5 Iconic Landmarks in Japan
Japan is a country with a rich cultural heritage, which it avidly protects. Flights to Osaka will get you into the country, but here are five of its most iconic landmarks you must visit. The graceful slopes of Mt. Fuji is perhaps the most recognizable Japanese landmark. It has been memorialized in countless photos, as well as perhaps the most works of Japanese art in the western world – Katsushika Hosukai’s famous series of woodblock prints showing the volcano in different seasons. It is the country’s highest mountain and perfectly symmetrical. It’s unusual beauty has made it an object of worship as well as Japan’s most popular tourist destination. The best times to climb Fujisan are during the months of July and August, with climbing between October to May is not recommended. There are routes you can take from the foot of the mountain, or you can drive up part way and start a hike farther up. Either way, the slight incline of Mt. Fuji makes it accessible to even hesitant hikers.
Located in Kamakura, not far outside Tokyo, the Kotoku-in Temple is home to Japan’s most famous Daibutsu or “Great Buddha.” The Kamakura Daibutsu is a bronze statute of the Amida Buddha. It stands almost 44 feet high and weighs over 200,000 pounds. Temple records place the creation of this Daibutsu in the thirteenth century. It used to be gilded in gold and in a great hall. However, the building was destroyed in a tsunami in 1498. Since then, it has been out in the open.
3. Itsukushima Shrine
This Shinto shrine is on the island of Itsukushima, more popularly known as Miyajima Island. Even if it’s name is not well known, the picture of the orange Shinto gate rising out of the water is. The island has long been considered sacred and the shrine was built to honor the three daughters of the Shinto deity of sea and storms. Commoners were not allowed to set foot on the sacred island, so the floating gate was built so the devout could enter the temple. Today, all are welcome to walk on the island and its shrine. The island is easily reached from the city of Hiroshima, where another major Japanese landmark can be found.
4. Hiroshima Genbaku Dome
The city of Hiroshima was famously attacked by a nuclear bomb during World War II. The only structure left standing was the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. Today it’s hallowed out dome is called the Genbaku Dome and has been left as it was a reminder of the destructive power of war and as a symbol of hope for world peace. Nearby are also the Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum.
5. Osaka Castle
This multi-level, snow white castle is one of Japan’s most famous. The grounds cover more than 15 acres and has 13 buildings. The castle was built in the sixteenth century and played a significant role in unifying the country. Flights to Osaka arrive from all over the world allowing all to visit these remarkable landmarks.
Tags: Genbaku Dome, Japan, Kotoku Temple
Destination Place | admin February 17, 2012