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Gifu / Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is a historic village located in Shirakawa Village, Ono District, Gifu Prefecture. It is renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri houses, which have steeply pitched thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Surrounded by mountains and rich natural landscapes, Shirakawa-go is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. These unique houses are still inhabited today, and the village preserves its traditional way of life while also welcoming visitors from around the world. The history of Shirakawa-go dates back to the Heian period, when people first settled in the area and engaged in agriculture. Due to its remote location and limited access to the outside world, the region developed a distinctive culture and way of life. From the Edo period to the Meiji period, sericulture (silk farming) flourished in Shirakawa-go. Since silk farming required spacious environments, large attic spaces were incorporated into the design of the gassho-zukuri houses, making them ideal for raising silkworms while also serving as family dwellings. During the Meiji period, Japan underwent rapid modernization, and mechanization gradually replaced traditional sericulture. As a result, Shirakawa-go's economy declined, and its population decreased. However, after World War II, a movement to preserve Japan's cultural heritage gained momentum. In the 1970s, efforts were made by both local residents and researchers to protect the gassho-zukuri houses, recognizing their historical and architectural significance. These preservation activities ultimately led to Shirakawa-go being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, further solidifying its importance on the global stage. Today, Shirakawa-go is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. However, the village faces challenges in balancing tourism with the preservation of its traditional culture and environment. Issues such as increased visitor numbers and environmental changes require careful management. Despite these challenges, the local community remains dedicated to preserving their heritage, ensuring that Shirakawa-go continues to be a living example of Japan’s rich history and traditional way of life.

Kyoto / Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Japan's representative shrines, located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, and is known as the head shrine of the approximately 30,000 Inari shrines throughout Japan. The shrine enshrines Inari Daijin, who is worshipped primarily as a god of prosperity and good harvest, and is visited by many worshippers and tourists from Japan and abroad. Particularly famous on the shrine grounds are the “Senbon-torii,” a series of vermilion-lacquered torii gates. These torii gates were dedicated by worshippers and believers as thanks for the fulfillment of their wishes, and the tunnel of torii gates creates a mysterious landscape. In addition, the entire Mt. Inari area is considered a Shinto shrine, with many shrines scattered throughout the mountain, and visitors can walk around on a path of worship called “Oyama-mururi. The shrine was founded in 711, dating back to the Nara period, when three deities were enshrined on the three peaks of Mt. Initially founded by the powerful Hata clan, the shrine later came to be revered by the imperial family and nobility in the Heian period. Throughout its history, the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine has developed as a support for the prosperity of agriculture and commerce in the region. Fushimi Inari Taisha is attractive not only for its historical background and religious significance, but also for its rich natural environment and unique culture. Millions of people from all over Japan visit the shrine on New Year's Day to seek the blessings of the deity Inari. It is also a place of daily devotion for the local people. Its magnificent architecture and traditions symbolize the richness of Japanese culture and faith.

Kyoto / Kinkakuji Temple

Kinkakuji Temple (formally known as Rokuonji Temple) is a temple of the Shokokuji school of the Rinzai sect, located in Kita-ku, Kyoto, and is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. 1397, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, took over the “Kitayama-den” villa of the Saionji family and built the mountain villa “Kitayama-den”. The central building in the precincts of the temple, “Kinkaku,” officially called “Shariden,” is a three-story tower covered entirely in gold leaf. Each tier is composed of different architectural styles: the first tier is the shinden-zukuri, the residence style of Heian aristocrats; the second tier is the buke-zukuri; and the third tier is the Zen-shu style. The combination of these various styles is said to symbolize Ashikaga Yoshimitsu's power and aesthetic sense. Kinkakuji Temple has a pond garden centering on Kagayako Pond, which offers beautiful seasonal views. In the garden, large and small islands such as Reed Island and famous stones dedicated to Ashikaga Yoshimitsu by various feudal lords, such as Hatakeyama Stone, Akamatsu Stone, and Hosokawa Stone, are located. The borrowed scenery of Mt. Kinugasa is also one of the highlights of the site. Although the Golden Pavilion was destroyed by arson in 1950, it was rebuilt in 1955 and underwent extensive restoration, including re-gilding, in 1987. 1994 saw the temple inscribed as part of UNESCO's World Heritage list of “Cultural Properties of Ancient Kyoto,” and it is held in high regard internationally. Kinkakuji Temple has appeared in many literary and artistic works as a symbol of Japanese culture. In particular, Yukio Mishima's novel “The Temple of the Golden Pavilion” is famous for being set in this temple.

