Travel for Life

Autumn's Embrace at Choanji Temple Choanji Temple ( 長安寺 ):  A Timeless Retreat: Founded in 1356, Choanji Temple ⭐is a serene sanctuary nestled amidst nature in Hakone, Japan. Its main hall, believed to date back to the temple's inception, exudes historical charm.  The Enchanting 500 Arhats: A highlight of the temple is the collection of 500 Arhat statues, each with a unique expression. These lifelike figures, crafted by contemporary sculptors, capture the full range of human emotions, from joy to sorrow . The statues are gradually being added to the bamboo forest, creating a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere.  A Seasonal Delight:  Choanji Temple  is renowned for its stunning seasonal beauty. In autumn, the temple grounds are ablaze with colorful foliage, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Photo Gallery On November 21, 2024, we visited  Choanji Temple  to witness its autumnal splendor. We were rewarded with a breathtaking sight: the 500  Arha...

Breathtaking vistas of the Torii Gate, Lake Ashi, and Mount Fuji (though obscured by clouds in this photo) The Narukawa Museum of Art ⭐is a relaxing space where nature and art converge. If you are interested in Japanese painting, I encourage you to visit during your travels to Hakone.  Key Features of the Collection:   The museum boasts a collection of over 4,000 contemporary Japanese paintings, featuring numerous works by artists who have received the Order of Culture (文化勲章受章画家の作品). Museum Highlights:   A Sense of Unity with Nature: Enjoy the serene ambiance and admire the majestic scenery of Lake Ashi while immersing yourself in the world of Japanese painting.  The museum's spacious lounge features large-paned windows Enjoying the view of Lake Ashi from the lounge's sofas An elderly gentleman enjoyed a peaceful moment amidst the autumn colors Photo Gallery In Hakone, the presence of numerous museums with diverse themes reflects the competitive nature of ...

The courtyard of Amazake-chaya, featuring wooden tables and stools Amazake-chaya , a historic teahouse in Hakone, boasts a 13-generation lineage. Their signature amazake (甘酒/あまざけ) has remained unchanged since the Edo period. The teahouse holds an annual Yogoro Festival on December 14th, commemorating the 47 Ronin  (四十七士). Enjoy free amazake from 7-10 AM, followed by a discounted price. Experience the history of this iconic teahouse, as depicted in a famous Kiyochika  (小林 清親) print. A Sweet Sake Stall at Pass in the Hakone Mountains — 箱根山峠甘酒屋 春の日午後六時 (Source: 浮世絵検索 ) Photo Gallery The following photos were taken during a visit on November 19, 2024, on a rainy day.  Miso oden ( 味噌おでん) , 5 servings per plate, 500 yen (tax included) Amazake甘酒 —Non-alcoholic and sugar-free, the gentle sweetness is the result of rice malt Traditional Japanese Gassho house with an open fire pit fireplace in the floor Amazake Tea House 甘酒茶屋  (YouTube  link )

Planning a Japan Trip in 2025? 9 Things You Should Know (YouTube link ) Did you know that Expo 2025 will be held in Osaka, Japan? It's a great time to plan a visit to Japan in 2025. This article summarizes nine tips based on Toshi Guide for planning your trip to Japan. Expo 2025 in Japan Japan will be organizing the next World Expo in Osaka, Kansai, from 13 April to 13 October 2025 . Osaka is hoping to welcome 28 million visitors to Expo, which will focus on the theme Designing Future Society for Our Lives. Some 150 countries and 25 organizations will take part. 9 New Things in Japan from Toshi Guide: Japan's ESTA System: With research and development already in progress, the Japanese government plans to launch the system by 2030 . This will streamline entry for approved travelers. [5]   Shinkansen Changes: No non-reserved seats on Nozomi trains between Tokyo-Osaka from Dec 27, 2024 - Jan 5, 2025 . [4] Book Shinkansen tickets well in advance during this period . Tax-Fre...

Japan's Least Populated Prefecture | Tottori Prefecture Travel Guide (YouTube link ) Autumn Splendor at Onsenji Temple 温泉寺   (YouTube  link ) Tottori Prefecture , nestled on the Sea of Japan coast, holds the distinction of being Japan's least populated prefecture. However, what it lacks in crowds, it more than makes up for in natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and off-the-beaten-path charm. Tottori offers a unique blend of mountains, coastline, and charming towns, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and authentic Japanese experience. Discovering Tranquility: Shitori Shrine (YouTube link ) Here's a glimpse into what awaits you in Tottori: Natural Wonders: Tottori Sand Dunes : The crown jewel of Tottori is the vast Tottori Sand Dunes, stretching for over 16 kilometers along the coast. These impressive dunes, reaching heights of up to 50 meters, are a haven for sandboarding, camel rides, and exploring the unique desert-like landscape. Mt. Mito...

Giving you the world’s best tour around Ritsurin Garden Part 1 (YouTube link ) Giving you the world’s best tour around Ritsurin Garden Part 2 (YouTube link ) Takamatsu (高松), the capital of Kagawa Prefecture , Japan's smallest prefecture , was once the primary entry point to Shikoku Island until the Seto Ohashi Bridge opened in 1988. During the Edo Period, the Matsudaira Clan, relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun, ruled Takamatsu's former castle town and the surrounding Sanuki Province. The clan is also credited with constructing Ritsurin Koen , one of Japan's most renowned gardens. Autumn colors at  Ritsurin Garden  (栗林公園) Things to Do Takamatsu  serves as a great base for exploring the nearby islands and cultural attractions.  Notable side trips from Takamatsu include: Ritsurin Garden (栗林公園) : One of Japan's most famous gardens, featuring traditional tea houses, ponds, and walking paths. Yashima Park : A hilltop park with panoramic views of Takamatsu and the Set...

Kinosaki Onsen Canal: A Serene Waterway Framed by Willow Trees and Tradition Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway: From Town to Temple and Panoramic Heights  (YouTube  link ) The  Onsen Pilgrimage  (Sotoyu Meguri, or "Wander the Hot Spring Trail") is a unique Japanese cultural experience. It offers numerous health benefits, including relaxation, stress relief, improved circulation, and pain relief. It is also a wonderful way to connect with nature and experience traditional Japanese hospitality. Kinosaki Onsen  ⭐⭐is a charming traditional onsen town in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its  Onsen Pilgrimage . This unique experience involves visiting seven public bathhouses, each with its distinct architectural style and ambiance. Visitors can rent a yukata (traditional Japanese robe) and geta (wooden sandals) and wander through the town, immersing themselves in the tranquil atmosphere. Each bathhouse provides a different bathing experience, from open-air baths surro...