Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto Japan

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Kyoto, Japan. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of agriculture and prosperity, and is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that line the trails leading up to the main complex. The trail leading to the main complex is called the Senbon Torii (thousands of torii gates) and it is about 4km long.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is considered one of the most important shrines dedicated to Inari in Japan and is visited by millions of people every year. The main complex includes several main buildings, including the main hall, the inner sanctuary and various sub-shrines. The main hall houses several statues of Inari, as well as other gods and goddesses associated with the shrine.

One of the most popular aspects of the shrine is the Senbon Torii, which is a long trail lined with thousands of vermilion torii gates. The gates were donated by individuals and businesses, and many of them bear inscriptions with the names of the donors. The trail leads through the forested area of the sacred Mount Inari and offers visitors a chance to take in the natural beauty of the area. Along the trail, there are also several smaller shrines and statues, as well as shops selling souvenirs and traditional Japanese snacks.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is open year-round and is free to enter. Visitors can access the shrine by taking the JR Nara line to Inari Station or Keihan Main Line to Fushimi-Inari station.

Gods in Fushimi Inari?

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan, dedicated to the god Inari, who is the patron of business, prosperity, and fertility. The shrine is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form a network of trails that lead up the mountain behind the shrine.

Inari is a complex and multifaceted deity with many aspects and manifestations. In addition to being the patron of business and prosperity, Inari is also associated with agriculture, foxes, fertility, and tea ceremony. Inari is also considered the protector of travelers, especially those traveling by sea.

The Fushimi Inari Taisha is also home to numerous other deities, including the god Ukanomitama, who is the patron of agriculture, and the god Ebisu, who is the patron of fishermen and merchants. Other deities also associated with Fushimi Inari are the god of harvest and fertility, god of industry and god of prosperity.

The Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most visited shrines in Japan and is considered one of the most important shrines dedicated to Inari. It's a must visit place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and history.

Places to visit in Kyoto Japan

Places to visit in Osaka Japan

Osaka, like many other cities in Japan, is known for its friendly and outgoing people. People in Osaka are generally considered to be very communicative and open to interacting with visitors. They are known for their warm hospitality and willingness to help others, especially tourists. The locals in Osaka are also known for their sense of humor and their love of food, which is evident in their famous street food and local specialties such as okonomiyaki and takoyaki. Additionally, the people of Osaka are known for their strong regional identity and pride, which is reflected in their unique dialect and local customs. Overall, visitors to Osaka can expect to have a positive and enjoyable experience interacting with the locals.

 Osaka, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is a vibrant city known for its delicious food, lively nightlife, and rich history and culture. Some places to visit in Osaka include:

Osaka Castle: Osaka Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Osaka, known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Visitors can explore the castle and enjoy the views from the top of the castle.

Dotonbori: Dotonbori is a famous shopping and entertainment district in Osaka, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food. Visitors can enjoy the bright lights and billboards, and sample local specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Universal Studios Japan: Universal Studios Japan is a popular theme park that offers rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows. Visitors can enjoy the Harry Potter and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and more.

Shinsaibashi: Shinsaibashi is a popular shopping district in Osaka, known for its high-end fashion and designer boutiques. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the shopping street and find unique souvenirs.

Sumiyoshi Taisha: Sumiyoshi Taisha is a beautiful Shinto shrine that is one of the oldest in Japan. Visitors can take a walk around the shrine and enjoy the traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Tempozan Ferris Wheel: Tempozan Ferris Wheel is one of the largest ferris wheel in Japan and offers great views of Osaka Bay and the surrounding area.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world, and it's a great place for families to see a variety of marine life.

Osaka Science Museum: Osaka Science Museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on science activities. Visitors can learn about the latest scientific research and technology.

Tsutenkaku Tower: Tsutenkaku Tower is a famous landmark in Osaka, known for its observation deck and great views of the city. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy the panoramic views.

Places to visit in Tokyo Japan

 Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich history and culture. Some places that are worth visiting in Tokyo include:

Tokyo Tower: The iconic Tokyo Tower is a must-see landmark, offering great views of the city from the observation deck.