Kyoto / Arashiyama

Arashiyama, located in the western part of Kyoto City, is a picturesque tourist destination known for its beautiful natural scenery throughout the seasons, as well as its historic temples and shrines. One of the most famous landmarks in Arashiyama is the Togetsu-kyo Bridge, which spans the Katsura River and is an iconic symbol of the area. The surroundings of the bridge are particularly lively during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season. Arashiyama is also home to Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This temple is renowned for its stunning gardens and historic architecture, and in autumn, the temple grounds are beautifully adorned with vibrant autumn leaves. Another popular spot is the "Bamboo Grove Path," a mystical path surrounded by dense bamboo, offering a serene and enchanting atmosphere. The Sagano Romantic Train connects Sagano-Arashiyama Station to Kameoka Station, providing a scenic ride through the beautiful Hozu River Gorge. The train ride is especially popular during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, offering an up-close experience of the natural beauty. Additionally, Arashiyama Park is a nature-rich area where visitors can enjoy a relaxing time, especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Arashiyama showcases different charms throughout the year, from cherry blossoms in spring to lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and snow-covered landscapes in winter. It’s a place where visitors can always discover new attractions, making it a must-visit spot during a trip to Kyoto, where history and nature harmonize beautifully.

Kyoto / Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera temple is a historic temple located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, founded in 778 during the Nara period by the monk Enchin (also known as Kenshin). Following a divine dream, Enchin discovered a place in Otowa Mountain where pure water flowed, carved an image of Kannon, and established the temple there. Later, Sakanoue no Tamuramaro contributed to the temple's development, making Kiyomizu-dera temple a site of worship for many people. Throughout its history, Kiyomizu-dera temple has been struck by fires numerous times, but it has always been rebuilt. The current temple complex was reconstructed in 1633, and in 1994, it was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site as part of the 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.' The main hall of Kiyomizu-dera temple is built on a cliff, with a stage (Kiyomizu Stage) that juts out from the front, which is especially famous. The view from this stage is breathtaking and is the origin of the saying 'to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu,' meaning to take a bold plunge. Additionally, the temple grounds feature the Otowa Waterfall, where pure water constantly flows. This waterfall's water is popular among visitors who wish for health and longevity. Kiyomizu-dera temple continues to be loved by tourists and worshippers for its beautiful scenery and deep history. The Otowa Waterfall, from which Kiyomizu-dera derives its name, flows continuously with pure water from Otowa Mountain. This water is also called 'Enmei-sui' (Life-Prolonging Water) and is believed to bring health and longevity to those who drink it. Visitors often drink this water and make wishes. The main hall of Kiyomizu-dera is built in the 'Kakezukuri' style, a unique construction method that allows the hall to jut out over the cliff. This structure is known for its resilience to natural disasters such as earthquakes and strong winds. From the stage of the main hall, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto City, which is especially spectacular during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, attracting many tourists. Additionally, within Kiyomizu-dera temple is the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to matchmaking. This shrine is popular with those praying for love and good relationships, particularly young couples and women. There are two 'Love Fortune Stones' on the shrine grounds, and it is said that if you can walk from one stone to the other with your eyes closed, your wish for love will be granted. Kiyomizu-dera temple is also a place where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes throughout the seasons. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and snowy scenes in winter each offer a different charm each time you visit. During the nighttime special viewing periods, the temple is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates many visitors. Kiyomizu-dera temple is a place that combines historical value with natural beauty and cultural appeal. Kiyomizu-dera temple is also revered for its blessings related to safe childbirth. Particularly, the 'Koyasu Kannon' located in the main hall of Kiyomizu-dera is worshipped as a guardian deity for safe delivery and child-rearing. Many expectant mothers and their families visit to pray for a safe and smooth childbirth.

