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  • 67. Okinoshima 沖ノ島 宗像大社  Both the island and the shrine are off limits to the public, local fishermen and all boats keep a respectful distance from the island.  Although Shinto priests are stationed on the island, performing rituals on certain occasions, they are not allowed to speak of them nor allow outsiders to the island.  The island is only accessible by boat exclusively for the Shinto priests and is only viewable to the public at a discreet distance.
    67.OKINOSHIMA-03.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-5.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-1.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-4.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-2.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-3.jpg
  • 5. Hokki-ji Temple 法起寺 or Temple of the Arising Dharma was once known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple. The small three-storied pagoda is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like.  The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince.
    5.NARA-HOKKI-JI-02.jpg
  • 5. Hokki-ji Temple 法起寺 or Temple of the Arising Dharma was once known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple. The small three-storied pagoda is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like.  The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince.
    5.NARA-HOKKI-JI-01.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-2.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
  • 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-1.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
  • 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
  • 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
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-13.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-14.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-10.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-1.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-21.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-19.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-18.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-15.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-6.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-4.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-5.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-2.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-3.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 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
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-17.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-16.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-12.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-11.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-7.jpg
  • Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in Japan taking place over the month of July. The grand procession of floats Yamaboko Junko takes place on July 17 but can be extremely crowded.  On evenings preceding the procession called Yoiyama, the floats are on display with locals dressed in yukata summer kimono milling around the streets of Shijo.  A second procession of floats occurs on July 24 with fewer floats but may be preferable because it is less crowded and boisterous.  Yamaboko refers to two types of floats used in the parade: there are 23 yama and 10 enormous hoko reaching up to 25 meters tall.  Both yama and hoko are elaborately decorated with unique themes. The festival has a long and almost uninterrupted history dating back to 869.  It was once a purification ritual goryo-e to appease the gods during outbreaks of epidemics. Wherever an outbreak occurred the practice was repeated. In 970, it was decreed an annual event and has seldom been broken ever since. The Gion Matsuri has been declared an Intangible Treasure of Japan by UNESCO World Heritage. 
    gion-matsuri-8.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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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-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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 6. Horyuji Temple 法隆寺 was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607. The entire complex has been preserved making Horyuji a sort of museum of the building styles from the 7th century onwards.  Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal Yumedono Hall of Dream Visions with its statue of Guze Kannon which had been kept under wraps for centuries until 1884.
    6.NARA-HORYUJI-01.jpg
  • Gagaku Imperial Court Musicians - Gagaku, literally “elegant music’ is that of Japan’s imperial court. Since gagaku has always been associated with the imperial court and not popularized for ordinary people, it has remained the same for centuries. Gagaku was performed at court banquets and sacred rituals and rites at temples and shrines as it is today. Gagaku has been inscribed as a UNESCO intangible heritage of Japan.
    gagaku-5.jpg
  • Gagaku Imperial Court Musicians - Gagaku, literally “elegant music’ is that of Japan’s imperial court. Since gagaku has always been associated with the imperial court and not popularized for ordinary people, it has remained the same for centuries. Gagaku was performed at court banquets and sacred rituals and rites at temples and shrines as it is today. Gagaku has been inscribed as a UNESCO intangible heritage of Japan.
    gagaku-04.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
  • 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
  • Gagaku Imperial Court Musicians -  Gagaku, literally “elegant music’ is that of Japan’s imperial court.  Since gagaku has always been associated with the imperial court and not popularized for ordinary people, it has remained the same for centuries. Gagaku was performed at court banquets and sacred rituals and rites at temples and shrines as it is today.  Gagaku has been inscribed as a UNESCO intangible heritage of Japan.
    gagaku-2.jpg
  • Gagaku Imperial Court Musicians -  Gagaku, literally “elegant music’ is that of Japan’s imperial court.  Since gagaku has always been associated with the imperial court and not popularized for ordinary people, it has remained the same for centuries. Gagaku was performed at court banquets and sacred rituals and rites at temples and shrines as it is today.  Gagaku has been inscribed as a UNESCO intangible heritage of Japan.
    gagaku-1.jpg
  • Gagaku Imperial Court Musicians - Gagaku, literally “elegant music’ is that of Japan’s imperial court. Since gagaku has always been associated with the imperial court and not popularized for ordinary people, it has remained the same for centuries. Gagaku was performed at court banquets and sacred rituals and rites at temples and shrines as it is today. Gagaku has been inscribed as a UNESCO intangible heritage of Japan.
