Wonderful Japan – Honshu

By | Jul 21, 2017 | Views: 942

a. Intro

(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David)

Japan, called Nihon-koku in its native Japanese, literally means the ‘State of Japan’. It is an East Asian island nation in the fringes of the Pacific Ocean, right on the eastern coast of the Asian mainland and the Korean Peninsular. To the north is the Sea of Okhotsk, and to the southwest is the East China Sea and Taiwan.

Nihon is traditionally written with Chinese characters (kanji), with the word ‘ni’ literally meaning ‘the sun’ and the word ‘hon’ (sometimes read as ‘pon’) meaning ‘origin’. Hence, when placed together, ‘Nihon’ literally means ‘origin of the sun’. In direct reference to this name, Japan is often referred to by its famous epithet, ‘Land of the Rising Sun’.

Click on image to enlarge

Japan is geographically a stratovolcanic archipelago of about 6,852 islands, many of which are tiny islands. The four largest islands are Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku, which make up to 97 percent of Japan’s landmass. These four major islands are often referred to as home islands.

The island of Hokkaido is the northernmost prefecture and Okinawa is the southernmost. Japan’s population has 127 million people, which is the 11th largest in the world. Ethnically Japanese people make up 98.5 percent of the population, and 9.1 million alone live in Tokyo city, the capital of the nation.

 

Brief History

Japan’s geographical location on the outermost region of Asia has had a profound impact on its history. The country is close enough to the Asian mainland to maintain contact, yet far enough to be independent. Hence, much of Japanese history has been oscillating between openness and closure to the outside world. It is only until recently that Japan has accepted foreign cultural influences in burst and spurts.

Semi-mythical Emperor Jimmu was the progenitor of the Japanese imperial lineage during the 7th Century BCE

Semi-mythical Emperor Jimmu was the progenitor of the Japanese imperial lineage during the 7th Century BCE

The earliest records of Japan date back to the 5th century BCE but archaeological discoveries indicate that the earliest settlement extend even further back to 50,000 years ago. According to Japanese records, the semi-mythical Emperor Jimmu ascended the throne in the 7th century BCE, and started an imperial lineage that extends to this day. Archaeological findings trace the imperial line down to the Kofun Period of the 3rd to 7 centuries CE, which was also the period when the Japanese had its first contact with China and Korea. Later on during the Asuka period, Japan became an increasingly centralised state, and many aspects of Chinese civilisation were absorbed including, Mahayana Buddhism and Confucianism.

The first Japanese state was established with its capital at Nara, a city that was modeled after the Chinese capital of Chang’an. Historians have since called this period the Nara Period and it was during this time that the emperor actually held absolute political power. However, political power was wrested away and fell into the hands of court nobles during the Heian Period, which saw the capital being moved to Kyoto, which was known as Heian-Kyo. The imperial residence was established there and would remain right up to the 19th century. Chinese influence on Japan reached its zenith during the early Heian Period that saw Buddhism becoming widely accepted by the masses.

Heian period royal attire

Heian period royal attire

Then came the Kamakura period, when the samurai gained political power, with Minamoto no Yoritomo as their leader and called Shogun by the emperor. The shogun ruled from his base at Kamakura until the subsequent period, the Muromachi period, which saw the rise of the Ashikaga shogunate that ruled from their base at Ashikaga. Then, in the 15th century, Japan descended into the anarchy of the Warring States period that ended with the unification of Japan by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1600, and founded the Tokugawa shogunate, the feudal state ruled from Edo that is known today as Tokyo. This period is dubbed the Edo Period, characterised by a strict caste system with the samurai sitting on top of the social classes, and social mobility outlawed.

During the Edo Period, the Tokugawa shogunate established stability throughout the country, but their total isolation from the rest of the world engendered stagnation. The Americans pried open the old closed-door policy when US Commodore Matthew Perry’s Black Ships sailed into Yokohama in 1854 and forced the Japanese to sign an unequal treaty. The led to the fall of the shogunate and rise of the Meiji Restoration of 1867, when the imperial capital was moved from Kyoto to Edo, which was renamed Tokyo.

Meiji period woodblock print art of Sino-japanese war of 1894

Meiji period woodblock print art of Sino-japanese war of 1894

The Japanese keenly observed the Western colonisation of Southeast Asia, and the weakening and division of China by western powers, which Japan had long considered to be the world’s largest superpower. Hence, Japan launched itself into an industrialisation plan to modernise at a frantic pace. Japan adopted modern Western technologies and culture at frenetic pace, transforming Japanese cities with railway networks, brick buildings and factories. Even the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 that leveled much of Tokyo and killed 100,000 people did not transform the Japanese landscape as much.

In an effort to fuel its industrialisation, resource-poor Japan had to look elsewhere for the supplies that it needed. This resulted in a drive to colonise its neighbors, which led to various military campaigns such as the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-95, in which Japan occupied Taiwan, Korea and parts of Manchuria. Then came the 1904-5 Russo-Japanese war that Japan won, which emboldened and cemented Japan as a military power.

With a totalitarian government, Japan launched a military campaign to invade China via Manchuria in 1931. By 1941, the Japanese military campaigns expanded the borders to include an empire that stretched much of Asia and the Pacific. Then in 1941, Japan attacked the US military base at Pearl Harbor and destroyed much of the US Pacific fleet. This brought America into World War II, and the tide soon turned against Japan. The nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki forced Japan to surrender, and soon after, Japan was occupied for the first time in its history. The Emperor maintained his throne, but lost his absolute power in the imposed constitution by the Americans. Military conquest had to give way to pacifism with the US taking care of defense; Japan now redirected its energies into the development of consumer technologies and emerged from its postwar poverty to conquer the world once more, this time with the latest cars and consumer electronics, thus attaining the second-largest gross national product in the world.

Post-war Japan emerged as a economic superpower with consumer electronics and cars

Post-war Japan emerged as a economic superpower with consumer electronics and cars

But the frenzied growth could not last forever, after the Nikkei stock index hit the stratospheric heights of 39,000 in 1989, the bubble burst. The 1990s saw the real estate bubble burst, the stock market was halved and there was the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995 that flattened great sections of Kobe and killed over 6,000 people. The Japanese economic recession has yet to fully recover, and this has resulted in an increasing polarisation of Japanese society into ‘haves’ with permanent jobs and ‘have-nots’, known as freeters, who drift between temporary jobs. On a larger scale, this cost Japan its position as the world’s second largest economy to the larger emerging economic superpower China. Nevertheless, Japanese continue to have one of the highest standards of living in the world.

 

Japanese Climate

c. Japanese Climate

Japan’s weather is largely temperate, but it defers greatly between north and south. Due to Japan’s vast landmass, the nation is divided into six principal climatic zones of Hokkaido, the Sea of Japan, the Central Highland, the Seto Inland Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and the Ryukyu Islands.

Hokkaido in the north has humid continental weather that has extended cold winters and a range of cool to hot summers. Generally, there is not much precipitation, but the island has heavy snowfall during winter. Along the west coast of Honshu that faces the Sea of Japan, northwestern winter winds deliver heavy snowfall to the region. The summers are cooler than the eastern part of Honshu that faces the Pacific but some summer days may be blazingly hot due to heated winds (foehn) from the mountains.

The Central Highland of Honshu has the usual humid continental weather, with huge differences between summer and winter temperatures, and sometimes a huge variation within the same day. There is light precipitation, but winters are usually with some snowfall. The mountains of the Chūgoku and Shikoku regions shelter the Seto Inland Sea from seasonal winds, resulting in relatively pleasant weather all year-round.

The Pacific coast of Honshu has a humid subtropical climate and relatively mild winters with light snowfall, but the summers are hot and humid because of the southeast seasonal wind. The Ryukyu Islands also have a subtropical weather that brings warm winters and hot summers. Precipitation on the island is very heavy during the rainy season.

Winter in Japan has an average temperature of 5.1 °C or 41.2 °F, and summer temperatures average at 25.2 °C or 77.4 °F. The monsoon rainy season begins in early May at Okinawa, and the monsoon winds gradually push the rain up north until it finally reaches Hokkaido in late July. In most of Honshu Island, the monsoon rainy season begins around the middle of June and usually lasts for about six weeks thereafter. However, in late summer and early autumn, typhoons can deliver heavy downpours in the wake of strong winds.

 

Japanese Language

d. Japanese Language

The greater majority (about 99%) of the population speaks Japanese as their first language. The Japanese language is agglutinative in nature, and it is structured by honorifics that reflect traditional Japanese society that is strictly based on social hierarchy. Hence, the language is full of verbs and sets of vocabulary that indicate the status of both the speaker in relation to the listener. Written Japanese uses ‘kanji’, which are Chinese characters, and two sets of ‘kana’ or syllabary characters that are based on cursive script and modified kanji, along with the Latin alphabet and Arabic numerals.

Aside from Japanese, there are a number of smaller indigenous languages like the Ryukyuan languages of Amami, Kunigami, Okinawan, Miyako, Yaeyama and Yonaguni. These languages form a part of the larger Japonic language family that are mainly spoken in the Ryukyu Island chain. However, very few Japanese are actually able to converse in these indigenous languages, but local governments have sought to increase the usage of these traditional languages in recent years.

For instance, the Ainu language, which has no relationship to Japanese or any other language of the region, is in danger of becoming extinct with only a handful of elderly native speakers remaining in Hokkaido. In public and private schools in Japan require students to take Japanese language classes as well as English language courses.

 

Japanese Cuisine

A Kaiseki spread of delicately prepared dishes

A Kaiseki spread of delicately prepared dishes

Japanese cuisine is world famous for its distinctive presentation, taste, and method of cooking. It generally can be boiled down to the combination of staple foods, such as Japanese rice or noodles, with soup and okazu. Okazu are dishes made with fish, vegetables, tofu, and other ingredients in order to provide flavour to the staple dish. These days, ingredients such as red meats that were not previously widely available in Japan are now commonly used.

Cold Soba Noodles

Cold Soba Noodles

Generally, Japanese cuisine emphasises seasonal food, fresh ingredients, and its presentation. In addition, Japanese cuisine also has large selection of regional specialties that use traditional recipes from a particular region, and local ingredients. The phrase ichijū-sansai or ‘one soup, three sides” refers to the serving of a typical meal that has roots in classic kaiseki, honzen, and yushoku cuisines.

Honzen is a formal banquet style of presenting food to guests in the samurai homes of the feudal Muromachi Period

Honzen is a formal banquet style of presenting food to guests in the samurai homes of the feudal Muromachi Period

Japanese dessert sweets are known as wagashi, which use traditional ingredients such as red bean paste and mochi, or rice cakes. These days, green tea is a very popular flavour in many desserts, even in ice cream. Another type of Japanese dessert is kakigori, a traditional shaved ice dessert that is flavored with syrup and condensed milk, and is a popular at summer festivals in Japan.

Japanese sushi

Japanese sushi

One of the most popular Japanese beverages is sake, which is a brewed rice wine that usually has a 15% to 17% alcohol content, and is made with multiple fermentations of rice. Another popular Japanese beverage is beer, which is produced in specific regions, such as the Sapporo Brewery, a historic beer company. Finally, Japan is unique because The Michelin Guide has awarded more restaurants in Japan with Michelin stars than the rest of the world combined. This shows how the Japanese pride themselves in serving only the best.

Ramen noodles

Ramen noodles

Tempura Vegetables

Tempura Vegetables

Udon Noodles

Udon Noodles

 

A traditional Geisha entertainer

A traditional Geisha entertainer

Japanese Culture

Japan has a very distinct traditional culture that was initially heavily influenced by China and Korea, but has evolved over time. These days, contemporary Japanese pop culture, like many other cultures around the world, combines various influences from all over Asia, Europe and North America.

Traditional Japanese arts are broken down into many fields. There are crafts, such as ceramics, woven textiles, lacquerware, swords and dolls. In performances, there are bunraku puppet theatre, kabuki dances and drama, noh classical theatre, traditional regional dances, and rakugo storytelling traditions. There also other renowned Japanese traditions like the tea ceremony, ikebana, martial arts, calligraphy, origami, onsen, Geisha, and games.

