Wonderful Japan – Kansai

Aug 10, 2017 | Views: 1,059

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(By Tsem Rinpoche)

The Kansai region is often considered as the historical and cultural heart of Japan. It was the centre of politics, culture, and economy before the capital city was transferred to Tokyo in the 17th century. As a result of its unique history, many historical sites in Kansai are considered as UNESCO World Heritage sites or Japanese national treasures.

Due to its unique history, the residents of Kansai have adopted a dynamic lifestyle from other regions in Japan, such as the commerce of Osaka, the culture of Kyoto, the cosmopolitan standards of living of Kobe. However, this does not mean that Kansai does not have its own unique customs. For example, Osakans are known for their love of delicious food, and the Kansai people in general are known for their easy-going and fun loving nature.

As of 2010, there are about 23 million residents in the Kansai region. The region covers an area of over 27,000 square kilometres (10,000 square miles), and consists of seven prefectures:

No. Prefecture Capital City
1. Osaka Osaka
2. Hyogo Kobe
3. Kyoto Kyoto
4. Mie Tsu
5. Wakayama Wakayama
6. Nara Nara
7. Shiga Otsu

Note: Kyoto and Nara will be excluded from this article since the topic has been covered in another article.

 

Brief History

Bunraku performance in Osaka

Bunraku performance in Osaka

The history of Kansai can be traced back to the ancient times, when it is said that humans have been living in the region for more than 10,000 years. With Japan’s ancient capitals located in Kansai until the 17th century, the region was the country’s centre of economy, culture, and politics for many centuries. As a result, Kansai is the region with the most UNESCO World Heritage sites in Japan. In addition, Kansai is the birthplace of three Japanese performing arts: Bunraku, Noh Theatre, and Kabuki Theatre. Kansai is also the place of origin of other forms of Japanese art, such as flower arrangement, and the tea ceremony.

Kansai is also an important region in the spread of Buddhism. It is noted that the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism and the Jimon Sect of Tendai Buddhism were established in Kansai. The region is also home to the Ise Shrine, the holiest shrine in the Shinto religion.

 

Location

The Kansai region is located in the middle of the Japanese archipelago, between the Pacific Ocean to the south and the Sea of Japan to the north. To the west of the region is the Seto Inland Sea, while to the east lies the Ise Bay.

Kansai region is located in the middle of the Japanese archipelago.

Kansai region is located in the middle of the Japanese archipelago. Click to enlarge

A closer look of Kansai region

A closer look of Kansai region – Click to enlarge

 

Language and Dialect

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Like other parts of Japan, Kansai people speak the Japanese language, although they have several distinct dialects. Kansai dialects tend to be harsher in tone and more melodious than other parts of Japan.

  • The Keihanshin dialect is used in the metropolitan areas like Kobe, Kyoto, and Osaka
  • The Kinai dialect is used in Kyoto and Nara
  • The Tajima and Tango dialects are used in the North-western part of Kansai, but are sometimes categorised as Chūgoku dialects, due to being very different from other Kansai dialects
  • Island languages are used in Totsukawa and Owase, but are not considered as Kansai dialects due to significant differences

The Kansai dialect has existed for over one thousand years. The Kinai dialect used to be considered as the de facto standard Japanese language when Nara and Kyoto were the imperial capital of Japan. After the Tokugawa Shogunate moved the Japanese imperial capital to Edo in the 17th century, the Kansai dialect became a provincial dialect. However, since the Kansai region is still the second most populous urban region after the Kanto region, Kansai dialects are still the most widely spoken non-standard Japanese dialect.

 

Culture in Kansai

Kabuki performance was originated from Kansai region

Kabuki – a traditional Japanese theatrical dance and drama performance that involves performers with elaborate makeup

The general stereotype of Kansai and Osaka people are as fun-loving people, unlike their Tokyo counterparts, who are generally considered as straight laced and stressed out. This Kansai stereotype stems from the fact that many successful comedians in Japan came from the Kansai area, and many of these comedians speak the Kansai dialect. In addition, historically, Osaka is known as the commercial and trading centre in Japan. Therefore, people from Osaka tend to have a more relaxed demeanour than their Tokyo counterparts, who are strongly associated with the samurai culture.

Kansai is famous for being a place where many different forms of Japanese art originated from. For example, the famous novel ‘The Tale of Genji’ by Murasaki Shikibu came from this region. Other Japanese traditional art forms from Kansai include:

  • Ikebana is a traditional Japanese fresh flower arrangement, which allows creative expression within certain boundaries of rules
  • Chanoyu is also known as the Way of Tea, a ceremony that involves the preparation and presentation of green tea
  • Bunraku is a traditional Japanese puppet theatre that involves three types of theatre performers: chanters (Tayu), puppeteers (Ningyozukai), and shamisen musicians
  • Kabuki is a traditional Japanese theatrical dance and drama performance that involves performers with elaborate makeup
  • Noh is a traditional Japanese drama that combines music, dance, and acting, with the actors usually wearing light masks made of cypress wood
Ikebana, a traditional Japanese fresh flower arrangement

Ikebana – a traditional Japanese fresh flower arrangement

Chanoyu is a ceremony that involved the preparation and presentation of green tea.

Chanoyu – a ceremony that involves the preparation and presentation of green tea

A traditional Noh performance, one of the theatre art form that originated from Kansai region

Noh – a traditional Japanese drama that combines music, dance, and acting, with the actors usually wearing light masks made of cypress wood

 

Customs in Kansai

Several customs that should be known before visiting Kansai region or Japan in general:

1. Addressing another person with respect

Bowing is an art form in Japan. The inclination and the duration of the bow will depend on the circumstance and the position of the person that you are addressing. A peer or friend may get a quick 30 degree bow, while a superior may get a longer 70 degree bow. For tourists, a simple nod of the head or an attempt to bow at the waist will generally be acceptable.

In addition, addressing someone appropriately is very important. It is common to attach the suffix ‘-san’ or ‘-sama’ behind someone’s last name as a sign of respect. Although in most cases, it is acceptable to call children by their first name. However, you can consider adding the suffix ‘-kun’ for boys and ‘-chan’ for girls.

2. No tipping

Tipping is not acceptable in any situation and can be considered insulting.

3. Boundaries for shoes

Visitors are expected to take off their shoes at the entrance of houses, businesses, and temples. It is a major taboo to step on a tatami mat with your shoes. Many Japanese people bring a pair of indoor slippers to be used as needed. In most places, shoe racks are prepared for guests to store their shoes. If a plastic bag is offered instead of a shoe rack, it means that the guest is expected to carry his or her own shoes.

4. Bathing in public bath

Public bathhouses (sento) or hot springs (onsen) are popular in Japan. Unlike in western countries, public baths in Japan are used after you have washed and rinsed, but would like to soak further.

 

Travel Document Requirements to Enter Japan

Kansai International Airport in Osaka Prefecture

Kansai International Airport in Osaka Prefecture

All foreign visitors who would like to enter Japan should have a passport that is valid throughout the period of their stay in Japan. Citizens of countries that have reciprocal visa agreements with Japan may enter the country within a limited period of time as long as their visit is for sightseeing purposes and not to engage in activities that results in income.

The following is a list of countries that have reciprocal visa agreements with Japan:

For a limited stay of 90 days or less

Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Surinam, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tunisia, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay

For a limited stay of 15 days or less

Brunei, Thailand, Indonesia (visitor must have a biometric passport and has been issued a Visa Waiver Registration Certificate)

For other conditions

  • Malaysia, Barbados, Serbia, Lesotho, and Turkey – allowed visa-free visit for up to 90 days, provided visitor has a biometric passport
  • Taiwan – allowed visa-free visit for 90 days, provided visitor’s passport has a personal identification number
  • China – visitors travelling via cruise ships do not need a visa, but must leave on the same cruise ship

For all other nationalities, visitors are required to obtain a temporary visitor’s visa prior to arrival, which will be valid for 90 days. If you are just transiting between international flights at the airport, no visa is required as long as you stay within the secured designated area.

You can visit the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to get more information on visas. For further information, please check with the Japanese embassy in your respective country.

 

What to Wear

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Although it is acceptable for tourists to wear casual clothing, you should adjust your clothing to the weather and the season when you travel to Japan. For example, if you come in the summer, it is better to bring lighter clothing, whereas if you travel during the winter season, it is better to prepare a warm coat and other warmer clothing. Since indoor and outdoor temperatures can be dramatically different, it is better to wear multiple layers of clothing that can be taken off or put on as necessary. It is also recommended to bring an umbrella, raincoats, and shawls.

 

Food

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Food is an important part in the lives of Kansai people, especially those who live in Osaka. There is a Japanese saying, “Kyo no Kidaore, Osaka no Kuidaore”, which translates into “Kyotoites are ruined by overspending on clothing, Osakans are ruined by overspending on food”.

The following are several unique foods from the prefectures of Kansai:

 

Shiga Prefecture

Funazushi

Funazushi

Funazushi is a food delicacy that contains funa (freshwater Carp) from Lake Biwa, invented during the Heian period (795 – 1185). After it has been cleaned, the cook preserves the fish by rubbing salts into its various body parts. After one month, the cook washes the fish from the salt residue, then repeats the preservation process on the fish, before stuffing the fish with cooked rice that has been mixed with sake and salt, and sets this aside for six months to mature. After six months, you can cut off a piece and choose to eat it as it is or with rice and tea. This type of fermented sushi is known as narezushi.

 

Wakayama Prefecture

Koyadofu

Koyadofu

Koyadofu is a freeze-dried tofu that has been around since the ancient Japanese period. The method of freezing the tofu involves removing the water and drying it in order to create a unique texture and taste that is different from other tofu. Koyadofu is a staple diet for Japanese Buddhist priests, and it is said that Koyadofu originated from Mount Koya, the centre of Shingon Buddhism in Wakayama. Koyadofu is very popular amongst Japanese households because it is highly nutritious and easy for digestion. In addition, it is full of flavour because it soaks a lot of soup when boiled.

 

Osaka Prefecture

Takoyaki

Takoyaki

Takoyaki is made from a mixture of octopus, flour, stock, cabbage, onions, and some pickled ginger. The mixture is then made into balls and baked. The resulting balls are crunchy and delicious.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a mixture of flour, mixed vegetables, and fried on a round hotplate. You can add other ingredients if you want too. The end results look like a pancake with rich ingredients.

 

Mie Prefecture

Ise Udon

Ise Udon

Ise Udon is unique because its broth is made from soy sauce and sweet sake.

Tekonezushi

Tekonezushi

Tekonezushi is made up of cut fish meat marinated in soy sauce, and then arranged on top of rice with vinegar.

 

Hyogo Prefecture

Akashiyaki

Akashiyaki

Akashiyaki are round dumplings made from an egg mixture. They were invented in the city of Akashi, and the batter is dipped into dashi stock before being eaten.

 

Wakayama Prefecture

Meharizushi

Meharizushi

Meharizushi – Onigiri rice balls wrapped in pickled mustard leaves

Kue Nabe

Kue Nabe

Kue Nabe – Hotpot long tooth grouper fish dish

 

Fukui Prefecture

Echizen Soba

Echizen Soba

Echizen Soba – Buckwheat soba with grated radish, and one of the most popular foods in the prefecture

 

Climate

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Due to being surrounded by the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean, and the Seto Inland Sea, and with steep mountainous regions to the south and sloping plateaus in the north, the climate in Kansai is very varied depending on the area. The climate in the southern region is relatively mild, but the coast along the Sea of Japan experiences a lot of snow during the winter season. The coast along the Seto Inland Sea has a milder coastal climate, while the inland area experiences milder temperatures.

In general, sunshine is fairly consistent throughout the year. However, the amount of rainfall may vary considerably. The rainfall volume is particularly high from the month of May to September, but rain is usually concentrated in specific areas. In the winter, temperatures can drop to as low as five degree Celsius, while in the summer, temperatures can be near to or in the low thirties.

 

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kansai is during the autumn and cherry blossom seasons in spring, since many of the sites are at their best condition for viewing.

 

20 Great Places to Visit in Kansai

 

Osaka Prefecture

 

1. Osaka Castle (Osaka-jō)

Osaka Castle in autumn

Osaka Castle in autumn

General Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537 - 1598 CE)

General Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537 – 1598 CE)

In 1583, General Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a 16th century Japanese warrior, built the Osaka Castle to display his power and accomplishment. According to legend, the building of the Osaka Castle involved 100,000 workers. It was the largest castle in Japan when it was first built, and Hideyoshi chose the granite structure because it was considered impregnable. Unfortunately, this was proven to be wrong as Tokugawa Ieyasu and his army destroyed the castle and the Toyotomi lineage less than a century later in 1614.

