japan

Bamboos and Temples

| Chris

We didn’t have a lot of time to spend in Kyoto. With over 6 hours spent commuting back and forth and breaking for lunch and dinner, a couple of stops was all we could manage.

The first was the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. It was a quick one!

A little background: The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, also known as the Sagano Bamboo Forest, is a 500 meter path between the Tenryuji temple and Nonomiya Shrine. It is known for its thick bamboo groves that line the path. And in good weather, like it was that day, sunlight filters through the bamboo, casting soft shadows. The hauntingly beautiful sound of handpans played by a busker perfumed the air adding to the forest’s mystic.

After taking a few photos, we had to move on.

Our second and last stop for our day in Kyoto was the Kiyomizu-dera. Let me share some highlights from my escapade.

As the sun peeked over the ancient rooftops, I set out on foot. The narrow streets of Higashiyama echoed secrets of centuries past, leading me toward the temple.

The temple, a wooden marvel perched on stilts, is suspended above the forested hillside. Its name, “Kiyomizu,” translates to “Pure Water Monastery.” And pure it was, the Otowa Spring, with its medicinal waters, beckoned visitors seeking blessings and healing.

Tired as I was from the rush of the day, I climbed the steep steps, my excitement mounting. At the top, the viewing platform awaited, a stage for breathtaking panoramas. Kyoto sprawled below, a patchwork of red roofs and lush greenery.

The Koyasu pagoda stood tall, its three stories reaching for the sky.

Kiyomizu-dera has witnessed emperors, samurai, and poets. Its 1200-year-old legacy echoed through the corridors. I sat by the Jishu Shrine. As the sun dipped behind the hills, I tried to absorb the temple’s serenity. Life felt simpler here, connected to something greater.

As twilight painted the sky, I descended the steps. The city lights flickered to life, and I carried Kiyomizu’s tranquility with me. My whirlwind trip had left an indelible mark, a snapshot of Kyoto’s soul.

Thank you, Kyoto, for a tremendous day, short as it was.

Pagoda with Mt. Fuji in the background

| Chris

Continuing on our quest to experience Mt. Fuji through different foregrounds, we endured another half hour drive from the last destination to our final one for the day.

Seated within the picturesque town of Fujiyoshida, Arakurayama Sengen Park is a vividly hued oasis that offers an unbeatable view of majestic Mount Fuji. Maybe the best one yet.

Arakurayama Sengen Park was established in October 1959. It covers approximately 4.3 hectares on the hillside of Mount Arakura. The park’s name derives from the nearby Arakura Sengen Shrine, which has deep historical and cultural significance.

The iconic five-storied Chureito pagoda stands proudly at the heart of the park. Its vermilion hue contrasts beautifully against the lush greenery and the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji. The pagoda was built as a peace memorial in 1963 nearly 400 steps up the mountain from the shrine’s main buildings. We were told to be at the top of the mountain during sunset. It is a beast to climb but if you can manage, the reward is worth the effort.

The park’s elevated location provides an unrivaled panorama of Mount Fuji. Whether it’s bathed in sunlight or shrouded in mist, the sight of Japan’s highest peak is awe-inspiring.

Arakurayama Sengen Park is more than just a scenic spot, it’s a place where nature, history, and beauty converge. Embrace the serenity and watch the pagoda with Mt. Fuji in the background weave its magic.

The Eight Springs

| Chris

About a half hour drive southeast of Oishi Park is the picturesque Yamanashi Prefecture, Oshino Hakkai. A tranquil oasis that beckons travelers seeking a taste of Japan’s natural beauty. Embark on a quick virtual journey to this enchanting spot with me, will you?

Oshino Hakkai, which translates to Eight Seas in Oshino, derives its name from the eight pristine springs that bubble forth from the ground. These springs are fed by the aquifer water flowing down from majestic Mt. Fuji.

The number eight holds significance in Buddhism, representing completeness and balance. Walking all the way around these eight ponds was once a sacred ritual for pilgrims visiting Mt. Fuji.

Designated as a Natural Monument by the Japanese government in 1934, Oshino Hakkai has preserved its pristine beauty for generations. It is part of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural and natural importance.

