has long been the icon of Kyoto.  However, Toji is far more than merely its pagoda.  It hosts a centureis old antique market once a month and the huge compound just south of Kyoto Station makes it almost never crowded except during market days.
    toji-10.jpg
  • Ryoanji or the Temple of the Dragon at Peace is a Zen temple in northwest Kyoto, Ryoanji belongs to the My shin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. The garden is considered to be the finest examples of a karesansui, Japanese rock garden, or zen garden, in the world. The temple and gardens are listed as Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    ryoanji-1.jpg
  • Ryoanji or the Temple of the Dragon at Peace is a Zen temple in northwest Kyoto, Ryoanji belongs to the My shin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. The garden is considered to be the finest examples of a karesansui, Japanese rock garden, or zen garden, in the world. The temple and gardens are listed as Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    ryoanji-2.jpg
  • To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is  54.8 meters high and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan.The pagoda has long been the icon of Kyoto.
    toji-temple-1.jpg
  • 13. Toji Temple  東寺 To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto founded by Kobo Daishi. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is the tallest wooden tower in Japan and has long been the icon of Kyoto.  Though it was first built in the year 826 it has burned down four times and been rebuilt exactly as before each time.  Toji is far more than merely a pagoda. Toji is an enormous 24 acre compound of temples and sub-temples and hosts a centuries-old antique market once a month in its huge domain.
    13.KYOTO-TOJI-03.jpg
  • To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is  54.8 meters high and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan.The pagoda has long been the icon of Kyoto.
    toji-temple-3.jpg
  • To-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon sect in Kyoto. Its name means East Temple. Toji's pagoda is  54.8 meters high and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan.The pagoda has long been the icon of Kyoto.
    toji-temple-4.jpg
  • Himeji Castle or Himejijo has the nickname White Heron Castle thanks to its white elegant appearance, is considered to be Japan's most spectacular. The castle is both a national treasure and a UNESCo World Heritage site. Unlike many other Japanese castles, it was never destroyed by war, earthquake or fire and survives intact to this day though it has had extensive renovation over the years.  The first fortifications were completed in the 1400s, and were gradually enlarged over the centuries by the various clans who ruled over the region. The castle complex as it survives today is over 400 years old and was completed in 1609 and altogether there are 80 buildings in the complex. 
    himeji-jo-1.jpg
  • Himeji Castle or Himejijo has the nickname White Heron Castle thanks to its white elegant appearance, is considered to be Japan's most spectacular. The castle is both a national treasure and a UNESCo World Heritage site. Unlike many other Japanese castles, it was never destroyed by war, earthquake or fire and survives intact to this day though it has had extensive renovation over the years.  The first fortifications were completed in the 1400s, and were gradually enlarged over the centuries by the various clans who ruled over the region. The castle complex as it survives today is over 400 years old and was completed in 1609 and altogether there are 80 buildings in the complex. 
    himeji-castle-3.jpg
  • Byodo-in is a Buddhist temple in the city of Uji Kyoto prefecture, a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site.  Its outline is featured on the ¥10 coin. Built in 998 AD during the Heian period, Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the great statue of Amida inside it, and several other items at Byodoin are Japanese National Treasures. UNESCO listed the garden and building as a World Heritage Site in 1994.
    byodo-in-13.jpg
  • Himeji Castle or Himejijo has the nickname White Heron Castle thanks to its white elegant appearance, is considered to be Japan's most spectacular. The castle is both a national treasure and a UNESCo World Heritage site. Unlike many other Japanese castles, it was never destroyed by war, earthquake or fire and survives intact to this day though it has had extensive renovation over the years.  The first fortifications were completed in the 1400s, and were gradually enlarged over the centuries by the various clans who ruled over the region. The castle complex as it survives today is over 400 years old and was completed in 1609 and altogether there are 80 buildings in the complex. 
    himeji-castle-4.jpg
  • Ninnaji Temple Pagoda - Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples, with a large variety of extraordinary buildings and gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the numerous buildings on the temple grounds, are elegant palace style buildings surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, a five storied pagoda, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, bell tower and tea houses.  It was the first imperial temple in Kyoto, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninnaji-pagoda-2.jpg
  • Byodo-in Phoenix - Byodo-in is a Buddhist temple in the city of Uji Kyoto prefecture, a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site.  Its outline is featured on the ¥10 coin. Built in 998 AD during the Heian period, Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the great statue of Amida inside it, and several other items at Byodoin are Japanese National Treasures. UNESCO listed the garden and building as a World Heritage Site in 1994.
