Japan tourism and Wakayama: Negoro-ji and stunning Buddhist temples

Japan tourism and Wakayama: Negoro-ji and stunning Buddhist temples

Walter Sebastian and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Wakayama prefecture is a perfect place to visit for tourists who adore culture, architecture, the richness of Buddhism, the indigenous faith of Shintoism, stunning beaches, an amazing castle, and because of multiple other factors. Also, the closeness of Wakayama to Nara, Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto, means that the entire Kansai region is a wonder to behold. Therefore, Kansai is a perfect location for tourists to enjoy the uniqueness of Japan.

If individuals are fascinated by the richness of Buddhism, Japanese architecture, culture, history, and adore stunning mountains, then the Negoro-ji complex of Buddhist temples is a must place to visit. After all, the pace of life in the modern world for many people is too quick and quality time is needed in order to refresh the mind, soul, and to connect with history, art, and culture.

Negoro-ji also further compliments the religious aspect of Wakayama because Koyasan and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes in the Kii Peninsula are fantastic places to visit. The marvel of Wakayama is truly amazing because “another heart beats” strongly in special areas where nature, religion, history, culture, art, and other positive aspects of life can be found in abundance.

Negoro-ji in history is also extremely fascinating because the foundations of a major retreat for the Buddhist faith began in 1087. The individuals who laid the foundation stones for this amazing area were En no Gyoja and Hofuku-Choja. Indeed, the original name of the area was Hofuku-ji and given the natural beauty of the Katsuragi Mountains then it is clear why the area was picked.

Kakuban (1095-1143) is a very important person in the rise of the region because this holy Buddhist leader of the Shingon sect left a complex legacy. He revered Kukai (774-835) who was the founder of Shingon Buddhism but the times of Kukai and Kakuban were very different because divisions had emerged within Shingon Buddhism. Therefore, while the importance of Kakuban can’t be denied for increasing the significance of Negoro-ji, it is also factual that schisms increased during his time because of many factors.

Despite this, Kakuban was focused on the future therefore he laid the foundation stone for the construction of Enmyo-ji and Jingu-ji. These two new buildings were built within the Negoro-ji temple grounds. After the death of Kakuban the Negoro-ji area continued to expand and thousands of temples were built in and around this Buddhist complex.

Therefore, for hundreds of years the chants of Buddhism were powerful and many amazing temples were built. Also, Japanese gardens will have enhanced the serenity and the mountain peaks were deemed to be sacred. This period of history also witnessed the growing power of high culture within elite communities and for several hundred years after the death of Kakuban the future of Negoro-ji looked promising.

However, just like Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi also clashed with Buddhist sects who had military prowess and political ambitions. In 1585 the forces of Hideyoshi burnt nearly every temple to the ground apart from the odd exception and the main Pagoda surviving the devastation. Therefore, in this period of history in Japan it is clear that the central forces of Nobunaga and Hideyoshi feared the power base of several Buddhist sects.

Under Tokugawa Yorinobu in 1623 the grounds of Negoro-ji once more would witness a more serene period because he allowed the reconstruction of the grounds to take place. The area in time would gradually be transformed throughout the Edo period and in modern times you can see how this reconstruction created a stunning place to visit.

Therefore, for modern tourists or people who go on pilgrimage to holy places in Wakayama, it is difficult to imagine such past violence in history. After all, today you can hear Buddhist chants in Negoro-ji, view exquisite architecture, enjoy nice walks, and view tranquility in every direction. However, from an historical point of view it is clear that central forces in history in the sixteenth century did fear the power of Buddhism and because of this Negoro-ji paid a heavy price.

Yet time is a great healer and today you can only visualize a period of serenity in history. Also, people can only marvel at the stunning temples, exquisite architecture, and how nature and religion seems at peace with each other.

Negoro-ji is an amazing place to visit because places like this are the “heart of Japan” and with Koyasan and Kumano Kodo being based in the Kii Peninsula, then you have many choices to plan an extremely intriguing holiday. Not only this, the castle in Wakayama and the stunning beaches of Shirahama await and the same applies to other amazing places to visit in this beautiful part of Japan.

http://www.negoroji.org/

http://www.pref.wakayama.lg.jp/english/charm/01.html

http://www.nk-kumano.com/ (Nachi Katsuura)

http://www.shukubo.jp/eng/ (Koyasan)

http://www.kumano-experience.com/01/en/ (Kumano Experience)

http://www.sekaiisan-wakayama.jp/english/index.html (Wakayama)

http://www.nanki-shirahama.com/eng/index.html (Shirahama)

http://farstrider.net/Japan/Castles/Wakayamajo.htm (Wakayama Castle)

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Japan tourism and Wakayama: Koyasan, Shirahama, Kumano Kodo & Kii Peninsula

Japan tourism and Wakayama: Koyasan, Shirahama, Kumano Kodo & Kii Peninsula

James Jomo and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Wakayama prefecture in Japan is blessed with many amazing places to visit and the richness of culture and history can be felt throughout this lovely region. This notably applies to Wakayama Castle, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, and many other places which are rich in culture and history throughout the Kii Peninsula and the surrounding region. Alternatively, you have many stunning beaches and Shirahama is a very popular destination. Therefore, Wakayama and the Kii Peninsula is a must place to visit for tourists who want to feel and witness the richness of Japanese history and culture.

Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagano, and Nara, are internationally famous and Osaka is an ultra-modern and vibrant city. However, throughout Japan you have natural stunning beauty and in places like Koyasan in Wakayama it becomes abundantly clear that you have many gems in this beautiful country.

Indeed, the Kansai region is extremely diverse and you have so many places which are in easy reach. This notably applies to Kobe, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Wakayama. Therefore major cities like Osaka and Kobe are ideal bases for tourists who want to experience the richness of culture throughout the region. .

Also, Buddhism is internationally famous in places like Kyoto and Nara therefore both places attract tourists from all over Japan and internationally. Nara is also very important in Japan because this place is the cradle of Japanese high culture and despite the powerbase moving from Nara to Kyoto, the legacy of Nara can’t be ignored.

Buddhism is also powerful in Koyasan because Kukai (774-835) spread a new message and today Shingon Buddhism remains visible in this stunning place. Indeed, this mountainous region is extremely beautiful and Mount Koya certainly attracted Kukai because of its remoteness and the magnificent scenery which is truly beautiful. Therefore, if individuals want to view “living Buddhism,” stunning Buddhist temples, lovely architecture, and natural beauty which can be viewed in all directions, then Koyasan is a must place to visit.

Another great place to visit in Wakayama is Wakayama Castle because this castle is well maintained and the views from the top of the castle are extremely stunning. Not only this, you can feel the power of this castle because of the size of the grounds and in history this castle was of strategic significance.

Therefore, Hideyoshi Toyotomi and Ieyasu Tokugawa respectively gave the order to family members to create and then strengthen this castle. Hideyoshi Toyotomi ordered the construction of the castle in 1585 and he gave this plan to his brother Hidenaga Toyotomi. Likewise, Ieyasu Tokugawa dispatched Yorinobu, his tenth son, to strengthen the castle and under Yorinobu this castle became extremely important for the Tokugawa bakufu based on geopolitical factors.

The main tourist areas to visit within the foundations of Wakayama Castle include the Honmaru Palace; Ohashi Rokka Bridge; Donjon; Ninomaru; Okaguchimon Gate; Otemon Gate; Minaminomaru; and other places within the castle complex.

Wakayama is not just about history, religion, culture, and amazing mountain ranges because in Shirahama you have lovely beaches to enjoy. From April to October the temperature makes the beach a great place to visit because you have many places to swim and paddle. Also, the landscape is very pleasing on the eye and you have many tourist attractions to visit and enjoy your stay.

Two other lovely places to visit are Nachi-no-taki Falls (Nachi Waterfall) and Nachi-Katsuura (Nachikatsuura). In both places you can feel the natural beauty of Wakayama and you can image old Japan. Therefore, the tranquil aspect enables people to feel refreshed.

Kumano Kodo is another amazing place in the Kii Peninsula because these pilgrimage routes highlight the uniqueness of religion in old Japan. The richness of the area means that modern pilgrims and non-pilgrims still visit in vast numbers in order to connect with the inner-soul and nature.

C. James Dale commented on Time Travel website that “Fresh from a long hike through the lush hills and valleys of Japan’s southwestern Kii Peninsula, Shugendo monks stand in their mud-splashed boots in front of the thatched-roof pavilions of the Kumano Hongu Taisha. Some chant and pray, others blow conch shells. The monks, whose spirituality mixes Shintoism, Buddhism, Taoism and animism, have arrived to worship after navigating the Kumano Kodo — a network of well-marked and well-maintained trails that winds through forests, fields, towns and villages nearly 600 km from Tokyo. It’s a journey religious figures, royalty and regular folk have been making since the Heian period (794-1192).”

“The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes and the sacred sites they connect have attracted more attention since making the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2004, taking their place alongside Spain’s Camino de Santiago de Compostela (Way of St. James).”

Overall, the Kii Peninsula is extremely beautiful because you have so many places to visit and enjoy stunning nature. The cultural aspect and religious association with this part of Japan is also a major highlight for all tourists who want to understand the deep roots of this fascinating nation. Therefore, a visit to Wakayama Castle, Koyasan, and all the places highlighted in this article, and many other hidden gems throughout the region, is a must for all people who have the opportunity to visit this part of Japan.

 

http://www.nk-kumano.com/ (Nachi Katsuura)

http://www.shukubo.jp/eng/ (Koyasan)

http://www.kumano-experience.com/01/en/ (Kumano Experience)

http://www.sekaiisan-wakayama.jp/english/index.html (Wakayama)

http://www.nanki-shirahama.com/eng/index.html (Shirahama)

http://farstrider.net/Japan/Castles/Wakayamajo.htm (Wakayama Castle)

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Wakayama Castle is a place which is rich in beauty and important in history

Wakayama Castle is a place which is rich in beauty and important in history

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Wakayama Castle – Modern Tokyo Times image

When people think about Japan then images of Kyoto, Tokyo, and Nara, spring to mind and obviously these places in Japan are rich in history and culture,  In Kyoto and Nara you can easily envisage ancient Japan and the culture of both places which shaped the future of this fascinating and historical nation. 

