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The soba from the fields in Maruoka is incredibly delicious.Ikojima Island, known as the "Island of Blue Lemons," is thriving in the cultivation of lemons and other citrus fruits, with shipbuilding also serving as a fundamental industry for the island. In spring, over three thousand cherry blossom trees bloom magnificently on Mount Seisen, which rises to an elevation of about 370 meters in the center of the island, making it famous as one of the leading cherry blossom spots in the country. Additionally, due to its historical significance as a vital transportation hub in the Inland Sea, the Iyo Matsuyama Domain established its island headquarters during the feudal period, contributing to a prosperous history as a key maritime focal point.The Zen temple Ryōan-ji was founded in 1450 by Hosokawa Katsumoto, a prominent figure in the Muromachi Shogunate. It is now known worldwide for its karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden, but its fame surged after Queen Elizabeth II officially visited Ryōan-ji in 1975 and praised the rock garden. This coincided with the zen boom of that era, leading to its international breakthrough. Additionally, the exact period of creation, the designer, and the intention behind the rock garden remain uncertain, sparking various speculations about this mysterious garden. Another highlight of the premises is the Kyōyōchi pond, famous for its water lilies, which reach their peak bloom from May to July.Diamond Fuji refers to a natural phenomenon where, at the moment when the sun rises or sets, the sun aligns perfectly with the peak of Mount Fuji, creating a dazzling display that resembles a diamond's brilliance.The Otowa Mountain Kiyomizu-dera was founded in the year 778, which is approximately 1250 years ago from modern times. As a sacred site dedicated to Kannon, the embodiment of great compassion, it has long been open to the public and cherished by a wide range of people.The Appearance of the TenguEven in the harsh cold of winter, the monks continue their daily lives as usual, diligently practicing zazen (seated meditation) and samu (work practice). Witnessing their resilience against the cold reaffirms that Eiheiji is not merely a tourist destination, but a place of true practice. 
You can also see the monks shoveling snow, offering a glimpse into how their daily labor (samu) is an integral part of their training.The gardens of Buddhist temples are distinct from those in Christianity, being rooted in a Buddhist worldview. Together with the main hall and pagoda, the gardens embody this Buddhist perspective. By visiting the temple and immersing oneself in its environment, one can engage with the Buddhist world in a way that is often more compelling than sermons or teachings. The opportunity to share Zen and Zen culture with many people around the world through temple visits has led to a recognition of its value.Sajima Hachiman Shrine is the only shrine located in Sajima. In the past, Hachiman Shrine was situated in Motomiyama in the Eji district, but after it was relocated to the Honura district, it was further moved to its current location. At that time, it was part of the grounds of Itsukushima Shrine, but eventually, Hachiman Shrine became the central focus, and Itsukushima Shrine was established to the left of the main hall of Hachiman Shrine, which was reconstructed in the 4th year of the Keicho era (1599).

In the ceiling of the worship hall, there is a uniquely Japanese reversed compass where the directions for the East (卯) and West (酉) are written inversely.Located on the border between Shizuoka Prefecture and Yamanashi Prefecture, this mountain is part of the Kenasuyama mountain range. From a distance, it appears blue and beautiful alongside the neighboring Ryugadake. The summit is covered with sasa grass, providing an unobstructed view from the top, where one can gaze at Mount Fuji.Founded during the Edo period, "Tawaraya Ryokan" is Japan’s top ryokan, cherished by celebrities both domestic and international. From the historic external walls and entrance approach, one can sense the remarkable aesthetic sensibility of the 11th head of the family, Mr. Toshinori Sato, evident in every detail. Here, guests can experience the ultimate in refined Japanese hospitality while being pampered by exceptional service.
昭和34年(1959年)区画整理で遷座させた際、町名あるいはヱビスビールにあやかって兵庫県の西宮神社から事代主命(恵比寿神)を勧請してこれを合祀し、恵比寿神社に改名された。The main temple of the Rinzai sect, known as Ryuhōzan, is the head temple of the Daitoku-ji school. Founded in the 4th year of Shōwa (1315) during the late Kamakura period, it was established through the contributions of Akamatsu Enshin, the guardian of Banshū, by the Great Master Daitō Kōnshin. Later, it became a temple of imperial devotion supported by Emperor Hanazono and Emperor Go-Daigo, serving as a temple of the North and South courts.