    byodo-in-phoenix-1.jpg
  • Byodo-in Phoenix - Byodo-in is a Buddhist temple in the city of Uji Kyoto prefecture, a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site.  Its outline is featured on the ¥10 coin. Built in 998 AD during the Heian period, Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the great statue of Amida inside it, and several other items at Byodoin are Japanese National Treasures. UNESCO listed the garden and building as a World Heritage Site in 1994.
    byodo-in-phoenix-2.jpg
  • Byodo-in is a Buddhist temple in the city of Uji Kyoto prefecture, a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site.  Its outline is featured on the ¥10 coin. Built in 998 AD during the Heian period, Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the great statue of Amida inside it, and several other items at Byodoin are Japanese National Treasures. UNESCO listed the garden and building as a World Heritage Site in 1994.
    byodo-in-10.jpg
  • Himeji Castle or Himejijo has the nickname White Heron Castle thanks to its white elegant appearance, is considered to be Japan's most spectacular. The castle is both a national treasure and a UNESCo World Heritage site. Unlike many other Japanese castles, it was never destroyed by war, earthquake or fire and survives intact to this day though it has had extensive renovation over the years.  The first fortifications were completed in the 1400s, and were gradually enlarged over the centuries by the various clans who ruled over the region. The castle complex as it survives today is over 400 years old and was completed in 1609 and altogether there are 80 buildings in the complex. 
    himeji-jo-12.jpg
  • Himeji Castle or Himejijo has the nickname White Heron Castle thanks to its white elegant appearance, is considered to be Japan's most spectacular. The castle is both a national treasure and a UNESCo World Heritage site. Unlike many other Japanese castles, it was never destroyed by war, earthquake or fire and survives intact to this day though it has had extensive renovation over the years.  The first fortifications were completed in the 1400s, and were gradually enlarged over the centuries by the various clans who ruled over the region. The castle complex as it survives today is over 400 years old and was completed in 1609 and altogether there are 80 buildings in the complex. 
    himeji-castle-1.jpg
  • Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples, with a large variety of extraordinary buildings and gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the numerous buildings on the temple grounds, are elegant palace style buildings surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, a five storied pagoda, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, bell tower and tea houses.  It was the first imperial temple in Kyoto, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninnaji-2.jpg
  • Ninnaji Temple Gate Nio-Mon - Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples, with a large variety of extraordinary buildings and gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the numerous buildings on the temple grounds, are elegant palace style buildings surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, a five storied pagoda, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, bell tower and tea houses.  It was the first imperial temple in Kyoto, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    nio-mon-ninnaji-01.jpg
  • Ninnaji Temple Monks - Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples with a large variety of extraordinary buildings & gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the numerous buildings on the grounds are elegant palace style buildings surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, a five storied pagoda, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, bell tower and tea houses.  It was the first imperial temple in Kyoto and  now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninnaji-3.jpg
  • Kamigamo Shrine Bridge - Kamo-wake-ikazuchi-Jinja in the Kita Ward of Kyoto is the oldest Shinto shrine in the ancient city. Since prehistoric times Kamigamo-jinja has preserved and transmitted the legends relating to the birth of the shrine deity, Wakeikazuchi. The area contains many large trees such as oaks, suda chinquappins and weeping cherry trees coexisting in harmony. Kamigamo-jinja was officially registered IN 1994 as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in recognition of its importance as a monument of ancient Kyoto.
    kamigamo-shrine-02.jpg
  • Kamigamo Shrine Bridge and Omikuji - Kamo-wake-ikazuchi-Jinja in the Kita Ward of Kyoto is the oldest Shinto shrine in the ancient city. Since prehistoric times Kamigamo-jinja has preserved and transmitted the legends relating to the birth of the shrine deity, Wakeikazuchi. The area contains many large trees such as oaks, suda chinquappins and weeping cherry trees coexisting in harmony. Kamigamo-jinja was officially registered IN 1994 as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in recognition of its importance as a monument of ancient Kyoto.
