Tag Archives: temples

Honganji Temples

The Honganji temples, consisting of Nishi Honganji (west temple) and Higashi Honganji (east temple), are large Buddist complexes walking distance from Kyoto station.  Not as beautiful as Kinkaku-ji Temple or Ginkaku-ji Temple, but nice temples to have a walk around. Budget travel tips Save some money and see the city a bit by walking from Kyoto stationContinue reading “Honganji Temples”

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Kinkaku-ji Temple, AKA Temple of the Golden Pavilion, is something you really have to see with your own eyes.  The beautiful temple on a lake is surrounded by a quiet, peaceful garden and a real must see in Kyoto.  Also a World Heritage site. Budget travel tips Worth combining with the Arashiyama Bamboo Groves, to save onContinue reading “Kinkaku-ji Temple”

Philosopher’s Walk

A famous and historic Kyoto walk, from Ginkaku-ji Temple to Nanzen-ji.  A number of other smaller but interesting shrines are dotted along the path. Time: 30 minutes How to get there Start at either Ginkaku-ji Temple to Nanzen-ji, then take the route below from there. Map

Nanzen-ji Temple

Designated a Monument of Japan, because of its beauty, Nanzen-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple complex at the start/end of the famous Philosopher’s Walk. Budget travel tips Combine this with a trip to Ginkaku-ji Temple, via the Philosopher’s Walk.  This should provide for a whole afternoon/morning’s sightseeing. Most of the temples in this complex have a charge, so justContinue reading “Nanzen-ji Temple”

Nijo Castle

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nijo castle is another must see in Kyoto.  The free Japanese garden is nice to walk around, and the castle buildings provide plenty of photo taking opportunities. Budget travel tips Come here early, as it takes a while to explore. It’s best to take the bus here, as the subwayContinue reading “Nijo Castle”

Kiyomizudera Temple

One of the most celebrated Buddhist temples in Kyoto and a UNESCO World Heritage site. There is plenty to see, such as a pagoda, plus various Buddhist building and monuments.  Also, try out the wish-granting Otowa waterfall! Budget travel tips Check out the shopping street approaching Kiyomizudera. To avoid the crowds, come in the early morning/sunriseContinue reading “Kiyomizudera Temple”

Tokyo City Walk: East Tokyo Historical Walk

A nice route through the quiet, but traditional side of Tokyo.  This route takes you from Kiyosumi Garden and Fukugawa Edo Museum, via traditional neighborhoods, to Sumida river and the Edo-Tokyo museum. Can be used as a cycling route as well. Walking time: 3-4 hours Go to Monzen-nakacho Station on the Oedo Line (purple Metro line)Continue reading “Tokyo City Walk: East Tokyo Historical Walk”

Kawagoe

Kawagoe (かわごえ/川越) is a beautiful traditional down less than an hour away from central Tokyo.  It features a famous authentic old tower and shopping street, which is why many people call it ‘Little Edo’ (Edo was the old name for Tokyo).  A great place for a nice one day trip away from the skyscrapers ofContinue reading “Kawagoe”

Sengakuji temple

Sengakuji temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple near Shinagawa station.   This is the location of the Revenge of the Forty-seven Ronin, when 47 masterless samurai murdered a feudal lord. Their master was forced to commit suicide after attacking the lord, so with no master the Ronin planned their attack.  They eventually killed the lord, andContinue reading “Sengakuji temple”