temple – Jonelle Patrick writes about Japan

Hōkoku-ji Temple

The Bamboo Temple This Kamakura temple is a must-see for its towering bamboo forest, its exquisite garden-like grounds, and its teahouse, where you can enjoy a delicious bowl of mattcha while contemplating the gently-swaying bamboo. Lovely in every season, it’s a particularly welcome destination in the summer months when the bamboo dials the temperature downContinueContinue reading “Hōkoku-ji Temple”

Sengaku-ji Temple

You know the story of the 47 samurai who avenged their lord, then were all ordered to commit ritual suicide? You can see the movie anywhere in the world, but visiting the place where the REAL 47 rōnin are buried is something you can only do in Japan! If you want to see a pieceContinueContinue reading “Sengaku-ji Temple”

Hasedera Temple

This temple is known for its gigantic golden Kannon figure, but it’s also got a winding path guarded by a thousand stone Jizo figures, an underground grotto, a magnificent prayer wheel, and is a must-see in June for its hydrangea garden. Kamakura is stuffed with entertaining shrines and temples, but Hasedera is the only oneContinueContinue reading “Hasedera Temple”

Nishiarai Daishi Temple

Nishiarai Daishi is a grand Buddhist temple with all the trimmings—a great place to see all the holiday celebrations, but especially fabulous in February when the plum blossoms burst forth, in April when its renowned peony garden comes into bloom, and in late April to early May when its giant wisteria unfurls its meter-long purpleness.ContinueContinue reading “Nishiarai Daishi Temple”

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”