    kamigamo-shrine-03.jpg
  • Kamigamo Shrine Gate - Kamo-wake-ikazuchi-Jinja in the Kita Ward of Kyoto is the oldest Shinto shrine in the ancient city. Since prehistoric times Kamigamo-jinja has preserved and transmitted the legends relating to the birth of the shrine deity, Wakeikazuchi. The area contains many large trees such as oaks, suda chinquappins and weeping cherry trees coexisting in harmony. Kamigamo-jinja was officially registered IN 1994 as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in recognition of its importance as a monument of ancient Kyoto.
    kamigamo-shrine-07.jpg
  • Byodo-in is a Buddhist temple in the city of Uji Kyoto prefecture, a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site.  Its outline is featured on the ¥10 coin. Built in 998 AD during the Heian period, Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the great statue of Amida inside it, and several other items at Byodoin are Japanese National Treasures. UNESCO listed the garden and building as a World Heritage Site in 1994.
    byodo-in-12.jpg
  • Byodo-in is a Buddhist temple in the city of Uji Kyoto prefecture, a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site.  Its outline is featured on the ¥10 coin. Built in 998 AD during the Heian period, Byodo-in was originally a private residence like many Japanese temples.  It was converted into a temple by the Fujiwara clan in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, the great statue of Amida inside it, and several other items at Byodoin are Japanese National Treasures. UNESCO listed the garden and building as a World Heritage Site in 1994.
    byodo-in-11.jpg
  • Nijo Castle or Nijo-jo was built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun of the Edo Period. After the Tokugawa Shogunate fell in 1867, Nijo Castle was used as an iimperial palace before being given to the city of Kyoto when it opened to the public. The entire castle grounds and the Honmaru are surrounded by stone walls and moats.  Ninomaru Palace served as the residence of shoguns during visits to Kyoto. The palace survives in its original form, with separate buildings which are connected  by corridors with “nightingale floors” that squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. Nijo Castle is surrounded by Ninomaru Garden, and altogether it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    nijo-palace-8.jpg
  • Nijo Castle or Nijo-jo was built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun of the Edo Period. After the Tokugawa Shogunate fell in 1867, Nijo Castle was used as an iimperial palace before being given to the city of Kyoto when it opened to the public. The entire castle grounds and the Honmaru are surrounded by stone walls and moats.  Ninomaru Palace served as the residence of shoguns during visits to Kyoto. The palace survives in its original form, with separate buildings which are connected  by corridors with “nightingale floors” that squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. Nijo Castle is surrounded by Ninomaru Garden, and altogether it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    nijo-palace-4.jpg
  • Nijo Castle or Nijo-jo was built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun of the Edo Period. After the Tokugawa Shogunate fell in 1867, Nijo Castle was used as an iimperial palace before being given to the city of Kyoto when it opened to the public. The entire castle grounds and the Honmaru are surrounded by stone walls and moats.  Ninomaru Palace served as the residence of shoguns during visits to Kyoto. The palace survives in its original form, with separate buildings which are connected  by corridors with “nightingale floors” that squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. Nijo Castle is surrounded by Ninomaru Garden, and altogether it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    nijo-palace-7.jpg
  • Nijo Castle or Nijo-jo was built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun of the Edo Period. After the Tokugawa Shogunate fell in 1867, Nijo Castle was used as an iimperial palace before being given to the city of Kyoto when it opened to the public. The entire castle grounds and the Honmaru are surrounded by stone walls and moats.  Ninomaru Palace served as the residence of shoguns during visits to Kyoto. The palace survives in its original form, with separate buildings which are connected  by corridors with “nightingale floors” that squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. Nijo Castle is surrounded by Ninomaru Garden, and altogether it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    nijo-palace-5.jpg
  • Nijo Castle or Nijo-jo was built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun of the Edo Period. After the Tokugawa Shogunate fell in 1867, Nijo Castle was used as an iimperial palace before being given to the city of Kyoto when it opened to the public. The entire castle grounds and the Honmaru are surrounded by stone walls and moats.  Ninomaru Palace served as the residence of shoguns during visits to Kyoto. The palace survives in its original form, with separate buildings which are connected  by corridors with “nightingale floors” that squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. Nijo Castle is surrounded by Ninomaru Garden, and altogether it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    nijo-palace-6.jpg
