Category Archives: Historical Sites

Zenko-ji Temple

Posted on September 5, 2011 by admin| Leave a comment

We enjoyed perfect weather for the visit of the Zenko-ji temple. The temple was built in the 7th century. There is a rumor that the temple would be the host to the first Buddha statue brought to Japan. This statue cannot be seen by anyone, including the chief priest.


Short video presenting the ambiance of the Zenko-ji temple.

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Posted in Historical Sites, Nagano prefecture

Togakushi shrine

Posted on September 3, 2011 by admin| Leave a comment

Nagano city is reputed for the Togakushi shrine. The sky cleared up after the typhoon (hurricane) and we could enjoy a short sunny hike to the shrine. On some pictures, you may notice the dangling pieces of white paper, this is because the word paper (kami) is very similar to the word god (kami)!

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Posted in Historical Sites, Nagano prefecture

Onioshidashi, the village buried under lava

Posted on August 31, 2011 by admin| Leave a comment

The lava flow resulting from the eruption of Asama mountain on August 5 1783 completely buried the village of Kanbara. . Today the site is a protected natural park with a temple dedicated to the victims of the eruption.

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Posted in Historical Sites

Matsumoto Castle

Posted on August 28, 2011 by admin| Leave a comment

The Matsumoto Castle is located in Nagano prefecture and is listed as a national treasure of Japan. The wooden inner structure is still the original one built in the 16th century.

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Posted in Historical Sites, Nagano prefecture

Nagoya Castle

Posted on August 24, 2011 by admin| Leave a comment

We took the shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya to briefly visit Ayako’s sister. Chizuru and Akichan invited us to the Nagoya castle and then a farewell snack at a local Izakaya

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Posted in Historical Sites, Nagoya