In the 1620s, Tokugawa Ieyasu rebuilt and surrounded the castle with over 100 tons of stone as protection. However, this attempt could not protect the castle from natural disaster. In 1665, lightning struck and burnt down the castle tower.

The citizens of Osaka raised funds to rebuild and maintain the castle. In 1931, the current structure of the castle, including the castle tower that was burnt down in the 17th century, was rebuilt. During World War II, the castle miraculously survived the air raids, and in 1997, the castle was extensively refurbished.

Today, the beautiful Osaka Castle is surrounded by parks and deep wide ditches. The castle complex consists of 13 structures that include several 17th century turrets. The eight-floor central observation deck, which was used to observe the area surrounding the castle to detect enemy invasion, has a view range of 360 degrees.

Small figurines of Japanese Samurai warriors displayed at the historical exhibition inside Osaka Castle museum.

Small figurines of Japanese Samurai warriors displayed at the historical exhibition inside Osaka Castle museum.

At night, the castle is lit with floodlights. If you visit the lawn on weekends, you may be able to watch the performance of local musicians on the lawn. An elevator has been installed inside the castle tower to facilitate easier access. Visitors can visit the museum that contains information about Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the castle’s history. In the Nishinomaru Garden, there are 600 cherry trees, a tea house, and the former Osaka Guest House. In addition, visitors can visit a temple dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the castle complex.

The castle and the Nishinomaru Garden are at their most colourful best during the cherry blossom season in early April, and the autumn foliage season in early November to early December.

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Osaka Castle
Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0002, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6941-3044
Website: http://www.osakacastle.net/english/
Entrance fee: ¥600
Opening hours: 9:00 – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)

Nishinomaru Garden
Entrance fee: ¥200 (¥350 during the extended hours of cherry blossom season)
Opening hours: 9:00 – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM. The opening hours is extended to 9:00 PM during cherry blossom season)

 

How to Get There

You can take Japan Rail (JR) train to the closest train station to the castle, Osakajokoen Station, which is a 10 minutes train ride from JR Osaka Station. If you plan to enter the castle from the Otemon Gate at the south-western corner of the castle park, the closest station that you should take is the 4-chrome station along the Tanimachi Subway Line or Chuo Subway Line.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Osaka Castle. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Bike & Bed Charin Co HOSTEL OSAKA
Address: 2 Chome-2-9 Yariyamachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0027, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6944-3100

2. Imperial Hotel Osaka
Address: 1-8-50 Kita-ku Temmabashi, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0042, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6881-1111
Website: http://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/e/osaka/

 

2. Momofuku Andō Instant Ramen Museum

Momofuku Andō Instant Ramen Museum

Momofuku Andō Instant Ramen Museum

Momofuku Andō (1910 – 2007 CE)

Momofuku Andō (1910 – 2007 CE)

Momofuku Andō (1910 – 2007 CE) was born in Taiwan in 1910, which was a territory of Japan at the time. After World War II, Japan lost Taiwan, and Andō chose to be a Japanese citizen. At the time, Japan was experiencing a shortage of food, and Andō, who believed that “Peace will come to the world when the people have enough to eat”, was thinking of ways to invent an economical and easy way to cook food. After he successfully invented the instant noodle, Andō established Nissin Food Products Co. Ltd., which supplied the world with Chikin Ramen in 1958 and Cup Noodles in 1971.

The Momofuku Andō Instant Ramen Museum features the history of how Cup Noodles were made in the shed where Mr Momofuku Andō experimented with various cooking methods, ramen manufacturing machines, topping reproductions, and several TV screens that show commercials of Cup Noodle and Chikin Ramen throughout the years. Visitors can also walk along a tunnel that showcases a half-century of package designs and the various Nissin products. Visitors can borrow an English language audio guide by paying a 2,000yen deposit.

The replica of the shed where Mr. Momofuku Andō experimented with various cooking methods.

The replica of the shed where Mr. Momofuku Andō experimented with various cooking methods.

The museum offers various activities where the visitors can choose to take part. Visitors can challenge themselves with computer history quizzes about instant ramen, or watch the manufacturing of instant noodles in the CUPNOODLES Drama Theatre.

Visitors can also create their own custom-made Cup Noodles and decorate the cup. Firstly, participants must buy a 300yen Styrofoam cup, which they can then decorate as they desire. After that, participants will use the Noodle Shooter machine to fill the cup with dry noodles, and ask staff members to pour their choice of broth flavours, as well as up to 12 toppings such as kimchi, cheese, and corn. The museum staff members then help to seal the cup and package it in an air-cushioned carry bag.

Another activity for visitors is in the Chicken Ramen Factory; however, this activity is not available for individual visitors. The Chicken Ramen Factory allowed the visitors to make their own instant noodle from scratch. The process will take about 90 minutes. The session will cost ¥500 for adults and ¥300 for elementary school students.

A half-century of package design of various Nissin products

A half-century of package design of various Nissin products

Address: 8-25 Masumi-cho, Ikeda-shi, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 563-0041, Japan
Phone: +81 72-752-3484
Website: http://www.instantramen-museum.jp/en/
Entrance fee: N/ A
Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (last admission at 3:30 PM)

 

How to Get There

The nearest train station to the Momofuku Andō Instant Ramen Museum is Ikeda Station, approximately 20 minutes by train from the Hankyu Umeda Station via express train on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line. Visitors can exit via the Masumi-cho Homen Exit, and walk about five minutes to the museum. If visitors choose to charter a private bus, they are recommended to call the reservation line in advance. Visitors can expect long queues to enter the museum on weekends.

 

Accommodation

There are many accommodations in Osaka. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Bike & Bed Charin Co HOSTEL OSAKA
Address: 2 Chome-2-9 Yariyamachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0027, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6944-3100

2. Imperial Hotel Osaka
Address: 1-8-50 Kita-ku Temmabashi, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0042, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6881-1111
Website: http://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/e/osaka/

 

3. Abeno Harukas

Abeno Harukas

Abeno Harukas

Abeno Harukas is the tallest building in Japan at 300m (984ft) and 60 stories. Cesar Pelli, the Argentine-American architect who designed some of the world’s tallest buildings, designed Abeno Harukas. The building construction was completed in March 2014. Abeno Harukas houses Japan’s largest department store (Kintetsu, floors B2–14), the Abeno Harukas Art Museum, a hotel, office spaces, and restaurants.

The observatory on the 16th floor is free, but admission is required for the top-level Harukas 300 Observatory, an observation deck which provides a 360-degree view of the whole Kansai region through windows that run several stories high. Reservations can be made as far as two months in advance. You can buy an entrance ticket to the observation deck at the Family Mart convenience store (at least two days in advance). You can also reserve tickets via the internet (at least three days in advance), however, please note that only Japanese credit cards are accepted for internet reservations. There’s also an open-top atrium in the building. Although Abeno Harukas is Japan’s tallest building, the tallest structure in Japan is the Tokyo Sky Tree, at 634m (2,080ft).

The observatory on the 16th floor

The observatory on the 16th floor

Kintetsu Department Store

Kintetsu Department Store

Harukas 300 Observatory

Harukas 300 Observatory

Address: 1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 545-6016, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6624-1111
Website: https://www.abenoharukas-300.jp/en/
Entrance fee: ¥1,500 (entrance fee to Harukas 300 Observatory)
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

 

How to Get There

Abeno Haruka is located on top of Kintetsu Osaka-Abenobashi Station, opposite of Tennoji Station. Visitors can take a 15-minute train ride from Osaka Station, or a 15-minute train ride from Umeda Station, and get off at Tennoji Station. Alternatively, you can take a five-minute train ride from JR Namba Station to Tennoji Station.

 

Accommodation

There are many accommodations in Osaka. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Bike & Bed Charin Co HOSTEL OSAKA
Address: 2 Chome-2-9 Yariyamachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0027, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6944-3100

2. Imperial Hotel Osaka
Address: 1-8-50 Kita-ku Temmabashi, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0042, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6881-1111
Website: http://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/e/osaka/

 

4. Dotombori

Dotombori

Dotombori

Dotombori is the most happening nightspot in Osaka. It was named after the 400-year old Dotomborigawa River that runs through the area. There are pedestrian walkways on both sides of the river, and visitors can shop and eat at the various shops and restaurants in the area.

Dotombori is located in Minami, the southern part of Osaka, and is the centre for Kuidaore food culture. Kuidaore literally means ‘to eat oneself to bankruptcy’, which is the term that is often used to describe Osaka residents’ obsession with culinary satisfaction.

There are many restaurants on both sides of Dotomborigawa River. In the past, geisha used to entertain their customers on the northern side, but now the area is filled with small restaurants and bars. The southern part of the river used to be known as the theatre district, and visitors can get a taste of old Osaka by visiting some of the restaurants in Hozenji-Yokocho, one of the backstreets of Dotombori area.

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Kinryu Ramen in Dotombori, Osaka

Kinryu Ramen in Dotombori, Osaka

Address: Dotombori, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 542-0071, Japan
Website: http://www.dotonbori.or.jp/en/
Entrance fee: N/ A
Opening hours: varied per shop

 

How to Get There

Visitors can take a train on either the Midosuji, Yotsubashi, or Sen’nichimae lines and stop at the Namba Station, which is a short walk away from the west side of Dotombori.

Visitors can also take a train on either the Sen’nichimae or Sakaisuji lines and stop at the Nipponbashi Station, which is a short walk away from the east side of Dotombori.

 

Accommodation

There are many accommodations in Osaka. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Bike & Bed Charin Co HOSTEL OSAKA
Address: 2 Chome-2-9 Yariyamachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 540-0027, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6944-3100

2. Imperial Hotel Osaka
Address: 1-8-50 Kita-ku Temmabashi, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0042, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6881-1111
Website: http://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/e/osaka/

 

Mie Prefecture

 

5. Ise-jingū

Ise-jingū

Ise-jingū

A Shinto shrine established in the 3rd century, Ise-jingū consists of an outer shrine (Gekū) and an inner shrine (Naikū). The distance between the inner and outer shrine is several kilometres and, in accordance with tradition, the shrines require rebuilding every 20 years. The rebuilding efforts should follow the exact specifications of the adjacent sites following ancient building techniques, which means only wooden dowels and interlocking joints are used to connect the structure. The most recent structures were rebuilt in 2013.

After the completion of the buildings, the Sengū No Gi ceremony was performed to welcome the return of the god to the shrine. The woods from the old structures were either used to build the Shrine gate or sent to other shrines in Japan to be used for their rebuilding efforts.

The structure of Ise-jingū is a reflection of pre-Buddhist Japanese architecture. The shrine buildings are completely hidden behind the wooden fences. Only the imperial family members and senior shrine priests have the privilege to enter the building. However, visitors can get a glimpse of the buildings’ upper parts. Visitors can also get a better visualisation of the shrine interior by visiting the Sengūkan Museum or the nearby smaller shrines, which are a smaller scale replica of Ise-jingū.

The Ise-jingū complex consists of 125 Shinto shrines surrounding Naikū and Gekū, and the entire complex is the approximately the same size as Paris in France. Every year, there are approximately 1,500 rituals performed in Ise-jingū to pray for world peace, huge harvests, and the prosperity of the Imperial family.

 

The Inner Shrine (Naikū)

The shrine of the goddess Amaterasu-Ōmikami

The shrine of the goddess Amaterasu-Ōmikami

Naikū, the Inner Shrine, was established in the 3rd century, and is the shrine of the sun goddess, Amaterasu-Ōmikami, the guardian deity of the Japanese nation and the ancestral goddess of the imperial family. Naikū houses one of the three sacred Japanese Imperial regalia, the sacred mirror. The other two sacred regalia are the sacred beads currently stored in the Imperial Palace, and the sacred sword currently placed at Atsuta-jingū in Nagoya.

Just before the shrine’s entrance, visitors can pick up an English language leaflet to get a better understanding of the place. The Uji-bashi Bridge located next to the stall leads the visitors across the Isuze-gawa River. After the main gravel path, there is the Mitarashi River, where pilgrims can purify themselves prior to entering the shrine. The path going towards Goshōden, the main shrine building, is made more beautiful by the towering cryptomeria trees.

Mitarashi River

Mitarashi River

 

The Outer Shrine (Gekū)

The Outer Shrine (Gekū)

The Outer Shrine (Gekū)

Gekū, the Outer Shrine, was built in the 5th century. The main deity of this shrine is Toyouke-no-Ōkami, the god of housing, clothing, and food. The deity blesses her followers with abundant harvests, and provides the three essential necessities of human life: food, clothing, and shelter. Every day, the shrine priest makes food offerings to the deity, which was enshrined there around 1,500 years ago based on Amaterasu-Ōmikami’s suggestion. At the entrance of Gekū, there is a stall where visitors can pick up an English language leaflet with information about the shrine. The main building in Gekū is Goshōden. Across the river from Goshōden, there are three smaller shrines that are less crowded.