  • Nijo Castle or Nijo-jo was built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun of the Edo Period. After the Tokugawa Shogunate fell in 1867, Nijo Castle was used as an iimperial palace before being given to the city of Kyoto when it opened to the public. The entire castle grounds and the Honmaru are surrounded by stone walls and moats.  Ninomaru Palace served as the residence of shoguns during visits to Kyoto. The palace survives in its original form, with separate buildings which are connected  by corridors with “nightingale floors” that squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. Nijo Castle is surrounded by Ninomaru Garden, and altogether it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    nijo-palace-3.jpg
  • Ninai-do is made up of two temples: Hokke-do and Jogyo-do with the same shape and connected by a corridor. Enryaku-ji is located on Mount Hiei, overlooking Kyoto, and is the headquarters of the Tendai sect.  Founded during the early Heian period, it is one of the most important monasteries in Japanese history.  Enryaku-ji is imbued with a solemn atmosphere as a place of training and the home of the "marathon monks.”   Enryaku-ji is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto”
    jogyo-do-hokke-do-5.jpg
  • Amida-do is a temple for holding memorial services for ancestors of the deceased with services held daily.  Amida-do is a part of Enryakuji - Enryaku-ji is located on Mount Hiei, overlooking Kyoto, and is the headquarters of the Tendai sect.  Founded during the early Heian period, it is one of the most important monasteries in Japanese history.  Enryaku-ji is imbued with a solemn atmosphere as a place of training and the home of the "marathon monks.”   Enryaku-ji is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto”
    amidado-enryakuji-2.jpg
  • Ninnaji Temple Pagoda - Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples, with a large variety of extraordinary buildings and gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the numerous buildings on the temple grounds, are elegant palace style buildings surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, a five storied pagoda, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, bell tower and tea houses. It was the first imperial temple in Kyoto, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninnaji-pagoda-1.jpg
  • Bentendo Hall at Daigoji Temple Pond - Daigoji Temple Garden within Daigoji temple complex, a UNESCO world heritage site that includes many temple halls, structures and pagodas including Kyoto's oldest building.
    daigoji-pond-garden-1.jpg
  • Nijo Castle or Nijo-jo was built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun of the Edo Period. After the Tokugawa Shogunate fell in 1867, Nijo Castle was used as an iimperial palace before being given to the city of Kyoto when it opened to the public. The entire castle grounds and the Honmaru are surrounded by stone walls and moats.  Ninomaru Palace served as the residence of shoguns during visits to Kyoto. The palace survives in its original form, with separate buildings which are connected  by corridors with “nightingale floors” that squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. Nijo Castle is surrounded by Ninomaru Garden, and altogether it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    nijo-palace-2.jpg
  • Nijo Castle or Nijo-jo was built in 1603 as the residence of the first Tokugawa shogun of the Edo Period. After the Tokugawa Shogunate fell in 1867, Nijo Castle was used as an iimperial palace before being given to the city of Kyoto when it opened to the public. The entire castle grounds and the Honmaru are surrounded by stone walls and moats.  Ninomaru Palace served as the residence of shoguns during visits to Kyoto. The palace survives in its original form, with separate buildings which are connected  by corridors with “nightingale floors” that squeak when stepped upon as a security measure against intruders. Nijo Castle is surrounded by Ninomaru Garden, and altogether it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    nijo-palace-1.jpg
  • Raken at Ninnaji Temple - Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples with a large variety of extraordinary buildings & gardens on its spacious grounds. Among the numerous buildings on the grounds are elegant palace style buildings surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, a five storied pagoda, various temple halls, a massive entrance gate, bell tower and tea houses. It was the first imperial temple in Kyoto and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninnaji-1.jpg
  • 65. Himeji Castle 姫路城 or Himeji-jo has the nickname White Heron Castle thanks to its white elegant exterior.  It is clearly the most spectacular as well as large castle in Japan. The castle complex as it survives today is over 400 years old and was completed in 1609.  The first fortifications were completed in the 1400s and were gradually enlarged over the centuries by the various clans who ruled over the region.  Altogether there are 80 buildings in the complex.
