Nikko not only hosts the spectacular World Heritage shrine where you can see the original see-no-evil-hear-no-evil-speak-no-evil monkeys, it’s home to two only-in-Japan theme parks. One invites you to wander around an authentically recreated samurai village dressed as the period character of your choice, watch courtesan parades and solve a ninja maze. The other is anContinueContinue reading “Nikko”
Tag Archives: shrine
Where to get a healing souvenir for your ailing loved one
If you have dear ones whose health you can’t stop thinking about—even while on your dream trip to Japan—why not bring back a healing gift to show how much you care? Japan has many healing shrines and temples—some specific, some general—and you need not be a practicing Buddhist or a Shinto believer to enjoy theContinueContinue reading “Where to get a healing souvenir for your ailing loved one”
Shrine or temple? The Quickie Guide
You’re craning your neck to see some gorgeous gold-leafed carving, and suddenly you’re overcome with traveler joy. “Isn’t this the most gorgeous…?” Uh oh. Shrine or temple? Because you know that temples are Buddhist and shrines are Shinto (and you don’t want to be that tourist) but which is which? Shrines and temples can both beContinueContinue reading “Shrine or temple? The Quickie Guide”
Jonelle Patrick writes about Japan 