    gagaku-4.jpg
  • Gagaku Imperial Court Musicians - Gagaku, literally “elegant music’ is that of Japan’s imperial court. Since gagaku has always been associated with the imperial court and not popularized for ordinary people, it has remained the same for centuries. Gagaku was performed at court banquets and sacred rituals and rites at temples and shrines as it is today. Gagaku has been inscribed as a UNESCO intangible heritage of Japan.
    gagaku-03.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
  • Gagaku Imperial Court Musicians -  Gagaku, literally “elegant music’ is that of Japan’s imperial court.  Since gagaku has always been associated with the imperial court and not popularized for ordinary people, it has remained the same for centuries. Gagaku was performed at court banquets and sacred rituals and rites at temples and shrines as it is today.  Gagaku has been inscribed as a UNESCO intangible heritage of Japan.
    gagaku-3.jpg
  • Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples, featuring a large variety of different buildings and gardens on its spacious grounds. It belongs to Kyoto's UNESCO world heritage sites. Ninnaji was founded in the year 888 as an imperial residence, but like most historic buildings in Japan, suffered repeated destruction in wars and fires over the centuries. Today Ninnaji is the headquarters of the Omuro school of the Buddhist Shingon sect and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    ninnaji-garden-5.jpg
  • Ninnaji is one of Kyoto's most interesting temples, featuring a large variety of different buildings and gardens on its spacious grounds. It belongs to Kyoto's UNESCO world heritage sites. Ninnaji was founded in the year 888 as an imperial residence, but like most historic buildings in Japan, suffered repeated destruction in wars and fires over the centuries. Today Ninnaji is the headquarters of the Omuro school of the Buddhist Shingon sect and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    ninnaji-garden-3.jpg
  • 6. Horyuji Temple 法隆寺 was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607. The entire complex has been preserved making Horyuji a sort of museum of the building styles from the 7th century onwards.  Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal Yumedono Hall of Dream Visions with its statue of Guze Kannon which had been kept under wraps for centuries until 1884.
    6.NARA-HORYUJI-02.jpg
  • Toshogu Shrine 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 second shogun Hidetada ordered the construction of the Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Later, the third shogun Iemitsu had the shrine enlarged and lavishly decorated.  Yomeimon Gate is the highlight of the shrine, far more lavishly decorative than the usual austere shrines in Japan.
    yomeimon-nikko-3.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
  • 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
  • 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-10.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-11.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-10.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-15.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-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-12.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-12.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-11.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-10.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-9.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-8.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-4.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-7.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-2.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-13.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-6.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-9.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-8.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-6.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-5.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-4.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-3.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-2.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-1.jpg
  • Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace "Nirayama Hansharo” was once an iron smelting facility in Izu, Shizuoka. The furnace represents the beginnings of modern iron production in Japan. The furnace received world heritage status in summer 2015 among other sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution which include Miyanohara Coal Mine, Nagasaki Shipyards, Miike Coal Mines, and others.  Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace represented the most advanced technology of the time, and iron produced there was cast into cannons.
    nirayama-reverberatory-2.jpg
  • Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace "Nirayama Hansharo” was once an iron smelting facility in Izu, Shizuoka. The furnace represents the beginnings of modern iron production in Japan. The furnace received world heritage status in summer 2015 among other sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution which include Miyanohara Coal Mine, Nagasaki Shipyards, Miike Coal Mines, and others.  Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace represented the most advanced technology of the time, and iron produced there was cast into cannons.
    nirayama-reverbaratory-3.jpg
  • Tomioka Silk Mill was the first silk production factory in Japan.  It was established at the end of the Edo period when Japan began trade with the west.  At the time of the Edo Period the most important Japanese export was raw silk.  Because raw silk was produced by hand, not enough could be made to meet demand.  The government set up a model factory equipped with modern silk producing machines from France to enable production of silk and to train local Japanese in these techniques.  The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
    tomioka-silk-mill-5.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-7.jpg
  • Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace "Nirayama Hansharo” was once an iron smelting facility in Izu, Shizuoka. The furnace represents the beginnings of modern iron production in Japan. The furnace received world heritage status in summer 2015 among other sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution which include Miyanohara Coal Mine, Nagasaki Shipyards, Miike Coal Mines, and others.  Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace represented the most advanced technology of the time, and iron produced there was cast into cannons.
