Day: June 23, 2023
Exploring the vibrant tapestry of Tokyo’s hidden gems: an insider’s perspective on Time Out Tokyo
Take a look inside the pages – and the offices – of Time Out Tokyo.
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Symbolic gateways to Japan’s rich cultural heritage
Stepping into the sacred grounds of Japan’s Shinto shrines, visitors are greeted by a mesmerizing sight—vibrant vermilion torii gates that stand tall, forming a pathway between the mundane and the divine. These striking structures, steeped in history and cultural significance, serve as gateways to sacred spaces and have become iconic symbols of Japan’s spiritual and […]
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Forget the sushi, we’re going to McDonald’s
When traveling overseas, the last place one might think about eating at is McDonald’s. Sure, they have burgers, nuggets and fries like in the United States, but there are quite a few notable differences. The restaurant Unlike the restaurants in the United States, the ones in Kyoto don’t have drive-thrus. In addition, most people opt […]
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The significance of Japanese cranes – origami and otherwise
Visitors to some popular destinations in Kyoto may wonder: what’s with all the cranes? Known as the “tsuru,” the crane’s historical and cultural significance can be traced back to ancient times. It has deep roots in Japanese folklore, art and tradition. In Japanese mythology, cranes mate for life and are believed to live for 1,000 […]
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Contemplating the death of Buddha
Housed in Rishōdo Temple, right next to Ryōzen Kannon, paintings depicting the death of Buddha hold significant cultural and religious value, encapsulating the final moments of Gautama Buddha’s life on earth. These sorrowful artworks portray the transition to Parinirvana, symbolizing the completion of enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Rishōdo Temple […]
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Quick tips for navigating Kyoto
Transportation is a vital aspect of traveling, enabling individuals to explore new destinations and immerse themselves in diverse cultures. Kyoto offers a wide variety of ways to get around, including using subways, trains, trolleys and buses. While convenient, there are a few things to keep in mind when using public transportation in Kyoto to ensure […]
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Nijo Castle: preserving the essence of the Edo period
Among the many Japanese historical relics, Nijo Castle is a beautiful building with a deep history in the heart of Kyoto. Built in 1603, this flatland castle has been carefully preserved for millenia and, therefore, has an abundance of stories to tell. First-time travelers should not miss an opportunity to visit this magical site. Nijo […]
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Snack attack in the land of konbini
Convenience stores, also known as “konbini” in Japan, have become an essential part of Japanese culture and daily life. The country’s drive for efficiency has made stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart even more popular. What started as a place to get a quick bite or quickly buy daily necessities has grown into so much […]
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Traditional Japanese clothing: kimono and yukata
While visiting Japan, the first thing you might notice is a lot of people styled and dressed in traditional Japanese kimonos and geta (wooden clogs). In Kyoto, this might be a more noticeable sighting since geisha culture is more prominent and is still active among the Japanese locals. Tourists are also interested in traditional clothing […]
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