Kyoto / Gion

Gion is a district located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Japan, known for strongly preserving the traditional atmosphere of Kyoto. It developed as the temple town of Yasaka Shrine during the Heian period and flourished as a hanamachi (entertainment district) with teahouses and red-light districts in the Edo period. Even today, the streets retain the charm of the Edo period. Gion is also famous as a place where visitors can experience traditional Japanese culture, including tea ceremonies, flower arrangement, and traditional dance. One of the main tourist attractions is Yasaka Shrine, a prominent shrine in Kyoto and the central location of the Gion Festival. The Gion Festival, held in July, attracts numerous tourists. Hanamikoji Street is another representative spot in Gion, with its stone-paved streets lined with traditional teahouses and restaurants. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of maiko or geiko walking by. Gion Corner, located at the intersection of Hanamikoji, offers iconic views of Gion. Additionally, don't miss Kennin-ji Temple, one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples and the head temple of the Rinzai sect's Kennin-ji branch. It features beautiful gardens and national treasures. Gion is also a great place to enjoy dining and shopping. The area is home to many high-end restaurants and traditional Japanese cuisine establishments. There are also numerous shops selling souvenirs and traditional crafts around Gion. Gion is a place where history and culture thrive, offering a deep sense of Japan's traditions.

Kyoto / To-ji Temple

To-ji Temple, officially called “Kyoo Gokoku-ji Temple,” is a representative ancient Japanese temple located in Minami-ku, Kyoto. 794, when the capital was moved to Heian-kyo, To-ji Temple was built as a guardian temple for the east and west sides of the capital, and was the eastern counterpart to Nishi Temple. To-ji Temple became the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism after Kobo Daishi Kukai was entrusted by Emperor Saga in the early Heian period, and as the center of esoteric Buddhism, it left a significant mark on the history of Buddhism in Japan. The history of Toji Temple dates back to the beginning of the Heian period. When it was first built, it functioned as a national prayer temple, but in 823, when Kukai was entrusted with its management, it was converted to an esoteric Buddhist temple. From this base, Kukai spread the teachings of Shingon esoteric Buddhism, laying the foundation for its doctrines to the present day. Influenced by Kukai, Toji Temple played an important role in the development of Shingon Buddhism's teachings and culture. One of Toji's most iconic buildings is the five-story pagoda. This pagoda is the tallest surviving wooden structure in Japan and is designated a National Treasure. The first five-story pagoda was built in the 9th century, but was frequently destroyed by lightning and fire. The present pagoda was rebuilt in the early Edo period with the assistance of Tokugawa Iemitsu. The present pagoda was rebuilt in the early Edo period with the help of Tokugawa Iemitsu. Inside the pagoda, Buddhist statues are enshrined, and it is an important space that embodies the cosmology of Shingon esoteric Buddhism. The auditorium also houses a group of Buddhist statues that express the esoteric Buddhist worldview, known as the “three-dimensional mandala. The mandala is an icon that expresses the Buddhist view of the universe, and the arrangement of the Buddhist statues in To-ji Temple is a three-dimensional embodiment of the mandala. This group of Buddhist statues in the lecture hall visually demonstrates the spirit of Shingon esoteric Buddhism at To-ji Temple, and attracts many visitors and researchers.

