History & Religion

Tokugawa Iemitsu created an era of peace

The third shogun of the Edo period had an interesting life. What made him the way he was? And what happened to Japan during his reign?
Japanese Ghost Stories that are both Scary and Funny

Let us share 5 ghost stories from Japan that will chill you… If you want more of this, we also organize tours that focus on stories about the ghosts and ghouls of Japan.
The First Tokugawa Shogun

Learn more about one of the most important people in Japanese history, the first Tokugawa shogun. One of our history expert guides summarizes the life of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Prewar Modern Architecture in Japan | Beautiful architecture with a blend of Japanese and Western styles

Japan went through a period of rapid westernization and modernization between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The architecture of that time is one of the most visible inheritances of the Meiji era.
Very beautiful and Traditional Japanese Architecture in Kyoto

Learn about the history of Japanese architecture, and let us give you an itinerary for Kyoto that will take you through Japan’s architectural history from the 6th century until the late 19th century.
Beautiful and Fascinating Contemporary Architecture in Tokyo

Learn more about 7 treasures of post-war Japanese architecture in Tokyo!
Beautiful Castles in Japan

Japanese castles have developed over many centuries, and have their own original style compared to European castles. Let us give you an overview of the history of Japanese castles.
What Makes Japanese Weddings Unique

Japan has its own customs surrounding weddings. Learn more about the interesting mix of cultures that makes up Japanese weddings!
Happy National Foundation Day in Japan

February 11th is National Foundation Day, a national holiday for Japanese people to remind themselves of the nation’s founding and foster their love for the nation.
Zojoji Temple, Tokyo | High Prestige and Benefits for Winning Luck

This former family temple of the Tokugawa clan is a must-see if you are in the area. There is an impressive garden with a large number of jizo statues, and daily Buddhist ceremonies are held.
Nezu Shrine, Tokyo | Famous for its beautiful torii gate and azaleas

Nezu shrine from 1705 has the oldest surviving Shinto shrine building in Tokyo. Having survived the war, it is considered a heritage of high cultural importance. In spring, there are gorgeous flowers in the grounds.
Bentendo Temple – Music, Water, and Ueno’s Spiritual Heart

In Tokyo you can find endless wonderful places of historical and current nature. One of them is Ueno Park, famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. The Bentendo temple and Shinobazunoike lake are interesting landmarks here.
Tokyo Daijingu Love Shrine

Are you unlucky in the area of love? Then you should consider a visit to the Tokyo Daijingu Shrine. This shrine, which has a connection with the Goddess of the Sun, is supposed to help you find your true connection.
Yasukuni Shrine, Tokyo | The most famous and beautiful shrine in Japan

The Yasukuni shrine is considered one of the most important shrines in Japan. It is also a controversial shrine because this is where Japan’s war dead are honored. Learn more about the shrine and its controverse.
Japanese Spiritual Culture: Understanding the Syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism

Shinto has been the main religion in Japan since ancient times, centering on the ideas of Japanese intimacy with nature and ancestor worship. Learn the basics of Shinto beliefs!
Religions unique to Japan

While Japan’s first main religion is Shinto, the second main religion is Buddhism. How did Buddhism come to Japan, and which influence does it have on daily life in Japan?
The Identity of Samurai and Shoguns in Japan’s Closed State

During the Edo period from 1603-1868, society was divided strictly into social classes, not unlike the caste system in India. The country was ruled by a shogun, who was the highest up in the military of that time.
The Meiji Restoration in Japan

The turning point for the city of Edo, actually for all of Japan, was the arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry’s Black Ships at Edo-wan (now known as Tokyo Bay) in 1853. Perry’s US Navy expedition demanded that Japan open itself to foreign trade.
History of Port City Osaka Rich in Diversity

Osaka has a long history, during which the area has always served as a place where traders from all over Asia and later the world are intermingling with Japanese people.
The History of Kyoto / Japan’s Former Capital

Kyoto’s history is a long one, it all started in the 8th century. The city was built as the capital of Japan in that time and was home to the Imperial Court until 1868 when it moved to Tokyo