Events

Events, Events-Kyoto, Events-Others, Events-Shiga, Tips, Tips-Kyoto, Tips-Others, Tips-Shiga

How to Spend the New Year’s Eve in Japan

New Year’s Eve in Kansai — Closing the Year, Quietly and Gracefully In Japan, New Year’s Eve is not defined by fireworks or loud countdowns. It is a night of stillness — a moment to close the year with care, and to welcome the next one with a calm, attentive heart. Cleaning, a simple bowl of soba, the deep resonance of temple bells, and a quiet visit to a shrine or temple — these understated acts form the essence of how Japan greets the New Year. This article introduces the cultural meaning of Japanese New Year’s Eve, and where to experience it in Kansai, both traditionally and in modern ways. […]

Events, Events-Kyoto, Events-Others, Events-Shiga, Tips, Tips-Kyoto, Tips-Others, Tips-Shiga

The Winter Illumination in Kansai

Kansai Winter Illuminations From late December through early January, Kansai reveals a quieter beauty after sunset. Rather than overwhelming spectacle, winter illumination here is about atmosphere— experienced through calm walks, city lights, and reflective nights. Kyoto｜Refined Light in the Ancient Capital Heian Shrine｜Winter Light Art Located in Kyoto’s Okazaki cultural district, Heian Shrine is known for its spacious gardens and classical design. In winter, subtle illumination transforms the grounds into a serene nightscape where tradition and modern expression quietly meet. Period: Mid December – Mid January Admission: Paid (approx. ¥1,500–¥2,000) Kyoto Botanical Gardens｜Light Cycles Kyoto Just north of central Kyoto, this expansive botanical garden becomes an immersive nighttime art space.

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Sanjusangendo: Where a Thousand Buddhas Glow in Eternal Silence

Sanjusangendo — A Sanctuary Where Time Breathes Slowly 1. History — 八百年の祈りが息づく伽藍 (Garan) Sanjusangendo（蓮華王院 Rengeō-in）was founded in 1164 under the patronage of Emperor Go-Shirakawa. After a major fire, it was rebuilt in the 13th century. The name “Sanjusangendo（三十三間堂）” refers to the thirty-three intervals between the pillars — a classical architectural measure that gives the hall its iconic, elongated form. Stretching nearly 120 meters, the hall is one of Japan’s longest wooden structures. Its shape creates a serene corridor that feels suspended between this world and the next. For centuries, it also hosted the famous 通し矢 (Tōshiya) archery ritual, where warriors demonstrated intense focus and spiritual discipline. This temple does not

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The world of Bonsai~Japanese Beauty of Wabi-Sabi~

The World of Bonsai in Japan Discover the art, philosophy, and quiet elegance of 盆栽（Bonsai） — and explore the finest gardens of Kyoto & Shiga. 1. What Is Bonsai（盆栽 / Bonsai）? Bonsai is not a miniature tree — it is a living artwork, shaped through time, discipline and deep respect. Techniques such as 剪定（Sentei / pruning）, 針金掛け（Harigane-gake / wiring）, 植え替え（Uekae / repotting）, and 根張り（Nebari / root shaping） allow artists to create a full landscape inside a single pot. Bonsai is not “small nature.” It is nature distilled into essence. 2. How to Appreciate Bonsai – Perspective, Aesthetics & Worldview 正面（Shōmen / The Front） The carefully chosen angle where trunk, branches,

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Discover the Beauty of Japanese Autumn in Shiga

Autumn Nights in Shiga Hyakusai-ji(百済寺), Kyōrin-bō(教林坊), and Kawaraya Zen Temple(瓦屋禅寺)— Full Historical, Cultural, and Spiritual Guide with Embedded Google Maps & Photo Galleries — Hyakusai-ji (百済寺) History Founded in Suiko 14 (A.D. 606) by Prince Shōtoku(聖徳太子), Hyakusai-ji is one of Shiga’s oldest Buddhist temples. Its name reflects the arrival of Buddhism from Baekje(百済), and the mountain is known as Shakasan(釈迦山). The temple prospered under Tendai-shū(天台宗) and survived destruction during the attack by Oda Nobunaga(織田信長), later being rebuilt. Garden Featuring a strolling pond garden (池泉回遊式) and bold rock formations, Hyakusai-ji holds the title “Tenka Enbō no Meien (天下遠望の名園)” and is listed among Japan’s Top 100 Autumn Foliage Spots (日本紅葉百選). Light-Up: Until