Nara / Todaiji Temple

Todaiji Temple, located in Nara City, Nara Prefecture, is one of Japan's representative Buddhist temples and an important symbol of the history and culture of the ancient capital of Nara. This temple was founded in the Nara Period (8th century) at the initiative of Emperor Shomu, and was built based on the principle of “Jingo-no-Kokoku,” which aimed to stabilize the nation through the power of Buddhism. Todaiji Temple is especially known for the Great Buddha of Nara (the statue of Rushanabutsu) enshrined in the main hall, known as the Daibutsuden, which attracts many visitors for its grandeur and technical sophistication. The founding of Todaiji Temple was inspired by the background of the difficulties Japan was facing at the time, such as epidemics, natural disasters, and famine. To overcome these calamities, Emperor Shomu promoted a policy of national support for Buddhism and ordered the construction of Todaiji Temple and the Great Buddha as a symbol of this policy. The casting of the statue of the Great Buddha began in 743, and an eye-opening ceremony was held in 752. Monks and aristocrats from all over Asia at the time gathered for this memorial service, and there are records of international Buddhist cultural exchanges taking place. The Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple was once described as the largest wooden structure in the world, and its sheer scale is overwhelming. The current building, rebuilt in 1709, is said to be about two-thirds the size of the original, but its grandeur still leaves a strong impression on visitors. The statue of the Great Buddha itself has undergone repeated restorations and renovations over its long history, but it is still a crystallization of Buddhist art and technology from the Nara period. In 1998, Todaiji Temple was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Cultural Properties of Ancient Nara. Todaiji is widely recognized as a cultural icon representing Japan, appreciated not only for its religious facilities but also for its history, culture, architecture, and art.

Osaka / Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle, located in Chuo-ku, Osaka, is one of Japan's most iconic castles and was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Its grand history and architecture are important testaments to the struggle for power and cultural progress during Japan's Warring States and Edo periods. Construction of the castle began in 1583. Toyotomi Hideyoshi built Osaka Castle as a political and military base in the process of unifying the country. Its grand structure was modeled after Azuchi Castle and is characterized by high stone walls and a vast moat. The castle was lavishly decorated with gold leaf, symbolizing the prosperity and authority of the Toyotomi family. However, the Toyotomi family's era came to an end when they were defeated by Tokugawa Ieyasu's forces in the “Osaka Summer Battle” of 1615. Osaka Castle was then rebuilt and administered under the direct control of the Tokugawa shogunate. Throughout the Edo period, the castle underwent numerous renovations and served as a strategic base. In the Meiji period, Osaka Castle was partially demolished and the ruins of the castle were used as a military facility. Later, in 1931, the castle tower was rebuilt with the support of the citizens. The rebuilt castle tower is a reinforced concrete structure, but its exterior faithfully reproduces the traditional castle design. Today, Osaka Castle is maintained as a historical park and is a popular destination for many tourists. The castle keep is used as a museum, where materials related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the Warring States period are on display. There are also beautiful gardens and open spaces around the castle, which attract many visitors, especially during the cherry blossom season. Osaka Castle has been a symbol of Japan's historical and cultural transition from the Warring States Period to the present day, and continues to be loved by many people.

Hyogo / Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is also known as Shirasagi Castle because of its beautiful white plaster exterior that looks like an elegant egret spreading its wings. Himeji-jo is considered the highest peak of existing castle architecture in Japan, and in 1993 it became the first castle in Japan to be registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. It is also designated as a National Treasure and an Important Cultural Property. The origins of Himeji Castle can be traced back to a fort built in the mid-14th century during the Nanbokucho Period, but it was not until the late Sengoku Period and Azuchi-Momoyama Period that the foundation for its current appearance was laid. In particular, after the Battle of Sekigahara, Ikeda Terumasa, who became the lord of the Himeji domain, undertook extensive renovations and completed the main part of the castle walls, including the current keep. Later, during the Edo period, further improvements were made by clan lords such as Honda Tadamasa and Sakai Tadakatsu. Along with its military defensive function, Himeji Castle also has cultural and symbolic beauty. Its intricate layout and clever defensive systems reflect the best of the castle-building techniques of the time. For example, there are intricate corridors calculated to lead the enemy astray, narrow spaces for shooting arrows and guns, and holes for throwing stones. On the other hand, the beauty of the white walls and their plaster, as well as the wooden construction techniques, also show a high level of artistry. Although Himeji Castle was later affected by the decree to abolish castles from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji period, the castle itself escaped destruction. During World War II, the castle was in danger of being damaged by air raids, but miraculously escaped destruction by fire. After the war, extensive restoration work was undertaken, leading to the castle's current appearance. Himeji Castle is known as a symbol of “Japanese castles” for its graceful and magnificent appearance, and is often used as a filming location for movies and TV dramas. The surrounding natural beauty of the four seasons, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, further enhances the beautiful scenery.

