Born in the bygone days of the Heian Period (794 to 1185), a time in Japanese history known for developments in arts and culture, shukubo (temple lodging)
Busy, sprawling and noisy cities are often the first things that greet visitors upon arrival in Japan. Landing in Osaka, a new arrival might wade through t
Deep within the mountainous region of Yamanashi Prefecture, a major Buddhist temple clings to the slopes of Mount Minobu. This temple, known as Kuon-ji – though nicknamed Minobu-san-ji by the locals – was founded by the priest Nichiren in 1281, and has been a popular place for pilgrimage since the…