Understand

Japan witnessed the arrival of Buddhism in three influential waves, each leaving a mark on the country's philosophical and religious landscape. The Nara period brought the Kegon and Hosso schools. Heian period welcomed Tendai and the esoteric school of Shingon. Lastly, the post-Kamakura period introduced faith-based schools such as Jodo Shu, Jodo Shinshu, and various Zen schools. Among these diverse Buddhist schools, Zen is internationally renowned and closely intertwined with Japanese culture. Its profound influence can be seen in Japanese gardens, tea ceremonies, and even martial arts. Consequently, many overseas visitors who yearn to study meditation choose to immerse themselves in the welcoming embrace of a Zen monastery. Shingon, although less recognized abroad, has also garnered some interest from international enthusiasts. Several monasteries offer multi-day meditation courses for lay participants, although only a select few cater to non-Japanese speakers. The following list serves as a starting point for those seeking more information on temples that accommodate overseas visitors. More detailed information can be found in the corresponding city or prefecture articles.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing