Sika

Joined: July 30, 2024
Articles: 281

Kyoto

Okazaki Shrine Kyoto: Rabbit Shrine, What to See & Pray For

Okazaki Shrine is Kyoto’s most famous rabbit shrine, founded in 794 AD near Heian Shrine and Nanzen-ji. The grounds are filled with rabbit statues, rabbit-shaped omikuji fortune slips at 500 yen each, and a black granite Fertility Rabbit at the purification fountain, pour water over it and rub its belly to pray for pregnancy and safe delivery. Emperor Takakura himself visited during the Heian period to pray for his consort’s safe delivery. The shrine enshrines the deities of love and fertility, making it a beloved spot for couples and families. Located right along the Philosopher’s Path route, it fits perfectly into a half-day walk from Nanzen-ji to Ginkaku-ji. This guide covers the history, all the rabbit highlights, nearby stops, and how to get there.

Sika
November 21, 2025

Kyoto

Kyoto Kimono Photoshoot at Yumeyakata Gojo: Prices, Process, and Tips

Yumeyakata Gojo in Kyoto is one of the most popular places to rent kimonos.They have over 550 kimono designs, so it’s almost impossible not to find something you like. There are also 200+ obi belts to choose from, whether you…

Sika
November 20, 2025

Yamanashi

7 Popular Mount Fuji Spots: Honest Thoughts From a Super Introvert Traveler

Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan, sitting between Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefecture.For centuries, it has been a powerful symbol in Japanese mythology and spirituality. Introduction to the Fuji Five Lakes Surrounding Mount Fuji is the famous Fuji Five…

Sika
November 19, 2025

Yamanashi

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba: A Gassho Village Under Mount Fuji

When people think of Japan’s gassho-style villages, most immediately picture Shirakawa-go.But did you know there’s also a traditional gassho village right near Mount Fuji?It’s called Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, and it’s a peaceful spot where you can enjoy classic Japanese scenery…

Sika
November 18, 2025

Yamanashi

Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway Guide: Explore Tenjozan Park & Its Hidden Shrine

Tenjozan Park at Lake Kawaguchi is one of the most popular spots around Mt. Fuji.You can get a wide, stunning view of Mt. Fuji from the top, and the cable car makes it super easy to reach the summit, one…

Sika
November 17, 2025

Yamanashi

Mt. Fuji Travel Guide: Kawaguchi Asama Shrine & the Famous Sky Torii Gate

Hidden in an ancient cedar forest near Mt. Fuji, Kawaguchi Asama Shrine is one of the most peaceful shrines around the area.Most people know it because of the popular Sky Torii viewpoint, a famous Instagram spot where you can photograph…

Sika
November 17, 2025

Yamanashi

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: The Most Iconic Mt. Fuji View with the Five-Story Pagoda

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine is one of Japan’s most iconic spots, famous for its breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji framed by the Chureito five-story pagoda. Every year, visitors from around the world come here hoping to capture that picture-perfect scene,…

Sika
October 31, 2025

Kyoto

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, Arashiyama: 1,200 Stone Statues and the Quietest Corner of Kyoto

Most people who come to Arashiyama never make it this far. The bamboo forest gets the crowds, the bridge gets the photos, and Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, tucked away at the end of the Toriimoto street, gets the quiet. But the…

Sika
October 22, 2025

Tokyo

Tokyo’s Fortune Cat Shrine: Exploring Gotokuji, the Origin of Maneki-neko

In Japan, cats have long been regarded as mysterious and enchanting creatures. As early as the Nara period, Japanese envoys to Tang China brought cats back to Japan to protect the valuable texts they imported from being damaged by mice.…

Sika
October 20, 2025

Kyoto

Fushimi Jikkokubune Cherry Blossom Cruise 2026: A Dreamy Kyoto Experience

Every spring, Kyoto transforms into a poetic canvas painted in shades of pink, and one of the most romantic scenes is the Fushimi Jikkokubune cherry blossom cruise. As the cherry trees bloom, the riverbanks are adorned with delicate pink hues,…