Overlooked by the temple Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), the unique ‘Sea of Silver Sand’ garden is attributed to the great landscape artist, Sōami (1465-1523). Its dry sand apparently sparkles in the moonlight, hence the reference to silver. The flawless sand sculpture is said to be a tribute to Mt Fuji, and is also called a ‘Moon
Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu! That’s Happy New Year in Japanese, or ake ome for short (and less formal). New Year is a huge celebration in Japan and, on New Year’s Eve, millions descend upon shrines to pray for good fortune in the coming 12 months. As seen in this video, Fushimi Inari Shrine, just outside Kyoto, is
Guest blog by James Mundy, Marketing Manager at InsideJapan Tours Everywhere you go in Japan, there is one thing that you will notice – food. Everyone’s heard of sushi, but that’s just the tip of a delicious iceberg. Japan has the most top-rated Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, but good food is actually everywhere, and
Before it ends on 6 February, try and get to London’s Barbican Art Gallery to see the exhibition Future Beauty: 30 Years of Japanese Fashion for a sharp insight into the big players of the 1980s, including Issey Miyake, Rei Kawakubo and Yohji Yamamoto, and the pioneers of the following generation including Junya Watanabe and
Tokyo’s Metropolitan Government has banned tourists from the city’s most popular attraction – Tsukiji fish market, the world’s largest – in response to traders’ complaints that their presence hinders the early morning operations.
Much of Japanese culture revolves around the distinct seasons, and it is heavily influenced by Shinto beliefs, which emphasise harmony with, and an appreciation of nature. I love the peacefulness of Shinto shrines, which are made of wood and are usually near a sacred tree and flowing water.
The host for the 2016 Olympics will be announced this evening at 1800 BST. The four contenders are Chicago, Madrid, Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo. I’m torn between the passionate bid of Rio de Janeiro and the green, logical approach of Tokyo. If Rio’s bid wins it will be the first time for the Games