Bunraku Puppet Theatre

Bunraku Puppet Theatre

The Japanese government has a developed a system for the protection and promotion of both tangible and intangible Cultural Properties and National Treasures of Japan. In fact, nineteen sites have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, fifteen of which are of cultural significance.

Ikebana art of flower arrangement

Ikebana art of flower arrangement

Kabuki Theatre

Kabuki Theatre

Noh Theatre

Noh Theatre

 

The Island of Honshu

Island of Honshu

‘Honshu’ literally means ‘main province’, and it is the largest and most populated island in Japan. The island is a long strip of land located north of Shikoku from across the Inland Sea, south of Hokkaido across the Tsugaru Strait, and northeast of Kyushu across the Kanmon Straits. The island is what separates the Sea of Japan in the north and west from the North Pacific Ocean to the south and east. In terms of landmass, it is the seventh-largest island in the world, and the second largest in terms of population after the Indonesian island of Java.

Honshu’s population is 103 million as of 2005, with most of the population residing in the coastal areas, especially in the Kanto plain, where a quarter of the entire Japanese population currently resides within the Greater Tokyo Area. This city is the capital, and is the center of Japanese culture and political power since the capital was moved there. Honshu island has several historic Japanese capitals of the past, including Kyoto, Nara, and Kamakura. In addition, most of the island’s southern cities along the shore form part of Taiheiyō Belt, a megalopolis that spans several of the Japanese islands as well.

Furthermore, most of Japan’s industrial areas are located along the Taiheiyō belt that runs along Honshu’s southern coast, from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya,
Kobe, and Hiroshima. The industries along the northwestern coastline, on the other hand, are mainly agriculture and fishing. Honshu is linked to the other three major Japanese islands by a system of highways, bridges and tunnels.

 

Japanese Visas

Visa-Free

Countries that are allowed visa-free visits for up to 90 days are: EU & EEA member states, Australia, Andorra, Argentina, Bahamas, Canada, Costa Rica, Chile, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, El Salvador, Hong Kong, Honduras, Macau, Macedonia, Mauritius, Monaco, Mexico, Israel, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, San Marino, Switzerland, Suriname, Tunisia, Uruguay and United States/American Samoa.

  • Brunei – visa-free visits for up to 15 days.
  • United Kingdom, Austria, Ireland, Germany, Mexico, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein can apply for 6-month extended stay visas with Japan’s Ministry of Justice.
  • Malaysia, Barbados, Serbia, Lesotho, and Turkey are allowed to visit visa-free for up to 90 days, provided they have a biometric passport. For Thailand, it is only 15 days.
  • Taiwan is allowed to visit visa-free for 90 days, provided that the passport has a personal identification number.
  • Indonesian citizens with a biometric passport who have been issued a Visa Waiver Registration Certificate are allowed to visit visa-free for up to 15 days.
  • Chinese citizens who are travelling via cruise ships do not need a visa. However, they must leave on the same cruise ship in order for them to be qualified for this.
  • All other nationalities are required to obtain a “temporary visitor” visa prior to arrival. The temporary visitor visa is valid for 90 days. You can visit The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to get more information on visas.
  • If you are just transiting between international flights at the airport, no visa is required as long as you stay within the secured designated area.

 

20 Interesting Places on Honshu Island

 

1. Mount Fuji, Fujinomiya

1. Mount Fuji - 1

Japan has many unique iconic places and Mt Fuji, rising 3,776 meters above sea level, is one of them. Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan, and is an active volcano that last erupted in 1707–08. Mount Fuji lies about 100 kilometers or 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, and can be seen from the capital city on a clear day. Appreciation and admiration of this mountain has appeared in early Japanese recorded history from the 8th century. In those days, the volcano was said to spew smoke and thus inspired reverence. In 2013, Mt Fuji was granted World Heritage status, and over 300,000 people have climbed to its summit.

1. Mount-Fuji - 2

The Japanese have a proverb that goes: ‘He who climbs Mt Fuji once is a wise man, he who climbs it twice is a fool’, which seems to have a valid point. Reaching the summit of the mountain is quite a feat and would probably give you a sense of achievement, but be aware that it’s a tough climb that is fraught with danger, and the way up is not particularly scenic. Naturally, climbing season means that climbing routes are packed, and the barren landscape of the mountainside that climbers experience is a far cry from the beauty of the mountain when viewed from afar. The summit crater has a circumference of 4km but a cloud usually covers it.

Climbers ascending Mount Fuji

Climbers ascending Mount Fuji

 

How to get there

While in season (July to September), visitors can take the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to the 5th Station along the Fuji Subaru Line. This station is the starting point for the popular summer hike that follows the Yoshida Trail. Bus tickets cost 2,700 yen each way, and the trip takes about 2.5 hours. Out of season, a bus ticket from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko Station or Fuji-Q Highland (theme park) costs about 1,750 yen (one way), and the journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes on average.

On the other hand, visitor can take the train from Tokyo to Mount Fuji that is a little more expensive than a bus:

  • JR Limited Express train (Azusa or Kaiji) from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki, then transfer to the Fujikyuko Railway for Kawaguchiko. The journey takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes, and costs between 3,290 to 3,910 yen each way. Prices depend on whether you transfer in Tachikawa station, and whether it is the weekend or weekday.
  • The JR Chuo Special Rapid Service follows the same route, but takes 10-20 minutes longer, but costs only 2,460 yen each way.

Climbing Season: Early July to mid September
Entrance fee: 1,000 Yen during climbing season (July to September)

 

Accommodation

1. Hotel Mount Fuji
Address: Japan, 〒401-0501 Yamanashi Prefecture, Minamitsuru District, Yamanakako, Yamanaka, 1360-83
Phone: +81 555-62-2111

2. Backpackers Hostel K’s House Mt. Fuji
Address: 401-0301 Yamanashi, Fujikawaguchiko, Funatsu 6713-108
Phone: +81 555-83-5556

3. Fuji View Hotel Fujiya Hotel Kawaguchiko Annex
Address: 511 Katsuyama, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0310
Phone: +81-555-83-2211

 

2. Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo

The grand entrance to Senso-ji temple where the gods of wind and thunder stand guard.

The grand entrance to Senso-ji temple where the gods of wind and thunder stand guard.

Senso-ji is Tokyo’s most visited temple and it enshrines a golden image of Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. According to legend, two fishermen pulled this statue out of the nearby Sumida-gawa River in AD 628. No matter how many times they returned it to the river, the statue kept miraculously reappearing. The image is enshrined but is never on public display. The present building structure dates back to 1958. The grand entrance to the temple complex is via the fantastic, red Kaminari-mon, or Thunder Gate that overlooks the busy shopping street of Nakamise-dōri.

Upon passing through the gates, the statues of the fearsome Fūjin – the god of wind, and Raijin – the god of thunder, are enshrined as guardians. An intricately carved dragon can be seen from under the giant red lantern at the entrance. Street stalls line Nakamise-dōri just outside the temple entrance, and sell everything from genuine Edo period handicrafts to tourist trinkets. At the end of Nakamise-dōri is the temple entrance itself, while to your left you can spot the 55m-high Five-Storey Pagoda. This pagoda is a 1973 reconstruction of a pagoda originally built by Tokugawa Iemitsu.

To the left of the entrance is the 5-storeyed pagoda, which was originally built by Tokugawa Iemitsu and reconstructed in 1973.

To the left of the entrance is the 5-storeyed pagoda, which was originally built by Tokugawa Iemitsu and reconstructed in 1973.

It is a mystery as to whether the ancient image of Kannon of Senso-ji actually exists or if it is a myth, because it is not on public display. However, this does nothing to stop a stream of worshippers and tourists from visiting the temple. There is a large incense cauldron in front of the temple, and the incense smoke is said to be healing, and so people rub it into their bodies through their clothes.

On the eastern corner of the temple complex stands the Asakusa-jinja shrine that commemorates the brothers who discovered the Kannon statue and also inspired the construction of Sensō-ji. Historically in Japan, Buddhism and Shintoism are interconnected, and it is not unusual to have both shrines co-exist in temples. The current deep red shrine was built in 1649, which is a rare early Edo period architecture. This temple is the epicenter of Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s most important festivals in the month of May. Due to its popularity, the entire temple complex is always crowded particularly on weekends. It is also a good idea to visit at night as the buildings are beautifully illuminated and there are fewer people.

The main shrine within Senso-ji temple

The main shrine within Senso-ji temple

 

How to get there

Senso-ji Temple is not far from Asakusa Station, which is served by the Ginza Subway Line, Asakusa Subway Line and Tobu Railways.

From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Kanda Station (2 minutes, 140 yen) and transfer to the Ginza Subway Line for Asakusa (10 minutes, 170 yen).

From Shinjuku Station, take the orange JR Chuo Line to Kanda Station (10 minutes, 170 yen) and transfer to the Ginza Subway Line for Asakusa (10 minutes, 170 yen).

Address: Japan, 111-0032 Tokyo, Taito, Asakusa, 2 Chome – 3-1
Opening hours: 06:00 to 17:00 (from 6:30 from October to March) for the main hall
Entrance fee: None

 

Accommodation

1. Super Hotel Asakusa
Address: 2-33-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
Phone: +81 3-5806-9000

2. Richmond Hotel Asakusa
Address: 2-7-10 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
Phone: +81-3-5806-0255

3. Asakusa View Hotel
Address: 3-17-1 Nishiasakusa Taito Tokyo-to 111-8765
Phone: +81 3-3847-1111

 

3. Shinjuku-Gyoen, Tokyo

3. Shinjuku-gyoen - 1

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a large garden and park that stretches between Shinjuku and Shibuya wards of Tokyo city.

The compound was originally the residence of the Naitō family during the Edo period. The shogun had bestowed this piece of land to Lord Naitō (daimyo) of Tsuruga, who converted the forests into a garden in 1772. Since then, the Daimyo’s home and gardens have been converted into an agricultural center after the Meiji Restoration era. After that, it was converted into a botanical garden, before it finally became an imperial garden in 1879. In 1906, the current garden landscape was completed. Most of the garden was destroyed by air raids during the later stages of World War II in 1945, but was rebuilt to its former glory after the war.

Visitors admiring cherry blossom trees in full bloom

Visitors admiring cherry blossom trees in full bloom

After the war in 1947, the management of the park, known at the time as the Imperial Palace Outer Garden and Kyoto Imperial Garden, was transferred to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, which is now a part of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

On May 21, 1949, the garden was officially opened to the public as ‘The National Park Shinjuku Imperial Gardens’. Then in January 2001, the park came under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of the Environment, and was renamed ‘The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden’. In 1989, Shinjuku Gyoen was selected as the site for the funeral rites of Emperor Shōwa before his remains were interred at the Musashi Imperial Graveyard.

 

How to get there

Shinjuku Gyoen can be access via three gates:

  • Shinjuku Gate is a ten-minute walk eastwards from the ‘New South Exit’ of JR Shinjuku Station, or a five-minute walk from Shinjukugyoenmae Station on the Marunouchi Subway Line.
  • Okido Gate is also a five-minute walk from Shinjukugyoenmae Station on the Marunouchi Subway Line.
  • Finally, Sendagaya Gate is a five-minute walk from JR Sendagaya Station on the local Chuo/Sobu Line.

Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0014
Phone: +81 3-3350-0151
Opening Hours: 09:00 to 16:30 (last entry at 16:00); Closed on Mondays, and from December 29 to January 3. There are no closing days during the cherry blossom season (late March to late April) and the Chrysanthemum Exhibition (first half of November).
Entrance Fee: 200 Yen

 

Accommodation

1. PA Hotel Shinjuku-gyoen-mae
Address: 2-2-8 Shinjuku, Shinjuku 160-0022, Tokyo Prefecture
Phone: +81 3-5369-3622

2. Hotel Tateshina
Address: 5-8-6 Shinjuku, Shinkuku 160-0022, Tokyo Prefecture
Phone: +81 3-3350-5271

3. Tokyu Stay Shinjuku
Address: 160-0022 Tokyo Prefecture, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 3-7-1
Phone: +81 3-3353-0109

 

4. Harajuku, Tokyo

Takeshita Street Entrance is rigth at the heart of Harajuku District

Takeshita Street Entrance is rigth at the heart of Harajuku District

Harajuku is the general name given to an area that begins at Harajuku Station all the way up to Omotesando within the Shibuya ward. This area also includes a network of smaller backstreets, such as Takeshita Street and Cat Street, which spread out between the Shibuya ward in the south to the Sendagaya ward in the north.

Harajuku is internationally renowned as the epicenter of Japanese youth, pop culture and fashion. The area is famous for the vast amounts of small, Japanese youth-oriented, independent boutiques and cafés. The neighborhood also has a large array of international chains that feature high-end luxury stores along Omotesando.

Little shops that cater to Japanese youth fashion

Little shops that cater to Japanese youth fashion

The Harajuku subway station is along the JR East Yamanote Line, the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, and the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line. This station is also the gateway to other local attractions, such as the Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and Yoyogi National Gymnasium. The easy subway access allows Harajuku and the neighboring areas to be some of the most popular destinations in Tokyo city amongst local Japanese and foreign International tourists.

 Japanase youth in colorful Harajuku fashion

Japanase youth in colorful Harajuku fashion

 

How to get there

An option by train is via JR Harajuku Station on the Yamanote Line is the obvious way to get to Harajuku. The station sits conveniently next to both the entrance to Meiji Jingu and Omote-Sando. Alternatively, Harajuku can be reached within a 25-minute walk from Shinjuku or 15-minute walk from Shibuya.

 

Accommodation

1. Tokyu Stay Aoyama Premier Hotel
Address: 107-0062 Tokyo Prefecture, Minato-ku, Minamiaoyama 2-27-18
Phone: +81 3-3497-0109

2. Dormy Inn PREMIUM Shibuya Jingūmae
Address: 6 Chome− 2 4-4, Shibuya Jingumae, 150-0001 Tokyo
Phone: +81 3-5774-5489

3. Sakura Fleur Aoyama
Address: 150-0002 Tokyo Prefecture, Shibuya-ku, Shibuya 2-14-15, Japan
Phone: 03-5467-3777 (local)

 

5. Tokyo Imperial Palace, Tokyo

The main entrance to the Imperial palace

The main entrance to the Imperial palace

The current Imperial Palace or Kokyo lies on the former site of the old Edo
Castle. The palace has a large park surrounded by a moat and massive stone walls, and the entire complex is right in the heart of Tokyo, which is just a short walk from Tokyo Station. The palace is still being used as the official residence of Japan’s Imperial Family.

The original Edo Castle was the seat of the Tokugawa shogun that ruled Japan from 1603 until 1867. Then in 1868, the shogunate was toppled, and the imperial palace and capital in Kyoto was re-established in Tokyo. In 1888, a new imperial palace was built in Tokyo over the site of the old Edo castle. This old palace was destroyed in World War II, but was rebuilt.

5. Tokyo Imperial Palace - 2

Visitors to the palace grounds can view the Nijubashi, the two stone bridges that lead to the main entrance of the inner palace grounds from Kokyo Gaien, the main plaza in front of the imperial palace. The stone bridge is called the Meganebashi or Eyeglass Bridge because of its appearance. The bridge in the back used to be a wooden bridge that had two levels, which is why it is called Nijubashi or Double Bridge.

A favorite attraction among tourists is the garden’s seasonal flowers, such as azaleas and hydrangeas grown on the palace grounds. At the Sannomaru-Shozo-kan, or Museum of the Imperial Collections, Emperor Hirohito’s art collection are exhibited alongside exquisite imperial kimonos and Japanese paintings. In the Kita-no-maru-koen Park on the north side of the palace is the Nippon Budo-kan, a famous venue for concerts by foreign artists, the Science Museum, and the National Museum of Modern Art.

The moat near the park is called Chidori-ga-fuchi, and is a famous spot. In the beginning of April, the entire place is filled with people enjoying the view of cherry blossoms. The National Theater is within easy walking distance from Chidori-ga-fuchi, and is the venue of Japanese classical performing arts such as Kabuki, Noh plays, and Kyogen, traditional short comedies.

5. Tokyo Imperail Palace - 3

 

How to get there

The Otemon entrance to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace is a short walk from Otemachi Station that accessed via Chiyoda, Tozai, Marunouchi, Hanzomon and Mita Subway Lines. The palace can also be reached with a mere 10-15 minute walk from the main Tokyo Station.

Address: Chiyoda, 1-1, 100-8111 Tokyo
Hours: 09:00–17:00 daily. Closed on Mondays.
Phone: +81 3-3213-1111

 

Accommodation

1. Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
Address: 1 Chome− 1-1, Chiyoda, Uchisaiwaicho, 100-8558 Tokyo
Phone: +81 3-3504-1111

2. Hotel Monterey Hanzomon
Address: 2 3-1, Chiyoda, Ichibancho, 102-0082 Tokyo
Phone: +81 3-3556-7111

3. Sakura Hotel Jimbocho
Address: 2 Chome− 2 1-4, Chiyoda, Kanda Jinbocho, 101-0051 Tokyo
Phone: +81 3-3261-3939

 

6. Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo

6. Tokyo National Museum -1

Tokyo National Museum is the best museum to visit for those who have time to spare. In here, you will find the largest collection of Japanese art on display, including ancient pottery, Buddhist images, samurai armour and swords, ukiyo-e woodblock prints, kimonos and more. The museum is huge, and if you only have a few hours to spare, then you should visit the Honkan or Japanese Gallery, and the Gallery of Hōryū-ji Treasures, which displays masks, scrolls and gilt Buddhas from Hōryū-ji of Nara Prefecture that dates back to 607 CE.

Standing Senju Kannon Bosatsu (Thousand-armed Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva), dated around 1251 CE, Tokyo National Museum

Standing Senju Kannon Bosatsu (Thousand-armed Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva), dated around 1251 CE, Tokyo National Museum

If you can spend the rest of the day, you should explore the three-storied Tōyōkan or the Gallery of Asian Art. This is where an extensive collection of Buddhist statues from across Asia stand alongside delicate Chinese ceramics. The Heiseikan is the Japanese Archaeological Gallery, which has an exhibition of pottery, talismans, and daily utensils from Japan’s prehistoric period, which is accessible via a passage on the 1st floor of the Honkan.

In the gardens, there are several vintage teahouses that are usually opened to the public from mid-March to mid-April, and from late October to early December. On the other hand, the museum regularly hosts temporary and exciting exhibitions.

Ancient samurai armour amongst the many exhibits from feudal Japan

Ancient samurai armour amongst the many exhibits from feudal Japan

 

How to get there

The museum can be reached via the JR Line, which is just 10 minutes from Ueno or Uguisudani Station. On the Ginza or Hibiya Tokyo Metro Line, it is just 15 minutes from Ueno Station. On the Chiyoda Tokyo Metro Line, it is 15 minutes from Nezu Station. On the Keisei Line, it is 15 minutes from Keisei Ueno Station.

Address: 13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-8712, Japan
Phone: (03)5777-8600 (local) / +81-(3)-5777-8600 (international calls)
Opening hours: 09:30 – 17:00 (last admission at 16:30)
Entrance Free: Adults 620 yen / University Students: 410 yen

 

Accommodation

1. Candeo Hotels Ueno Koen
Address: 1 Chome-2-13 Negishi, Taitō-ku, Tōkyō-to 110-0003, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5808-6100

2. Hotel Mystays Ueno East
Address: Japan, 110-0015 Tokyo, Taito, Higashiueno, 5 Chome-5-6
Phone: +81 3-5806-2420

3. Red Planet Hotels Asakusa, Tokyo
Address: 1-11-6 Asakusa, Taito-ku Tokyo, Tokyo, 111-0032, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5828-0177

 

7. Kabuki-za, Tokyo

7. Kabukiza - 1

This theatre is an old institution with an elaborate Japanese façade that gives a strong first impression. The main structure was completely rebuilt in 2013 to include a tower block. The striking façade gives an appropriate introduction to the dramatic tradition of kabuki plays. Performance details and booking of tickets are available on its website.

7. Kabukiza - 2

A traditional kabuki performance consists of three or four acts that are usually taken from different plays over an afternoon or an evening, which is typically from 11am to 3.30pm, or 4.30pm to 9pm, and they are usually with long intervals between the acts. A headset is available for rent at 500 yen for explanations in English. It would be good to pack a bentō box meal to snack on during intervals.

Since four-hour plays may be too long for most people, there is the option of 90 seats and 60 standing tickets that are sold on the day for single acts. But expect to be at the back of the auditorium that still has an excellent view of the stage. Some acts are more popular than others, so do some research beforehand and arrive at least an hour and a half before the performance.

7. Kabukiza - 3

 

How to get there

By train, take the Hibiya Line or Asakusa Line to the Higashi Ginza Station. Take Exit 3, which has direct access to the theatre from the subway station. On the Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, or Hibiya Line, stop at Ginza Station. Take exit A6, and Kabuki-za is just a 5-minute walk away. On the JR and SUBWAY, stop at Tokyo Station. It is a 10-minute taxi-ride away.

Address: Ginza 4-12-15, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Phone: +81 (0)3-3545-6800
Website & e-ticket sales: https://www.kabukiweb.net/theatres/kabukiza/
Ticket sales: 4,000 to 22,000 yen, depending on the seating

 

Accommodation

1. The Prime Pod Ginza Tokyo
Address: Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061 Ginza 5 Chome -13
Phone: +81 3-5550-0147

2. Tokyu Stay Ginza
Address: Japan, 104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo, Ginza, 4 Chome- 10-5
Phone: +81 3-3541-0109

3. Millennium mitsui garden hotel
Address: Japan, 104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo, Ginza, 5 Chome- 11-1
Phone: +81 3-3549-3331

 

8. Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto

8. Kinkakuji - 1

This is Kyoto’s most famous Kinkaku-ji or the ‘Golden Pavilion’, which is also one of Japan’s most iconic temples. The outer walls of the main prayer hall are layered in bright gold leaf, and this creates a truly spectacular sight above the placid pond. This temple is packed all year round because of its popularity, so it would be best to go early in the morning, or just before closing on a weekday to avoid the throngs of tourists.

8. Kinkakuji - 2

The original structure of the temple was built in 1397, initially as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Later, his son converted it into a temple. In 1950, a young monk acted out his obsession with the temple by razing it to the ground. The story of this monk was incorporated into Mishima Yukio’s novel The Golden Pavilion. In 1955, the temple was reconstructed following the original plans, with additional gold-foil extended to cover the lower floor.

8. Kinkakuji - 3

 

How to get there

The temple can reached via bus #101 or #205 from Kyoto station in about 40 minutes, for tickets starting at 230 yen. The fastest route to the temple is via Karasuma line train to Kitaoji, a 13-minute train ride for 260 yen. Then take bus #101, 102, 204, or 205 to Kinkaku-ji, which is 10 minutes away for 230 yen.

Address: 603-8361 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Kita Ward, Kinkakujicho, 1
Phone: +81 75-461-0013
Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 daily
Entrance fee: 400 Yen (adult) / 300 Yen (junior high and elementary school students)

 

Accommodation

1. Coto Kyoto Kinkakuji
Address: 603-83038-46, Murasakino Junibocho, Kita Ward, Kyoto
Phone: +81 3-6427-2960

2. Hananobou Kinkakuji-michi
Address: 603-8305 Kyoto, Kita-ku Murasakino Minamihananobocho 41-3
Phone: +81 75-468-1028

3. Your Pavilion near Kinkakuji
Address: 603-8206 Kyoto Prefecture, Kita Ward, Shichiku Seinancho, 37-13
Phone: +81 80-8866-9157

 

9. Gion District, Kyoto

9. Gion District - 1

The famous Gion District is the old entertainment quarter of Kyoto famous for their geisha. Situated on the eastern bank of the Kamo-gawa River, Gion was originally renowned for its teahouses that offered refuge to travellers and pilgrims on their journey to the nearby Yasaka-jinja shrine. However, the mid-18th century saw the transformation of the area into Kyoto’s largest entertainment district. The best way to experience Gion today is to take an evening stroll around the atmospheric streets lined with 17th century-styled restaurants and old teahouses that are lit with paper lanterns. The journey begins with a walk down the Hanami-kōji main street and into Shijō-dōri Street.

9. Gion District - 2

Towards the southern stretch of Hanami-kōji, most of the old restaurants and teahouses are exclusive establishments renowned for their geishas. Right at the southern end is the Gion Corner and the traditional Gion Kōbu Kaburen-jō Theatre. While strolling from Shijō-dōri along the northern stretch of the Hanami-kōji, a third left turn leads you to Shimbashi or Shirakawa Minami-dōri, which are widely known to be Kyoto’s most beautiful streets, especially in the evening and during the cherry-blossom season. A little up north is the Shinmonzen-dōri and Furumonzen-dōri that runs east to west. These streets are packed with quaint and old Japanese houses, art galleries and antique shops.

9. Gion District - 3

 

How to get there

The Gion district bus stop is accessed from Kyoto Station via bus #100 or #206, a 20-minute ride for 230 yen. Alternatively, the closest train stations are Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan Line, and Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line.

 

Accommodation

1. Hotel Sasarindou
Address: 605-0074 Kyoto, Higashiyama-ku Gionmachi Minamigawa 570-102
Phone: +81 75-541-7177

2. Kinoe
Address: 4-44-8, Bishamoncho, Higashiyama-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 605-0812
Phone: +81-75-561-1230

3. APA Hotel Tokyo Gion Excellent
Address: 605-0074 Kyoto, Kyoto, Higashiyama-ku Gion Minamigawa 555
Phone: +81 75-551-2111

 

10. Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kyoto

10. Kyoto Imperial Palace - 1

The walled complex of Kyoto Imperial Palace, or Gosho in Japanese, is situated right in the middle of a landscaped compound of the Palace Park. Although it no longer serves as the official residence of the Japanese emperor, it is still elegant. Visitors to the palace can wander freely around the officially marked route where there are English signs that tell the history of the palace buildings. The entrance to the palace is through the main Seishomon Gate where a map of the palace grounds is provided.

10. Kyoto Imperial Palace - 2

The original imperial palace was constructed in 794 CE, but was rebuilt a few times after it was destroyed by fire. The present structure was rebuilt in 1885 on a different site than the former palace, and was built on a smaller scale as well. To this day, the official enthronement of a new emperor and state ceremonies are still held here, so the palace may be closed during such events. The palace grounds are covered in gravel, so it is advised to wear appropriate shoes.

10. Kyoto Imperial Palace - 3

 

How to get there

Kyoto Imperial Palace is just a short train ride from Kyoto Station along the Karasuma Subway Line and stop at Marutamachi, which is 7 minutes away at 260 yen, or at Imadegawa Station, which is a 10 minutes away at 260 yen. Imadegawa Station is closer to the entrance gate of the Imperial Palace than Marutamachi Station.

Address: 602-0881 Kyoto Prefecture, Kamigyo Ward, Kyotogyoen, 3
Phone: +81 75-211-1215
Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (April to August) ; 09:00 – 16:30 (September and March) ; 09:00 – 16:00 (October to February)

 

Accommodation

1. Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Address: Nakadachiuri, Shinmachi-Dori, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8071
Phone: +81 75 441 4411

2. The Palace Side Hotel
Address: 602-8011 Kyoto, Kyoto, Kamigyo-ku Karasumadori Shimodachiuri Agaru Okakuen-cho 380
Phone: +81 75-415-8887

3. Kyoto Garden Palace
Address: 602-0912 Kyoto, Kyoto, Kamigyo-ku Karasuma-dori Shimochojya-machi-agaru Tatsumae 605
Phone: +81 75-411-0111

 

11. Nijo Castle, Kyoto

11. Nijo Castle - 1

The military might of the Tokugawa shoguns is reflected in the imposing stone walls and rampart of Nijo Castle. The Nijō-jō dominates a large part of northwest Kyoto. Hidden behind stone walls, it is an elegant palace surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. This is another tourist hotspot, so to avoid the crowds, it is advised to visit just after opening or shortly before closing hours.

11. Nijo Castle - 2

This stone castle was built in 1603 CE as the official residence of the first Tokugawa shogun, Ieyasu in Kyoto. The flamboyant architecture was intended to be a demonstration of Ieyasu’s power and prestige, but inadvertently symbolised the decline of the emperor’s power. In an attempt to avert treachery, the palace’s corridors were fitted with ‘nightingale’ floors that ‘chirped’ as people walked on them along with secret rooms that held bodyguards.

The entrance to palace grounds is through the grand Kara-mon gate as you enter Ninomaru Palace, which is a five building complex with many chambers. The Ōhiroma Yon-no-Ma, or Fourth Chamber, is particularly renowned for its stunning painted screens. When visiting the castle, the Ninomaru Palace Garden is not to be missed, as it designed by renowned landscape architect and tea master Kobori Enshū.

11. Nijo Castle - 3

 

How to get there

Nijo Castle is just a short stroll from Nijojo-mae Station, a stop along the Tozai Subway Line. From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Karasuma-Oike Station and transfer to the Tozai Line to Nijojo-mae Station. The train ride takes about 15 minutes and costs 260 yen.

On the other hand, buses numbers 9, 50 or 101 (every 15-20 minutes for 230 yen) from Kyoto city go to the castle or from Shijo-Kawaramachi by Kyoto City Bus number 12 (every 15 minutes, 230 yen one way).

Address: 604-8301 Kyoto Prefecture, Nakagyo Ward, Nijojocho, 541
Phone: +81 75-841-0096
Opening hours: 08:45 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:00); entry to Ninomaru from 09:00 to 16:00
Entrance fee: 600 Yen

 

Accommodation

1. Taberu Tomaru Nijo Castle
Address: 604-0051, 270-1 Nijoaburanokojicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto Prefecture 604-0051
Phone: +81 75-746-6208

2. Guest House Rinn Nijo Castle
Address: 604-8324 Kyoto Prefecture, Nakagyo Ward, Aneinokumacho, 324
Phone: +81 75-801-8200

3. Fukuya Stay Nijo Castle
Address: 24-21 Jurakumawarihigaisimachi, Kyoto city, 604-8404
Phone: +81 75-203-9865

 

12. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

12. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest -1

Upon entering this green bamboo grove, one feels as if you have entered into another realm. The thick green bamboo stalks give the illusion that the forest goes on endlessly in every direction, and the light that filters through has an ethereal quality. It is hard not to take a few pictures in this fantastic location, but photos are unable to capture the mystical feeling of the place. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove begins just outside the northern gate of the Tenryū-ji temple all the way to just below Ōkōchi Sansō villa.

12. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest -2

12. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest -3

 

How to get there

The quickest route from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama is via the JR Sagano Train Line, which is also known as JR Sanin Line. The one-way ride to Saga-Arashiyama Station takes 15 minutes and costs 240 yen. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, central Arashiyama can be reached in a 5-10 minute walk.

 

Accommodation

1. Arashiyama Bamboo Guest House
Address: 616-8373, 4-16 Sagatenryuji Kurumamichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 616-8373, Japan
Phone: +44 (0)1775 843417

2. Hotel Binario Saga-Arashiyama
Address: Japan, 616-8372 Kyoto Prefecture, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Hiromichicho, 3-4
Phone: +81 75-871-9711

3. Togetsutei
Address: 54-4 Arashiyama Nakaoshita-cho, Nishikyo-ku, 616-0004, Kyoto Prefecture
Phone: +81 75-871-1310

 

13. Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Hiroshima

13. Hiroshima Peace Memorial - 1

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum has a collection of items that was taken from the aftermath of the atomic bomb that befell the city. With displays such as torn clothes from victims, melted lunch boxes, a watch that stopped precisely at 8.15am, and photographs from the aftermath of the atomic bomb, the exhibition is poignant and a little disturbing. However, the museum is a must-visit when one is in Hiroshima.

This building was the only structure left standing after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It is commonly called the Genbaku ("A-Bomb") Dome and it serves as a memorial to the thousands of people who perished during the atomic explosion.

This building was the only structure left standing after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It is commonly called the Genbaku (“A-Bomb”) Dome and it serves as a memorial to the thousands of people who perished during the atomic explosion.

The eastern building presents an exhibition of the history of Hiroshima, and showcases the development and the destructive properties of nuclear weapons. Upon exiting the museum, the video accounts of victims are not to be missed. This is alongside the guest book signed by world-leaders, including the first visit by a US President, Barack Obama in 2016, who placed origami paper cranes to symbolise peace.

The main building of the museum is currently undergoing major renovation, and will be closed in February 2017 until 2018 when it will be reopened to the public again. During the closure, some exhibits from the main building have been relocated to the east building.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is dedicated to documenting the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in World War II.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is dedicated to documenting the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in World War II

 

How to get there

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park can be reached by tram from Hiroshima Station at the terminal just in front of the station’s southern exit. Take tram #2 or 6 to the Ganbaku Domu-mae stop. The trip takes about 15 minutes and costs 150 yen.

Address: 730-0811 Hiroshima Prefecture, Naka Ward, Nakajimacho, 1-2
Phone: +81 82-241-4004
Opening hours: 08:30 – 18:00 (until 19:00 in August, until 17:00 from December to February); last entry 30 minutes before closing
Entrance fee: 200 yen

 

Accommodation

1. Hotel Sunroute Hiroshima
Address: 730-0051 Hiroshima Prefecture, Hiroshima, Naka Ward, Otemachi, 3 Chome- 3-1
Phone: +81 82-249-3600

2. Mitsui Garden hotel Hiroshima
Address: 730-0037 Hiroshima Prefecture, Naka Ward, Nakamachi, 9-12
Phone: +81 82-240-1131

3. Hotel Hokke Club Hiroshima
Address: 730-0037 Hiroshima Prefecture, Naka Ward, Nakamachi, 7-7
Phone: +81 82-248-3371

 

14. Himeji Castle

Grand Entrance

Grand Entrance

Himeji Castle is widely believed to be Japan’s most magnificent castle, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a national treasure and one of only a handful of original Japanese castles still standing, as most others are modern concrete replicas.

This castle has been given the nickname of Shirasagi-jō, or ‘White Egret Castle’, in reference to its white-washed exterior walls and its elegant structure towering high on a hill. The castle has a five-storey central keep or tenshū and three smaller subsidiary ones, surrounded by a moat and outer defense walls that have rectangular, circular, and triangular openings for firearms and arrows.

14 Himeji Castle - 2

The walls of the main keep has little holes called ishiotoshi that are meant for defenders of the castle to pour boiling water or oil onto invaders trying to scale the walls as another line of defense. The castle had fortifications built in 1333, but the main structure of the castle was built in 1580 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and renovated by Ikeda Terumasa 30 years later. Ikeda was bestowed the castle by Tokugawa Ieyasu when his army defeated Toyotomi’s armies in a historic battle. In the ensuing centuries, the castle became home to 48 successive lords. In 2014, the castle was reopened to the public after a five-year renovation.

A tour of the castle takes about 1½ hours while following the guided route around the castle. Final entry of the castle is an hour before closing time.

14. Himeji Castle -3

 

How to get there

Himeji Castle stands one kilometer from Himeji Station. From the station’s north exit, the castle can be reached in a 15-20 minute walk or five-minute ride by bus (100 yen one way) or taxi (about 650 yen one way).

Address: Japan, 670-0012 Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji, Honmachi, 68
Phone: 079-285-1146
Hours: 09:00 – 16:00 daily
Entrance Fee: 1000 yen (castle only) ; 1040 yen (castle and nearby Kokoen Garden)

 

Accommodation

1. Himeji Castle Grandvrio Hotel
Address: 670-0940 Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji, Sanzaemon Borinishinomachi, 210
Phone: +81 50-5847-7770

2. Hotel Wing International Himeji
Address: 670-0921 Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji, Watamachi, 132
Phone: +81 79-287-2111

3. Comfort Hotel Himeji
Address: 670-0935 Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji, Hojoguchi, 1 Chome−50-3
Phone: +81 79-286-8511

 

15. Todaiji, Nara

15. Todaiji -1

The ancient capital of Nara is most famous for the huge Daibutsu or Great Buddha statue. The statue is enshrined within the grand old temple Todaiji, and dates back to 728 CE. The Daibutsu statue is the largest bronze figures in Japan, and one of the largest in the world. It was casted back in 746 CE, but the present statue is actually a recast during the Edo period. It stands over 16 meters in height and is cast out of 437 tons of bronze and 130kgs of gold. It is also on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Daibutsu is enshrined within the Tōdai-ji’s Daibutsu-den, or the Great Buddha Hall, which incidentally is the largest wooden structure in the world. The present building was rebuilt in 1709, but is a mere two-thirds of the original. Aside for the Daibutsu-den, most of Tōdai-ji’s grounds have no cover charge.