 

Shogu

Shogu

Shogu

Shogu is the shrine where the image of Amaterasu-Ōmikami is located. The sacred holy mirror is enshrined in the main palace at the innermost courtyard of the main sanctuary. The main palace is enclosed with four rows of wooden fences, and pilgrims usually make their prayers from the third row.

 

Kaguraden

Kaguraden

Kaguraden

A place where visitors can purchase amulets for good fortune. If a person has personal wishes, s/he can also dedicate a prayer by making an offering of kagura (ceremonial music and dance to Amaterasu-Ōmikami).

 

Kodenchi

Kodenchi

Kodenchi

Kodenchi is the place where the new shrines will be built when the next rebuilding process is to commence (Shikinen Sengu).

Ujibashi Bridge

Ujibashi Bridge

Ujibashi Bridge

Ujibashi Bridge is 100m (328.1ft) in length and brings the visitors across the Isuzugawa River at the entrance of Naikū. It is believed that the bridge connects the sacred and mundane realms. The bridge is also rebuilt every 20 years as part of the Shikinen Sengu process.

Address: 1 Ujitachicho, Ise, Mie Prefecture 516-0023, Japan
Phone: +81 596-24-1111
Website: https://www.isejingu.or.jp/en/
Entrance fee: N/ A
Opening hours:

Month Opening Hours
January, February, March, April, and September 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
May, June, July, and August 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
October, November, and December 5:00 AM – 5:00 PM

 

How to Get There

Kansai47

You can take a Kintensu Line train and stop at Ise-shi Station. You can walk for about 10 minutes to Gekū or choose to ride a taxi from Ise-shi Station and go straight to Naikū. From Gekū, Naikū is accessible by bus from the bus stop outside Gekū that travels to Naikū-mae stop. Visitors can catch the bus returning from Naikū to Gekū from bus stop 2.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Ise-jingū. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Sanco Inn Ise-Ekimae Shikinoyu
Address: 1-1-1 Miyajiri, Ise, Mie Prefecture 516-0072, Japan
Phone: +81 598 22 1045

2. Ise Guest House Kazami
Address: 1-6-36 Fukiage, Ise, Mie Prefecture 516-0073, Japan
Phone: +81 596-64-8565
Website: http://ise-guesthouse.com/en/

 

6. Meoto Iwa

Meoto Iwa

Meoto Iwa

Meoto Iwa, also known as the Married Couple Rocks, are two small rocks in the ocean off Futami in the Mie Prefecture. The two rocks are joined together by a heavy rope made of rice straw called Shimenawa. The two rocks are considered as sacred objects by the Shinto worshippers at a nearby local shrine, Futami Okitama Shrine. According to a Shinto legend, the two rocks represent the union of the god Izanagi and the goddess Izanami, who were given the task of creating the world, and the gods and goddesses. The rocks, therefore, celebrate the union or marriage between a woman and a man.

The two rocks are considered as sacred objects by the Shinto worshippers at a nearby local shrine, Futami Okitama Shrine.

The two rocks are considered as sacred objects by the Shinto worshippers at a nearby local shrine, Futami Okitama Shrine.

The rope that unites the rocks is over one tone in weight, and it is replaced three times a year in a special Shinto ceremony. The larger rock represents Izanagi, and the smaller rock represents Izanami. Many visitors visit the rocks at dawn in the summer time from May to July) to see the magical views where the sunrise between them, or at dusk between November and January to observe the moon between the two rocks.

The larger rock is approximately 9.14m (30ft) in height and is said to represent Izanagi. The smaller rock is about 3.66m (12ft) in height and represents Izanami.

Futami Okitama Shrine is dedicated to the goddess of imperial food, Miketsu, and Sarutahiko Ōkami, the god patron of martial arts. There are numerous statues of frogs around the shrine because it is believed that frogs are the messengers of god.

Frog statues at Futami Okitama Shrine

Frog statues at Futami Okitama Shrine

Address: 575 Futamichoe, Ise, Mie Prefecture 519-0602, Japan
Phone: +81 596-43-2020
Entrance fee: N/ A
Opening hours: N/ A

 

How to Get There

Visitors who choose to go by the train can take JR Tokai Sangu Line and get off at Futami no Ura Station. From the station, the visitors can reach the Meoto Iwa by walking for approximately 20 minutes.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Meoto Iwa. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Sanco Inn Ise-Ekimae Shikinoyu
Address: 1-1-1 Miyajiri, Ise, Mie Prefecture 516-0072, Japan
Phone: +81 598 22 1045

2. Ise Guest House Kazami
Address: 1-6-36 Fukiage, Ise, Mie Prefecture 516-0073, Japan
Phone: +81 596-64-8565
Website: http://ise-guesthouse.com/en/

 

7. Iga Ueno Castle

Iga Ueno Castle

Iga Ueno Castle

Iga Ueno Castle, also known as White Phoenix Castle (Hakuho), is famous for its beautiful architecture. The construction of Iga Ueno Castle began in 1585 under the instruction of Takigawa Katsutoshi, the vassal of Oda Nobunaga. However, he fell from power, and Tsutsui Sadatsugu, the adopted son of the feudal lord of the Yamato Province and his successor, Tōdō Takatora, continued the construction of this castle.

Tōdō Takatora built 30m (98.4ft) high walls to surround the inner citadel (honmaru) of the castle. The highest tower in the castle complex (tenshu) was destroyed by a strong wind in 1612. In 1935, a local resident sponsored the castle reconstruction using the wood material to preserve its natural beauty.

Some sections of Akira Kurosawa’s award winning movie, Kagemusha was filmed at Iga Ueno Castle, and the castle is considered as a National Historic Site in Ueno Park. Although most parts of the castle are in ruin, the towering honmaru walls still stand. Tourists can visit a museum that houses a collection of artefacts related to the local history, as well as the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum at the edge of Ueno Park, which contains information about the history of ninja and a model ninja village.

Iga-ryu Ninja Museum

Iga-ryu Ninja Museum

Ninja weaponry

Ninja weaponry

Iga Ueno Castle
Address: 106 Iga-Ueno Marunouchi, Iga, Mie Prefecture 518-0873, Japan
Phone: +81 595-21-3148
Entrance fee: ¥500 (castle only) and ¥1,500 (castle, Iga-ryu Ninja Museum, and Danjiri Museum)
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:45 PM)

Iga-ryu Ninja Museum
Address: 117-13-1 Ueno Marunouchi, Iga, Mie Prefecture 518-0873, Japan
Phone: +81 595-23-0311
Website: http://www.iganinja.jp/?page_id=837
Entrance fee:

Category Entrance Fee
Adult older than 16 years old ¥432
Children ¥216
Persons with disabilities N/ A

Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)

 

How to Get There

Visitors can ride on the Kintetsu Iga line and stop at Kintetsu Ueno-Shi Station, the nearest station to Ueno Park. Visitors can also travel here by train from many parts of Japan. It is about two hours from Nagoya and Kyoto, and 90 minutes from Osaka. Transferring from other railway lines to Kintetsu Iga line may be necessary depending on your point of origin.

If you choose to travel by bus, you can use long distance bus services from Osaka (90 minutes), Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Station (90 minutes), or Tokyo (8 hours).

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Iga Ueno Castle. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Route-Inn Grantia Iga Ueno Wakuranoyado
Address: 1-131 Ueno-Marunouchi, Iga Mie Prefecture 518-0873, Japan
Phone: +81 595-26-1011
Website: http://www.hotel-grantia.co.jp/igaueno/

2. Aoyama Garden Resort Rosa Blanca
Address: 721 Terawaki, Iga, Mie Prefecture 518-0222, Japan
Phone: +81 595-52-5586
Website: http://hotel-rosablanca.com/english/

 

Hyogo Prefecture

 

8. Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is also known as Hakuro-jo or Shirasagi-jo (White Egret Castle or White Heron Castle) due to its brilliant white exterior that resembles a bird that is about to fly. The castle is also one of the first sites in Japan to be recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. In addition to that, five of the structures within the castle complex are considered as National Treasures.

Himeji Castle consists of 83 buildings, 32 earthen walls, 15 gates, 16 turrets, and 11 corridors with advanced defensive systems from the feudal period. The first structure of the castle was built in 1333 when Akamatsu Norimura (1277 – 1350 CE), a Japanese Samurai, built a fort on Himeyama Hill. A decade later, the fort was rebuilt as Himeyama Castle, and then remodelled as Himeji Castle two centuries later. In 1581 CE, Toyotomi Hideyoshi significantly remodelled the castle by adding a three-story castle tower.

Himeji Castle interior

Himeji Castle interior

Throughout its history, the castle has changed hands several times. Symbols of various feudal aristocratic families were installed throughout the castles as evidence that they had lived in the castle. The castle also survived extensive bombing during World War II and several natural disasters, such as the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995. Himeji Castle underwent 5 ½ years of restoration work, and was reopened for public viewing on March 27, 2015.

Visitors to the castle can observe various feudal Japanese defence systems such as the approximately 1,000 circle, triangle, square, and rectangle loopholes that allowed archers or foot soldiers to fire tanegashima, a Japanese matchlock or firearm.

The winding path that connects the different areas of the castle.

The winding path that connects the different areas of the castle.

Another defence system were the outer, central, and inner moats that protected the castle complex. Only parts of the central and inner moats still remain. The moats have an average width of 20m (66ft) with a maximum width of 34.5m (113ft), and the depth of 2.7m (8.9ft).

A third defence system were the mazes leading to the castle’s tower that were designed to confuse the castle’s enemies. The gates, outer walls, and baileys were constructed to confuse the opponent forces and cause them to travel in a spiral pattern. At one time, there were 84 gates, but at present, only 21 gates remain. In some places, the passages were purposely made steep and narrow so intruders could be spotted and fired upon while threading their way to the inner part of the castle complex.

Just like many other old structures, Himeji Castle is associated with ghost stories, such as the Legend of Okiku’s Well. According to the legend, an employee of the castle, Okiku, was falsely accused of losing valuable dishes. As a result, she was killed and thrown into the well. It is said that her ghost continues to haunt the well to this day and could be heard to count dishes.

Himeji Castle is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot.

Himeji Castle is one of the popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan.

Himeji Castle is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot.

Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture 670-0012, Japan
Phone: +81 79-285-1146
Website: http://www.himejicastle.jp/en/
Entrance fee:

  • ¥1000 (castle only)
  • ¥1040 (castle and the nearby Koko-en Garden)

Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM)

 

How to Get There

The closest station to Himeji Castle is Himeji Station. From the station, Himeji Castle can be reached by either a 15-20 minute walk on foot, a five minute bus ride, or by taxi.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Himeji Castle. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Dormy Inn Himeji Natural Hot Spring
Address: 160-2 Toyozawacho, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture 670-0964, Japan
Phone: +81 79-286-5489

2. Engakudo
Address: 8-2 Yanagi-cho, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture 670-0927, Japan
Phone: +81 90-9717-6763
Website: http://www.engakudou.com/english.html

 

9. Koko-en Garden

Koko-en Garden

Koko-en Garden

Koko-en Garden was built on the former residence of a feudal lord, Nishi-Oyashiki to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Himeji municipality in 1992. The Koko-en Garden complex covers approximately 3.5 hectares, and consists of nine different gardens of various sizes and styles from the Edo Period, such as a tea garden where visitors can enjoy Japanese green tea in a Sojyu-an (Tea Ceremony Room) designed by the Ura School’s tea master, a pine tree garden, a bamboo garden, a flower garden, and the garden of the lord’s residence, which features a waterfall with a pond. The gardens are accessible by wheelchair.

Kansai60

Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture 670-0012, Japan
Phone: +81 79-285-1146
Website: himeji-kanko.jp/en
Entrance fee:

  • ¥300 (garden only)
  • ¥1040 (garden and Himeji Castle)

Opening hours:

Period Opening Hours
April 27 – August 31 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Other Period 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

 

How to Get There

Koko-en Garden is located next to the Himeji Castle complex. It is a short walk away from the castle’s Otemon Gate. From Himeji Station, Himeji Castle can be reached by either a 20-minute walk, five minutes by bus, or by taxi.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Koko-en Garden. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Dormy Inn Himeji Natural Hot Spring
Address: 160-2 Toyozawacho, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture 670-0964, Japan
Phone: +81 79-286-5489

2. Engakudo
Address: 8-2 Yanagi-cho, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture 670-0927, Japan
Phone: +81 90-9717-6763
Website: http://www.engakudou.com/english.html

 

10. Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen is one of the oldest hot springs in Kita-Ku, Kobe, Japan. According to records, this hot spring has been in existence for over 1,300 years. The first mention of Arima Onsen was in a record from 631 CE, when Emperor Jomei (r. 629 – 641 CE) visited the hot spring. Due to this high profile visit, Arima Onsen was known as the royal onsen (royal hot spring).

