Many other places beyond major castles, shrines, temples, and gardens also shape Japan’s history. From cultural landmarks to regional sites, these locations reveal additional layers of Japan’s historical landscape.

Three National Treasure Teahouses

Jo-an Tea House

Joan Tea Room, National Treasure, by Oda Uraku. 織田有楽斎の如庵茶室

Jo-an was built by Samurai Tea Master Oda Urakusai, a brother of Nobunaga. He said: "The main principle of the tea ceremony is entertaining the guests."

Tai-an Tea House

Taian Teahouse_国宝茶室・待庵

Tai-an was made by Sen no Rikyu, the great tea master who perfected wabi-cha. He was Hideyoshi’s trusted confidant, ordered to die. Why?

Mittan Tea House

Calligraphy by Zen Master Mittan_密庵禅師の墨蹟

Mitt-an was built by Kobori Enshu. He achieved Kirei-Sabi — The Aesthetic Realm Kobori Enshū Ultimately Attained

Emperor Nintoku Kofun

Emperor Nintoku Tumulus, World Heritage_仁徳天皇陵古墳,世界遺産

The largest keyhole-shaped tumulus in Japan (840m x 645m) of the 16th Emperor Nintoku was built in the mid-5C. Its size is similar to that of a pyramid. Why so large? © Sakai City

Zuihoden Mausoleum

Zuihoden02_瑞鳳殿

One-eyed Dragon, Date Masamune, overcame many hardships while confronting Hideyoshi and Ieyasu with his wisdom and ability. His soul has slept calmly at Zuihoden.

Nagasaki Nanban Trade

Impact on Japan by NanbanTrade_南蛮貿易の日本への影響

Nagasaki bloomed in the Nanban Trade with Portugal and Spain in the 16th century. It brought Christianity and guns. How did the Samurai utilize them?

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum_広島平和記念資料館

The Nobel Peace Prize for 2024 to the Japanese organization Nihon Hidankyo. A Global Desire for Peace.

The Museum Meiji-Mura

Japanese Red Cross Central Hospital, delicately adorned with its exquisite exterior, in the Museum Meiji-Mura, a symbol of relief work in peacetime driven by Empress Dowager Shôken.