    65.HIMEJI-02.jpg
  • Oshino Village, Mt Fuji View - Mount Fuji or Fuji-san as it is called in Japan (not Fujiyama)  is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters or 12,388 feet in altitude.  Mt Fuji is an active volcano that last erupted in 1707; Fuji straddles Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures just west of Tokyo, from where it can be seen on a clear day. Mount Fuji's symmetrical cone is a well known symbol of Japan and is frequently visible in art and photographs.  Although Mount Fuji has not erupted in over 300 years its still not considered to be extinct.Oshino Village, Mt Fuji View - Mount Fuji or Fuji-san as it is called in Japan (not Fujiyama)  is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters or 12,388 feet in altitude.  Mt Fuji is an active volcano that last erupted in 1707; Fuji straddles Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures just west of Tokyo, from where it can be seen on a clear day. Mount Fuji's symmetrical cone is a well known symbol of Japan and is frequently visible in art and photographs.  Although Mount Fuji has not erupted in over 300 years its still not considered to be extinct.
    mt-fuji-6.jpg
  • 72. The National Museum of Western Art NMWA  国立西洋美術館 is the foremost public art gallery in Japan that specializes in European and western art.  The museum was established in 1959 to exhibit works from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. In addition the museum develops special exhibitions each year, such as the Chagall exhibition it hosted by bringing in 400 of his works on loan from 15 countries around the world.  Its building has been declared world heritage along with others designed by Le Corbusier around the world, thanks to its unique design.
    72.LE.CORBUSIER-04.jpg
  • 72. The National Museum of Western Art NMWA  国立西洋美術館 is the foremost public art gallery in Japan that specializes in European and western art.  The museum was established in 1959 to exhibit works from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. In addition the museum develops special exhibitions each year, such as the Chagall exhibition it hosted by bringing in 400 of his works on loan from 15 countries around the world.  Its building has been declared world heritage along with others designed by Le Corbusier around the world, thanks to its unique design.
    72.LE.CORBUSIER-02.jpg
  • 72. The National Museum of Western Art NMWA  国立西洋美術館 is the foremost public art gallery in Japan that specializes in European and western art.  The museum was established in 1959 to exhibit works from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. In addition the museum develops special exhibitions each year, such as the Chagall exhibition it hosted by bringing in 400 of his works on loan from 15 countries around the world.  Its building has been declared world heritage along with others designed by Le Corbusier around the world, thanks to its unique design.
    72.LE.CORBUSIER-03.jpg
  • 72. The National Museum of Western Art NMWA  国立西洋美術館 is the foremost public art gallery in Japan that specializes in European and western art.  The museum was established in 1959 to exhibit works from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. In addition the museum develops special exhibitions each year, such as the Chagall exhibition it hosted by bringing in 400 of his works on loan from 15 countries around the world.  Its building has been declared world heritage along with others designed by Le Corbusier around the world, thanks to its unique design.
    72.LE.CORBUSIER-01.jpg
  • The end of Edo period  coincided with the appearance of ships from western powers in Japanese waters thanks to Admiral Perry  Japan felt that it faced an external threat and so consequently Shimadzu Nariakira promoted modernization and industrialization projects in Japan on an increasingly larger scale. He did this by constructing an industrial complex near Kagoshima “Shuseikan”. These days it is merely the main building of the Shoko ShuseikanMuseum.
    shoko-shuseikan-03.jpg
  • The end of Edo period  coincided with the appearance of ships from western powers in Japanese waters thanks to Admiral Perry  Japan felt that it faced an external threat and so consequently Shimadzu Nariakira promoted modernization and industrialization projects in Japan on an increasingly larger scale. He did this by constructing an industrial complex near Kagoshima “Shuseikan”. These days it is merely the main building of the Shoko ShuseikanMuseum.
    shoko-shuseikan-02.jpg
  • Oshino Village, Mt Fuji View - Mount Fuji or Fuji-san as it is called in Japan (not Fujiyama)  is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters or 12,388 feet in altitude.  Mt Fuji is an active volcano that last erupted in 1707; Fuji straddles Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures just west of Tokyo, from where it can be seen on a clear day. Mount Fuji's symmetrical cone is a well known symbol of Japan and is frequently visible in art and photographs.  Although Mount Fuji has not erupted in over 300 years its still not considered to be extinct.
    mt-fuji-3.jpg
  • Yomeimon Gate at Toshugu Shrine - Toshogu Shrines are found throughout Japan though the most famous is located in Nikko. It is one of Japan's most popular destinations for tourists. Five structures at Nikko are categorized as National Treasures of Japan, and three more as Important Cultural Properties.  The stable of the shrine's sacred horses bears a carving of the three wise monkeys, who hear, speak and see no evil, a traditional symbol in Chinese and Japanese culture.  Ieyasu's son, the second shogun Hidetada, ordered the construction of the Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Later, the third shogun Iemitsu had the shrine enlarged and lavishly decorated.
