Ishibutai, Asuka
The Ishibutai is an ancient tomb and arguably the most famous site in Asuka. It was constructed in the 7th century. The stones are believed to have been set by digging holes to set the walls in and them pulling the ceiling stone overtop. After the stones were set, they dug out the center to create the tomb. Visitors can walk all around the tomb as well as inside.
Tentoku-in, Kyoto
Tentoku-in is one of the numerous sub-temples of Tofuku-ji in Kyoto. Built in the mid 14th century, the temple was destroyed once, then rebuilt in 1789. Tentoku-in is nicknamed the “bell-flower temple” for its moss garden has a large number of purple and white Chinese bell flowers blooming in early autumn. The well known “inverted bell” window shape comes in fact from the shape of these flowers.
Japanese style tea-break, Wakuden
This is a typical Japanese-style tea break at Wakuden confection store and tearoom. The sweet from left is hot and fresh warabimochi which was cake made of bracken starch and covered or dipped in soybean flour and the other one is sasa hotaru which was sweet bean jelly of green tea serve with hot macha green tea.
Flower Art Museum 2014
“Flower Art Museum 2014”, an annual event, is being held at JR Osaka Station (Oct. 1-15). At the “North-South Bridge” (5F of the Station Building) from which you can see JR trains coming and leaving the station, beautiful flowers of Japan and the world are arranged creating extraordinary space. You will feel as if you were walking in a garden!
Sakurajima
Sakurajima is part of the Kirishima-Yaku National Park. It is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes and can be reached via a ferry and car to the view point. It is a composite with the summit split into three peaks, Kitadake (northern peak), Nakadake (central peak) and Minamidake (southern peak) which is active now. The surface of the island is about 77 square kilometres and since the last major eruption connected with the mainland.