Asakusa: Asakusa is a historic district that is known for its traditional atmosphere and famous Senso-ji temple. Visitors can take a walk along the Nakamise shopping street and enjoy the local food and souvenirs.

Meiji Shrine: This shrine is dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and it's surrounded by a beautiful forest. Visitors can take a walk around the grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Tsukiji Fish Market: Tsukiji Fish Market is one of the largest fish markets in the world, and it's a great place to try fresh seafood. Visitors can watch the famous tuna auction and sample different types of seafood.

Shinjuku: Shinjuku is a district that is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining. Visitors can take a walk around the area and enjoy the bright lights and busy streets.

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea: these theme parks are a great place for families to have fun and enjoy the Disney experience.

Odaiba: Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay that's known for its futuristic atmosphere and great views of the city. Visitors can take a walk around the island and visit popular landmarks such as the Rainbow Bridge and the Statue of Liberty replica.

Harajuku: Harajuku is a district that is known for its trendy fashion and unique street style. Visitors can take a walk around the area and enjoy the colorful shops and boutiques.

Roppongi Hills: Roppongi Hills is a large complex that includes a shopping mall, observation deck, art museum, and more. Visitors can enjoy the views from the observation deck, stroll through the gardens, and explore the art museum.

Places to visit during Travel Kyoto Japan

Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Some places that are worth visiting in Kyoto include:

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine: This shrine is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that lead up to the mountain behind the shrine. It's an iconic place in Kyoto and a popular spot for tourists.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's famous for its beautiful golden structure that reflects on the pond in front of it, creating a stunning view.

Gion: Gion is a historic district in Kyoto that is known for its traditional wooden machiyas (townhouses) and geisha culture. Visitors can take a walk through the streets and enjoy the traditional architecture and atmosphere.Also see Gion Matsuri

Arashiyama: This district is located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, and it's famous for its beautiful bamboo groves and scenic views of the surrounding hills. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Hozu River or walk along the Togetsukyo Bridge.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple: This temple is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's known for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering a great view of the city.

Nijo Castle: This castle was built in the 17th century and it's a great example of traditional Japanese castle architecture. It's also known for its nightingale floors, which make chirping sounds when walked on, which were designed to prevent intruders.

Kyoto Imperial Palace: This palace is the former residence of the Imperial Family and it's surrounded by beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a tour of the palace and learn about the history of the Imperial Family.

Kyoto National Museum: This museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Kyoto and Japan. It houses a large collection of art and artifacts, including national treasures and important cultural properties.

Toei Eigamura: Place where you can see or meet Ninja and Samurai. Very popular traveling spot for kids and adult men that loves Japanese Culture!

Here are some of the good points of Kyoto:

Rich cultural heritage: Kyoto was Japan's capital for over a thousand years and as a result, it is home to many historical sites, including over 2,000 temples and shrines. Some of the most famous include Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari-taisha (a shrine known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates), and Kiyomizu-dera (a temple with a famous wooden stage that offers views over the city).

Beautiful gardens and nature: Kyoto is surrounded by beautiful nature, and visitors can enjoy strolls through the city's many traditional gardens, such as the garden at Ryoan-ji temple or the moss garden at Saiho-ji temple. The city is also known for its cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing spots.

Delicious food: Kyoto is known for its traditional Japanese cuisine, such as kaiseki ryori (a multi-course meal) and tofu dishes. Visitors can also enjoy the local delicacies such as yudofu (boiled tofu) and yatsuhashi (a sweet made from glutinous rice flour).

Traditional arts and crafts: Kyoto is known for its traditional arts and crafts, including kimono and textiles Nishijin-ori for example, pottery, and lacquerware. Visitors can find a wide variety of unique and beautiful handicrafts in the city's shops and markets.

Relaxing atmosphere: Kyoto is a relatively calm and quiet city compared to other major cities in Japan, such as Tokyo and Osaka. Visitors can enjoy a more relaxed pace of life and take the time to appreciate the beauty of the city.

Great transportation: Kyoto is well-connected by train and bus, making it easy to explore the city and surrounding areas. Visitors can also rent a bicycle to explore the city in a more leisurely way.