    yomeimon-nikko-2.jpg
  • The National Museum of Western Art in Ueno Park Tokyo is devoted to European and Western arts. The museum is also known as NMWA  National Museum of Western Art.  The museum was  opened in 1959 and designed by French-Swiss architect Le Corbusier and originally housed the personal collection of Matsukata Kojiro.  The building is a perfect example of Modernism  hat encompasses several of Le Corbusier's key ideas. Galleries are laid out in a square plans, visitor traffic circulation is mostly via ramps and skylights bring natural light into the galleries. The facade is made of precast concrete panels.  Although Le Corbusier took the lead on the design, he left the detailing and construction supervision to three Japanese apprentices. The National Museum of Western Art is the famed architect's only built project in the far east. Today the museum hosts the work of significant western artists including Rodin, Manet, Picasso and Pollock in its courtyard with special exhibitions throughout the year.  UNESCO recently added the building to its list of significant architectural and historical sites, along with 16 other Le Corbusier projects.  It is Tokyo’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
    corbusier-tokyo-1.jpg
  • The end of Edo period  coincided with the appearance of ships from western powers in Japanese waters thanks to Admiral Perry  Japan felt that it faced an external threat and so consequently Shimadzu Nariakira promoted modernization and industrialization projects in Japan on an increasingly larger scale. He did this by constructing an industrial complex near Kagoshima “Shuseikan”. These days it is merely the main building of the Shoko ShuseikanMuseum.
    shoko-shuseikan-01.jpg
  • The National Museum of Western Art in Ueno Park Tokyo is devoted to European and Western arts. The museum is also known as NMWA  National Museum of Western Art.  The museum was  opened in 1959 and designed by French-Swiss architect Le Corbusier and originally housed the personal collection of Matsukata Kojiro.  The building is a perfect example of Modernism  hat encompasses several of Le Corbusier's key ideas. Galleries are laid out in a square plans, visitor traffic circulation is mostly via ramps and skylights bring natural light into the galleries. The facade is made of precast concrete panels.  Although Le Corbusier took the lead on the design, he left the detailing and construction supervision to three Japanese apprentices. The National Museum of Western Art is the famed architect's only built project in the far east. Today the museum hosts the work of significant western artists including Rodin, Manet, Picasso and Pollock in its courtyard with special exhibitions throughout the year.  UNESCO recently added the building to its list of significant architectural and historical sites, along with 16 other Le Corbusier projects.  It is Tokyo’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
    corbusier-tokyo-7.jpg
  • The National Museum of Western Art in Ueno Park Tokyo is devoted to European and Western arts. The museum is also known as NMWA  National Museum of Western Art.  The museum was  opened in 1959 and designed by French-Swiss architect Le Corbusier and originally housed the personal collection of Matsukata Kojiro.  The building is a perfect example of Modernism  hat encompasses several of Le Corbusier's key ideas. Galleries are laid out in a square plans, visitor traffic circulation is mostly via ramps and skylights bring natural light into the galleries. The facade is made of precast concrete panels.  Although Le Corbusier took the lead on the design, he left the detailing and construction supervision to three Japanese apprentices. The National Museum of Western Art is the famed architect's only built project in the far east. Today the museum hosts the work of significant western artists including Rodin, Manet, Picasso and Pollock in its courtyard with special exhibitions throughout the year.  UNESCO recently added the building to its list of significant architectural and historical sites, along with 16 other Le Corbusier projects.  It is Tokyo’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
    corbusier-tokyo-5.jpg
  • The National Museum of Western Art in Ueno Park Tokyo is devoted to European and Western arts. The museum is also known as NMWA  National Museum of Western Art.  The museum was  opened in 1959 and designed by French-Swiss architect Le Corbusier and originally housed the personal collection of Matsukata Kojiro.  The building is a perfect example of Modernism  hat encompasses several of Le Corbusier's key ideas. Galleries are laid out in a square plans, visitor traffic circulation is mostly via ramps and skylights bring natural light into the galleries. The facade is made of precast concrete panels.  Although Le Corbusier took the lead on the design, he left the detailing and construction supervision to three Japanese apprentices. The National Museum of Western Art is the famed architect's only built project in the far east. Today the museum hosts the work of significant western artists including Rodin, Manet, Picasso and Pollock in its courtyard with special exhibitions throughout the year.  UNESCO recently added the building to its list of significant architectural and historical sites, along with 16 other Le Corbusier projects.  It is Tokyo’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