Arima Onsen is perfect for those who like to enjoy natural surroundings. Some of the historical figures that have visited and admired the hot springs are the Japanese warlord Hideyoshi Toyotomi, and the charismatic 7th century Buddhist monk, Ninsai. Arima Onsen consists of two types of springs:

  • The Kinsen or gold spring that produces yellow-brown water, due to its salt and iron content. This water is known to have the qualities that cure arthritis and neuralgia. Women like to bathe in this hot spring in order to keep their skin moisturised, and prevent their limbs from cold.
  • The Ginsen or silver spring that produces colourless water, which contains carbonate and radium. Ginsen is known to improve health, boost metabolism, blood circulation, and the immune system, promoting cell activation, eliminate illnesses such as edema and lactic waste, and relieving muscle aches.
Kinsen or gold spring

Kinsen or gold spring

Ginsen or silver spring

Ginsen or silver spring

After the Kobe Port opened about 150 years ago, the popularity of Arima Onsen spread amongst foreigners. It is now considered as one of the most reputable ancient hot springs in Japan.

Prior to the Meiji era, kinsen was the only source of hot springs in Arima Onsen. After World War II, excavations to boost tourism led to the discovery of seven types of hot spring sources, or ‘sengen’ in the Japanese language: Tansan Sengen, Gosho Sengen, Uwanari Sengen, Tenjin Sengen, Gokuraku Sengen, 1st Ariake Sengen, and 2nd Ariake Sengen.

Arima is also known as the place where the first Japanese cider was made, known as Arima Cider. In addition, a Japanese scientist, Ogata Koreyoshi, found that rice crackers made from the carbonated water had health benefits, and the carbonated rice crackers are known as Arima Tansansenbei. Today, Arima Tansansenbei and Arima Cider are recognised as Arima souvenirs.

Visitors to Arima Onsen can also visit beautiful shrines and temples, and a hot spring museum around the area.

Arima Cider (left) and carbonated rice crackers (right)

Arima Cider (left) and carbonated rice crackers (right)

For further inquiry, please contact:

Arima Hot Springs Tourism Association
Address: 790-3 Arima-cho Kita-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture 651-1401, Japan
Phone: +81 78 904 0708
Website: http://visit.arima-onsen.com

 

How to Get There

The closest station is Arima Onsen Station, which can be reached via the Arima Line train. Arima Onsen Station is a 30 – 40 minute train ride from Sannomiya Station or Shin Kobe Station. Alternatively, you can choose to take a 35 – 50 minute bus ride from Kobe, or a 60-minute bus ride from Osaka. Visitors can also take a cable car ride via Mount Rokko.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Arima Onsen. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Arima Onsen Tosen Goshobo
Address: 858 Arima-cho Kita-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture 651-1401, Japan
Phone: +81 78-904-0551
Website: http://goshoboh.com/en/

2. Arima Hot Spring Ryokan Hanamusubi
Address: 351 Arimacho Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture 651-1401, Japan
Phone: +81 78-904-0166
Website: http://www.hanamusubi.co.jp/en/

 

11. Takeda Castle Ruins

Takeda Castle ruins

Takeda Castle ruins

The Takeda Castle ruin is located in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture. The Takeda Castle ruins are also known as Japan’s Manchu Picchu, or a castle that floats in the sky because in the early autumn morning, the ruins appear to be floating on a sea of clouds. These ruins are located 353m (1,158.1ft) above sea level. Visitors can enjoy the mystical mountain atmosphere from the ruin site.

If you come early in the morning, between 6:00 – 6:30 am between the month of September and November, you may be able to enjoy the sea of clouds from the ruin site, they appears on an average of one out of every three mornings.

Takeda Castle was originally built in 1411 CE. The castle was abandoned after the battle of Sekigahara in 1600, where the castle forces had to fight with the Tokugawa clan. The castle ruins were restored between the 1970s and 1980s, and it was opened as a tourist site. Since its restoration, the castle has been featured in many movies and commercials.

The most popular viewing spot is from Ritsuunkyo. Visitors can park in Ritsuunkyo parking lot and walk along the trail. There are several observation decks along its course. The best spots are viewpoints 1 and 2, which are a 30 – 40 minute climb up the trail.

Kansai66

Kansai67

Address: 169 Wadayamacho Takeda, Asago, Hyogo Prefecture 669-5252, Japan
Phone: +81 79-672-4003
Entrance fee: ¥500
Opening hours:

Period Opening Hours
March – May 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
June – August 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
September – November 4:00 AM – 5:00 PM
December – January 3 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
January 4 – February Closed

 

How to Get There

Takeda Castle is located between the Sea of Japan and Seto Inland Sea. The closest station to the ruin site is Takeda Station. It can be reached from Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo using the Sanyo/Tokaido bullet train and transfer to JR Bantan Line.

From Takeda Station, visitors can choose to reach the castle site on foot using the steep nature trails from the back of the station. The ascent to the castle site can take about 40 minutes. Caution should be applied, especially after rain, as the trail can be slippery.

If a bus ride is preferable, visitors can choose to ride on the Tenku Bus that operates from March to November from Takeda Station and the Takedajo-seki bus stop. Visitors can then walk for about 20 minutes to the castle entrance.

A taxi ride from Takeda station to Takeda Castle will take about 15 minutes. If you opt to visit the castle by car, there are multiple free parking lots around the town. You can ride on Tenku Bus from Yamajiro No Sato parking lot to the trailhead to Takeda Castle. The two parking lots near the trailhead are usually closed to regular cars.

 

Accommodation

There are few accommodations near Takeda Castle ruins. Below is a suggestion based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Takeda Castle Hotel En
Address: West 363 Takeda Kamimachi Wadayama-cho, Asago Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
Phone: +81 796 74 0501

 

Wakayama Prefecture

 

12. Koya Town

UNESCO’s Koyasan the World Heritage Guide Map - click to enlarge

UNESCO’s Koyasan the World Heritage Guide Map – click to enlarge

Monk Kukai or posthumously known as Kobo Daishi (774 – 835 CE)

Monk Kukai or posthumously known as Kobo Daishi (774 – 835 CE)

Koya Town is located on the plateau of Mount Koya in the Ito District. Mount Koya is the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism, and home to over 100 monasteries and temples. Many Buddhist pilgrims and visitors consider Mount Koya as a magical and sacred destination.

In 819 CE, the famous Monk Kukai, posthumously known as Kobo Daishi (774 – 835), the founder of Shingon sect of Buddhism, established Mount Koya as the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism. The opening of Mount Koya as a place of retreat from worldly affairs was marked by a seven-day ritual. Due to financial difficulties, the project was only realised after his death in 835 CE. Today, Mount Koya is considered to be one of the holiest Buddhist places in Japan. Mount Koya can be conveniently accessed from Kyoto or Osaka. It is a good place to visit for Buddhist pilgrims and those interested in history, Buddhism, nature, and traditional culture. In addition to enjoying the serenity of the place, visitors can visit the following places on Mount Koya:

  • Okunoin Cemetery contains the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, and the beautiful Torodo Hall that consists of 10,000 eternally lit lanterns
  • Kongobuji Temple is the headquarters of the Shingon Sect of Buddhism, where inside you can see the story of Kobo Daishi’s journey to China and the establishment of Mount Koya
  • Banryutei Rock Garden is the largest rock garden in Japan, and depicts the image of a pair of dragons emerging from a sea of clouds
  • Danjo Garan is considered to be one of the most sacred sites on Mount Koya, and consists of twenty structures, including Kondo Hall and Konpon Daito Pagoda, where the most important Buddhist ceremonies are performed
  • Reihokan Museum, which houses many cultural and religious treasures of Mount Koya
Okunoin Cemetery

Okunoin Cemetery

Kongobuji Temple

Kongobuji Temple

Banryutei Rock Garden

Banryutei Rock Garden

Saito (Western Stupa) at Danjo Garan Temple on Mount Koya

Saito (Western Stupa) at Danjo Garan Temple on Mount Koya

Reihokan Museum

Reihokan Museum

Visitors to Mount Koya can experience a simple monk lifestyle by staying overnight at one of the temples on Mount Koya, attending morning prayer services, and eating vegetarian food. Over 50 temples offer this service to guests and pilgrims.

For those who are more adventurous and like challenging activities, you can follow the Kohechi trekking route, which is a 70km (43.5mi) trekking route through the mountains to reach Mount Koya. The Kohechi route is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route. If a shorter hike is preferable, you can use the Koyasan Choishi Michi Trail, which is about 23.5km (14.6mi) or 9.5km (5.9mi) depending on the point of origin.

Pilgrims paying homage in front of Kobo Daishi Mausoleum

Pilgrims paying homage in front of Kobo Daishi Mausoleum

For further inquiry, please contact:

Koyasan Tourist Association Central Office
Address: 600 Koyasan, Koya, Ito District, Wakayama Prefecture 648-0211, Japan
Phone: +81 736 56 2616
Website: http://shukubo.net
Entrance fee: N/ A

 

How to Get There

The closest train station to Mount Koya is Gokurakubashi Station. At Gokurakubashi Station, you can transfer to a cable car that travels up to Mount Koya. Then, take a 10-minute bus ride from the top station to the centre of Koya town.

Okunoin Cemetery is located about 10-minute bus ride from the centre of Koya town where most of the temples are located.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations in Koya Town. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Koyasan Onsen Fukuchiin
Address: 657 Koyasan, Koyasan, Wakayama Prefecture 648-0211, Japan
Phone: +81 736-56-2021

2. Shukubo Koya-san Eko-in Temple
Address: 497 Koyasan, Koyasan, Wakayama Prefecture 648-0211, Japan
Phone: +81 736-56-2514
Website: http://www.ekoin.jp/en/

 

13. Hashigui-iwa Rock

Hashigui-iwa Rock

Hashigui-iwa Rock

Hashigui-iwa Rock is a series of rocks around the coast of Oshima. Hashi means ‘bridge’ and Gui means ‘pillar’ in Japanese. According to legends, the rocks were placed by the famous monk Kobo Daishi.

Many centuries ago, the residents of Oshima and Kushimoto were trying to make a bridge that connected the coast of Oshima and Kushimoto. However, the sea monster Amanojaku, appeared from the sea to destroy the bridge. One day when the monk Kobo Daishi passed through the area, the local residents requested him to talk to Amanojaku to let them build the bridge.

Kobo Daishi then met with Amanojaku and asked him to let the people build the bridge. The monster gave made him a deal. If Kobo Daishi could make the bridge by himself without anybody’s help, the monster promised not to break it. The monster then gave Kobo Daishi the strength of 100 horses, but only one day and one night to complete the task, by the time the early hen cried.

In accordance with his promise, the next day, Kobo Daishi got up early, and Amanojaku gave him the strength of 100 horses. Kobo Daishi then proceeded to build the bridge, first by collecting big rocks and placing them in the sea as pillars. Amanojaku, who was convinced that Kobo Daishi would not be able to complete the bridge, was surprised at his speed, and he started to feel worried.

As his anxiety grew, Amanojaku decided to fake the voice of a hen. Kobo Daishi who did not realise that Amanojaku tried to cheat him, stopped working as promised. Therefore, to this day the Hashigui-Iwa rocks only reached the middle of the sea.

Kansai77

For further inquiry, please contact:

Kushimoto Town Tourism Association
Address: Hashigui, Kushimoto Town, Wakayama Prefecture 649-3500, Japan
Phone: +81 735 62 3171
Website: http://www.kankou-kushimoto.jp/english/sub01.html
Entrance fee: Free
Opening hours: open all the time

 

How to Get There

The closest train station to Hashigui-iwa Rocks is Kushimoto Train Station, which can be reached using either local trains or express trains on the JR Kisei Line. Community buses provide access from Kushimoto Station to Hashigui-iwa Rocks.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Hashigui-iwa Rock. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Kushimoto Royal Hotel
Address: 1184-10 Sangodai, Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture 649-3510, Japan
Phone: +81 735-62-7771
Website: http://www.daiwaresort.jp.e.zr.hp.transer.com/kushimoto/

2. Fukurou
Address: 826-1 Shionomisaki, Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture 649-3502, Japan
Phone: +81 73-423-4126

 

14. Shionomisaki Lighthouse

Shionomisaki Lighthouse

Shionomisaki Lighthouse

The Shionomisaki Lighthouse was designed by Richard Henry Brunton, who was known as the ‘Father of Japanese Lighthouses’. He was employed as a foreign advisor to the Meiji government to primarily to build lighthouses. Shionomisaki Lighthouse was lit for the first time on September 15, 1873.