Places to visit in Shiga Japan

Shiga Prefecture in Japan is known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and historical sites. Some places that are worth visiting in Shiga include:

Lake Biwa: The largest lake in Japan, Lake Biwa offers a variety of activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. It is also a popular spot for bird watching.

Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple: This temple is located on Mount Hiei and is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Omi-Hachiman Castle: This castle is one of Japan's oldest and is located on top of a hill overlooking the city. The castle was built in the 16th century and offers great views of the city and surrounding area.

Miho Museum: This museum is located in the mountains and is known for its unique architecture and beautiful gardens. It houses a collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Otsu: The capital of Shiga prefecture, Otsu is a charming city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese architecture, temples, and shrines, as well as local food and shopping.

Chikubushima Island: The island, located in Lake Biwa, is a spiritual place and home to a Shinto shrine. Visitors can take a boat to the island and enjoy the beautiful scenery and the tranquility of the island.

Taga Taisha Shrine: This shrine is one of the oldest in Japan and is known for its beautiful architecture and natural surroundings.

Kutsuki Mansion: This mansion is an example of a traditional Japanese home and is open for visitors to see the interior and learn about the lifestyle of the wealthy merchants of the Edo period.

Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori Japan Festival

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is a traditional festival that takes place in the city of Aomori, Japan, in early August. It is considered one of the most famous festivals in Japan and one of the most important in the city of Aomori. The festival has a history of over 200 years and is celebrated to give thanks to the gods for their blessings and to pray for the safety and prosperity of the community.

The festival features large, illuminated floats called "nebuta" that are paraded through the streets of Aomori. These floats depict various characters and scenes from Japanese folklore and are made from paper mache over a wooden frame. The floats are also accompanied by traditional music and dance performances, and many participants dress in traditional costumes.

The highlight of the festival is the "Rassen Nebuta" parade, which takes place on August 2nd to 7th, during which the nebuta floats are paraded through the streets accompanied by festival participants dressed in traditional costumes, musicians, and dancers.

In addition to the parade, the festival also includes traditional music and dance performances, food vendors selling traditional festival foods, and other cultural events such as a tea ceremony and flower arrangement displays.

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture and is a popular event for both locals and tourists. It is also considered a unique opportunity to admire the traditional Aomori architecture, costumes, and customs.

Tenjin Matsuri festival in Osaka Japan

Tenjin Matsuri is a traditional festival that takes place in the city of Osaka, Japan, in July. It is considered one of the most famous festivals in Japan and one of the most important in the city of Osaka. The festival has a history of over 1,000 years and is celebrated to give thanks to the gods for their blessings and to pray for the safety and prosperity of the community.

The festival features a parade of boats on the Okawa River, which runs through Osaka. The boats are decorated with lanterns and banners and are accompanied by traditional music and dance performances. The highlight of the festival is the "Funatogyo" parade, which takes place on July 24th, during which the boats are paraded on the Okawa River.

In addition to the parade, the festival also includes traditional music and dance performances, food vendors selling traditional festival foods, and other cultural events such as a tea ceremony and flower arrangement displays.

Tenjin Matsuri is a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture and is a popular event for both locals and tourists. It is also considered a unique opportunity to admire the traditional Osaka architecture, costumes, and customs.

Kanda Matsuri festival in Tokyo Japan

Kanda Matsuri is a traditional festival that takes place in the city of Tokyo, Japan, in May. The festival is one of the oldest in Japan, with a history dating back to the 17th century. The festival is celebrated to give thanks to the gods for their blessings and to pray for the safety and prosperity of the community.

The festival features a parade of portable shrines called "mikoshi" that are carried through the streets of Tokyo by festival participants. The mikoshi are often ornately decorated and can weigh several hundred pounds. The festival is also accompanied by traditional music and dance performances.

The highlight of the festival is the "Mikoshi Parade" which takes place on the second Saturday and Sunday of May. During the parade, the mikoshi are paraded through the streets accompanied by festival participants dressed in traditional costumes, musicians, and dancers.

In addition to the parade, the festival also includes traditional music and dance performances, food vendors selling traditional festival foods, and other cultural events such as a tea ceremony and flower arrangement displays.