This Daibutsu is actually Dainichi Nyorai or Vairocana Buddha and it is the largest bronze figures in Japan, and one of the largest in the world.

This Daibutsu is actually Dainichi Nyorai or Vairocana Buddha and it is the largest bronze figures in Japan, and one of the largest in the world.

The Daibutsu is in the form Dainichi Nyorai, or Vairocana Buddha; the cosmic Buddha believed to give rise to all sacred realms and Buddhas within them. Historians state that Emperor Shōmu decreed the construction of the Buddha to ward off an epidemic of smallpox that ravaged medieval Japan. Unfortunately, earthquakes and fires damaged the statue over the centuries and the head was severely damaged a few times. Hence, the head today has a slight difference in hue to the rest of the body of the statue.

Behind the statue is huge wooden column with a hole through its base. Japanese folk belief maintains that those who manage to squeeze through the hole, which is said to be the size of the Great Buddha’s nostrils, will be ensured of eventual enlightenment. These days, there is always a line of children waiting to crawl through the hole with eager parents taking pictures of them. For bigger ‘kids’, it would be advisable to have your hands outstretched and have someone pull you through on the other end.

Naturally, Tōdai-ji is always packed with tourists and children from all over Japan, and fortunately it is big enough to accommodate crowds, and is a must visit for all visiting Nara.

The smaller statue next to the Daibutsu is of Kokuzo Bosatsu or Akasagarbha Bodhisattva

The smaller statue next to the Daibutsu is of Kokuzo Bosatsu or Akasagarbha Bodhisattva

 

How to get there

Todaiji is about a 30-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station or 45-minute walk from JR Nara Station. The temple can also be reached by bus from either station. Get off at Todaiji Daibutsuden stop, and it is just a 5-10-minute walk to Todaiji’s main prayer hall.

Address: Japan, 630-8211 Nara Prefecture, Zoshicho, 406-1
Phone: +81 742-22-5511
Opening hours: 8:00 to 16:30 (November to February) ; 8:00 to 17:00 (March) ; 7:30 to 17:30 (April to September) ; 7:30 to 17:00 (October)
Entrance fee: 500 yen

 

Accommodation

1. New Wakasa Ryokan Nara
Address: 630-8274 Nara, Kitahanda Higashimachi 1
Phone: +81 742-23-5858

2. Comfort Hotel Nara
Address: Japan, 630-8244 Nara Prefecture, Sanjocho, 321-3
Phone: +81 742-25-3211

3. Hotel Nikko Nara
Address: Japan, 630-8122 Nara Prefecture, Nara, Sanjohonmachi, 8-1
Phone: +81 742-35-8831

 

16. Hōryū-ji, Nara

16. Horyuji - 1

In 607 CE, Prince Shōtoku, considered to be a great patron of Japanese Buddhism, founded the ancient Hōryū-ji temple. Hōryū-ji is widely renowned to be the oldest temple in Japan, and has a veritable treasure trove of antiquities. Several of the temple’s hardy wooden buildings managed to withstand centuries of earthquakes and fires to become the oldest wooden structures in the world. Many of Hōryū-ji treasures are now exhibited at the Tokyo National Museum.

The temple consists of two main buildings – Sai-in or the Western Temple, and Tō-in or the Eastern Temple. Visitors can pick up a detailed map and guidebook in English at the entrance. The main path from the entrance is an avenue lined with trees and through the Nandai-mon and Chū-mon gates before entering the Sai-in compound. Upon entering the compound, the main prayer hall or Kondō is on the right, and an old pagoda stands on your left.

This is Yumedono (Hall of Visions), where Prince Shōtoku is believed to have meditated and received visions of golden apparitions helping him with his study of the Sutras.

This is Yumedono (Hall of Visions), where Prince Shōtoku is believed to have meditated and received visions of golden apparitions helping him with his study of the Sutras.

Several treasures are enshrined in the Kondō including the trinity of Buddha Sakyamuni waited by two attendant bodhisattvas. The pagoda contains clay images that depict scenes from the life of Buddha, but they may not be as visible due to poor lighting conditions.

On east side of Sai-in are where two concrete buildings of the Daihōzō-in (Great Treasure Hall) stand, containing many priceless treasures from Hōryū-ji’s long and illustrious past. As one heads east, they will pass through the Tōdai-mon and into Tō-in, where Prince Shōtoku is believed to have meditated and received visions of golden apparitions helping him with his study of the Sutras at the Yumedono, the Hall of Dreams.

Due to the cost of admission and commuting time from central Nara, it is recommended to have at least half a day set aside for touring the temple. In order to get there, one can take the JR Kansai line from JR Nara Station to Hōryū-ji Station (220 yen, 11 minutes). At the station, Bus 72 shuttles passengers to and from Hōryū-ji Monmae (180 yen, eight minutes). Alternatively, one can also take bus 52 or 97 from either JR Nara Station Kintetsu Nara Station and then get off at the Hōryū-ji-mae stop (760 yen, one hour). From the bus station, walk west for about 50m and cross the road and the tree-line entrance to the temple is visible.

The main prayer hall enshrines the trinity of Buddha Sakyamuni waited by two attendant bodhisattvas along with other Buddha and bodhisattva figures from the 7th century CE.

The main prayer hall enshrines the trinity of Buddha Sakyamuni waited by two attendant bodhisattvas along with other Buddha and bodhisattva figures from the 7th century CE.

 

How to get there

To get to the temple by train, take the Yamatoji Line at JR Nara Station to Horyuji Station (12-minute train ride for 220 yen). From the station, it is a 20-minute walk or short bus ride by bus #72 to the temple (190 yen, departures every 20 minutes). Get off at the Horyujimon-mae bus stop.

Address: Japan, 636-0115 Nara Prefecture, Ikoma District, Ikaruga, Horyuji Sannai, 1-1
Phone: +81 745-75-2555
Hours: 8:00 to 17:00 (until 16:30 from early November to late February)
Entrance fee: 1,500 yen

 

Accommodation

1. Hotel Nikko Nara
Address: 630-8122 Nara Prefecture, Nara, Sanjohonmachi, 8-1
Phone: +81 742-35-8831

2. View Lohas JR Nara Station Super Hotel
Address: 630-8122 Nara Prefecture, Nara, Sanjohonmachi, 1-2
Phone: +81 742-27-9000

3. Nara Washington Hotel Plaza
Address: 630-8236 Nara, Nara, Shimosanjo-cho 31-1
Phone: +81 742-27-0410

 

17. Kotokuin, Kamakura

17. Kotokuin Temple - 1

The Daibutsu, or Great Buddha of Kamakura, is one of Japan’s most iconic statues. This Buddha is an 11.4 meters high bronze statue of Amida Buddha or Amitabha Buddha and lies in the courtyard of Kōtoku-in temple, which belongs to the Jōdo sect. The construction of the statue was inspired by Shogun Minamoto Yoritomo’s visit to Nara, home of Japan’s largest Daibutsu after the Minamoto clan’s victory over the Taira clan.

The Shogun wished to construct a monumental Buddha statue in Kamakura, but passed away before his wish could be fulfilled. However, one of his court ladies by the name of Inada no Tsubone (Lady Inada) pledged to fulfill the late Shogun’s wish, and so, a huge wooden Buddha statue was sculpted, and then completed in 1243 CE after ten years of intense labor. The funds was raised by Lady Inada and the Buddhist priest Jōkō of Tōtōmi.

17. Kotokuin Temple - 2

Unfortunately, that wooden statue was damaged by a freak storm in 1248 CE and the hall that housed the statue was also destroyed. So Jōkō suggested making another statue of bronze to replace it, and the amount of funds needed for casting the statue and for a new hall was raised.

The statue was probably casted by Ōno Gorōemon or Tanji Hisatomo, both being the best casters of the time, and that statue was completed in 1252 CE. It seems that at one time, the statue was gilded. There are still traces of gold leaf near the statue’s ears. Although the statue was once enshrined in a huge hall, today it sits in the open as the hall had been washed away by a tsunami in 1498 CE. For a 20 yen fee, visitors are allowed inside the statue to see how the ancient sculptors piece the 850-tonne statue together.

17. Kotokuin Temple - 3

 

How to get there

The Kotokuin temple is located at a 5-10 minute walk from Hase Station, the third station from Kamakura city along the Enoden railway line. From Kamakura Station, all buses from stops 1 and 6 at the east exit shuttle to Daibutsu-mae stop for 190 yen. Alternatively, one can take the Enoden Enoshima line to Hase Station and walk north for about eight minutes before arriving at the entrance of the temple. The Enoden line is a streetcar-like train that connects Kamakura with Enoshima and Fujisawa. Its station in Kamakura is located just next of JR Kamakura Station.

Address: 4-2-28, Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0016, Japan
Phone: 0467 22 0703
Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:30 (April–September) ; 08:00 – 17:00 (October- March) ; Last entry 15 minutes before closing
Entrance fee: 200 yen (Adults & Students aged 13-18) ; 150 yen (Students aged 6-12) ; 20 yen per person who want to enter inside the Buddha

 

Accommodation

1. Kamakura Guest House & Bar
Address: 248-0021 Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura, Sakanoshita, 11-7
Phone: +81 467-33-5118

2. Kamakura Park Hotel
Address: 248-0021 Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura, Sakanoshita, 33-6
Phone: +81 467-25-5121

3. Kamakura Prince Hotel
Address: 1 Chome-2-18 Shichirigahamahigashi, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0025
Phone: +81 467-32-1111

 

18. Ofuna Kannonji Temple, Kamakura

18. Ofuna Kannonji Temple -1

Ōfuna Kannon Temple is one of the ‘newer’ Buddhist temples in Kamakura. The highlight of this temple is a 25-meter (82-feet) tall, 1900-ton reinforced concrete bust of the bodhisattva Kannon, which is the Japanese derivative of Kuan Yin.

In dedication to peace, this stone lamp on the temple grounds holds the flame that originated from the atomic fires of Hiroshima.

In dedication to peace, this stone lamp on the temple grounds holds the flame that originated from the atomic fires of Hiroshima.

The temple was built in 1929, and it adheres to the Sōtō school of Zen Buddhism. The rough profile of the bust was completed in 1934 but work was stopped at the start of the Pacific War. It was not until 1954 that the Ofuna Kannon Society resumed construction, and the temple was finally completed in 1960. The statue was fashioned out of poured concrete into a mould, and this was done entirely by hand. There were no concrete trucks used, and the surface of the statue was painted white.

As the temple is dedicated to peace, the casting of the Kannon bust included stones that were taken from ground zero of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the cities that were hit by the atomic bombs. Furthermore, the temple hosts a long-burning flame that originated from the atomic fires in Hiroshima. The statue itself has a small museum and shrine for the public to pay homage to.

18. Ofuna Kannonji Temple -2

 

How to get there

Ōfuna Kannon Temple is close to the Ōfuna Station and is about a 5-minute walk from the station.

Address: 1-5-3, Okamoto, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa-ken, 247-0072,
Phone: 81-467-43-1561
Entrance Fee: 300 yen (adults) ; 100 yen (elementary and junior high school students) ; 200 yen (per pax in groups with more than 20 persons)

 

Accommodation

1. Hotel Mets Kamakura Ofuna
Address: 247-0056 Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura, Ofuna, 1 Chome-2-1
Phone: +81 467-40-1192

2. Fresa Hotel, Ofuna
Address: 247-0056 Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura, Ofuna, 1-2 6-5
Phone: +81 467-42-2031

3. Sotetsu Fresa Yokohama Totsuka
Address: 244-0003 Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama, Totsuka Ward, Totsukacho, 16-8
Phone: +81 45-860-2031

 

19. Chuson-ji, Hiraizumi

19. Chusonji - 1

This ancient temple was built in the style typical of Hiraizumi architecture that was prevalent around the middle of the 9th century CE. Chuson-ji temple is ranked amongst some of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan.