    corbusier-tokyo-2.jpg
  • The National Museum of Western Art in Ueno Park Tokyo is devoted to European and Western arts. The museum is also known as NMWA  National Museum of Western Art.  The museum was  opened in 1959 and designed by French-Swiss architect Le Corbusier and originally housed the personal collection of Matsukata Kojiro.  The building is a perfect example of Modernism  hat encompasses several of Le Corbusier's key ideas. Galleries are laid out in a square plans, visitor traffic circulation is mostly via ramps and skylights bring natural light into the galleries. The facade is made of precast concrete panels.  Although Le Corbusier took the lead on the design, he left the detailing and construction supervision to three Japanese apprentices. The National Museum of Western Art is the famed architect's only built project in the far east. Today the museum hosts the work of significant western artists including Rodin, Manet, Picasso and Pollock in its courtyard with special exhibitions throughout the year.  UNESCO recently added the building to its list of significant architectural and historical sites, along with 16 other Le Corbusier projects.  It is Tokyo’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
    corbusier-tokyo-3.jpg
  • The National Museum of Western Art in Ueno Park Tokyo is devoted to European and Western arts. The museum is also known as NMWA  National Museum of Western Art.  The museum was  opened in 1959 and designed by French-Swiss architect Le Corbusier and originally housed the personal collection of Matsukata Kojiro.  The building is a perfect example of Modernism  hat encompasses several of Le Corbusier's key ideas. Galleries are laid out in a square plans, visitor traffic circulation is mostly via ramps and skylights bring natural light into the galleries. The facade is made of precast concrete panels.  Although Le Corbusier took the lead on the design, he left the detailing and construction supervision to three Japanese apprentices. The National Museum of Western Art is the famed architect's only built project in the far east. Today the museum hosts the work of significant western artists including Rodin, Manet, Picasso and Pollock in its courtyard with special exhibitions throughout the year.  UNESCO recently added the building to its list of significant architectural and historical sites, along with 16 other Le Corbusier projects.  It is Tokyo’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
    corbusier-tokyo-4.jpg
  • 48. The Kyu-Kagoshima Bosekisho Gishikan 旧鹿児島紡績所技師館  or Kagoshima Spinning Engineers House is like its counterparts in other Japanese towns such as the foreigners' houses in Yokohama, Nagasaki or Kobe known as Ijinkan 'Foreigners Residence'. This classic Meiji period building was constructed in 1866 to house British engineers and is one of the earliest Western-style buildings in Japan.
    48.MEIJI-BOSESHIKOI-01.jpg
  • 28. Toshogu Shrine 日光東照宮  - Toshogu Shrines are found throughout Japan though the most famous by far is located in Nikko. The stable of the shrine's sacred horses bears a carving of the three wise monkeys who hear, speak and see no evil, a traditional symbol in Chinese and Japanese culture.  Ieyasu's son, the second shogun Hidetada, ordered the construction of the Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Later, the third shogun Iemitsu had the shrine enlarged and lavishly decorated and covered with gold leaf and colored carvings.
    28.NIKKO-TOSHOGU-01.jpg
  • Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple. "Jizo" images and statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth and travelers. As such they are often found along roadsides, paths or even street corners. There is a group of about 70 Jizos along the Bake Jizo Trail in Nikko. At one time there were 100 jizos along this trail. However, some of those were washed away by flooding in 1902. Alternatively called Bake-jizo, Narabi-jizo (Jizos in a line) or Hyaku-jizo (100-Jizo), a group of mysteriously aligned Jizo patiently sit along the Daiya River and Jiunji Temple
    jizo-9.jpg
  • The Moss Garden at Saihoji Temple is one of the few temples in Kyoto where visitors must request an invitation in advance before their visit. Visitors are required to participate in chanting and writing wishes before visiting the famous gardens. In this way the monks are able to maintain the temple and garden and prevent mass tourism from destroying the tranquility of the moss garden.
    AMBER-2021-EXTRA-102.jpg
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