During the Muromachi period, it fell into ruin due to the Onin War, but was revitalized by the monk Ikkyū. In the Momoyama period, Toyotomi Hideyoshi held the funeral of Oda Nobunaga here, establishing Sōkōin to honor Nobunaga's soul and donating temple land, which triggered a wave of construction of sub-temples by warlords, leading to a peak in prosperity.Kokuryu Sake Brewery was established in 1804 (the first year of the Bunka era) in Eiheiji Town, Fukui Prefecture, and has over 200 years of history. Since its founding, the brewery has leveraged Fukui's rich natural environment and carefully selected ingredients to continue producing innovative sake while preserving traditional brewing methods.In the past, there were two shrines associated with Otsuki: Yatoki Shrine and Kasuga Shrine. It is said that the land of Yatoki Shrine was exchanged for the three-ken mound pond in Takenouchi, located approximately 400 meters to the southeast (now the site of Juuni Shrine), and Otsuki was thus reduced to a single shrine, which was renamed Yatoki Shrine.Tenrikyo Church Headquarters. The South Worship Hall as seen from the front. Scattered throughout the grounds are buildings known as "Oyasato Yakata," planned to encircle the precincts. At the center, there are four buildings comprising the worship hall, the Founder’s Hall, the Hall of Ancestral Spirits, interconnected by a corridor, along with facilities related to the religious organization.In the early Edo period, a flat mountain castle was built on Mount Hikone, located in present-day Kinki-cho, Hikone City, as the stronghold of the Ii clan, who were responsible for the defense of the western territories. The mountain is also known by the alternate name "Konkiseyama," which is why the castle is referred to as Konkijo. It served as the residence of the 14th generation of the Ii clan, a hereditary feudal lord known for producing many senior statesmen.You can often see ancient tombs and ponds along the Yamawake Road. There are also many poems by poets, making it an enjoyable experience.Daimon (Great Gate)
  • Overview: This is an important gate that serves as the main entrance when entering Mount Koya. The current Daimon was rebuilt in 1705 and is a massive vermilion gate standing approximately 25 meters tall. Flanking the gate are statues of the fierce-looking Nio guardians, who protect the entire mountain.
  • Location: It is located on the western side of Mount Koya, leading visitors through to the central area of the mountain.Kaimondake stands at an elevation of 924 meters and is an active volcano classified as a double structure, with a cone overlaid on a broad, gently sloping base. Its well-formed summit and gentle ridgelines are beautiful, earning it the nickname "Satsuma Fuji," and it is also counted among Japan's "100 Famous Mountains." Due to the lack of surrounding mountains, its conical shape can be seen from most areas of southern Satsuma, making it a true symbol of the region.Founded in 816, Koyasan was established by Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi) after receiving the land from Emperor Saga as a base for training and the propagation of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Koyasan is located at an altitude of approximately 800 meters, nestled in the mountains, providing a tranquil environment ideal for practice.Spring  
During the cherry blossom season, you can enjoy a stunning collaboration of Mt. Fuji and sakura. The warm daytime climate makes it easy to spend time outdoors, while the nights can still be a bit chilly, making it a perfect season for comfortable camping.  

Autumn  
In autumn, you can experience the beautiful combination of fall foliage and Mt. Fuji, especially when viewed against the clear air, the sight of Mt. Fuji is truly exceptional. Although it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, it remains an ideal time for pleasant camping.Yakushima "Eternal Forest"

Yakushima is located about 60 kilometers off the southern coast of Kagoshima Prefecture and is a unique island that symbolizes a miniature garden of Japanese beauty.The main keep of Maruoka Castle is one of the 12 remaining keeps in Japan and is considered a very rare "existing keep." This keep maintains its original structure built from the Sengoku period through the Edo period, and it has a very high historical value.The tenshu (main keep) is characterized by its wooden construction and the use of "stone tiles" on the roof, which are unique features not found in other castles. This combination results in a structure that embodies both the functionality and beauty of a castle from the Warring States period.The establishment of Otowa Mountain Kiyomizu Temple dates back to 778, which is approximately 1250 years ago from the present day. Symbolizing great compassion, the temple has long been a sacred place for the Kannon deity, open to the public and cherished by a wide range of people throughout the ages.The humpback whale is a mammal that can reach lengths of 13 to 15 meters and weigh approximately 30 tons. It has long pectoral fins, which are about one-third the length of its body, and the width of its tail fin is also about one-third of its body length. Additionally, the distinctive bump on its head is about the size of a fist.The Northern Goshawk Living in the CityThe Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine has a history of over 1,900 years and is a spiritually significant shrine that serves as the entrance to the climbing trails of Mount Fuji. Every year, on June 30, the day before the official opening of the climbing season, the "Mount Fuji Climbing Eve Festival" is held.Inage Seaside Park is a comprehensive park located along the Tokyo Bay coastline, stretching approximately 3 kilometers and covering an area of about 83 hectares, right in front of the Kaihin New Town. Within the park, you'll find Japan's first artificial beach, "Inage no Hama," as well as the Chiba City Museum of Flowers, a swimming pool, sports facilities, and a yacht harbor, making it a place to enjoy throughout the four seasons.Post imageMount Fuji in spring is full of charm.The name "Nigatsudo" originates from the fact that the Shuni-e ceremony is held here in the second month of the lunar calendar. It is said to have been founded by the high priest Rōben's esteemed disciple, Jicchū. However, during the Shuni-e in the seventh year of the Kanbun era (1667), a fire broke out inside the hall, resulting in its destruction. The current building was reconstructed two years later. It seems that the original structure was quite small, and over time, it was expanded to accommodate the rituals of the Shuni-e ceremony.Post image1. Mani-den  
Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the Mani-den serves as the main hall and is located at the summit, earning it the nickname "the Hieizan of the West." From the Mani-den, one can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Himeji City and the Harima Plain.

2. Great Lecture Hall  
The central venue for training at Enkyo-ji, the Great Lecture Hall hosts large-scale religious ceremonies and lectures. This building is also protected as an Important Cultural Property, characterized by its dignified presence.Nagano Prefecture's Sakaki is a town known for its swordsmiths, and the installation of this exhibition facility has long been anticipated. It is rooted in the legacy of the late National Living Treasure, swordsmith Yukihira Miyairi, who nurtured many swordsmiths.

Japanese swords, such as those featured in "Demon Slayer" and other anime and manga, are traditional weapons that often appear in the world of these stories. They are required to possess both hardness for sharpness and softness to prevent them from breaking easily, embodying opposing qualities.There are adorable kingfishers here. It's Mizumoto Park in Katsushika Ward.From Todoroki Athletics Stadium to Musashi Kosugi.