Visitors to this historical lighthouse can also visit the museum inside, which contains information about the local history and the lighthouse. Visitors can also climb to the top of the lighthouse.

Kansai79

Address: 28 Shionomisaki, Kushimoto, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture 649-3502, Japan
Phone: +81 735-62-0141
Website:
Entrance fee:

  • Adult: ¥300
  • Children: ¥100

Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

 

How to Get There

The closest train station to Shionomisaki Lighthouse is Kushimoto train station, which can be reached using either local trains or express trains on JR Kisei Line. Community buses provide access from Kushimoto Station to Shionomisaki Lighthouse.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Shionomisaki Lighthouse. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Kushimoto Royal Hotel
Address: 1184-10 Sangodai, Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture 649-3510, Japan
Phone: +81 735-62-7771
Website: http://www.daiwaresort.jp.e.zr.hp.transer.com/kushimoto/

2. Fukurou
Address: 826-1 Shionomisaki, Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture 649-3502, Japan
Phone: +81 73-423-4126

 

Shiga Prefecture

 

15. Hikone Castle

Hikone Castle

Hikone Castle

Hikone Castle is considered as a National Treasure by the Ministry of Education, Science, Sports, and Culture. It is also known as the Water Castle since it stands beside Lake Biwa, where the castle waterways were used to transport goods to town. In 1603, Li Naokatsu (1590 – 1662 CE), a Japanese aristocrat, ordered the construction of Hikone Castle. Many parts of this castle were originally parts of other castles. For example, the tower was part of Otsu Castle, and the other parts of the castle originated from Nagahama Castle. The castle construction was completed in 1622.

In 1868, the emperor instructed that Hikone Castle was to be kept intact although many other castles were to be dismantled during that period. Today, Hikone Castle is one of the oldest original castle structures in Japan. Several parts of the castle were considered as National Cultural Assets, including the Stable (Umaya), Balance Scale Turret (Tenbin Yagura), Drum Gate Turret (Taikomon Yagura), and West Bailey Three-story Turret (Nishinomaru Sanju Yagura).

Reconstructed palace buildings in Hikone Castle Museum

Reconstructed palace buildings in Hikone Castle complex

Three different types of gables are incorporated into the castle keeps exterior

Three different types of gables are incorporated into the castle keep’s exterior

Hikone Castle
Address: 1-1 Konki-cho, Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Phone: +81 749 22 2742
Website: http://www.hikoneshi.com/en/castle/
Entrance fee:

  • Castle and garden: ¥600
  • Castle, garden, and museum: ¥1,000

Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Hikone Castle Museum

Entrance fee: ¥500 (museum only)
Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)

 

How to Get There

Visitors can take the train and get off at Hikone Station on the JR Tokaido Main Line. The castle is located at about a 15-minute walk from the station.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Hikone Castle. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Hikone Castle Resort & Spa
Address: 1-8 Sawa-cho, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture 522-0075, Japan
Phone: +81 749-21-2001

2. Honmachi Juku
Address: 3-3-55 Honmachi, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture 522-0064, Japan
Phone: +81 749 30 9932

 

16. Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is believed to have been formed approximately 4 million years ago, and is considered as one of the oldest lakes in the world. The Agency of Cultural Affairs designated Lake Biwa as a Japanese Heritage in 2015. Lake Biwa covers 416 square km (259 square mi), and is the largest lake in Japan. It is relied on as a water supply for 14 million people, and is home to over 595 animal species and approximately 490 plant species.

Some of these species, like the freshwater pearl mussel, are not found anywhere else in the world, and preservation of scenery around Lake Biwa is an on-going concern. The Japanese government considers the lake as Important Cultural Property, and Lake Biwa is also a wetland protected by the Ramsar Convention. Other than enjoying the beautiful scenery of Lake Biwa, visitors can do the following activities:

  • Ride a boat on the Omi Hachiman Waterway and enjoy the beautiful scenery
  • Visit the Lake Biwa Museum and learn about the nature and culture of Lake Biwa
  • Cruise around Lake Biwa, operated by Biwako Kisen, with a point of origination in Otsu Port
Omi Hachiman Waterway

Omi Hachiman Waterway

Omi Hachiman Waterway

Omi Hachiman Waterway

Lake Biwa Museum

Lake Biwa Museum

Waterways of Omi-Hachiman

For further inquiry please contact Omihachiman Tourism Association:
Address: Inside Omi-Hachiman City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Phone: +81 748 32 7003
Website: http://www.omi8.com/annai/around_hachiman.html
Lake Biwa Museum

Address: 1091 Oroshimocho, Kusatsu, Shiga Prefecture 525-0001, Japan
Phone: +81 77 568 4811
Website: http://www.lbm.go.jp/english/
Entrance fee:

Category Individual Group (20 or more individuals)
Adult ¥750 ¥600
University/ High School Students ¥400 ¥320
Elementary/ Junior High School Students Free Free
Residents of Shiga Prefecture 65 years old or older Free Free
Persons with disabilities Free Free

Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

 

How to Get There

To visit Omi-Hachiman Waterway, you can get off the train at Omi-Hachiman Station on JR Biwako Line, and take a 10-minute bus ride to your destination. To visit the museum, you can take the JR Biwako Line and get off at Kusatsu Station. From the station, you can take a bus with the destination sign to Lake Biwa Museum or Biwako Museum (Biwako-haku-butsu-kan). Another option is to take a 20-minute taxi ride from Kusatsu Station.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Lake Biwa. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Hikone Castle Resort & Spa
Address: 1-8 Sawa-cho, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture 522-0075, Japan
Phone: +81 749-21-2001

2. Honmachi Juku
Address: 3-3-55 Honmachi, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture 522-0064, Japan
Phone: +81 749 30 9932

 

17. Mii-dera Temple (Onjo-ji Temple)

Mii-dera Temple

Mii-dera Temple

Mii-dera Temple, originally known as Onjo-Ji Temple, was established in 764 CE. It is the headquarters of the Jimon sect of Tendai Buddhism, and is the 14th place on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage Map. The temple complex consists of numerous buildings, including Kondo. Kondo is considered as a national treasure, and its main deity image is Miroku-Bosatsu, a Bodhisattva that would appear in the future as Buddha’s successor.

The famous bell of Mii-dera Temple

The famous bell of Mii-dera Temple

Mii-dera Temple was designated as a Japan Heritage Site, and it houses over 100 important cultural properties and national treasures, including the Nio-mon Gate, a gate that contains the image of Deva kings on both sides, the three-storied pagoda Issaikyozo, a scripture house, and Akaiya Spring.

Throughout its history, Mii-dera Temple has survived many disasters, such as fire, wars, and conflicts with another temple, Enryakuji. Visitors can see images that depict these conflicts on a stone wall in front of the Niomon Gate.

The sound of the bell of the Mii-dera temple has been admired for its beauty in various pieces of literature. The bell was offered to the temple in the Nara period. There is a famous story about the bell called ‘Benkei and the Bell He Dragged Along’. A long time ago, Benkei, a warrior monk, stole the bell of Mii-dera Temple which he dragged to Hieizan Mountain. However, when he was about to destroy the bell, the bell started to make a sound that sounded like “take me back”. Benkei was scared and threw the bell down into the valley.

The 1,500 cherry trees within the Mii-dera Temple complex has made the temple complex a popular cherry blossom viewing spot.

Mii-dera Temple is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot

Mii-dera Temple is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot

Mii-dera Temple Pagoda

Mii-dera Temple Pagoda

The courtyard of Mii-dera Temple

The courtyard of Mii-dera Temple

Address: 246 Onjoji-cho, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Phone: +81 77 522 2238
Website: http://www.shiga-miidera.or.jp/translation/eng.html
Entrance fee: ¥600

  • Adult: ¥600
  • Primary school – high school students: ¥300
  • Younger than primary school students: ¥200

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

 

How to Get There

To visit Mii-dera Temple, visitors can take a train and get off at Midera Station, where the temple is about a 10-minute walk from. Alternatively, you can take a 15-minute bus ride from JR Otsu Station and then take a 5-minute walk to the temple.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Mii-dera Temple. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Hikone Castle Resort & Spa
Address: 1-8 Sawa-cho, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture 522-0075, Japan
Phone: +81 749-21-2001

2. Honmachi Juku
Address: 3-3-55 Honmachi, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture 522-0064, Japan
Phone: +81 749 30 9932

 

18. Koka Ninja Village

Koka Ninja Village

Koka Ninja Village

The Koka Ninja Village is one of the city’s main attractions. The village features a collection of old houses in the Suzuka Sanroku Forest. The village staff give regular demonstrations about the various hidden compartments and trapdoor functions in one of the houses. Visitors can try various devices used by ninja such as throwing a shuriken (throwing star) in the shuriken practice hall, walking on water, or scale walls. Other attractions in Koka Ninja Village include:

  • Koka Ninja Museum – a museum at the village that contains information about tools, weapons, and ninja secret books (Bansenshukan) that have been used by Koka Ninja in the past
  • Shinobi-jinja Shrine – a shrine dedicated to a nameless ninja
  • Karakuri Ninja Mansion – The home of real ninjas’ descendants, the Fujibayashi family, the mansion contains many devices and traps for intruders and ways to escape when necessary

Visitors can also rent ninja costumes in the village to get a fuller experience of Ninja lifestyle.

Koka Ninja Museum

Koka Ninja Museum

Karakuri Ninja Mansion

Karakuri Ninja Mansion

The entrance to a secret tunnel

The entrance to a secret tunnel

Address: 394 Kokacho Oki, Koka, Shiga Prefecture 520-3405, Japan
Phone: +81 748-88-5000
Entrance fee:

  • Adult: ¥1,030
  • Children: ¥610

Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 

How to Get There

To visit Koka Ninja Village, visitors can take a train and get off at Koka Station. Koka Ninja Village is about a 30-minute walk from the station. Visitors can also ride a free shuttle bus that is usually waiting at the north entrance of Koka Station to take visitors to Koka Ninja Village. If the bus is not there, you can call +81 748-88-5000 to request for a pickup. An alternative for visitors is to take a ten-minute taxi ride to the Ninja Village.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Koka Ninja Village. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Hikone Castle Resort & Spa
Address: 1-8 Sawa-cho, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture 522-0075, Japan
Phone: +81 749 21 2001

2. Honmachi Juku
Address: 3-3-55 Honmachi, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture 522-0064, Japan
Phone: +81 749 30 9932

 

Fukui Prefecture

 

19. Maruoka Castle

Maruoka Castle

Maruoka Castle

In 1576, Shibata Katsutoyo (1556 – 1583 CE), a 16th century samurai commander, ordered the building of Maruoka Castle. According to legend, whenever an enemy approached the castle, a thick mist would come and hide the castle from view. Due to this legend, Maruoka Castle is also known as Kasumi-ga-jo (Mist Castle). In 1948, the Great Fukui Earthquake destroyed the castle, but since then it has been reconstructed using 80% of the original materials.

Today, Maruoka Castle is the stage of Koshiro Matsuri (Old Castle Festival) that is held annually every October. The castle complex is also a popular place to enjoy the cherry blossom festival, with 400 cherry blossom trees on the castle complex and autumn leaves. Visitors can also visit a small museum at the castle park that contains household items, arms, and armours that belonged to the former lords of the castle.

Maruoka Castle interior

Maruoka Castle interior

Kansai98

Address: 59 Kasumi-Cho, Icho-me, Maruoka-Cho, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture 910-0231 Japan
Phone: +81 776 50 3152
Entrance fee: ¥300
Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

 

How to Get There

Visitors can take a train and get off at either Fukui Station or Awara-Onsen Station, and then take a Keifuku bus to Maruoka Castle, which is a 5 to 10 minute walk from Honmaruoka bus stop. You can also choose to rent a car to visit the castle from Fukui Station, which is a 30-minute drive from the Station. There is a free parking spot next to the castle.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Maruoka Castle. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Centurion Hotel Villa Suite Fukui Ekimae
Address: 2-2-3 Hinode, Fukui, Fukui Prefecture 910-0859, Japan
Phone:+81 776 63 5835

2. Fukui Manten Hotel Ekimae
Address: 1-11-1 Chuo, Fukui, Fukui 910-0006, Japan
Phone: +81 776 20 0100

 

20. Echizen Daibutsu

Echizen Daibutsu

Echizen Daibutsu

Echizen Daibutsu compared to an ordinary human size

Echizen Daibutsu compared to an ordinary human size

Echizen Daibutsu is the tallest sitting Buddha statue in Japan at the height of 17m (55.8ft). Echizen Daibutsu is located in the Great Buddha Hall of Shindaiji Temple, in Katsuyama, Fukui. The great Buddha statue was built in 1987 through the sponsorship of a local businessman.