Hyogo / Kinosaki Onsen

Kinosaki Onsen is a famous hot spring resort located in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, and is highly popular in Japan and abroad for its beautiful townscape and historical background. Spread out in a mountain valley rich in nature, the town is lined along the river with emotional out-spa baths and ryokan (Japanese-style inns), and the atmosphere of a good old Japanese hot spring resort has been handed down to the present. The history of this hot spring is very old, dating back more than 1,300 years. There is a legendary story about its origin, and it is said that the onsen was discovered by a priest, Dochi Shonin, in the Nara period. According to the legend, when Dochi Shonin prayed for the healing of people's illnesses, he found a stork soaking its injured leg in the hot spring and healing it. This anecdote has become a symbol of Kinosaki Hot Springs, and storks are still a symbol of the hot springs today. From the Heian period to the Muromachi period, Kinosaki Hot Spring developed as a “hot-spring cure”. At that time, the hot-spring cure culture spread, and the number of people visiting for medical treatment increased. Its fame spread among aristocrats and Buddhist monks, and the hot spring resort is mentioned in classical literature such as “The Pillow Book” and “Tsurezuregusa”. In the Edo period, Kinosaki Onsen achieved further prosperity. During this period, an out-spa culture was formed, and the custom of visiting multiple hot springs scattered throughout the region was born. The “Shichiyumeguri,” or “seven hot spring tours,” as they are known today, are a remnant of this period. In addition, with the development of transportation systems and highways, the number of travelers from all over the country increased, and the area's status as a hot spring resort was established. It is known that Naoya Shiga visited the area in the Meiji period and wrote his masterpiece “At Kinosaki. Through this work, Kinosaki Onsen became a special place among writers and artists, further enhancing its literary value. In addition, the Kita-Tajima Earthquake of 1925 devastated a large part of the hot spring resort, but in the process of reconstruction, the townscape was renewed and the beautiful landscape of today was formed. In particular, willow trees were planted along the Otanigawa River, making the area a seasonal attraction. Even today, Kinosaki Onsen continues to preserve the tradition of “out-spa tours” while evolving its appeal as a tourist destination. Visitors are attracted not only by the benefits of the hot springs themselves, but also by the cuisine using fresh local ingredients and the local culture. Through its long history and cultural background, Kinosaki Onsen remains a hot spring resort that embodies the traditions and beauty of Japan.

Hiroshima / Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine, located in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, is one of Japan's representative shrines. It was built in the Heian period and was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 because of its magnificent scenery and historical value. Itsukushima Shrine is located on a sacred island called Miyajima, which, as its name suggests, has long been worshipped as “the island where the gods dwell. It is also known as one of the three most scenic spots in Japan and is a very popular tourist destination. The distinctive architectural style of Itsukushima Shrine is the vermilion-lacquered shrine pavilions that appear to float on the sea. This is because the entire island has been considered sacred since ancient times, and people were restricted from living on the island, which is why the shrine was designed to be built on the sea. At low tide, a sandy beach appears and visitors can walk close to the shrine, while at high tide, the shrine pavilion is reflected in the water, creating a fantastic view. This design is highly regarded as the ultimate in architectural beauty in harmony with nature. The shrine dates back to 593, when it was enshrined as a guardian deity of the sea during the reign of Emperor Suiko, the first emperor of Japan. Later, Taira no Kiyomori rebuilt the shrine in the 12th century and arranged it in its present majestic appearance. The reason behind Taira no Kiyomori's devotion to Itsukushima Shrine was to pray for the prosperity of the Taira clan. During that period, Itsukushima Shrine underwent many renovations under the protection of the Heike clan and established itself as a cultural and religious center. The center of Itsukushima Shrine includes the main hall, the Hirabutai, the Noh stage, and the corridor, and these structures are arranged to spread out over the sea. Another highlight of the shrine is the Otorii, a well-known symbol of the shrine. Standing in the middle of the sea, the majestic appearance of the Otorii is deeply impressive to visitors. The current Otorii was rebuilt in 1875, and was cleverly constructed to withstand typhoons and waves. Many events and festivals are held throughout the year at Itsukushima Shrine, the most famous of which is the Kangensai, or “Kangensai” festival. This festival, which takes the form of a unique performance of gagaku (ancient Japanese court music) on the sea, is an ancient tradition that has been handed down to the present day. Itsukushima Shrine, with its combination of sacredness and beauty, not only continues to attract tourists from Japan and abroad, but is also a beloved place of worship. Its scenery, a fusion of nature and culture, deeply impresses visitors and makes them feel the weight of history and tradition.