Kanda Matsuri is a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture and is a popular event for both locals and tourists. It is also considered a unique opportunity to admire the traditional Tokyo architecture, costumes, and customs.

Gion Matsuri Festival in Japan

Gion Matsuri is a traditional festival that takes place in the city of Kyoto, Japan, every July. It is considered one of the most famous festivals in Japan and one of the most important in the city of Kyoto. The festival has a history of over 1,000 years and is celebrated to ward off disease and evil spirits.

The festival features a parade of large, decorated floats called "yamaboko" that are pulled through the streets of Kyoto. Each float is designed to depict a different theme, such as a traditional Japanese scene or a famous legend. The floats are also accompanied by musicians and dancers, and many participants dress in traditional costumes.

The highlight of the festival is the "Yamaboko Junko" parade, which takes place on July 17th and July 24th. The parade features 32 floats and is the most spectacular event of the festival.

In addition to the parade, the festival also includes traditional music and dance performances, food vendors selling traditional festival foods, and other cultural events such as a tea ceremony and flower arrangement displays.

Gion Matsuri is a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture and is a popular event for both locals and tourists. It is also considered a unique opportunity to admire the traditional Kyoto architecture, costumes, and customs.

Big Matsuri Festivals in Japan for travel

 There are many matsuri, or festivals, that take place in Japan throughout the year, but some of the largest and most well-known include:

Gion Matsuri: This festival takes place in Kyoto in July and is one of the most famous in Japan. It features a parade of large, decorated floats called yamaboko, as well as traditional music and dance performances.

Kanda Matsuri: This festival takes place in Tokyo in May and is one of the oldest in Japan. It features a parade of portable shrines and traditional music and dance performances.

Tenjin Matsuri: This festival takes place in Osaka in July and is one of the most famous in Japan. It features a parade of boats on the Okawa River as well as traditional music and dance performances.

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri: This festival takes place in Aomori in August and is one of the most famous in Japan. It features large, illuminated floats called nebuta, as well as traditional music and dance performances.

Onbashira Festival: This festival takes place in Nagano every six years in April and May. It features the cutting, transportation and raising of large logs called Onbashira for the rebuilding of the Suwa shrine's main building.

Kamakura Festival: This festival takes place in Yokohama in April and features a parade of large, illuminated snow huts called kamakura, as well as traditional music and dance performances.

Awa Odori Festival: This festival takes place in Tokushima in August and is one of the most famous in Japan. It features a parade of dancers in traditional costumes and masks, as well as traditional music performances.

These are just a few examples of the many matsuri that take place in Japan. Each festival has its own unique characteristics and history, and they are all a great way to experience Japanese culture and tradition.

What is Maiko?

 Maiko are traditional Japanese apprentice geisha. They are young women who are undergoing training to become full-fledged geisha, also known as geiko.

Maiko typically begin their training at a young age, usually around 15 years old, and spend several years learning traditional arts such as classical music, dance, and tea ceremony, as well as social skills such as conversation and hostessing. They also learn how to apply traditional makeup and hairstyles, which are very intricate and distinctive.

Maiko can be distinguished from geiko by their hairstyles and clothing. They wear brightly colored kimono with long, trailing sleeves and a long, wide obi (sash) tied in the front. They also wear tall wooden sandals called okobo. Their hair is styled in a very elaborate hairstyle, with a red and white striped cloth covering the top of the head.

Maiko traditionally work in the hanamachi, or "flower towns," of Kyoto and other parts of Japan, where they entertain guests at tea houses and other venues. They are typically accompanied by older, more experienced geiko, who act as mentors and chaperones.

Maiko are considered symbols of traditional Japanese culture and beauty, and they often participate in traditional festivals and ceremonies. They are also very popular with tourists visiting Kyoto, who can see them perform traditional dances and other arts, and even take pictures with them.

It's worth noting that becoming a maiko is not an easy task, it requires a lot of dedication, and not all applicants are accepted. The training is long and demanding, and the life of a maiko can be quite challenging, but it's also a way to keep the traditional culture alive, and also gives the opportunity for young women to learn valuable skills and gain independence.


Places to visit in Kyoto Japan