Autumn in Japan: gingkos, maples and hot tea
In Autumn in Japan, there are many beautiful colours, and some amazing trees we don’t see so often in Australia. The tree above is a Gingko tree, in a temple courtyard, in full Autumn leaf. They are bright yellow, and can be seen from across the...
Public bath – bathing suits may not be worn.
Public bath experience Try this arty public bath house 銭湯 (sento) is located on the tiny island of Naoshima, about 2.5 hrs by train and ferry from Osaka. Jims Japan regularly takes travelers to this art-themed island. Bathing is segregated by...
Be careful of Tsunamis
This helpful sign was seen at Enoshima, a popular seaside resort not too far from Tokyo. There is even a “Billabong” surf shop there, presumably not catering to the Tsunami surfer market. But seriously, this sign indicates that a Tsunami would...
Kinkaku Ji Temple
At the Zen Buddhist temple of Rokuonji, more famously known as Kinkakuji (the temple of the golden pavilion), nestled in the foothills of north-west Kyoto, you will find this famous gold-plated building. The history dates back...
Sake Barrels at Shinto Shrine
A wall of Sake Barrels A great wall of colourful Saké Barrels can be seen along the path to Meiji Jingu, the main Shinto Shrine in Tokyo. The barrels are wrapped in straw and have wonderful unique graphics. However, as an article in the...