Daisen Kofun, one of the world's three largest tombs of Emperor Nintoku along with King Khufu's Pyramid and Quing Emperor's Mausoleum
Identified as the mausoleum of the 16th Emperor Nintoku (4th - 5th century, 仁徳天皇), the Nintoku-Tenno-Ryo Tumulus is the largest keyhole-shaped tumulus in Japan, measuring approximately 486 meters in length and 249 meters in diameter for the burial mound, which has a three-tier structure. The tumulus is comparable in size to the Pyramid of Khufu […]
Koyasan, a Mountain-top Religious City of the Shingon Esoteric Buddhism
The Candle Festival is held on August 13th to pray for the spirits of all deceased at Koyasan - a World Heritage Site - located about 850 meters above sea level. Approximately one hundred thousand votive candles line the 2 km approach to Okunoin, surrounded by Japanese cedar trees, creating a solemn atmosphere in the […]
Azuchi Castle, the first picturesque light-up event in Japan
The most powerful warlord, Oda Nobunaga (1534-1582, 織田信長), had a great zeal to realize a peaceful nation through his clever strategies, rationalism, and immense military power to end the Warring States Period. After seeing people’s joyful faces at the light-up event, he likely felt a deep sense of emotion and elation, realizing his lifelong ambitions […]
Todaiji Temple and Great Buddha: Emperor Shomu's Vision to Restore a Nation in Crisis
Tōdaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nara, houses Japan’s Great Buddha. Built by Emperor Shōmu during a smallpox epidemic, it reflects his vision to restore peace through Buddhism.