Latest news with #GreatBuddha
Tokyo Weekender
06-07-2025
- Tokyo Weekender
Best Day Trips From Osaka by Train
Osaka city is one of the three spots tourists make a beeline for when visiting Japan for the first time — and for good reason. Often called 'Japan's Kitchen' for its vibrant food scene and lively atmosphere, Osaka is home to some of the country's most famous street foods, including takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Beyond its delicious cuisine and friendly people, though, Osaka also serves as a great home base for those looking to take day trips to destinations across the Kansai region. We've put together a list of seven of those exciting cities — read on for an introduction to each and reasons why you won't want to miss out on a day spent exploring their best sights. List of Contents: kyoto Nara Kobe Uji Minoh Himeji Kurashiki Related Posts Kenninji Temple Kyoto As the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto hardly needs an introduction, and it's likely already on your list. The most popular among day trips from Osaka, it's only 15 minutes away from the city via shinkansen (Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station), 30 minutes to an hour away via JR Tokaido rapid or local trains (Osaka Station to Kyoto Station) or roughly an hour away via Hankyu Railway trains (Osaka-Umeda Station to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station). Filled with stunning temples, shrines and iconic historical paths, Kyoto is a top destination for international travelers to Japan. However, the city has also seen an unprecedented level of tourism in recent years; if you decide to go, we recommend off-peak months like February and less-crowded but equally beautiful sites like Horin-ji and Gioji temples. Check out our guide to alternative Kyoto temples and shrines . the sacred deer of nara Nara Known for its sacred deer and many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nara city is yet another top draw for visitors — and it's less than an hour away from Osaka by JR Yamatoji Line (from Osaka Station via a rapid train) or Kintetsu Nara Line (Osaka-Namba Station to Kintetsu Nara Station via rapid express or limited express train). As Japan's first permanent capital, Nara holds some of the country's most revered and storied cultural sites. Horyuji Temple, Kasugataisha Shrine and, of course, Todaiji Temple, with its magnificent — and massive — Daibutsu (Great Buddha) are a few must-visit places. We also recommend checking out the gorgeous Nara Hotel; it's one of Japan's oldest Western-style hotels, and one of its most famous, having hosted figures like Albert Einstein, Charlie Chaplin and Audrey Hepburn. The port of kobe Kobe Kobe, a sophisticated port city famous for its fine cuisine and fascinating cultural fusion, is an effortless trip from Osaka: It's less than 15 minutes away by shinkansen (Shin-Osaka Station to Shin-Kobe Station). There are a number of other, slightly slower ways to reach Kobe-area train stations from Osaka's various stations; the Hanshin Main Line, Hankyu Kobe Main Line and JR Kobe Line will all get you from city to city in around or under 30 minutes. Explore the charming Kitano-cho district, which features historic Western-style houses and long-established caf é s like Nishimura Coffee and Freundlieb. Nearby, take in breathtaking views of the city and the bay from Nunobiki Herb Gardens, a hilltop floral paradise. At night, the waterfront views at Meriken Park and the vibrant food stalls at Nankinmachi Chinatown are a must. byodoin temple Uji In recent years, Uji has become increasingly well known around the globe as the birthplace of matcha. Located in southern Kyoto Prefecture, Uji is about an hour away from Osaka via the Keihan Main Line and Uji Line (from Yodoyabashi or Kyobashi Station, transfer required at Chushojima Station). Alternatively, you can reach Uji via the JR Kyoto Line and JR Nara Line (Osaka or Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station, Kyoto Station to Uji Station). This route also takes around one hour. Although you should certainly enjoy the plethora of matcha-themed beverages, sweets and even savory foods in Uji, we also recommend immersing yourself in the city's history and nature. Uji is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Ujigami Shrine and Byodoin Temple — and was a significant location in Murasaki Shikibu's literary classic, The Tale of Genji . Uji River and Kyoto Prefectural Uji Park are lush and peaceful, perfect for a sunny stroll. Check out our full guide on things to do in Uji . minoh waterfall Minoh Even though Minoh is located within Osaka Prefecture, it's a great day trip for those who want a break from central Osaka's urban atmosphere. Located at the foot of the Hokusetsu mountains in northern Osaka, Minoh is known for its rich natural beauty and peaceful residential neighborhoods. Take a 30-minute subway ride via the Midosuji Line from Namba, Shinsaibashi or Umeda Station to Minoh-Kayano Station. Minoh Waterfall is the most famous landmark of the city, and it's a stunning sight throughout the seasons, especially autumn. Another must-see is Katsuo-ji Temple: Filled with hundreds of lucky daruma dolls, the temple has a reputation for helping patrons triumph over adversity. Check out our guide on what to do in Minoh for the best sights, restaurants and more. himeji castle Himeji Himeji makes for an excellent day trip from Osaka, primarily owing to its magnificent Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most beautiful original castles. By shinkansen, you can reach Himeji Station from Shin-Osaka Station in around 30–40 minutes. You can also take a special rapid train from Osaka Station on the JR Kobe Line (roughly one hour) or a direct limited express train from Hanshin Osaka-Umeda Station to Sanyo Himeji Station (roughly one hour, 40 minutes). In addition to exploring Himeji Castle itself, visitors can stroll through the serene Koko-en Garden, a collection of nine traditional Japanese gardens offering picturesque landscapes. Engyoji , a mountaintop temple seen in films like The Last Samurai , is also a must-visit for history buffs. The area around the castle provides opportunities for souvenir shopping and enjoying local cuisine before heading back, making it a fulfilling and memorable excursion. kurashiki bikan Kurashiki Accessible via shinkansen in just over an hour (Shin-Osaka Station to Shin-Kurashiki Station), Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture is a great day-trip destination for