However, like all nations, you will have many hidden gems and Wakayama Castle is one of these hidden gems and the same applies to Wakayama prefecture.  Therefore, if you visit the Kansai region I recommend a visit to this beautiful castle and the surrounding park and other special areas within the walls of this castle.

In truth, Wakayama itself is a fantastic holiday destination because you have the stunning beauty of Koyasan which can rival any place in Japan when it comes to natural beauty, culture, history, and an amazing mountain landscape. 

Also, Shirahama and the landscape by the sea is very beautiful and from late April to October you have many places to either swim or paddle at your own pleasure.  The beaches are long and you have many tourist destinations to visit and you can also find tranquility in Shirahama.

Nachi-no-taki Falls (Nachi Waterfall) and Nachi-Katsuura (Nachikatsuura) are two other beautiful places to visit in Wakayama and the list could easily be added.  In both places the scenery is exquisite and you can feel the pace of a different Japan.

Wakayama provides a huge variety of places to visit and each place is special for being so different and unique.  After all, if you are a beach person then Shirahama and the stunning scenery is a place for you.  However, if you like culture and history then Koyasan and Wakayama Castle must be on your list of places to visit.

Also, remember that Wakayama is near to Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara; therefore, it is located in a very dynamic part of Japan.  Yes, Koyasan and Shirahama are a little far from Osaka but near enough to visit or if time permits, then to stay in this stunning prefecture and make the most of the diversity which is on offer.

I will focus on Wakayama Castle and why this place is a little gem amongst the many gems that can be found throughout Japan. 

Wakyama Castle – Modern Tokyo Times image

Wakayama Castle leads directly to two very important leaders in Japanese history because Hideyoshi Toyotomi gave the order for his brother, Hidenaga Toyotomi, to construct the castle of Wakayama in 1585.  The other major leader, Ieyasu Tokugawa, dispatched Yorinobu to Wakayama City and Yorinobu, his tenth son, developed the castle and region to an even higher level.

Under Yorinobu the castle became the most important Western Fortress for the Tokugawa bakufu.  This signaled a prosperous future for Wakayama during the Edo period and while it is true, that Shigeharu Kuwayama in 1586 and Yoshinaga Asano after the Battle of Sekigahara, both developed the castle of Wakayama.

It is true to say that Yorinobu laid the foundation stone for the importance of Wakayama Castle in Japanese history with regards to being a strategic area for the Tokugawa bakufu.

The geographic landscape of the castle was utilized with Wakayama Castle being built at the peak of Mountain Torafusu.  Also, the castle is very close to the sea and you can see mountains in the near distance.  Therefore, the landscape and geographic reality enabled this castle to be an important place within the Tokugawa bakufu.

The main places to visit within the foundations of Wakayama Castle include the Honmaru Palace; Donjon; Ohashi Rokka Bridge; Ninomaru; Otemon Gate; Okaguchimon Gate; Minaminomaru; and other places within the walls of the castle complex.

The Honmaru Palace from a distance may not look so large but once you enter this splendid building then you will soon understand the vastness of the area. This applies to the grounds of the Honmaru Palace and the stunning view which it provides from the top of the building.

Wakyama Castle – Modern Tokyo Times image

 

Wakayama Castle provides a museum within the grounds and you can learn a lot about the rich history of this fascinating castle and how it helped the Tokugawa bakufu.

If you have never been to Japan before or you are visiting the Kansai region for the first time or if you are Japanese and have never travelled to this part of Japan; then I recommend Wakayama Castle because of its rich history and the beauty of this castle is a wonder to behold.

If you are lucky and have a full week to stay in Wakayama or longer; then Koyasan, Shirahama, Nachi-no-taki Falls, Nachikatsuura, Kumano jinga, and other places of stunning beauty must enter your list of places to visit.

Wakayama is a very beautiful prefecture and it is located in a very vibrant part of Japan.  Indeed, the diversity of this part of Japan can be deemed to be “the heart of Japan” because Kobe, Kyoto, Nara, and Oaska respectively, are very close and each place is rich for different factors and Osaka provides a mega economic engine.

http://www.nk-kumano.com/   (Nachi Katsuura)

http://www.shukubo.jp/eng/  (Koyasan)

http://www.kumano-experience.com/01/en/   (Kumano Experience)

http://www.sekaiisan-wakayama.jp/english/index.html  (Wakayama)

http://www.nanki-shirahama.com/eng/index.html  (Shirahama)

http://farstrider.net/Japan/Castles/Wakayamajo.htm (Wakayama Castle)

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://www.moderntokyotimes.com