In addition to the four Buddha statues placed on both sides of Echizen Daibutsu, there are 1,281 smaller Buddha statues placed in the wall around the hall. Shindaiji Temple Complex also features a 75m five-story pagoda and a beautiful Japanese Garden.

Shindaiji Temple where Echizen Daibutsu is enshrined

Shindaiji Temple where Echizen Daibutsu is enshrined

Another picture of Shindaiji Temple

Another picture of Shindaiji Temple

Address: 50-1-1 Katase-cho, Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan
Phone: +81 779 87 3300
Entrance fee:

  • Adult: ¥500
  • Minor under 18 years old: ¥300

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

 

How to Get There

Visitors can take a train and get off at Katsuyama Station. From the station, you can take a bus to the temple and stop at Jibasangyo Centre Mae.

 

Accommodation

There are several accommodations near Shindaiji Temple. Below are two suggestions based on good reviews. However, we recommend that you do further research to find the right accommodation that suits your requirements.

1. Centurion Hotel Villa Suite Fukui Ekimae
Address: 2-2-3 Hinode, Fukui, Fukui Prefecture 910-0859, Japan
Phone:+81 776 63 5835

2. Fukui Manten Hotel Ekimae
Address: 1-11-1 Chuo, Fukui, Fukui 910-0006, Japan
Phone: +81 776 20 0100

 

Travel Books on Kansai

Book Cover Description
Kansai103 1. Kansai Cool by Christal Whelan

This book sheds light on how the old and new cultures interact in Kansai through a collection of 25 essays that provide insights about how art, faith, science, and history influence the traditional and modern Japanese culture in Kansai.

Kansai104 2. The Rough Guide Snapshot to Kansai (includes Osaka, the Kumano Kodo, and Kobe)

An informative travel guide to the Kansai region, this book contains information and maps about the region’s worldly attractions, such as Osaka’s nightlife, the Arima Onsen, and the pilgrimage places such as Mount Koya. The book also contains practical information that any traveller would need to make the most out of their travel experience in the region, including survival guides on culture and etiquette.

 
Sources:

  • http://thekyotoproject.org/english/funazushi/
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  • Murase, Miyeko. The Written Image: Japanese Calligraphy and Painting from the Sylvan Barnet and William Burto Collection. Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2013. http://books.google.com
  • http://www.hikoneshi.com/en/hikone-castle
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  • https://matadornetwork.com/abroad/10-japanese-customs-you-must-know-before-a-trip-to-japan/
  • http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/press/related/about.html
  • https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/basic-info/tourist-info/visa-information.html
  • http://www.japanvisitor.com/japan-travel/kansai-guide
  • https://triplelights.com/blog/10-foodsmust-tryosaka-91
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  • http://favy-jp.com/topics/601
  • https://matcha-jp.com/en/2008
  • https://en.climate-data.org/location/602274/
  • http://www.kansai.gr.jp/en/attraction/nature/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansai_dialect
  • http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/kansai/osaka/introduction
  • https://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/osaka/attractions/osaka-jo/a/poi-sig/423395/356704
  • https://en.japantravel.com/osaka/momofuku-ando-instant-ramen-museum/4363
  • https://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/osaka/attractions/abeno-harukas/a/poi-sig/1504488/356704
  • http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/osaka/attractions/dotombori/a/poi-sig/1318652/356704
  • http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/facilities/cat37/post_275.html
  • https://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/ise-shima/attractions/ise-jingu/a/poi-sig/1509328/356692
  • https://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/ise-shima/attractions/naiku/a/poi-sig/1507655/356692
  • https://www.isejingu.or.jp/en/about/index.html
  • https://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/ise-shima/attractions/geku/a/poi-sig/1232069/356692
  • https://www.isejingu.or.jp/en/about/index.html
  • https://www.japanhoppers.com/en/kansai/ise/kanko/1748/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iga_Ueno_Castle
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4352.html
  • https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/spot/castles/igauenojo.html
  • http://www.japanvisitor.com/japan-city-guides/japanese-castles/iga-ueno-castle
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himeji_Castle
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3501.html
  • http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/661
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arima_Onsen
  • http://visit.arima-onsen.com/things-to-do/miraculous-hot-spring/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koko-en_Garden
  • http://www.eok.jp/travel/attraction/garden/kokoen
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3502.html
  • https://wow-j.com/en/Allguides/osaka/sightseeing/00307_en/
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3592.html
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/list/e1229.html
  • http://boutiquejapan.com/mount-koya/
  • http://www.vogue.com/article/sacred-mountain-koyasan-japan-shukubo-temple-lodging
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4900.html
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4904.html
  • https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/spot/shritemp/kongobuji.html
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2358_012.html
  • http://www.kankou-kushimoto.jp/english/sub01.html
  • https://en.visitwakayama.jp/venues/venue_29/
  • http://www.kankou-kushimoto.jp/english/sub01.html
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4957.html
  • https://www.japanhoppers.com/en/kansai/kushimoto_nachi/kanko/1125/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiga_Prefecture
  • http://wwf.panda.org/about_our_earth/ecoregions/lake_biwa.cfm
  • http://www.lbm.go.jp/english/guide-e/
  • http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/84
  • http://www.taleofgenji.org/onjoji.html
  • https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/spot/shritemp/miidera.html
  • https://www.welcomekansai.com/shiga/otsu/miidera-temple/overview
  • https://www.japanhoppers.com/en/kansai/shigaraki_koga/kanko/1098/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maruoka_Castle
  • https://en.japantravel.com/fukui/maruoka-castle/3078
  • https://www.thekanert.com/writing/japan-travel/maruoka-castle/
  • https://www.amazon.com/Colloquial-Kansai-Japanese-Dialects-Phrasebook/dp/0804837236
  • https://www.amazon.com/Kansai-Rough-Guides-Snapshot-Japan-ebook/dp/B00NIA2CHI/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1500957207&sr=1-4&keywords=kansai
  • http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html
  • http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e7028.html

 
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8 Responses to Wonderful Japan – Kansai

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  1. sarassitham on Jun 3, 2020 at 1:15 am

    I loved everything about Japan, an amazing country with natural beauty landscape. The fours seasons in Japan are fondly admired and quite distinct. Each is regarded in as a step in an endless cycle, each one bringing its own food, festivals and sights.

    This article has inspire me to explore Japan closer, and view of all the amazing and unique place. Hope to visit once in the life time to experience the stay, feel the extraordinary climate, culture, food, scenery and their technology. Thank you for the wonderful sharing.

  2. Stella Cheang on Mar 29, 2018 at 3:01 pm

    Kansai, where Osaka and Kyoto are located, is truly mesmerising. The many buildings found in Osaka, Kyoto as well as other prefectures, are rich with historical values and embedded in enchanting nature. It would be lovely to visit Fukui Perfecture and pay homage to Japan’s tallest sitting Buddha statue, Echizen Daibutsu. While there, it will be very nice to immerse in the beautiful Japanese Garden especially during spring time and admire the 5-storey pagoda building amidst the spring time blossoms. Thank you for this wonderful sharing.

  3. Anne Ong on Oct 29, 2017 at 4:18 pm

    It’s always interesting to read and know more about Japan. The history, culture, tradition and foods are very interesting to read up for knowledge. I love Japanese food and their beautiful places. Some of the places and pictures beautiful are, 1. Osaka Castle (Osaka-jō), 15. Hikone Castle, Hyogo Prefecture, 18. Koka Ninja Village. Thank you very much Rinpoche and blog team for sharing this beautiful and interesting post on Kansai, Japan.

  4. Cc on Sep 3, 2017 at 10:17 pm

    Japan is a place that i will visit again and again and again. Love the culture, people , food and technology. They are dedicated and detail in very expect.One can just backpack and walk alone without worries. People there are very helpful.

  5. wan wai meng on Aug 17, 2017 at 12:46 am

    The Japanese has many art forms and so many are beautiful and attractive to the senses. The culture of the Japanese is such that they try their best to do to the best of their abilities, they make that extra effort that sets them apart from other cultures.

    The Japanese have much to be proud of on the world stage, due to their work ethics and their dedication to doing the best they can. in this sense the pride of the Japanese has served them very well.

  6. Samfoonheei on Aug 11, 2017 at 12:31 pm

    Kansai is the undiscovered Japan whereby it the journey to the very top and the experience was definitely exciting and wonderful. The surrounding region is often considered as the historical and cultural heart of Japan. Within the Kansai area, lies the famous and popular tourists spots of beautiful ancient castles, temples, shrines and hot springs to name afew. One of the oldest lakes in the world which about 4 million years ago…..Lake Biwa is also another place to offer to locals and touriest.There is a varities of good foods too for all .
    Its a UNESCO World Heritage sites with a a unique and long beautiful history.I love to visit some day such a beautiful place.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing these beautiful informative article for us to travel more easier.

  7. CindyH on Aug 10, 2017 at 4:36 pm

    Thank you for such a well-researched and informative piece about the Kansai region. After reading this latest installment and also the other travel related articles from this blog for some time now, (apart from the delights from the rather extensive information which are definitely useful for trip planning), it is still amazing and interesting to be presented with reflections of how universally appealing and versatile Buddhism is.

    When Buddhism “enters” a country or a culture, it acquires another style of Buddhism and yet retaining the core and essence of Buddha’s enlightened teachings. The explanations, expressions and representations of Buddha and His teachings may differ from one country or culture to another but what Dharma stands for remains universally consistent and relevant. Bottom line is, regardless of the differences, people generally can, at the very least appreciate or relate to the universal values emphasised in Dharma.

    In a way, I suppose its “typical” of Buddhism. After all, it is the nature, if not the goal, for the teachings be assimilated into one’s manner of thinking, beliefs and also way of life. Buddhism is not fixated in maintaining its “identity” but places more importance towards its application in one’s life. Thus, as long as it does not deviate from Buddha’s core teachings, Buddhism has no issues or qualms in accommodating the psychology and social cultures of the relevant society it seeks to reach out to for their benefit. Another reminder of how blessed I am to currently encounter and have Dharma in my life.

  8. Fong on Aug 10, 2017 at 4:01 pm

    Sounds like another interesting destination. Japan is a very fascinating place with its unique and fine culture. Even the food is fine and beautifully presented, a matter of feeding the senses as well as the body.

    Reading this article makes one wish to visit Kansai.

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KECHARA FOREST RETREAT PROGRESS UPDATES

Here is the latest news and pictorial updates, as it happens, of our upcoming forest retreat project.

The Kechara Forest Retreat is a unique holistic retreat centre focused on the total wellness of body, mind and spirit. This is a place where families and individuals will find peace, nourishment and inspiration in a natural forest environment. At Kechara Forest Retreat, we are committed to give back to society through instilling the next generation with universal positive values such as kindness and compassion.

For more information, please read here (english), here (chinese), or the official site: retreat.kechara.com.