The temple was built during a period when Hiraizumi was the northern capital of Japan and was even more prosperous than Kyoto. During this period, the temple was at the heart of the ancient capital, and there was a glorious culture of using gold and silver in ornamentation, also known as the Golden Culture of Hiraizumi. This extravagance has come to symbolise the glory and power of the Fujiwara clan that ruled Japan at that time.

19. Chusonji - 2

In this temple, there is a treasure hall known as Sankon-zo, and this hall houses an extensive collection of over 3,000 National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. The Konjiki-do is a hall covered in gold and silver as it enshrines the mummified remains of several generations of chiefs of the Fujiwara clan.

19. Chusonji - 3

 

How to get there

By train, Chusonji temple can be reached by ten-minute bus ride along the Hiraizumi Loop Bus, or by a 20-30 minute walk from Hiraizumi Station.

Address: 029-4102 Iwate Prefecture, Nishiiwai District, Hiraizumi, Koromonoseki-202
Phone: +81 191-46-2211
Opening hours: 08:30 – 17:00 (1 March – 3 November) ; 08:30 – 16:30 (4 November – End of February)
Entrance fee: 800 Yen

 

Accommodation

1. Chisun Inn Iwate Ichinoseki IC
Address: Japan, 021-0041 Iwate Prefecture, Ichinoseki, Akoogi, Tsukimachi−188−2
Phone: +81 191-25-6911

2. Hotel Route-Inn Ichinoseki Inter
Address: 021-0041 Iwate, Ichinoseki, Akogi Azatsurumaki 33-1, Japan
Phone: +81 191-33-2011

3. Toyoko INN Ichinoseki Station
Address: Japan, 021-0882 Iwate Prefecture, Ichinoseki, Kamiotsukikoji, 2−33
Phone: +81 191-31-1045

 

20. Zenko-ji, Nagano

20. Zenkoji -1

An ancient temple founded in the 7th century CE. Today, Zenko-ji is a national treasure, and home to the revered statue Ikkō-Sanzon, reputed to be the first Buddhist image to arrive in Japan (circa AD 552). However, it has been kept hidden in the temple, and not even 37 generations of emperors have seen this image.

20. Zenkoji -2

Although millions of pilgrims and visitors flock to view a replica of the statue every seven years during the Gokaichō Matsuri celebration, the original statue is never shown. Zenkō-ji’s incredible popularity is also due to the fact that the temple welcomes everyone regardless of gender, creed, or religious belief. Its chief officiates are both a priest and a priestess. The current building dates from 1707 CE.

20. Zenkoji -3

 

How to get there

Any bus from bus stop 1 in front of JR Nagano Station’s Zenkō-ji exit will get you to the temple (It costs 100 yen for a journey of 10 minutes). Just get off at the Daimon bus stop.

Address: 380-0851 Nagano Prefecture, Nagano, Motoyoshicho-491
Phone: +81 26-234-3591
Opening hours: An hour before sunrise to 16:30 ; Until 16:00 (from December to February) ; Until 16:15 in March and November) ; 09:00 to 16:00 (History Museum)
Entrance fee: 500 yen

 

Accommodation

1. Takayama Hostel Zenkoji Temple Guesthouse
Address: 506-0025 Gifu-ken Takayama-shi, Tenman-cho 4-3
Phone: +81-577-32-8470

2. 1166 Backpackers
Address: 380-0842 Nagano, Nishimachi 1048
Phone: +81 26-217-2816

3. Toyoko INN Nagano
Address: Nagano Prefecture, Minaminagano, Minamiishidocho− 1315-8
Phone: +81 26-228-1045

 

Travel Books on Japan

 

Lonely Planet Japan (Travel Guide)

20a Lonely Planet Japan

Lonely Planet Japan is your gateway to the best places and attractions in Japan. Shop and dine in futuristic Tokyo, discover Kyoto’s ancient temples and gardens, or hike up the beautiful Japan Alps with your trusted guidebook. Travel right to the heart of Japan and let your adventure begin!

 

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Japan

eyewitnessjapan

This is the Winner of the Top Guidebook Series in the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2017. The DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Japan delivers you straight to the best place and best things to do in the Japanese isles. You could go exploring traditional and futuristic Tokyo, ancient temples at Kyoto, majestic Mount Fuji, and so forth. The accessible Travel Guide provides the most relevant information on all the major attractions at these places to make the best of your trip.

 

For more interesting information:

 

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Pastor David Lai
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About Pastor David Lai

David is a lay Buddhist pastor of Kechara and a longtime student of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche. Initially a reluctant writer, he now finds himself writing for a living and has published four books including his autobiography, There's No Way But Up and Conversations in Love.

David is a lover of Buddhist art and whenever he can, he shares his knowledge of the Dharma with everyone, giving frequent teachings and writing on his blog www.davidlai.me.
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8 Responses to Wonderful Japan – Honshu

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  1. sarassitham on Sep 10, 2020 at 11:54 pm

    Japan is one of the most unique and fascinating countries in the world. I loved the beauty of Honshu, an amazing places to visit for its wonderful scenery. There a so many ancient temples, cultural, traditional cities for us to explore. Japan is also very unique country to visit for it’s four seasons climate.

    Thank you for the sharing, this very well documented tourist guide for any visitors to Honshu, Japan.

  2. S.Prathap on Jul 23, 2019 at 3:36 pm

    Good and beautiful article about Honshu .Japan geographical location on the outermost region of Asia has a profound impact on its history.
    Japan cuisine is world famous for its presentation,taste and the way of cooking .There are a lot of interesting place to visit and the most famous is Mount Fuji. It is the highest mountain in Japan.
    Thank you very much for this informative write up which will be useful and guide to tourist who plan to visit here.

  3. Anne Ong on Aug 12, 2017 at 10:08 pm

    Love this beautiful and interesting article on Honshu. I love japanese food, and the food in the pictures look so tempting! Lol!!! 🙂 Especially Sushi. The scenery are so beautiful! Some of the pictures that caught my interest and attention are…16. Hōryū-ji, Nara. 18. Ofuna Kannonji Temple, Kamakura. 1. Mount Fuji, Fujinomiya.3. Shinjuku-Gyoen, Tokyo.15. Todaiji, Nara. Wish i have a chance to visit this place one day. Thank you Pastor David and blog team for this interesting article. _/\_

  4. Datuk May on Aug 3, 2017 at 7:05 pm

    A visit to Japan is always memorable. The contrast between “Old Traditions” and “Modernity” is very apparent in Japan.

    You will see the younger generation all hip hopping around the newer areas of Tokyo and yet almost like in the same neighbourhood, you find traditional tea houses and even traditional hotels whereby you sleep on tatami mats instead of normal beds. And guess what, the bathtubs in these traditional hotels are really wooden tubs where you have to climb in and bathe in a sitting position.

    Huge heavy industrial factories are also within the same neighbourhood of exquisite traditional handicraft cottage industries.

    Japan is contrasting and exciting.

    Thank you Pastor David for this very well documented tourist guide for any visitors to Honshu, Japan.

  5. Wan Wai Meng on Jul 30, 2017 at 11:57 pm

    One of the things that struck me about this article is that Japan has the most number of Michelin stars compared to other countries around the world. It is an insight into the Japanese soul, that they really push the boundaries of their art and skills to a whole new level. That is the secret of the Japanese success on the world stage.

  6. Stella Cheang on Jul 28, 2017 at 12:28 am

    The castles and buildings in Honshu look grand and elaborated, a good showing of the glorious past of Nihon dynasties. The Great Buddha of Kamakura, Ofuna Kannonji Temple, Zenko-ji and the majestic castles are the attraction of Honshu to me. Therefore, making the colorful Harajuku a stark contrast. Thank you, Pastor David, for this informative article on Honshu, Japan.

  7. Lin Mun on Jul 22, 2017 at 11:06 am

    Japan is such a beautiful and clean place. There are many big and beautiful shrines. I would love to visit Great Buddha of Kamakura and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto. It is always good to learn about other countries culture and how Buddhism grow in other parts of the world.

    Thank you Pastor David for sharing this informative article.

  8. Samfoonheei on Jul 22, 2017 at 9:17 am

    Amazing …..thank you Pastor David Lai, very informatives and beautiful post.Japan is a beautiful country to visit with so many ancient temples ,cultural ,traditional cities for us to explore .And of course the famous Mount Fiji,the icon of Japan where everyone know about it Japan has a colourful history back centuries ago Its the first ancient of human habitation in the Japanese archipelago Amazing .
    The Daibutsu, or Great Buddha of Kamakura and Mount Fuji are the two places which i would like to visit to discover myself the beauty of it.
    Thanks again for sharing.

