Japanese Temples and Castles

When visiting the country of Japan, plan adequate time and wear comfortable clothing and shoes so you can enjoy the incredible sightseeing opportunities. In Japan, many of the places people go to see and experience are free, to include food galleries, beer museums, electronics’ showrooms, TV studios, cosmetic factories, and so on. Of course, many people are drawn to the Sado, or Japanese tea ceremony, along with the wonderful world of Ikebana, a special type of flower arrangement. However, one of the most amazing ventures while in Japan is the temples and castles.

For example, the Himeji Castle is located on the Inland Sea, just to the west of Kobe. There, you will discover a Japanese treasure that boasts donjons and towers, large gates, earthen walls, incredible stone ramparts and foundations, moats, and then spectacular ground. While there are a number of magnificent castles in Japan, the Himeji Castle is one of the most spectacular. This particular castle is known by the Japanese as the White Eaglet and of all castles, this is the master of them all.

In the city of Kyoto, you will discover literally hundreds of temples, along with magical Japanese gardens. Even with modern architecture and industry becoming more and more prominent in this particular city, the temples remain strong. First, when in Kyoto, a trip to the Imperial Palace is an incredible adventure. The building standing today was constructed in 1855 but to see if you must be a part of a tour, which are available from a number of locations within the city.

Then if you head to the eastern region of Kyoto, there is the distinct district of Higashiyama, where a number of outstanding temples reside. There, you can walk among the various buildings or enjoy a number of nightlight options for dancing, food, and drink. However, the Sanjusangen-do Temple is one in particular worth a visit. Inside, you will find 1,001 statues of the Thousand Armed Kannon, known as the Buddhist goddess of mercy. If you head over to the northwest area, you will find the Kinkaku-Ji Temple that was unfortunately burned by a crazy monk in 1950. However, when the temple was rebuilt, it was covered with beautiful gold foil.

After spending a day or several days visiting the many amazing castles and temples of Japan, you can head to the Okayama Hot Springs Resort located in the heart of the Chugoku Mountains. While there, you can enjoy open-air baths with 132-degree hot spring water. Just imagine sitting under the evening moon, listening to nearby Japanese river frogs as you relax and take in the very essences of Japan – peace, tranquility, and harmony.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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