Tottori / Nageire-do

Nageire-do, known as the inner sanctuary of Sanbutsuji Temple on Mt. Mitoku, is a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture located in Misasa-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture, and is designated as a national treasure. This building has played an important role as one of the three major sacred sites of Shugendo in Japan. The building was built on a precipitous cliff, and how it was constructed remains a mystery to this day. The name “Nageiri” comes from the fact that the Buddhist temple appears to have been literally “thrown” into the cliffside. The legendary method of construction has been passed down from generation to generation, with some people claiming that Enno Ozunu, the founder of Shugendo, threw the building in with the power of the Dharma, but the details of the construction technique have not been revealed. Its history dates back to the late Heian period. The exact date of its construction is unknown, but it is believed to have been built as part of the Shugendo (mountain asceticism) that flourished during the Heian period. Shugendo was a religious practice that regarded mountains as places for spiritual practice, and Mt. The steep terrain and architecture of the Debito Hall have served as a symbol of the trials and enlightenment of the Shugendo practitioners. The building itself is made of wood and uses an architectural style called butai-zukuri. This style is also seen in Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto and other temples, and Tadokido is built in what can be considered its most extreme form. The construction materials and structure show the harmony between the high technology of the time and nature, and the beauty of the building is not only a religious structure, but also occupies an important place in Japanese architectural history. In recent years, direct entry to the Debito Hall has been severely restricted for reasons of nature conservation and cultural asset protection. Therefore, visitors generally gain their experience by walking through the mountains of Mt. Mitoku and gaining a distant view of the Debito Hall through the steep paths along the way. This ascetic-like experience conveys the spiritual significance of Mt. Through its mystical architecture and the history of mountain worship, the Debito Hall is a reminder of the depths of Japanese culture. Its value as a place for coexistence with nature, for spiritual cultivation, and as a crystallization of people's faith will continue to be passed down from generation to generation.