Oshino Hakkai invites you to slow down, breathe in the fresh air and marvel at nature’s wonders. This hidden gem near Mt. Fuji promised an unforgettable experience – and it delivered!

Blooms, Bees and Ice Cream

| Chris

As we moved on from the English Garden, we ended up on the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi in Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture. There it was, Oishi Park (aka Oishi Kogen), it’s a slice of floral paradise. Our delightful journey continues through this picturesque spot.

As we stepped into Oishi Park, we were greeted by Flower Street, a 350-meter-long promenade lined with vibrant blooms. The air was perfumed with the sweet scent of lavender and the bees added a lively soundtrack to my walk.

At the Oishi Park Cafe, I indulged in a lavender & cherry blossom ice cream treat. My first time tasting a bit of this floral magic!

The clouds parted and there it was again: Mount Fuji, its snow-capped peak flaunted against the calm waters of Lake Kawaguchi.

I walked out of the cafe and sat on a rock by the lake to soak in the mountain view as I finished my ice cream.

Our time was short but sweet.

An English Garden in Japan

| Chris

And so the day we’re scheduled to see Mt. Fuji had begun. It was a 2-hour drive from Tokyo to our first stop – the Peter Rabbit English Garden. And here we are!

Wow! I learned a few things about this gorgeous piece of land. It was designed by British garden designer Mark Chapman. It’s an English-style garden that boasts stunning views of Mount Fuji and features approximately 300 species of flowers and trees.

From spring to early autumn, one can enjoy the delightful coexistence of these botanical wonders alongside beloved characters like Peter Rabbit. We took a leisurely stroll through this authentic garden and immersed ourselves in its serene beauty.

The garden’s ambiance and British charm was evident at the Cafe. There were imaginative menu items inspired by the world of Peter Rabbit. However, we opted to dine outside with several food stands offering a wider choice of lunch items.

There’s also an 8-meter-high observation tower you can climb for breathtaking views of the garden and the mountain.

Selfie and photo op to your heart’s content as you take in the picturesque landscape.

And just like that, it was time move on.

I loved our time here though, short as it was.

Lost in Tokyo

| Chris

The bustling capital of Japan, a city that never sleeps. The towering skyscrapers and vibrant neighborhoods made driving in its streets a scenic excursion. Our family’s chance to explore a little bit of Tokyo by car, weaving through its diverse districts, was a cool experience, for sure.

From our hotel in Minato City, Asakasa, we drove away. But first things first. Ramen. Well, because… Japan.

Now fat and happy, we head on to Shibuya City. We spent the morning at Meiji Jingu then drove over to Harajuku, a fashionista’s paradise. Takeshita Street is a kaleidoscope of colors, with shops selling everything from Lolita dresses to oversized sneakers. We parked our car and wandered around, spotting cosplayers and eccentric street style while sipping on our foofoo matcha concoction. Across the street is the Harajuku Station, with the Meiji Shrine forest in the background.

I even saw the weirdest thing ever – a cafe where you can enjoy a cup of latte while petting micro pigs! Micro pigs!! Harajuku is truly where imagination runs wild, where I felt like I had stepped into a world of anime.

Next we drove through downtown Tokyo all the way to Asakusa. Lots of pretty concrete along the way.

Asakusa is a district of Tokyo where tradition thrives; where ancient meets contemporary. The juxtaposition of ancient temples and modern shops was fascinating, a snapshot of Tokyo’s rich history.

Across the river is Sumida, home to the iconic Tokyo Skytree, a futuristic tower that pierces the sky. We caught glimpses of the tower’s reflection. The contrast between the modern architecture and the serene riverbanks was striking. I was hoping we could take the elevator ride to the Skytree’s observation deck for panoramic views of the city but alas, time was not on our side. Maybe, someday.

Going back from where we were earlier, we drove by Marunouchi Square which was in front of the Tokyo Train Station where we will be back to hop on the bullet train to Kyoto in a couple of days. But more on that in a later post.

As the day neared its end, we drove back to Shibuya City and passed by more pretty concrete.

