Travel for Life

Mount Fuji Lava Crafts the Walls of Kosanji’s Senbutsu Cave Beneath the vibrant temple grounds of Kosanji lies a remarkable and profound journey: the  千佛洞地獄峡  ⭐, often referred to as the  Cave of 1,000 Buddhas . This ambitious underground project, nine years in the making, began in 1955 and was finally completed in 1964. The entrance to this subterranean world is subtly placed next to the elegant Shishinden Hall 至心殿, on the west side of the main temple building. From there, visitors descend about 15 meters underground into a winding tunnel, stretching an impressive 350 meters. The very walls of this unique cave are a testament to human ingenuity and artistic vision: they were meticulously formed using hardened lava from Japan's iconic Mount Fuji and burnt stones from Mount Asama, all reinforced with concrete to create naturalistic rock formations. Beyond the serene Buddhas, vivid plaques line the cave walls, portraying scenes of Buddhist hell and paradise. These powerful ...

Framing the Future: "The Tower of Hope" from a Marble Vantage The Hill Of Hope  ⭐(Miraishin-no-Oka  / 未来心の丘) is perhaps the most striking and unusual attraction. Atop the Kousanji Temple's grounds, a breathtaking sight unfolds: the Hill of the Future Spirit (Miraishin-no-Oka). This sprawling 5,000-square-meter garden, crafted in pristine white marble, was brought to life by renowned sculptor  Itto Kuetani . MENU Skip menu Itto , whose studio is located in Carrara, Italy, personally sourced the luminous marble from that region. With great respect for the material and its natural surroundings, he meticulously shaped each monument and pathway. Every curve and angle reflects a dialogue between the artist, the stone, and the landscape, carefully considering the whisper of the wind, the play of light, and the sweeping scenery. The result is an immersive space that invites visitors not only to observe but also to engage with their surroundings, sparking imaginati...

Virgin Mary Statue from France Marks "Discovery of Christians" at Oura Cathedral Built in 1864 by French priests Louis Furet and Bernard Petitjean ,  Ōura Cathedral , officially known as the Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs of Japan, stands as a testament to faith and endurance in  Nagasaki . This Catholic church was erected to honor the 26 martyrs executed in 1597 and quickly became a landmark. It was Japan’s first Western-style building to be designated a  National Treasure  in 1933, and it remains the oldest surviving Christian church in the country. Originally a small wooden church, it was expanded into a grand Gothic-style brick basilica by 1879. A pivotal moment in its history occurred in 1865 when hidden Christians from Urakami revealed their faith to Father Petitjean, an event known as the “Discovery of Christians.” This remarkable revelation came after more than 250 years of secrecy due to Japan's ban on Christianity. The cathedral miraculously surviv...

Mizukake Tradition—Pouring Prayers over Stone Guardians Daisho-in  大聖院⭐⭐, the head temple of  Miyajima  宮島, is a significant spiritual site nestled within one of Japan's Three Most Scenic Spots. Just a five-minute walk from the iconic World Heritage site  Itsukushima Shrine , you'll reach the Niomon Gate, marking the entrance to the temple grounds. As you ascend the long slope towards Onarimon Gate御成門, be sure to stroke the Daihannyakyo Sutra 大般若経切 tubes lining the steps; this simple act is believed to accumulate merit and usher in happiness. Inside the temple, discover the  Chokgando Hall , home to the principal image of  Namikiri Fudo Myo-o . This wish-granting deity, a gift from Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is said to foster strong connections in your personal and professional life, bringing good fortune and career advancement. Elsewhere on the serene grounds, you'll find the mesmerizing  500 Rakan Statues  . Each statue, depicting a disciple of Buddha,...