Koetsuji Temple, Kyoto

Koetsuji Temple is named after Honami Koetsu who was a highly educated person in Edo era.
He contributed to develop various cultures such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, pottery and making Japanese gardens.　After he died at the age of 80, this temple was established.

There are 7 tea rooms in the ground of the temple.

I am sure the best time to visit this temple is definitely autumn!

Nishihonganji Temple, Kyoto

　Nishihonganji Temple is a temple of the Jodo Shinshu Sect of Buddhism. Jodo Shinshu was founded by Shinran Shonin in Kamakura Era(1185-1333).
　The main hall (The Amida Hall) of the temple is magnificent and accommodates more than 800 prayers in it at once. 

A Chinese style gate called Kara-mon is said to be a remain of Fushimi Castle. It is one of national treasures with a gorgeous decoration.

Nishihonganji Temple is designated as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1994.

Kusatsu Honjin in Kusatsu City, Shiga

"Tokaido" and "Nakasendo" used to be main roads connecting Tokyo and Kyoto in the past.
Kusatsu is located at the crossroad of these two main roads.
Kusatsu Honjin was an accomodation for VIPs such as fudal loads, royal families etc..
This facility is well preserved and you can see all rooms, old style kitchens and bath room.
You will feel it dates back to Edo era.

Chomeiji Temple in Omihachiman City, Shiga

After climibing 808 stone steps, you will find a beautiful three-story pagoda and a main hall.It is said that this temple was founded by Shotoku Taishi who is an influential regent of Japan in 5th century.Prayers will be answered with good luck of longevity.There are some huge rocks in the ground of the temple as you see in the picture. These are remnants from a nature worship in old age.

Keiun-kan in Nagahama City, Shiga

Keiun-kan is a guesthouse with a beautiful garden in Nagahama city. This was constructed when the Meiji Emperor and the Empress visited the city in 1886 for their temporary stop.
This place is also famous for the plum bonsai exibition.
Nagahama Railroad Square is across from keiun-kan. This is Japan's oldest railway station and has been transformed into a railway museum.

Sacred Island; Chikubushima, Shiga

Chikubushima is a well-known power spot. A black dragon is worshiped as a guardian diety in the island.

It is said the diety gives you prosperity and success. If you buy a gold coin called "Shofuku Koban" in the island, you might get a fortune. Why don't you try it?

The island is about 20 minutes boat ride from Nagahama port.

From Shiga in Japan

Shiga is located in the center of Japan and has the biggest lake, called Lake Biwa.

Since this area used to be a stage of historical events, there are a lot of historical sites including Hikone Castle, old battle fields, temples and shrines etc. 

At the same time, we are surrounded by a beautiful nature here. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, hiking, camping and other leisure activities.

I am really happy to show you around my Shiga and Kyoto.

I hope you will visit this place someday..