Shimane / Izumo Taisha

Izumo Taisha Shrine, located in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture, is the oldest shrine in Japan. The shrine enshrines Okuninushi no Okami as its main deity, and is widely worshipped as a god of marriage and good fortune. Because of its importance, the shrine is also called “Izumo Oyashiro,” and from ancient times to the present day, it has been the object of deep devotion by people across the country. The origin of Izumo-taisha Shrine is said to date back to the Kami period. Myths in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) and Nihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan) tell us that Okuninushi (the Great God of the Land) established a nation in the land of Izumo, and later negotiated with an envoy of Amaterasu (the Great Goddess of Amaterasu) to hand over the land to him. This myth was a factor in the sanctity of the founding of Izumo Taisha. It is said that after Okuninushi Okami ceded the land to the gods of heaven, a magnificent shrine was built for his own residence, and this was the beginning of Izumo-taisha Shrine. During the Heian period, Izumo-taisha took on a particularly important position in the shrine system, and national rituals were performed under the control of the Shinto priests. During this period, Izumo Taisha was also known as Kizukitaisya. During the Kamakura period, more records were kept, especially the rituals and ceremonies performed by Izumo-taisha, which was a central part of the Shinto and national ceremonies of the time. From the Muromachi period to the Edo period, some buildings were damaged due to wars and changes in the times, but each time they were rebuilt and continued to support the local faith. During the Edo period, the number of visitors to the shrine increased nationwide, and the shrine became popularly known as “Izumo-mode” (Izumo Pilgrimage). Behind this was a deep connection with the shrine's appeal as a place for a bountiful harvest and forging ties between people. In the Meiji period, with the establishment of national Shintoism, Izumo-taisha came to be administered under a new system. In the wave of modernization, Izumo-taisha maintained its status as a place of special sanctity among the nation's shrines, and as the number of visitors increased, shrine facilities were renovated and protected. Even after the war, the shrine continued to play an important role as a center of local culture and faith, as well as a tourist destination. The architecture and rituals of this shrine are also very unique. In particular, the shimenawa (sacred rope) in the Kaguraden is known for its enormity and solemnity, and is a source of amazement to many worshippers. In October of the lunar calendar, “Kamiarisai” is held, a special time when all the gods of Japan are said to gather in Izumo. Unlike other regions, where this period is called “Kanna-zuki,” in Izumo it has a special meaning as “Kamiarizuki. Thus, Izumo Taisha Shrine has an extremely high historical and cultural value and is deeply rooted in the spiritual culture of the Japanese people. Its grand traditions and mythological background still attract many people today.

Shimane / Matsue Castle

Located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, Japan, Matsue Castle is a historical castle and one of the most valuable castles with an existing keep among Japanese castles built from the Warring States Period to the Edo Period. The castle was completed in 1611 by the Horio clan, which ruled the Izumo region. The castle took five years to build, and its structure was designed to prevent invasion by outside enemies by adopting the highly defensive “teikaku-shiki” style and fortifying the surrounding area with moats and stonewalls. Matsue Castle's castle tower is characterized by its black plaster exterior, giving it a beautiful appearance, also known as a “staggered castle. The structure is a watchtower type, with five stories above ground and one below. The castle overlooks Lake Shinji and its scenery attracts visitors. The defensive facilities such as stonewalls and moats have been well preserved, and are valuable remains that convey the castle-building techniques of the time. Yoshiharu Horio guided the construction of Matsue Castle, and he distinguished himself as a military commander in the service of Hideyoshi Toyotomi. After the Battle of Sekigahara, Ieyasu Tokugawa appointed Horio lord of Izumo and Oki provinces, and he built Matsue Castle as a base of control over the region. The location of the castle had the topographical advantage of being surrounded by Lake Shinji and the Nakaumi Sea, which facilitated logistics and defense by water transportation. After the death of Yoshiharu Horio, his son Tadaharu Horio took over the completion of the castle and worked for the development of the region as the first lord of the Matsue domain. After the Horio clan ceased to exist, Matsue Castle passed into the hands of the Kyogoku clan, but their rule was short-lived, and in 1638, Matsudaira Naomasa entered the domain as lord. The Matsudaira clan ruled the Matsue domain throughout the Edo period, and the seventh lord, Matsudaira Fumai, in particular, was known as a cultural figure. Fumai was well versed in the tea ceremony and literature, and while he restructured the clan's finances, he also established tea houses and cultural facilities. Thanks to his efforts, the Matsue domain became a center of tea ceremony culture, also known as “Fumai's Tea Ceremony. After the Meiji Restoration, many castles in Japan were demolished due to the decree to abolish castles, but Matsue Castle escaped the fate of its predecessors. However, Matsue Castle escaped this fate. Many of the buildings within the castle were demolished, leaving only the stonewalls and the castle tower. The castle keep was later preserved through the efforts of local residents, and in 1935 it was designated a National Important Cultural Property. Furthermore, in 2015, it was designated a National Treasure, and its value as a historical structure in Japan has been reevaluated. Matsue Castle embodies the history of Japan from the Warring States Period to the present day, and is loved as a symbol of local culture and history along with its beautiful appearance. For visitors, Matsue Castle is a place where they can feel the breath of history and the pride of the Izumo region.