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  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:39 PM
    n Tibetan culture, it is a popular and customary practice for families to invite monks to perform spiritual ceremonies such as Trusol rituals. The monks have had the opportunity to offer such ceremonies for individuals or their families. Such ceremonies purify the elements of the environment which helps those living or visiting there to experience good health, success and well-being. The sacred ritual of ‘bathing’ the Buddhas and consecration through which negativities, sicknesses and obstacles will be cleared. Where by filling those areas with positive energies and good vibes through this Trusol consecration puja. Water is an essential part of this puja and symbolises the cleansing of all negativities and impurities. Through this puja it also pacifies local deities and other unseen beings in the surrounding areas. We are indeed fortunate that Tsem Rinpoche has taught Kecharians this practice and it has benefited many.
    Thank you Rinpoche with folded hands

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-second-generation-of-trusol-practitioners.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:37 PM
    Reading this post had me gain some knowledge of Shifter Werewolves. Any article regarding rare creatures or paranormal articles are of my interest since young. In European folklore, a werewolf is a man who turns into a wolf at night and devours animals, people, or corpses but returns to human form by day.They have the ability to transform from an ordinary human appearance to a partially-lupine form with pointed ears, mutton chops, claws and fangs, and a ridged brow . Wow… werewolf tends to be vicious and unable to control his blood thirst. Their underlying common origin can be traced back to Proto-Indo-European mythology. In many depictions, these bloodthirsty beasts are evil where they kill animals and innocent people. They are humans who transition into wolf-like creatures, after being placed under a curse. In folklore, most werewolves originate from being cursed or bitten by another werewolf. That’s what they do believe. According many enthusiasts, there’s many different type of werewolves such as Alpha wolves, Beta wolves , Deltas, Elders, some survive as loners while others move in packs. How true it is no one knows. I do believe their existing . Many interesting stories related to these wolves in the past history.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/paranormal/werewolves-the-shapeshifters.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:35 PM
    Beautiful Dorje Shugden at Malacca. One should pay a visit there, located at a busy tourist place. It was such an auspicious occasion that a grand Puja was held there. Dedicated students and volunteers were there getting the place ready for the grand puja. Well the Grand Dorje Shugden puja was conducted by very own Kechara puja team to commemorate the chapel’s 3rd anniversary. Many people attended the Puja that’s wonderful to receive the powerful Protector Dorje Shugden blessings. More people will make a connection and get to know Manjushri, the Buddha of Wisdom, in the form of a Dharma Protector. May Dorje Shugden’s practice flourish to benefit those tourists and locals.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/study-groups/grand-puja-at-malaccas-dorje-shugden-chapel-chinese.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:34 PM
    Venerable Geshe Rabten Rinpoche is a highly realised meditation master known as a debater, scholar, and meditation master, was the first Tibetan Buddhist master to introduce the complete Vinaya-tradition. He had also introduce the study of the five major topics of Buddhism to the West. He became the ‘path breaker’ of the complete and complex teachings of Buddhism in the West. Many masters, who are famous in the West today, were Geshe’s students. enerable Geshe Rabten. Geshe Rabten wrote the beautiful and Manjushri’s prayer called Gangloma and gave a profound explanation. We are so fortunate to learn about this Manjushri’s sacred prayer. May all be blessed by the practice of Lord Manjushri and Geshe Rabten’s explanation.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/praise-to-manjusri-explanation-by-geshe-rabten.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Sunday, Oct 13. 2024 05:04 PM
    The begging bowl or alms bowl is one of the simplest but most important objects in the daily lives of Theravada Buddhist monks. The alms bowl still stands as an emblem of how all Buddhas, as numerous as grains of sand in the Ganges, practiced to end their desire. All those who receive the alms bowl should focus their mind to act with self-control and self-respect. Almsgiving is a tradition of Theravada Buddhists, majority in Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Laos. In those early days of Buddhism, monks would take their bowls and go out begging for food. As today in Thailand one could see monks woke up before dawn every morning and carried his bowl through the roads or paths wherever he was staying. Local people would place food in the bowl as a donation, through the generosity of lay people. They accept whatever food is offered for them and eat whatever been given, serve as a blessing for the giver.
    One bowl has held the food of a thousand families. A solitary monastic travels on his journey of a hundred thousand miles seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
    Thank you H.E. Tsem Rinpoche for explaining the meaning of begging and gave us more reasons to be vegetarian . Create a awareness among us not killing animals to be one.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/one-minute-story/why-buddha-has-a-begging-bowl
  • Samfoonheei
    Sunday, Oct 13. 2024 05:03 PM
    Ajahn Siripanyo, the son of billionaire Ananda Krishnan, chose to abandon his inheritance and become a Buddhist monk in pursuit of spirituality. A Thai-Malaysian monk born in London and educated in UK. He was ordained in Thailand and lived there, leaving behind a life of immense wealth and privilege. He did surprised many and his choice was unexpected. Initially as a temporary measure, but somehow later evolved into a permanent way of life. Ven. Ajahn Siripanyo is now the Abbot of hermitage Dtao Dam on the Thai-Burmese border in Saiyok National Park, Thailand.
    He was in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia years back giving an enthralling Dhamma talk on the timeless teachings of Ajahn Chah.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this inspiring sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/ajahn-siripanno.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Sunday, Oct 13. 2024 05:02 PM
    The Tibetan diaspora began in 1959 after the People’s Liberation Army entered the country. Thousands of Tibetan and the Dalai Lama fled into exile to India. The Indian government led by Jawaharlal Nehru kind enough to offer land which was scattered throughout the country. The Tibetans as refugees on which the Tibetans would be able to reestablish themselves. After 60 years of protests, campaigns and fundraising, the Tibetan movement has not been fruitful, increase the living welfare condition and Tibetans continue to depend on the kindness of their host countries. Due to these many Tibetan in exile left India to elsewhere and other countries seeking a better future. In the last 60 years, the Tibetan leadership have not been successful in making progress with their political goals. Surprisingly the Tibetan Spiritual leader Dalai Lama said in an interview published letter that Europe has accepted “too many” refugees . While there is many protests and attempts to pressure Europe to accept more refugees.
    Further more the unethical ban against Shugden making life more difficult for many Dorje Shugden practitioners . Because of the ban against Dorje Shugden the whole Tibetan Buddhist world is divided until now. May all be harmonious soon even recently .Dalai Lama had said we could practice Interesting read. Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Khong Jean Ai for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/dalai-lama-says-too-many-refugees-in-europe.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Sunday, Oct 13. 2024 05:01 PM
    The Kalmyks are the only traditionally Buddhist people living within Europe. As Tibetan Buddhists, the Kalmyks regard the Dalai Lama as their spiritual leader. Kalmykia is a historical crossroads on the Silk Road. The Western Mongol Kalmyk tribes. The Kalmyks live primarily in the Republic of Kalmykia, a federal subject of Russia located in the southeast European part of Russia. The Kalmyks are the only inhabitants of Europe whose national religion is Buddhism. They embraced Buddhism in the early part of the 17th century and belong to the Tibetan Buddhist. Like other Mongols, the Kalmyk are very spiritual Tibetan Buddhists, but their Buddhism has a strong admixture of indigenous beliefs and shamanistic practices. Buddhism spread among Mongols during the time of the Mongol Empire. They have come a long way till now, with rich traditions in song, dance, music, arts and a powerful heritage ,strong convictions.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting information of the hidden Kalmykia society.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/art-architecture/kalmykia-lore-and-memory-at-the-far-side-of-the-buddhist-world.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Sunday, Oct 13. 2024 05:01 PM
    Thaipusam is a Tamil Hindu festival celebrated on the first full moon day of the Tamil month. The festival is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Hindu God Murugan over the demon Surapadman. The festival commemorates the triumph of good over evil by many devotees throughout Malaysia. For Hindus, Thaipusam is a day to cleanse oneself of sins and to repent for any transgressions in the past year.Devotees place a great deal of emphasis on the Vel. Silver, gold, lead, copper, and iron which is the five metals. It is said to be able to absorb all negative energy, spread positivity, and destroy all dangerous energies. Wearing yellow during Thaipusam as Lord Murugan’s favourite colour. Well Yellow is also associated with new beginnings, peace and happiness. On that day many devotees will be wearing yellow in color. Devotees will carry heavy ornate structures called kavadis while others have their tongues, cheeks and backs pierced with hooks and skewers. They then walk barefoot up 272 steps to the Batu Caves temple. Women devotees will carry the milk pots on that day. Thousands of locals and tourist from around the world of different faith will be there to witness this auspicious festival.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/art-architecture/special-hindu-festival.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Oct 7. 2024 01:10 PM
    Dorje Shugden controversy began when the Dalai Lama made successive attempts to wrongly assert the nature of the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden to be a harmful spirit. The great lineage masters such as Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche and Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche’s teachings are amongst the greatest dharma that forms the foundation of Gelugpa education. As confirmed that Dorje Shugden is an emanation of Manjushri. Dorje Shugden is an enlightened Dharma Protector who manifested about 400 years ago from a lineage of erudite masters. They cant be wrong . Dorje Shugden via the Panglung oracle had helped the Dalai Lama in his great escape out of Tibet. There are so many highly attained lamas who practices Dorje Shugden and their reincarnations have been coming back again and again. Even 5th Dalai Lama composed a prayer to Dorje Shugden and built a Protector chapel dedicated to Dorje Shugden as well. That’s Trode Khangsar in Central Lhasa which is still there. The ban of Dorje Shugden is unnecessary and illogical as the bigger purpose of Dorje Shugden,is the preservation of the Dharma. The Tibetan Leadership (CTA) has instituted this ban against Dorje Shugden for many years and its time to lift the ban. May more people read and understand the ban and the real reason behind this controversy.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David for sharing this post.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/our-lama-vs-the-dalai-lama-the-underlying-reasons-for-the-ban.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Oct 7. 2024 01:08 PM
    Panchen Sonam Dragpa a scholar ,great master, writer, abbot of all monastic universities. Well known for writing 11 definitive volumes of philosophical teachings. He was the unmistaken incarnation of the pure monk Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen who was a direct disciple of Je Tsongkhapa.Panchen Sonam Dragpa was unique in having served as abbot of the three main Gelug monasteries that is Ganden, Sera and Drepung. The only person ever to have received this honour. Panchen Sonam Dragpa’s collected works spans volumes, constituting the main textbooks which is still used today.
    Worth reading over and over again this great Lama life’s story.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-most-illustrious-panchen-sonam-drakpa.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Oct 7. 2024 12:59 PM
    Troll is a being in Nordic folklore, described as trolls dwell in isolated areas of rocks, mountains, or caves, live together in small family units, and are rarely helpful to human beings. Trolling behaviors involve tactical aggression to incite emotional responses, which can adversely affect the target’s well-being. Troll represented aspects of life and nature that were beyond human control or understanding. They can be found all over Norway with mysterious rock formations and mountains with troll-like-shapes , sometimes possessing magic powers too. Reading this post had me get to know there’s other forest creatures that existed long ago. An eye opener reading it .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/the-hidden-nature-of-trolls.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Oct 7. 2024 12:58 PM
    Dice divination, a fascinating and ancient method of fortune-telling, has been used by various cultures throughout history. Dice hold different meanings and symbolism in various religious traditions, representing chance, fate, and the connection between humans and the divine. Dice are commonly used as divination tools in modern witchcraft and are interpreted to seek insight and guidance from higher powers. Despite all the different rules and approaches, all forms of dice divination are basically the more same.
    In Tibetan Buddhism there are a number of divination methods. Even within dice divination there are many forms, and these are associated with many different deities such as Manjushri, Palden Lhamo and Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden divination method is well known to be extremely accurate , very beneficial and effective.
    Our Guru H E Tsem Rinpoche had received the entire transmission and commentary of the Dorje Shugden divination lineage from Dorje Shugden himself. One should maintain very good guru devotion and have clean samaya with our guru with ,have respect for the Dharma and have the deepest faith in the great and powerful enlightened protector Dorje Shugden to do the divination.Tsem Rinpoche has helped thousands of people through his divination methods in Malaysia. Interesting read , more to understand about it.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing with us .

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/dorje-shugdens-dice-divination.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Tuesday, Oct 1. 2024 01:58 PM
    Visualizing deities while meditating or when we are performing a puja is one of the principal methods used in the Tibetan tradition. Deities are highly symbolic representations of awakened minds that have appeared to past masters in visions. Deities are represented in thangkas and paintings. As more and more people embrace the Tibetan Buddhist path with sincerity and dedication, they understand better and could visualize through the practice. It is not about appeasing a deity, but engaging in formal meditational practices to transform ourselves. The actual practice in Buddhism is to purify karma, accumulate merits by way of Buddha-deity practice, and to create the causes and conditions for spiritual realisations.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David for these great teachings.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/deity-practice-in-buddhism.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Tuesday, Oct 1. 2024 01:50 PM
    Lama Thubten Phurbu a prominent Gelug lama born in a village in Shanglaxiuxiang, Qinghai.As a young child, he showed extraordinary intelligence. Lama Thubten Phurbu is at the forefront of spreading Je Tsongkhapa’s tradition and Dorje Shugden inside Tibet. Lama Thubten Phurbu is responsible for propagating this Dharma Protector’s practice to many. Well respected by many in Kham, Tibet and is a deeply respected local figure known for his work in the community and have done much more for the Tibetan people than the CTA have. Lama Thubten Phurbu’s great works have benefited many sentient beings in Tibet and China. He travels occasionally to the West, India and Nepal to give teachings on Lama Tsongkhapa’s precious lineage as well as Dorje Shugden’s practice. Visited many places spreading Lama Tsongkhapa’s teachings, teaching the Lam Rim as well as the Mind Transformation teachings, and promoting the lineage of Dorje Shugden with the support from the Chinese government . Great sharing of a great Lama.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/incredible-lama-thubten-phurbu-and-his-activities.html

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I must thank my dharma blog team who are great assets to me, Kechara and growth of dharma in this wonderful region. I am honoured and thrilled to work with them. I really am. Maybe I don't say it enough to them, but I am saying it now. I APPRECIATE THESE GUYS VERY MUCH!