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  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Apr 22. 2025 07:20 PM
    Buddhism is one of the most ancient belief systems and is practiced today by nearly 350 million people around the world.
    Bettany Mary Hughes is an English historian, author, and broadcaster, specialising in classical history. Bettany Hughes travelled to the seven wonders of the Buddhist world. Where she documented a unique insight into the seven wonders that explained the long and rich history of Buddhism 2500 years ago . Truly fascinating documentary that’s one should watch. Started off her journey with Bodh Gaya in India, the Bodanath Stupa in Nepal, the Temple of The Tooth in Sri Lanka, Wat Pho Temple in Thailand, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Giant Buddha in Hong Kong and the Hsi Lai Temple in the United States. At each location, she meets with Buddhist scholars who explain the different concepts that form the core of Buddhist philosophy, giving insight into the long and rich history of Buddhism. Interesting sharing.
    Thank you Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/art-architecture/seven-wonders-of-the-buddhist-world.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Apr 22. 2025 07:16 PM
    H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche (1905-1984 AD) was a highly realized Gelug Lama known as a strong, detached and wrathful lama. He was famous as a sharp analyst and master of philosophical debate, as well as a powerful Tantric practitioner. Disciple of Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, junior tutor of the 14th Dalai Lama. Famous as a sharp analyst and master of philosophical debate, as well as a powerful Tantric practitioner. Rinpoche traveling tremendously to many monasteries, doing rituals, and giving many initiations, transmissions and commentaries, and instruction in the profound and extensive dharma . As in this blog Kyabje Zong Rinpoche explains on many rare and precious teachings. Thousands of Westerners have received teachings from him, both in the West and in India. HH Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was the Guru of many great masters.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/kyabje-zong-rinpoche-explains-on-many-rare-and-precious-teachings-with-translation.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Apr 22. 2025 07:08 PM
    Religious discrimination remains a significant issue globally, impacting various aspects of life. The Dorje Shugden controversy in Tibetan Buddhism involves accusations of religious discrimination against devotees of the Poweful Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden was a powerful Protector associated with the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. H H the Dalai Lama previously practice Dorje Shugden’s practice but somehow later discouraged the practice, citing concerns about sectarianism ,its perceived role as a spirit. Dorje Shugden’s practitioners have reported feeling ostracized and discriminated against by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and those supporting the Dalai Lama. The controversy has divided the Tibetan community and has been a source of contention and tension. CTA had breached the rights of every Dorje Shugden practitioners to what they pray . Many families are torn apart by this. Dorje Shugden people had to break away from their monasteries .Religious freedom and human rights are interconnected. Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion regardless of race and faith. Religious freedom is one of the most fundamental of human rights. The discrimination that Dorje Shugden practitioners are experiencing today has similarities to other historic bigotry and prejudices such example was the African American Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s,and the Women’s Suffrage Movement. Racism affects virtually every country in the world. It denies people their full human rights just because of their colour, race, ethnicity, descent or national origin. The most prevalent discrimination that we see today are national origin and race discrimination. May there be peace,unity, harmony and based on compassion, acceptance and universal freedom of religious choice without discrimination or recriminations of any kind.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/comparisons-of-the-dorje-shugden-ban-with-historic-persecutions.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Apr 22. 2025 07:04 PM
    The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala, India is said to be thousands of years old, built in the Dravidian style, and houses more secrets than most people can ever dream of. That’s interesting. This temple is a legendary secret chamber that has remained unopened for centuries. Legends and local beliefs it is protected by powerful deities and a curse. The door is said to be sealed with a mystical spell, and it is believed that anyone attempting to open it without proper rituals will face grave consequences, having met with mysterious deaths or terrible misfortune. Locals had warns that attempting to open Vault B without proper rituals and respect for the deities could unleash untold calamities and misfortune. Stories abound of previous attempts to open the vault had failed that resulted in terrifying visions and other supernatural occurrences, and tragic fates for those involved. Some believe that the vault contained ancient treasures , wealth and divine relics . Previously temple workers reportedly tried to force open the door, resulting in the terrifying experiences described in legends. It’s not just a place of worship but also a vault of mysteries. Modern attempts using technology have also failed to open the door, as if some force is protecting it. Every attempt to open Vault B has failed. The door remains closed, and no one know of the contents within, whether wealth, divine relics, or something else entirely, are unknown to the world . No one dare to try opening it since at least the 1880s recording to reports. Interesting article .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/the-mysterious-door-of-vault-b-padmanabhaswamy-temple.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Apr 15. 2025 03:58 PM
    Revisit this interesting truth where not many people knew the actual story behind . With great effort and research finally the story unfolded. In Tibet, Oracles play, an important part in principal roles assisting governmental decision-making and providing intelligence revelation, religion, doctrine, and prophecy. To this day the Tibetan government still believe and rely in Nechung Oracle. When Nechung oracle took trance, it is actually spirit Nyatrul who has causes problems and misprophecies. Nechung is bound by oath to protect the Dharma. Nechung prophecies are unreliable, most probably given by Nyatrul spirit to the Tibetan government. Such as wrong medication given to the 13 th Dalai Lama as prescribed by the Nechung Oracle. Another misprophecies was during the British invasion. If it was really Nechung who took trance of the Oracle, these types of misprophecies would not have happen. As mentioned in the 6th Dalai Lama biography, we cannot trust or rely on Nechung’s prophecies. It was said that Nyatrul not Nechung who created the problems and harm to Dorje Shugden . It must have told HH the Dalai Lama to ban Dorje Shugden .
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Jean Ai for this interesting article.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/the-spirit-nyatrul-magic-mischief-and-misery.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Apr 15. 2025 03:55 PM
    In Tibetan Buddhism, water offerings, particularly the seven or eight bowls offering, are a common practice used to express gratitude, cultivate merit, and purify the mind. The seven bowls represent essential aspects of offerings and can be offered daily, along with other items like flowers, incense, and lamps. Water offerings are probably the most common offering made in Tibetan Buddhism. Offering any item of value to the three jewels is the antidote to greed and attachment and helps to cultivate generosity. It is a powerful practice that can help us develop positive qualities such as generosity, devotion, and selflessness. By making water offering, we are creating good karma for ourselves and all sentient beings in the future. Great explanations and teachings all about water offerings.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/making-water-offerings-to-the-buddhas.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Apr 15. 2025 03:54 PM
    H.H. Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche (1878–1941), also known as Dechen Nyingpo Jampa Tenzin Trinlay Gyatso, was one of the great lamas of the twentieth century. was a highly influential teacher in Tibet and a prominent lama in the 20th century. He was the root guru of the present Dalai Lama’s tutors and many other Tibetan lamas who brought the Dharma to the West. His teachings, particularly his book “Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand,” are significant in the Gelugpa tradition until this days.He was the root guru of the present Dalai Lama’s tutors, Kyabje Ling Rinpoche and Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, and a teacher to many other Gelug lamas who fled Tibet. He had brought the Dharma to the West after 1959. His teachings covered various aspects of the Tibetan Buddhist path, including the seven-point mind training and the stages of the path to enlightenment. Rinpoche’s teachings are so famous that thousands of people would come from far and wide to attend. He was an extraordinary master for the Heruka Body Mandala and the Vajrayogini practice. Wow ……one of the many famous stories been told of how Heruka actually appeared to Pabongka when he visited Cimburi in Tibet and how Heruka image spoke to him. Interesting biography of a great master of all times.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/h-h-kyabje-pabongka-rinpoche-1878-1941.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Apr 15. 2025 03:53 PM
    The practice of Sangha in Buddhism involves building and cultivating a supportive community of practitioners who engage in shared spiritual practice, often focusing on mindfulness and concentration. This community provides mutual support, guidance, and encouragement on the path of self-discovery. The Sangha is not just a gathering of people; it’s a collective energy of mindfulness and compassion that benefits all members. It provides a supportive environment for individuals on their spiritual journey, offering guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Sharing experiences and insights within the Sangha can accelerate the learning process.
    Thank you Thich Nhat Hanh for sharing and explaining all about the insight of sangha. Great sharing .
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article by Thich Nhat Hanh.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-practice-of-sangha.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Sunday, Apr 6. 2025 07:23 PM
    Wat Rong Khun better known as the White Temple, is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai province, Thailand. The gold symbolizes how people focus on worldly desires and money. The white building represents the idea to make merit and to focus on the mind. It is owned by a succesful Thai businessman who opened it to visitors in 1997. Awesome….This temple stands out through the white colour and use of pieces of glass that sparkle in the sun. The white colour signifies the purity of Buddha while the glass symbolizes Buddha’s wisdom. Located 3 hour drive from Chiang Mai built to honour and pay tribute to sacred Buddhist figures. Over time, temples grew in prominence and is one of the famous temples to visit in Thailand. I have visited years back its simple stunning temple which truly love the design and architecture .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-white-temple-in-thailand.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Sunday, Apr 6. 2025 07:22 PM
    Sak Yant, a traditional Thai tattooing practice, involves sacred geometrical and animal designs. Its often accompanied by Pali phrases, and is believed to offer power, protection, charisma, and other benefits to the wearer. Sak Yant tattoos are deeply rooted in Buddhist and spiritual beliefs, with each design and symbol carrying specific meanings and purported powers. Many designs are believed to provide protection against evil spirits, misfortune, and danger. Sak Yant tattoos are traditionally applied by monks or masters using a needle and ink, and the process is often accompanied by chants and blessings. I personally have not seen one yet . Sound interesting.
    Thank you Rinpoche and L Kim for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/the-power-of-sak-yant.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Sunday, Apr 6. 2025 07:18 PM
    Jojo Struys is a travel and wellness personality, accredited yoga instructor, speaker and author. She visited Bangsar of Kechara outlet for a feature with Star Property. With her visit hopefully more people will get to know more of our Kechara . She had made a video with and Pastor David Lai all about Buddhist Arts. She openly admitted interested in Buddhist art . Buddhist art pieces have given her home a contemporary edge. Art was important to Buddhist religious life. It was not only part of ritual and worship but also served to transmit religious ideas, and artistic styles between cultures. Do agree with her statement ,…..if you want to change your life, change the way you think, because everything begins with you.”
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/jojo-struys-goes-shopping-at-kechara-paradise.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:18 PM
    n their theoretical model, rudeness has this impact on our ability to think because it engenders negative sadness, anger. Researchers have found that common negative behaviours can spread easily and have significant consequences. The best way to avoid rude people is to meet their acts of rudeness with kindness. Exposure to neurotoxins in society is not new. Children today are raised in an environment that is much different from those days. Nowadays they are exposed to behaviours, profane language, hostilities and stress from which we adults, raised a generation ago. Studies have shown that children exposed to serious psychological trauma during childhood are at risk of suffering increased psychiatric disorders. Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/rudeness-is-a-neurotoxin.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:15 PM
    Revisit this blog again . Reading comments in this blog Rich people have substantial assets and income, providing a sense of security and freedom from financial worries. Owning high-end cars, designer clothing and everything they want with their money. Rich people often have more time for leisure, hobbies, and travel, allowing them to pursue interests and experiences. They may live in large, luxurious homes and have or apartments, often in desirable locations and having personalized services. The fundamental difference in mindset between the rich and the poor is, the rich have understood a very simple principle money makes money. Rich people see money as an opportunity, while poor people see it as something to be earned. Poor people work hard for their money. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has. Not he who has much is rich, but he who gives much. The primary difference between rich people and poor people is how they handle their wealth. My thought been rich in this world it is not what we take up, but what we give up, that makes us rich.
    Thank you for sharing Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/rich-people.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:13 PM
    Found this old post …disturbing. Having a name especially a Bar linked to Buddha to be disrespectful towards Buddhism. After much controversy the owner had it removed. The Buddha Bar located in Sabah by a young owner which opened without much thought had many people complaining. Later was forced to have its controversial name changed to ‘Peacock Garden’ and had apologised for the controversial name. As a devout Buddhist, the name ‘Buddha Bar’ which serves alcohol, is disrespectful to the revered Buddha.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/buddha-bar.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:12 PM
    Siberia, considered the heartland of shamanism inhabited by many different ethnic groups, and many of its peoples observe shamanistic. Many of the indigenous communities reclaiming their traditional spiritual and healing practices . Interesting. Siberian shamanism is often called Tengerism, involves various rituals, including drumming, chanting, trance states, and offerings to nature spirits and ancestors. This religious practice has deep roots in Siberia and Central Asia in recent years with roots in the Turkic and Mongolic cultures. Many who have been live in a remote part of Russia, have preserved their shamanic traditions due to their isolation. Many customs of Tengrism are still been practiced where they emphasizes a deep respect for nature and its various spirits, including those of the earth, water, and mountains. They do believe in the continued existence of souls and the importance of honouring their ancestors.
    Thank you Rinpoche sharing this ancient religion.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/interesting-siberia.html

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

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I must thank my dharma blog team who are great assets to me, Kechara and growth of dharma in this wonderful region. I am honoured and thrilled to work with them. I really am. Maybe I don't say it enough to them, but I am saying it now. I APPRECIATE THESE GUYS VERY MUCH!

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The Unknown

The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
So go pursue all the way with the unknown,
because all unknown with familiarity becomes the known.
~Tsem Rinpoche

Photos On The Go

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According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
5 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
5 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
5 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
5 years ago
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
5 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
5 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
5 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
5 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
5 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
5 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
6 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
6 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
6 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
6 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
6 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
6 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
6 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
6 years ago
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
6 years ago
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
Sacred Vajra Yogini
6 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
6 years ago
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
6 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
6 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
6 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
6 years ago
This is pretty amazing! First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche

Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
6 years ago
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can\'t stop thinking of you and I can\'t forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
6 years ago
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can't stop thinking of you and I can't forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
6 years ago
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
6 years ago
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
6 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
6 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
6 years ago
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
DON\'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
6 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
6 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
6 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
6 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
6 years ago
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
6 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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  • Pig puts his toys away
    5 years ago
    Pig puts his toys away
    Animals are so intelligent. They can feel happiness, joy, pain, sorrow, just like humans. Always show kindness to them. Always show kindness to everyone.
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    6 years ago
    Always be kind to animals-They deserve to live just like us.
    Whales and dolphins playing with each other in the Pacific sea. Nature is truly incredible!
  • Bodha stupa July 2019-
    6 years ago
    Bodha stupa July 2019-
    Rainy period
  • Cute Tara girl having a snack. She is one of Kechara Forest Retreat’s resident doggies.
    6 years ago
    Cute Tara girl having a snack. She is one of Kechara Forest Retreat’s resident doggies.
  • Your Next Meal!
    6 years ago
    Your Next Meal!
    Yummy? Tasty? Behind the scenes of the meat on your plates. Meat is a killing industry.
  • This is Daw
    6 years ago
    This is Daw
    This is what they do to get meat on tables, and to produce belts and jackets. Think twice before your next purchase.
  • Don’t Take My Mummy Away!
    6 years ago
    Don’t Take My Mummy Away!
    Look at the poor baby chasing after the mother. Why do we do that to them? It's time to seriously think about our choices in life and how they affect others. Be kind. Don't break up families.
  • They do this every day!
    6 years ago
    They do this every day!
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  • What happened at Fair Oaks Farm?
    6 years ago
    What happened at Fair Oaks Farm?
    The largest undercover dairy investigation of all time. See what they found out at Fair Oaks Farm.
  • She’s going to spend her whole life here without being able to move correctly. Like a machine. They are the slaves of the people and are viewed as a product. It’s immoral. Billions of terrestrial animals die annually. Billions. You can’t even imagine it. And all that because people don’t want to give up meat, even though there are so many alternatives. ~ Gabriel Azimov
    6 years ago
    She’s going to spend her whole life here without being able to move correctly. Like a machine. They are the slaves of the people and are viewed as a product. It’s immoral. Billions of terrestrial animals die annually. Billions. You can’t even imagine it. And all that because people don’t want to give up meat, even though there are so many alternatives. ~ Gabriel Azimov
  • Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
  • This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
    6 years ago
    This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
  • Beautiful Monastery in Hong Kong
    6 years ago
    Beautiful Monastery in Hong Kong
  • This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
    6 years ago
    Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
  • These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
    6 years ago
    Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
  • Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
    6 years ago
    Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
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    6 years ago
    Beautiful
    Beautiful sacred Severed Head Vajra Yogini from Tsem Rinpoche's personal shrine.
  • My little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    My little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
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    6 years ago
    Plse watch this short video and see how all sentient beings are capable of tenderness and love. We should never hurt animals nor should we eat them. Tsem Rinpoche
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    6 years ago
    Cruelty of some people have no limits and it’s heartbreaking. Being kind cost nothing. Tsem Rinpoche
  • SUPER ADORABLE and must see
    6 years ago
    SUPER ADORABLE and must see
    Tsem Rinpoche's dog Oser girl enjoying her snack in her play pen.
  • Cute!
    6 years ago
    Cute!
    Oser girl loves the balcony so much. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTcoWpKJm2c
  • Uncle Wong
    6 years ago
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    We were told by Uncle Wong he is very faithful toward Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden has extended help to him on several occasions and now Uncle Wong comes daily to make incense offerings to Dorje Shugden. He is grateful towards the help he was given.
  • Tsem Rinpoche’s Schnauzer Dharma boy fights Robot sphere from Arkonide!
    6 years ago
    Tsem Rinpoche’s Schnauzer Dharma boy fights Robot sphere from Arkonide!
  • Cute baby owl found and rescued
    6 years ago
    Cute baby owl found and rescued
    We rescued a lost baby owl in Kechara Forest Retreat.
  • Nice cups from Kechara!!
    6 years ago
    Nice cups from Kechara!!
    Dorje Shugden people's lives matter!
  • Enjoy a peaceful morning at Kechara Forest Retreat
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CHAT PICTURES

Beautiful Gyenze Statue at Kechara Kuantan with an abundance of offerings .. Kechara Kuantan Study Group.. Sam
3 days ago
Beautiful Gyenze Statue at Kechara Kuantan with an abundance of offerings .. Kechara Kuantan Study Group.. Sam
Offerings to the Buddha during DS puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 days ago
Offerings to the Buddha during DS puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
26th April 2025, completed Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Namasangiti, led by William. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
3 days ago
26th April 2025, completed Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Namasangiti, led by William. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
27 th April cleaning of Gyenze Chapel. Kechara this afternoon.Kuantan Study group..sam
3 days ago
27 th April cleaning of Gyenze Chapel. Kechara this afternoon.Kuantan Study group..sam
Had our DORJE SHUGDEN Puja this evening .May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG. Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
6 days ago
Had our DORJE SHUGDEN Puja this evening .May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG. Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
Beautiful Lama tsongkhapa Statue at Kechara Kuantan. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 weeks ago
Beautiful Lama tsongkhapa Statue at Kechara Kuantan. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
Pastor Seng Piow led the puja team members of the Kechara Penang group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Pastor Seng Piow led the puja team members of the Kechara Penang group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Completed Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. 19th April 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. 19th April 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
A beautiful day with blue clear sky to start off releasing fishes.Saving thousands of lives ..fishes birds and fishing baits.kechara kuantangroup Sam
2 weeks ago
A beautiful day with blue clear sky to start off releasing fishes.Saving thousands of lives ..fishes birds and fishing baits.kechara kuantangroup Sam
Yesterday had our weekly Swift return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara kuantan group Sam
2 weeks ago
Yesterday had our weekly Swift return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara kuantan group Sam
Periodically, tormas will be replaced with new ones by Choong Soon Heng. The teardrop and round shape specially made and prepared by Siew Hong. Due to their efforts, our puja is complete with the necessary offerings recommended by Rinpoche. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Periodically, tormas will be replaced with new ones by Choong Soon Heng. The teardrop and round shape specially made and prepared by Siew Hong. Due to their efforts, our puja is complete with the necessary offerings recommended by Rinpoche. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Various 'kuih-muih' offered to Buddhas, generating tremendous merits for both the recipients and sponsors. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Various 'kuih-muih' offered to Buddhas, generating tremendous merits for both the recipients and sponsors. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Completed Dorje Shugden @12th April, 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Completed Dorje Shugden @12th April, 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Offerings were prepared before Dorje Shugden puja started on Sunday, 13th April in Kechara Ipoh Study Group centre (Kin Hoe)
2 weeks ago
Offerings were prepared before Dorje Shugden puja started on Sunday, 13th April in Kechara Ipoh Study Group centre (Kin Hoe)
Mr. Mannance Wong offered lights on behalf of all in Kechara Ipoh Study Group before the start of the puja (Kin Hoe)
2 weeks ago
Mr. Mannance Wong offered lights on behalf of all in Kechara Ipoh Study Group before the start of the puja (Kin Hoe)
Come on, Smile! A quick and easy way to make others happy instantly before we start our puja today. 5th April, 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Come on, Smile! A quick and easy way to make others happy instantly before we start our puja today. 5th April, 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Today's flower offerings @5th April, 2025. Dorje Shugden weekly puja at Kechara Penang Chapel at No 49, Jalan Seang Tek. Uploaded by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Today's flower offerings @5th April, 2025. Dorje Shugden weekly puja at Kechara Penang Chapel at No 49, Jalan Seang Tek. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Here are some of the offerings to the Buddha @ 5th April, 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta
3 weeks ago
Here are some of the offerings to the Buddha @ 5th April, 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta
Mdm.Betty & Mr. Teo came very early for setting up & cleaning. Dorje Shugden puja @every Saturday 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Mdm.Betty & Mr. Teo came very early for setting up & cleaning. Dorje Shugden puja @every Saturday 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
We gathered for a group photo after the Dorje Shugden puja ~29th March 2025. Kechara Pennag Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
We gathered for a group photo after the Dorje Shugden puja ~29th March 2025. Kechara Pennag Study Group by Jacinta
Deepest and most sincere gratitude for Irene's invaluable and precious Dharma sharing. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
Deepest and most sincere gratitude for Irene's invaluable and precious Dharma sharing. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Welcome Irene Lim, most senior student of H. E. the 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche to our Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
Welcome Irene Lim, most senior student of H. E. the 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche to our Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Offerings to Buddhas - 29th March. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
Offerings to Buddhas - 29th March. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Pastor Seng Piow came again to lead our puja & Dharma sharing. It's so precious to share Dharma, even it's a short one, uploaded by Jacinga. 22nd March 2025
1 month ago
Pastor Seng Piow came again to lead our puja & Dharma sharing. It's so precious to share Dharma, even it's a short one, uploaded by Jacinga. 22nd March 2025
20250322 - Penang members chilling out after puja. It's good to touch base with everyone. After all, we only get to see each other during weekend puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
20250322 - Penang members chilling out after puja. It's good to touch base with everyone. After all, we only get to see each other during weekend puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Puja packages taken up by 4 sponsors today - 22nd March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Puja packages taken up by 4 sponsors today - 22nd March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Focus and concentrate on chanting 'A Concert of Names of Manjushri'. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Focus and concentrate on chanting 'A Concert of Names of Manjushri'. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
15th March 2025, weekly Dorje Shugden puja completed, led by William. Appreciate those regulars who consistently attend this puja without fail. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jaciga.
1 month ago
15th March 2025, weekly Dorje Shugden puja completed, led by William. Appreciate those regulars who consistently attend this puja without fail. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jaciga.
13th March 2025 Month of Miracles we had our weekly Swift Return Pujafor HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara Kuantan group Sam Foon heei
2 months ago
13th March 2025 Month of Miracles we had our weekly Swift Return Pujafor HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara Kuantan group Sam Foon heei
Sharyn, one of our longest and senior Penang members led the puja today. It's always good to have different members leading puja so that all of us can learn the proper skills in performing puja, with the intention of benefiting others always. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Sharyn, one of our longest and senior Penang members led the puja today. It's always good to have different members leading puja so that all of us can learn the proper skills in performing puja, with the intention of benefiting others always. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Chanting the Names of Manjushri. This puja is performed every Saturday at Penang Chapel, Jalan Seang Tek (3pm). 8th March 2025 by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Chanting the Names of Manjushri. This puja is performed every Saturday at Penang Chapel, Jalan Seang Tek (3pm). 8th March 2025 by Jacinta.
Three sponsored packages today, with merits accumulated from prayers being dedicated according to sponsors' wishes. 8th March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Three sponsored packages today, with merits accumulated from prayers being dedicated according to sponsors' wishes. 8th March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Yesterday 9 March 2025 in the month of miracles we had saved thousands of lives,...fishes .birds fishing baits, releasing them back to nature.Kechara Kuantan group Sam foon heei
2 months ago
Yesterday 9 March 2025 in the month of miracles we had saved thousands of lives,...fishes .birds fishing baits, releasing them back to nature.Kechara Kuantan group Sam foon heei
Our true nature!!! We're young, mature, fun and sometimes a bit silly bunch of Kecharians. Always giving, loving and bring benefits to others. Thanks for supporting us throughout the two-day retreat. Stay tune for more next time. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Our true nature!!! We're young, mature, fun and sometimes a bit silly bunch of Kecharians. Always giving, loving and bring benefits to others. Thanks for supporting us throughout the two-day retreat. Stay tune for more next time. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
The goody-goody side of us after the retreat. Perhaps we have reached ten Bodhisattva level! Kechara Penang Study Group DS Retreat 1st - 2nd March by Jacinta
2 months ago
The goody-goody side of us after the retreat. Perhaps we have reached ten Bodhisattva level! Kechara Penang Study Group DS Retreat 1st - 2nd March by Jacinta
Not forgetting nourishing our body with healthy food and on the first day, we got to taste delightful dessert prepared by Chien Seong, also one of our senior Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Not forgetting nourishing our body with healthy food and on the first day, we got to taste delightful dessert prepared by Chien Seong, also one of our senior Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat by Jacinta.
Tried Group-fie... But not very successful. Lol! Kechara Penang Study Group bi-annual retreat, uploaded by Jacinta
2 months ago
Tried Group-fie... But not very successful. Lol! Kechara Penang Study Group bi-annual retreat, uploaded by Jacinta
Tormas offering made by Dock Wan, one of the senior Kecharians from KL and close students of Rinpoche. Very delicate, a masterpiece! Uploaded by Jacinta
2 months ago
Tormas offering made by Dock Wan, one of the senior Kecharians from KL and close students of Rinpoche. Very delicate, a masterpiece! Uploaded by Jacinta
All together 19 retreatants, led by Pastor Seng Piow. There were few from KL and one from Indonesia. This pic was taken before the start of our retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat from 1st - 2nd March, uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
All together 19 retreatants, led by Pastor Seng Piow. There were few from KL and one from Indonesia. This pic was taken before the start of our retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat from 1st - 2nd March, uploaded by Jacinta.
Flower offerings from sponsors and retreatants. This flower arrangement was made by Sharyn, one of our Penang members. 1st - 2nd March, Kechara Penang Group Retreat. Uploaded y Jacinta
2 months ago
Flower offerings from sponsors and retreatants. This flower arrangement was made by Sharyn, one of our Penang members. 1st - 2nd March, Kechara Penang Group Retreat. Uploaded y Jacinta
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Dorje Shugden
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