photographers, artists and fashion lovers. The city's main draw is the Bikan Historical Quarter, a beautifully preserved area that transports visitors back to the Edo period with its willow-lined canals, traditional white-walled warehouses ( kura ) and charming stone bridges. For a unique perspective of the city's historical architecture, enjoy a serene boat ride along the canal. The former warehouses you'll drift past now house a variety of shops and museums, including the Kurashiki Museum of Folkcraft. Perhaps the city's most notable museum, however, is the Ohara Museum of Art — Japan's oldest private museum dedicated to Western art. Visitors can also explore Denim Street, celebrating Kurashiki's renowned denim industry, and browse for local crafts and sweets in the many boutiques and caf é s. Check out our guide to Kurashiki and our deep dive into Japanese denim . Related Posts Minoh City: An Enchanting Day Trip From Osaka With Beautiful Fall Foliage Kobe Travel Tips: Discover the City's History, Fashion, Cuisine & Nature Alternative, Less Crowded Temples and Shrines in Kyoto Beyond Matcha: Things To Do in Uji, Japan's Tea Capital
Metropolis Japan
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metropolis Japan
The Soul Lounge Beach Party & BBQ
Join us on July 20 from 4pm to 7pm at Voyager's vibrant Kaito Yuigahama Beach House, located on the scenic shores of Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura. The Soul Lounge Beach Party promises a perfect blend of live performances, delicious barbecue and summer fun. Live entertainment includes Virg on lead vocals, special guest, MC and Model Comachi Nene and more! Dance to music, make new friends and sip on ice-cold drinks on the deck while you soak up the sun, or take a dip in the ocean. There are showers in the beach house you can use to rinse off for an extra charge. As the day winds down, grab a cocktail and watch the sun setting over the horizon. Since we start at 4pm you can spend the morning visiting the iconic Kamakura Daibutsu (Great Buddha), a serene and historical landmark nearby. Yuigahama Beach, with its long stretch of sandy beachfront, offers swimming and a range of public eateries to explore. Voyager, known for being the No.1 DJ Bar in Japan, brings its Shibuya vibes to Kamakura during the summer months with its stylish Seaside Lounge and Kaito Restaurant. So, come cool off, enjoy the great atmosphere, and celebrate with us on the beach! See you there! Kaito Beach House Namerikawa Crossing 4 Yuigahama, Kamakura, Kanagawa Sponsors
Los Angeles Times
05-06-2025
- Los Angeles Times
Nara: Step Into Ancient Japan, Where Deer Roam Free
Step back in time to Nara, Japan's captivating first permanent capital (710-794 CE). Just a short train ride from Kyoto or Osaka, this serene city offers a unique blend of ancient history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a glimpse into Japan's foundations. Nara preserves its legacy with remarkable integrity, boasting a whopping eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, and is famously home to over a thousand sacred, free-roaming deer. Nara's establishment as the capital in 710 CE marked a pivotal moment, laying the groundwork for Japan's enduring culture. Modeled after China's Tang dynasty capital, its meticulously planned grid layout reflected a period of centralized government and immense cultural growth. This era was a crucible for early Japanese Buddhist art, literature, and political structures. The heart of the city is Nara Park, where over a thousand wild deer, believed to be messengers of the gods, roam freely and even bow for treats – you can even buy special crackers! Within the park stands Todaiji Temple, home to the colossal Great Buddha (Daibutsu). This 15-meter bronze statue is housed inside the Daibutsuden, the world's largest wooden building – a truly awe-inspiring sight that reflects the ambition of 8th-century Japan. Nearby, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is Nara's celebrated Shinto shrine, known for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns that line its paths and illuminate the grounds, especially during the special festivals in February and August. Founded by the powerful Fujiwara clan, it highlights the intertwining of politics and religion. Don't miss Kofuku-ji Temple, distinguished by its towering five-story pagoda, a long-standing symbol of Nara and a key institution of the Fujiwara dynasty. Explore Naramachi, the old merchant district, with its preserved Edo-era buildings, quaint shops and local eateries. It's perfect for sampling kakinoha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) and finding unique souvenirs. Nara offers a unique journey into Japan's ancient soul, providing tangible connections to its formative past amid charming, free-roaming deer. It's an unforgettable destination where history truly comes alive.
Yomiuri Shimbun
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Tottori: Japan-Themed Sand Exhibits on Display at Museum; Nara Buddha, Oda Nobunaga Sculptures Put on Display
The Yomiuri Shimbun A reproduction of the Great Buddha in Nara is seen on display at the Sand Museum at Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori. TOTTORI — A museum in Tottori that exhibits sculptures made from sand is holding its first exhibition themed on Japan. The Sand Museum in Tottori Sand Dunes, titled 'Travel Around the World in Sand: Japan,' features 19 elaborate sand sculptures depicting the country's history and culture, including those related to mythology, the warring states period and postwar reconstruction period. The exhibition, the 16th since the museum opened, is being held to mark the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo in Osaka. The Yomiuri Shimbun A sculpture of the god Susanoo no Mikoto fighting with Yamata no Orochi Twenty sculptors from 12 countries, including Russia, Turkey and Italy, created the works using about 3,000 tons of sand. The models include a sculpture of the god Susanoo no Mikoto fighting with Yamata no Orochi, an eight-headed serpent, and a reproduction of the Great Buddha in Nara. Sculptures depicting feudal warlord Oda Nobunaga (1534-1582) and citizens working on postwar reconstruction against the backdrop of the Atomic Bomb Dome also are on display. There are also works faithfully recreating Mt. Fuji and Himeji Castle. The exhibition is held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until Jan. 4 next year. Admission is ¥800 for adults and ¥400 for elementary, junior high and high school students.
