The God of War, Kenshin, and the Muromachi Shogunate Revival
Uesugi Kenshin (1530-1578, 上杉謙信) was a fervent believer in the god of war, Bishamonten (毘沙門天), using one of the letters of '毘' as an emblem on his own flag, and fighting under the banner of 'Bi'. During his lifetime, he lost only twice out of 71 battles, making him a true military god. During the […]
TIME magazine compiled the list of the World’s Greatest Places 2023
Nagoya is introduced to the list If, in addition to anime and whiskey, you seek a deep dive into Japan's Historical Sites, Nagoya, and its surroundings are some of the most suitable cities in Japan to visit. Situated between Tokyo and Osaka/Kyoto, Nagoya has played a pivotal role in Japanese history since ancient times. It […]
Zuihoden Mausoleum of the One-Eyed Dragon, Date Masamune: The Great Samurai's Legacy and Beliefs
The Zuihouden stands as the mausoleum of the renowned warlord of Date Masamune. It embodies the quintessential beauty of the Momoyama decorative style, perfectly reflecting the flamboyant nature of Masamune himself. His final poem encapsulates his life: “I have journeyed through the warring states with unwavering beliefs, like the moon shining in the dark.” In […]
Who built Sanjusangen-do Hall and what does Sanjyusan mean?
The Sanjyusangen-do Hall (literally 33 intervals), officially Rengeoin Temple, resides in the heart of Kyoto, Constructed in 1164 by the retired Emperor Go-Shirakawa (1127~1192, 後白河天皇), or Go-Shirakawa-In with the financial support of Samurai, Taira Kiyomori, to pray for the safety and prosperity of the nation and people. This remarkable 121-meter-long wooden structure features 33 spaced […]
Nagasaki Port, the blooming Nanban (or Namban) trade and Christianity
The Namban Screen, created by Kano Naizen, a renowned painter of the Kano School, is regarded as one of the most exceptional screen paintings on gold foil paper. This masterpiece has an impressive width of approximately 3.5 meters and comprises a pair of six-panel folding screens. The term “Nanban” refers specifically to the southern regions […]
Konkai Komyoji Temple, the base of the Shinsengumi samurai who followed the Bushido
On the days of the vernal equinox and the autumnal equinoxes, the Konkai Komyoji Temple offers a breathtaking view of the setting sun turning vermilion in the western sky. The temple was founded in 1175 when Honen, a founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, descended from Mount Hiei to spread his teachings here. Situated […]
Cherry blossoms and red leaves at Hakodate Goryokaku Fort
Goryokaku Fort (五稜郭) is Japan’s first western-style star fort located in Hakodate. The view from the top of the observatory, situated 90 meters above the ground of Goryokaku Park Tower, offers a truly spectacular sight. The iconic five-star shape, filled with approximately 1,600 cherry blossom trees in spring and adorned with vibrant autumn leaves in […]
Itsukushima Shrine, Itsukushima Detiy smiled on Samurai, Mori Motonari
Itsukushima Shrine - UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site - seemingly floating on the water enamors visitors with the atmosphere of its spiritual power in the vermillion-lacquered shrine. It’s located on Miyajima island in Hiroshima prefecture, traveling just 10 minutes by ferry from the port. Miyajima Island has been adored as “the island where deity resides” […]
The History of Hachiman Deity worshipped at Usa Jingu Shrine, protecting Japan and Samurai
Usa Jingu is the head shrine of approximately 460,000 Hachimangu shrines, out of a total of 110,000 shrines in Japan. This makes it the largest number in Japan. The three major Hachimangu shrines are Usa Jingu in Kyushu, Hakozakigu in Kyushu, and Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto. The deity worshipped at Usa Jingu Shrine, Hachiman Omikami, […]
The standing original castle in Japan, the history of Inuyama Castle Lord, Narusa Masanari
Inuyama Castle, a National Treasure, stands on a small mountain overlooking the Kiso River, dating back to 1537. It holds among Japan's five castles designated a national treasure, including Himeji, Matsumoto, Hikone, Inuyama, and Matsue. The castle was constructed during the tumultuous Warring States period and a dizzying array of castle owners were changed due […]