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Toru Tour meets Shisya-Bar Buzz

Shisha Bar BUZZ – Gion’s Hidden Night Lounge in Kyoto Shisha Bar BUZZ Experience Kyoto’s Gion nightlife with smooth shisha, chill music, and good vibes until sunrise. 📍 Location Address: 京都府京都市東山区富永町112 303号室 Access: 4-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station (祇園四条駅) 🕰 Hours & Contact Open: 19:00 – 06:00 (next morning) Closed: Irregular days Instagram: @buzz7.11 🎁 Toru Tour Exclusive Discount Show this page or your Toru Tour Coupon at the counterand get ¥1000 OFF your charge fee! Valid only at Shisha Bar BUZZ · Kyoto Gion · One time per guest. 🎫 Get Your Coupon Here 📸 Gallery ✨ Toru Tour Note Shisha Bar BUZZ isn’t just another night spot —

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ToruTour · Nightlife 🌃 The Ultimate Kyoto Nightclub Guide — ToruTour Edition Kyoto isn’t only temples and tea. After dark, Kiyamachi / Kawaramachi / Shijo pulse with global energy. Explore 5 essential clubs with confirmed prices, ID/passport rules and ToruTour Tips 💡. 🦊 KITSUNE KYOTO (Kiyamachi) Two floors: “LAND” (EDM/All-Mix) and “SEA” (Hip-Hop/R&B). World-class sound and lights, perfect for first-timers or mixed groups. Entry: Women ¥1,000 / Men ¥2,000 (with drinks). ID: Passport or photo ID required. ToruTour Tips 💡• Arrive before 23:00 for the 3-drink deal.• “SEA” = more international crowd. 🌍 WORLD KYOTO (Shijo Kawaramachi) Historic and stylish, offering House, EDM, Hip-Hop, and R&B in one space. Perfectly

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7 Paradise Islands from Okinawa Main Island | Toru Tour 🌺 Okinawa’s 7 Paradise Islands You Can Visit from the Main Island 沖縄本島から行ける離島特集 Staying on Okinawa Main Island (沖縄本島) but craving island vibes? You’re in luck — turquoise seas, coral beaches, and slow island life are just a short ferry ride or a scenic bridge away. This guide (EN + JA labels) includes must-see spots, famous eats, and Google Maps for both islands and restaurants. Let’s island-hop! 🌴 1️⃣ Kudaka Island (久高島) — The Island of Gods 安座真港から高速船で約25分。琉球神話ゆかりの“神の島”。静寂のビーチと聖地巡りで心も整う。 🌿 Highlights / 見どころ Habyan Cape (カベール岬) Isiki Beach (イシキ浜) Yagurgaa Spring (ヤグルガー) 🍜 Dining / お店 お食事処 とくじん (Oshokujidokoro Tokujin) Irabu

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Okinawa~Discovering Sightseeing Spots and Local Food~

OKINAWA MAIN ISLAND / TORU TOUR Okinawa Main Island — Complete Guide to Highlights, Local Gems & Must-Eat Food Cross the bridge and the colors deepen—sea, forest, castle, and night alleys. Classics are unmissable, but local moments turn a trip into a story. Emerald Drive Tropical Blue Island Sunset Contents: Famous Spots / Local Hidden Gems / Must-Eat Dishes / Photo Gallery / Map / FAQ / Contact Top 5 Famous Spots Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium（美ら海水族館） Rain-day aceMega tank Why it’s great: The “Kuroshio Sea” with whale sharks & manta rays—an immersive way to learn Okinawa’s marine layers. Best time: Morning / rainy   Time needed: 2–4h   Note: Pair with

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Kuzuryu-Taisha Shrine~Sacred and Cultural Place in Kyoto~

Kuzuryu Taisha – A Sacred Place of Prayer in Kyoto Not a sightseeing spot — a sacred encounter. For those who truly respect Japan’s spirit of prayer. 🐉✨ Overview Nestled in the quiet mountains of Yase, Kyoto, Kuzuryu Taisha is not a tourist attraction — it is a sanctuary of prayer and reflection. The shrine enshrines the White Dragon God, who is believed to grant blessings for love, health, prosperity, and success. Surrounded by stillness and pure air, visitors can experience a profound sense of connection with nature and spirit. History & Faith Founded in 1954, Kuzuryu Taisha continues the ancient traditions of dragon and water worship from the Yase–Kurama–Kibune

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