Sensoji Temple, located in Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district, is one of the city’s most revered and iconic landmarks. Believed to have been founded in the 7th century, the temple is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. As you approach the temple, you pass through the vibrant Kaminarimon Gate, adorned with a massive red lantern. A bustling market street called Nakamise-dori leads you to the temple’s main hall, where visitors can admire the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Sensoji Temple is not only a religious site but also a cultural treasure, offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s rich history and spiritual heritage.

Shibuya scramble crossing is one of the busiest crossings in Tokyo. The green light comes on from four directions at once, and several hundred people (during peak hours, the number can reach 1,000) rush simultaneously in all directions, managing to dodge each other with ease built up over the years.

For its picturesque yet orderly crowds, the crossing is beloved by filmmakers, and people worldwide are familiar with it from TV series, movies, and commercial videos. The best spot to watch the hypnotic flow of people is the Starbucks coffee shop on the 2nd floor of the building on the north side of the crossing.

There is also a statue of the faithful dog Hachiko near Shibuya Station, where he used to meet his master, a professor at Tokyo University, every day. After the professor’s sudden death, the dog came to the station every day for nine years, waiting for his master to return. Hachiko became the symbol of loyalty.

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s three most famous and beautiful castles (together with the Himeji and Kumamoto castles). The main tower of the castle is a National Treasure of Japan. The castle has the unofficial name “Black Crow Castle” for the black color of its walls.

Snow Monkey Park Jigokudani Yaen-koen is a well-known place in Japan located in the Nagano Prefecture. Here, during winter, wild Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, visit hot springs to warm up and chill. It’s special to see these monkeys enjoying the warm water while it’s snowing around. The park offers a chance to watch these monkeys closely in their natural habitat, making it a popular spot for people from Japan and other countries who want to see this interesting behavior.

Shirakawa-go village is a picturesque destination located in Japan. One of its highlights is the observation deck, which provides a breathtaking view of the entire village and its surroundings. The village is famous for its unique gassho-style traditional houses, which have steep thatched roofs resembling hands in prayer. These roofs are designed to withstand heavy snowfall in the winter months. The combination of the observation deck’s panoramic view and the charming gassho-style houses makes Shirakawa-go village a captivating and culturally rich experience for visitors.

Kinkaku-ji Temple, often called the Golden Temple, is one of Japan’s most famous temples and Kyoto’s main attractions. Built at the end of the 14th century, this complex, with its three-story pavilion covered with gold leaf, captivated the minds of its contemporaries. The famous Japanese writer Yukio Mishima captured its fate and glory in the novel “The Golden Temple.” Today Kinkaku-ji Temple is a must-see on any traveler’s itinerary in Japan. In addition to the famous pavilion, the UNESCO World Heritage Site also features a traditional walking garden, small waterfalls, and a tea house, representing the culture of the samurai era.

Ryōan-ji Temple, located in northern Kyoto, was founded in the mid-15th century. The famous rock garden was also established at the same time. The garden is now considered one of the best in Japan and is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For centuries, the Ryōan-ji Temple garden has attracted visitors trying to solve its mystery: why can you see only 14 of the 15 stones? And what does the composition of sand and rocks represent?

Setsubun, a traditional Japanese festival, holds a special place in the hearts of Kyoto’s residents. Celebrated on both February 2nd and 3rd, Setsubun marks the transition from winter to spring. One of the most vibrant Setsubun events takes place at Yasaka Shrine, where locals and tourists gather to partake in the mamemaki, or bean-throwing ceremony.

During this lively ritual, participants chant “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi” (Demons out, good fortune in) and throw roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits and welcome positive energy for the coming year. The event is not only fun but also symbolic, reflecting the cultural belief in purifying one’s surroundings and inviting good luck.

The Yasaka Shrine’s Setsubun festivities also offer a chance to witness traditional dances performed by Maiko and Geiko, adding an exquisite touch of Kyoto’s timeless elegance. Setsubun in Kyoto blends ancient customs with the city’s vibrant spirit, creating an unforgettable experience that showcases the essence of Japanese culture and community.

Todai-ji is a Buddhist temple complex whose main building is one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Built in the mid-8th century by order of the emperor with donations from all over the country, the temple features the biggest bronze statue of Buddha in Japan. Almost all the bronze produced in Japan at the time was used to cast the colossal sculpture. The complex also has several unique wooden structures, including the giant Nandaimon Gate with the famous Nio guard figures, the Bell Tower, and Nigatsu-do Hall. The entire complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Koya Mountain Monastery Complex is one of the most important centers of Buddhism in Japan, founded 1,200 years ago by the monk Kukai. In addition to its religious and historical value, it is also an important cultural monument. The majestic architecture of the complex, paintings by famous artists, unique artifacts accumulated over hundreds of years, the largest rock garden, and one of the oldest cemeteries in Japan – all of it provide a rare opportunity to have an insight into the Japanese philosophy of life and death.