What do you think of when you hear the word “Japan”? If you are familiar with Japan, I am sure many things come to your mind. Then, when people in your country hear the word “Japan,” what generally comes to mind?Cherry blossoms? Cars? Ninja? How about Samurai? Samurai are warriors who serve their lord and …
There are thousands of temples in Kyoto so this tiny Kyoto hidden gem is easy to miss! Located in Higashiyama area in Kyoto, the colorful Yasaka Koshindo (八坂庚申堂, official name: Daikoku-san Kongo-ji Koshin-do) temple or “pom pom temple” should definitely be added to your bucket list, especially if you are looking for a unique place …
Visit the Colorful Yasaka Koshindo Temple -Kyoto- Read More »
Have you heard of Akame 48 Falls, one of the greatest hiking trails in Japan? The valley is located in Akame, Nabari City, Mie Prefecture. The trail is an easy 4km-long hike along the river where you can really enjoy the beauty of the Japanese forest while reaching for numerous waterfalls. What I love about this place …
In February 2023, Team JD traveled to Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, guided by the Tourism Division of the Aizuwakamatsu City Hall! We were completely enchanted by the cityscape with a sense of Japanese history, delicious local cuisine, and the warmth of the local people. Let us share the charms of Aizuwakamatsu City, which we enjoyed …
Aizu Wakamatsu – A City to Feel the History of the Samurai Period Read More »
“Miso dengaku” is a local dish of tofu and vegetables coated with a miso-based sauce and eaten throughout Japan, but the one here in Aizu is unique in that it consists of tofu, konnyaku, and rice cakes coated with red miso paste, sugar, and various spices, and grilled over a charcoal fire. Mitsutaya was a …
A “wappa” is a bento box made from thin boards of cypress or cedar that are bent into a round shape. “Wappa-meshi” is made by stuffing rice in a wappa box, topping it with various ingredients, and steaming it.Wappa-meshi is a local dish of Fukushima and Niigata prefectures. In Fukushima, the rice is unseasoned white …