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The Unknown

The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
So go pursue all the way with the unknown,
because all unknown with familiarity becomes the known.
~Tsem Rinpoche

Photos On The Go

Click on the images to view the bigger version. And scroll down and click on "View All Photos" to view more images.
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
5 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
5 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
5 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
5 years ago
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
5 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
5 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
5 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
5 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
5 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
5 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
5 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
5 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
5 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
5 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
5 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
5 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
5 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
5 years ago
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
5 years ago
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
Sacred Vajra Yogini
5 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
5 years ago
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
5 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
5 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
5 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
5 years ago
This is pretty amazing! First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche

Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
5 years ago
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can\'t stop thinking of you and I can\'t forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
5 years ago
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can't stop thinking of you and I can't forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
5 years ago
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
5 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
5 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
5 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
5 years ago
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
5 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
5 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
6 years ago
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
DON\'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
6 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
6 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
6 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
6 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
6 years ago
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
6 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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CHAT PICTURES

Look at how attentive of the members during Dharma talk. It is through hearing, contemplation and practicing Dharma, one is able to eradicate delusions and march towards liberation. 28/9/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Look at how attentive of the members during Dharma talk. It is through hearing, contemplation and practicing Dharma, one is able to eradicate delusions and march towards liberation. 28/9/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Pastor  did dharma sharing on KFR retreat puja, purification after retreat and karma. Kechara Penang weekly puja. Pic taken by Siew Hong.
2 weeks ago
Pastor  did dharma sharing on KFR retreat puja, purification after retreat and karma. Kechara Penang weekly puja. Pic taken by Siew Hong.
Under the guidance from Pastor Seng Piow, Kechara Penang Study Group members completed our weekly Dorje Shugden Puja. 28th September 2024 by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Under the guidance from Pastor Seng Piow, Kechara Penang Study Group members completed our weekly Dorje Shugden Puja. 28th September 2024 by Jacinta.
Sponsors' packages nicely decorated nd offered up on behalf. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Sponsors' packages nicely decorated nd offered up on behalf. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Completed Dorje Shugden puja cum recitation of Namasangiti on 14th September 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group, uploaded by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja cum recitation of Namasangiti on 14th September 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group, uploaded by Jacinta.
Known as Merdeka Day (31st Aug 2024), our Kechara Penang members celebrated this day with Dorje Shugden and his entourage by doing a DS puja together with recitation of Namasangiti. Uploaded by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Known as Merdeka Day (31st Aug 2024), our Kechara Penang members celebrated this day with Dorje Shugden and his entourage by doing a DS puja together with recitation of Namasangiti. Uploaded by Jacinta.
24th Aug 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group members have completed weekly puja. A variety of kuihs and fruits were offered up on behalf of sponsors. By Jacinta
3 weeks ago
24th Aug 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group members have completed weekly puja. A variety of kuihs and fruits were offered up on behalf of sponsors. By Jacinta
At the point of the passing, the only thing that will help us and our loved ones is the Dharma. Hence, try to chant mantra, do pujas, giving alms and etc during this period. Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
At the point of the passing, the only thing that will help us and our loved ones is the Dharma. Hence, try to chant mantra, do pujas, giving alms and etc during this period. Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group. May the deceased has good rebirth and the family members find solace in the Three Jewels. Thanks to Rinpoche for He always taught us about practising compassion through action. By Jacinta
2 months ago
Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group. May the deceased has good rebirth and the family members find solace in the Three Jewels. Thanks to Rinpoche for He always taught us about practising compassion through action. By Jacinta
Thanks to Sharyn, the florist came and arranged on the spot! What a lovely and colourful bunch flowers attractively arranged to Buddha as offerings. 2nd Penang DS retreat of the year (2024), uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Thanks to Sharyn, the florist came and arranged on the spot! What a lovely and colourful bunch flowers attractively arranged to Buddha as offerings. 2nd Penang DS retreat of the year (2024), uploaded by Jacinta.
As usual, a retreat will not be complete without nice tormas. Pastor Patsy and our dear Penang members ~ Swee Bee, Tang, Jasmine and Siew Hong came together as a perfect and united team in completing it. Penang DS Retreat 17-18th Aug 2024 by Jacinta.
2 months ago
As usual, a retreat will not be complete without nice tormas. Pastor Patsy and our dear Penang members ~ Swee Bee, Tang, Jasmine and Siew Hong came together as a perfect and united team in completing it. Penang DS Retreat 17-18th Aug 2024 by Jacinta.
A picture that says all. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow, 12 retreatants and 51sponsors that make this event a successful one. See you all in our next retreat. Kam Siah. A simple yet full of gratitude note by Choong, uploaded by Jacinta.
3 months ago
A picture that says all. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow, 12 retreatants and 51sponsors that make this event a successful one. See you all in our next retreat. Kam Siah. A simple yet full of gratitude note by Choong, uploaded by Jacinta.
Offerings being set up, getting ready to start the first day of Kechara Penang Group's retreat. By Jacinta
3 months ago
Offerings being set up, getting ready to start the first day of Kechara Penang Group's retreat. By Jacinta
As H. E. The 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche had mentioned a retreat is time taken away from our ordinary, daily, mundane activities specifically to focus on deeper meditation, deeper meditational practices to gain some benefits.  Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
3 months ago
As H. E. The 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche had mentioned a retreat is time taken away from our ordinary, daily, mundane activities specifically to focus on deeper meditation, deeper meditational practices to gain some benefits. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Retreat started for the second half of the year, 17th Aug 2024. We have new participants and those regulars. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow and Choong for organising it. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Retreat started for the second half of the year, 17th Aug 2024. We have new participants and those regulars. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow and Choong for organising it. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
10th Aug 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja, led by Siew Hong. Uploaded by Jacinta.
3 months ago
10th Aug 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja, led by Siew Hong. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Thank you Pastor Seng Piow for the dharma sharing and leading today's puja 3rd August 2024. Pic by Siew Hong and uploaded by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Thank you Pastor Seng Piow for the dharma sharing and leading today's puja 3rd August 2024. Pic by Siew Hong and uploaded by Jacinta.
Puja sponsorships packages of RM100, RM 50 and RM30. Really appreciate the continuous support for our Penang DS Chapel. 28/7/2024 By Jacinta
3 months ago
Puja sponsorships packages of RM100, RM 50 and RM30. Really appreciate the continuous support for our Penang DS Chapel. 28/7/2024 By Jacinta
Completed weekly puja at Penang DS Chapel. 27th July 2024 by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Completed weekly puja at Penang DS Chapel. 27th July 2024 by Jacinta.
For those Penang members who were back in Penang, instead of having a weekend off, they chose to go to Penang DS centre and did a DS puja for the benefits of all beings. 20th July 2024, Saturday. By Jacinta
3 months ago
For those Penang members who were back in Penang, instead of having a weekend off, they chose to go to Penang DS centre and did a DS puja for the benefits of all beings. 20th July 2024, Saturday. By Jacinta
So proud of Penang Kecharians for attending initiations given by Venerable Chojila at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong on 20th - 21st July 2024. Against all odds, many of us made it there. (Not in the pic Mr. Teo and Sunny) By Jacinta.
3 months ago
So proud of Penang Kecharians for attending initiations given by Venerable Chojila at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong on 20th - 21st July 2024. Against all odds, many of us made it there. (Not in the pic Mr. Teo and Sunny) By Jacinta.
Wishing all sponsors' wishes be fulfilled and thanks for supporting our Kechara Penang Puja packages on 13/7/2024. By Jacinta
3 months ago
Wishing all sponsors' wishes be fulfilled and thanks for supporting our Kechara Penang Puja packages on 13/7/2024. By Jacinta
#throwback 13th July 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja. We have special guest that day, Paul, a long time senior Kecharian with his friends. By Jacinta
3 months ago
#throwback 13th July 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja. We have special guest that day, Paul, a long time senior Kecharian with his friends. By Jacinta
Beautiful offerings arranged by Choong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Beautiful offerings arranged by Choong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
7/7/2024 Kechara Penang weekly puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Girup by Jacinta.
4 months ago
7/7/2024 Kechara Penang weekly puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Girup by Jacinta.
This week's puja offerings sponsored by a few people and we hope their wishes be fulfilled. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta.
4 months ago
This week's puja offerings sponsored by a few people and we hope their wishes be fulfilled. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta.
29th June 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed weekly Dorje Shugden cum Manjushri Namasangiti. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta
4 months ago
29th June 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed weekly Dorje Shugden cum Manjushri Namasangiti. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta
Need a dose of spiritual nourishment or perhaps any spiritual protection? Do take up our Kechara Penang food/candles offering packages. Do not hesitate to contact our member Choong for more info. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Need a dose of spiritual nourishment or perhaps any spiritual protection? Do take up our Kechara Penang food/candles offering packages. Do not hesitate to contact our member Choong for more info. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Different food offerings offered on Penang Kechara Chapel's altar behalf of the sponsors. May sponsors' wishes be fulfilled. Great effort from Choong Soon Heng, one of our Kechara Penang dedicated members who thought of this way for people to generate merits while clearing obstacles. Uploaded by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Different food offerings offered on Penang Kechara Chapel's altar behalf of the sponsors. May sponsors' wishes be fulfilled. Great effort from Choong Soon Heng, one of our Kechara Penang dedicated members who thought of this way for people to generate merits while clearing obstacles. Uploaded by Jacinta.
These are some of the offerings offered on behalf of our sponsors. We have different offerings packages which one can choose from or just simply sponsor our weekly puja in dedication to our loved ones. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
These are some of the offerings offered on behalf of our sponsors. We have different offerings packages which one can choose from or just simply sponsor our weekly puja in dedication to our loved ones. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
We hope you enjoyed our pictures, as much as we enjoyed our Wesak Day together in Penang. Let us carry the energy and enthusiasm we experienced so far and inspires many more. Happy Wesak Day! 22/5/2024 KPSG by Jacinta
5 months ago
We hope you enjoyed our pictures, as much as we enjoyed our Wesak Day together in Penang. Let us carry the energy and enthusiasm we experienced so far and inspires many more. Happy Wesak Day! 22/5/2024 KPSG by Jacinta
Puja offering packages. Thanks to those who sponsored the puja. May all your wishes be fulfilled. KPSG by Jacinta
6 months ago
Puja offering packages. Thanks to those who sponsored the puja. May all your wishes be fulfilled. KPSG by Jacinta
Colourful altar with plenty of offerings. We had DS puja with Praise to Buddha Shakyamuni as we celebrate this special day of Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana. KPSG by Jacinta
6 months ago
Colourful altar with plenty of offerings. We had DS puja with Praise to Buddha Shakyamuni as we celebrate this special day of Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana. KPSG by Jacinta
Some of the activities done during the Wesak Day Celebration in Penang. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
Some of the activities done during the Wesak Day Celebration in Penang. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Wesak Day Celebration in Penang!Buddha's Bathing Ritual. 22/5/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
Wesak Day Celebration in Penang!Buddha's Bathing Ritual. 22/5/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. After puja, all members helped out clearing the offerings and we shared out the blessed food offerings with our families, friends and even animals. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
6 months ago
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. After puja, all members helped out clearing the offerings and we shared out the blessed food offerings with our families, friends and even animals. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. Activities during puja. Members chanting Dorje Shugden mantras. We've completed Dorje Shugden puja cum Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. Activities during puja. Members chanting Dorje Shugden mantras. We've completed Dorje Shugden puja cum Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
11/5/2024, Saturday @3pm. Activities : Offerings of khata to Rinpoche, garland of flowers to Dorje Shugden and a new Tibetan butterlamp being offered on the altar. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
6 months ago
11/5/2024, Saturday @3pm. Activities : Offerings of khata to Rinpoche, garland of flowers to Dorje Shugden and a new Tibetan butterlamp being offered on the altar. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Today we have an inaugural cancer free diet talk and info sharing by Mr. Ooi. Mr. Ooi is a Penangite and like any other man, he has a family to provide for. From colon cancer stage 4,he is now known as a cancer-free man. Learn more about his story and his acquaintance with Dorje Shugden here https://youtu.be/x7i-yXJBUwM?si=A-5O0udxjg52iS58
6 months ago
Today we have an inaugural cancer free diet talk and info sharing by Mr. Ooi. Mr. Ooi is a Penangite and like any other man, he has a family to provide for. From colon cancer stage 4,he is now known as a cancer-free man. Learn more about his story and his acquaintance with Dorje Shugden here https://youtu.be/x7i-yXJBUwM?si=A-5O0udxjg52iS58
Kind-hearted sponsors sponsored these kuih-muih & flowers for today's puja @ 4th May, 2024. Should you wish to contribute these or sponsor our weekly puja, do contact us for more details. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
Kind-hearted sponsors sponsored these kuih-muih & flowers for today's puja @ 4th May, 2024. Should you wish to contribute these or sponsor our weekly puja, do contact us for more details. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
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Dorje Shugden
Click to watch my talk about Dorje Shugden....