    nirayama-1.jpg
  • Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace "Nirayama Hansharo” was once an iron smelting facility in Izu, Shizuoka. The furnace represents the beginnings of modern iron production in Japan. The furnace received world heritage status in summer 2015 among other sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution which include Miyanohara Coal Mine, Nagasaki Shipyards, Miike Coal Mines, and others.  Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace represented the most advanced technology of the time, and iron produced there was cast into cannons.
    nirayama-reverberatory-1.jpg
  • Sanbo-in is a Buddhist temple in southern Kyoto, famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden is designed as a strolling garden with a large pond and several paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  One of the stones, called the Fujito, is said to have cost over 5,000 bushels of rice to obtain. Sanb-in is also a noteworthy illustration of a landscape garden which is designed for viewing from a specific perspective within a building. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden depicts "fortuitous crane," the "tortoise" and the "isle of eternal youth" poetic terms that identify specific ways in which stones and ponds are poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship. .Toyotomi Hideyoshi designed this garden as a venue for an extravagant cherry blossom viewing party.  Sanbo-in is subtemple of Daigoji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Treasure of Japan. IMAGE UNAVAILABLE FOR SALE IN JAPAN
    sanbo-in-1.jpg
  • Sanb-in is a Buddhist temple in southern Kyoto, famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden is designed as a strolling garden with a large pond and several paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  One of the stones, called the Fujito, is said to have cost over 5,000 bushels of rice to obtain. Sanb-in is also a noteworthy illustration of a landscape garden which is designed for viewing from a specific perspective within a building. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden depicts "fortuitous crane," the "tortoise" and the "isle of eternal youth" poetic terms that identify specific ways in which stones and ponds are poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship. .Toyotomi Hideyoshi designed this garden as a venue for an extravagant cherry blossom viewing party.  Sanbo-in is subtemple of Daigoji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Treasure of Japan. IMAGE UNAVAILABLE FOR SALE IN JAPAN
    sanbo-in-2.jpg
  • Sanbo-in is a Buddhist temple in southern Kyoto, famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden is designed as a strolling garden with a large pond and several paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  One of the stones, called the Fujito, is said to have cost over 5,000 bushels of rice to obtain. Sanb-in is also a noteworthy illustration of a landscape garden which is designed for viewing from a specific perspective within a building. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden depicts "fortuitous crane," the "tortoise" and the "isle of eternal youth" poetic terms that identify specific ways in which stones and ponds are poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship. .Toyotomi Hideyoshi designed this garden as a venue for an extravagant cherry blossom viewing party.  Sanbo-in is subtemple of Daigoji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Treasure of Japan. IMAGE UNAVAILABLE FOR SALE IN JAPAN
    sanbo-in-3.jpg
  • Sanbo-in is a Buddhist temple in southern Kyoto, famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden is designed as a strolling garden with a large pond and several paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  One of the stones, called the Fujito, is said to have cost over 5,000 bushels of rice to obtain. Sanb-in is also a noteworthy illustration of a landscape garden which is designed for viewing from a specific perspective within a building. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden depicts "fortuitous crane," the "tortoise" and the "isle of eternal youth" poetic terms that identify specific ways in which stones and ponds are poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship. .Toyotomi Hideyoshi designed this garden as a venue for an extravagant cherry blossom viewing party.  Sanbo-in is subtemple of Daigoji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Treasure of Japan. IMAGE UNAVAILABLE FOR SALE IN JAPAN
    sanbo-in-4.jpg
  • Sanbo-in is a Buddhist temple in southern Kyoto, famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden is designed as a strolling garden with a large pond and several paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  One of the stones, called the Fujito, is said to have cost over 5,000 bushels of rice to obtain. Sanb-in is also a noteworthy illustration of a landscape garden which is designed for viewing from a specific perspective within a building. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden depicts "fortuitous crane," the "tortoise" and the "isle of eternal youth" poetic terms that identify specific ways in which stones and ponds are poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship. .Toyotomi Hideyoshi designed this garden as a venue for an extravagant cherry blossom viewing party.  Sanbo-in is subtemple of Daigoji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Treasure of Japan. IMAGE UNAVAILABLE FOR SALE IN JAPAN
    sanbo-in-5.jpg
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