In Shibuya, we found ourselves passing through what looked like a futuristic movie scene. The famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing (world’s busiest pedestrian crossing), where pedestrians flood the streets from all directions, is a mesmerizing sight. It reminded me of NYC’s Times Square. There were even Mario Karts cruising the streets like in an amusement park! I couldn’t help but feel the energy of this youth-centric district with trendy boutiques, quirky cafés, and colorful street art everywhere you look. And yes, I did attempt the Shibuya scramble, dodging people while crossing the road. Quite an adventure that was!

Driving in Tokyo felt oddly familiar, despite the left-side driving. The orderly traffic, efficient roads, and courteous drivers reminded me of home. With Tokyo’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, you’re bound to get lost in the beauty of its character.

Shrine of the Three Gods

| Chris

During our family’s recent trip to Japan, I had the pleasure of visiting the iconic Asakusa Shrine, also known as Sanja-sama, or, my favorite of all its appellations, the Shrine of the Three Gods. This is the second stop on our first day in Tokyo.

As I approached the shrine, the vibrant Kaminarimon, or Thunder Gate with its bright red hue and massive lantern suspended in the middle drew me in. People bustled around, snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere. Passing under the lantern felt like stepping into a different era.

Sensoji Temple, completed in 645 AD, holds the title of Tokyo’s oldest temple. Legend has it that two fishermen brothers fished a statue of the Bodhisattva of compassion (known as Kannon Bosatsu in Japanese) from the nearby Sumida River in 628. Inspired, they transformed their home into a temple, allowing the entire village to pray to the sacred statue.

Over the centuries, Sensoji faced destruction—both natural and man-made. The original main temple building fell victim to World War II bombings but was later rebuilt. The two gates leading to the temple, Hozomon and Kaminarimon, have also risen from the ashes multiple times.

Across from Sensoji Temple stands Asakusa Shrine, affectionately known as “Sanja-Sama” by locals. It’s a shrine dedicated to the three men who built the temple.

Below are more sights from the shrine including barrels of sake, alley market, Nishi Sando shopping street, and a five-story pagoda.

Asakusa Shrine, where history whispers through cherry blossoms and modern Tokyo hums in the background. I’m glad to have stepped into its story. Even for just a few hours.

Tranquil Oasis in a Bustling City

| Chris

My family decided to spend four days in Japan. Hardly enough time to see everything but we managed to squeeze in as much sights as we could in the little time we had. It’s all good. The Meiji Shrine was our first stop.

A bustling metropolis of neon lights, skyscrapers, and crowded streets, might not be the first place you’d associate with tranquility. But tucked within this urban jungle lies the Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu), a serene oasis. During this recent trip, I had the pleasure of visiting this iconic Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Dowager Shoken.

Emperor Meiji, the first emperor of modern Japan, ascended to the throne in 1867 during the Meiji Restoration, a pivotal period when Japan transformed from a feudal society to a global power. His reign marked Japan’s rapid modernization, and the shrine commemorates his pivotal role in shaping the nation.

Completed in 1920, eight years after Emperor Meiji’s passing, the shrine stands as a testament to his legacy. Interestingly, the Meiji Shrine doesn’t house the emperor’s grave; that honor belongs to Fushimi-momoyama in Kyoto.

Meiji Shrine is conveniently located near Harajuku Station, a railway station in Shibuya, Tokyo. As you step through the massive torii (a traditional Japanese gate), the city’s cacophony fades, replaced by a tranquil forest. Over 100,000 trees, donated from all corners of Japan, create a lush green canopy.

A ten-minute walk from the torii leads you to the main complex. Here, you can participate in traditional Shinto activities, make offerings at the main hall, purchase charms, or write wishes on ema (wooden plaques).

I was amused by the barrels of sake flaunted along the walk path. I learned that these barrels are donated annually to the shrine by sake brewers all over Japan as an act of deep respect for the enshrined deities Meiji and Shoken.

There are other sights such as the Meiji Jingu Museum which houses treasures from the shrine’s collection and the Inner Garden that required an entrance fee. For time’s sake, I opted to skip these.

All in all, the Meiji Shrine was a nice visit. A cordial blend of tradition and serenity and a great escape from the bustling streets of Tokyo. I really enjoyed it!