Offbeat NAGOYA｜Discover the unexpected side of Nagoya & Tokai region

Tag: Culture

  • Differences Between Hotels, Ryokan, and Guesthouses – Understanding Japan’s Accommodation Styles

    Choosing the Right Place to Stay: Discovering Japan’s Unique Lodging Culture

    Types of Accommodation in Japan

    When traveling in Japan, you’ll find three main types of accommodation: hotels, ryokan (traditional inns), and minshuku (guesthouses).
    By understanding the characteristics of each, you can choose the best place that suits your travel style.

    Whether you’re traveling for sightseeing, business, a long stay, or a hot spring retreat, knowing their basic differences will help make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

    What Is a Hotel?

    Hotels are designed for business travelers and tourists and are commonly found in urban centers and sightseeing areas.

    Most hotels feature Western-style rooms equipped with beds, desks, and private bathrooms.
    They also provide convenient services such as front desk check-in/out, room service, and laundry facilities.

    There are many types of hotels—from functional business hotels to resort-style facilities with onsen (hot springs), swimming pools, and restaurants.

    Hotels are convenient as city bases, and with multilingual staff and online reservation systems, they are especially traveler-friendly for international guests.

    What Is a Ryokan?

    A ryokan is a traditional Japanese-style inn, often found in hot spring towns and scenic rural areas.

    Rooms are typically tatami-floored with futons, shoji screens, and sliding doors, reflecting classic Japanese architecture.
    Meals emphasize seasonality and local ingredients, often served as multi-course kaiseki cuisine in your room or dining hall.

    Many ryokan also feature large communal baths or open-air hot springs, allowing guests to relax and experience Japan’s bathing culture.

    Hospitality, or *omotenashi*, is the heart of a ryokan. Staff and attendants (nakai) provide personalized service, guiding guests with care and attention.
    A ryokan is ideal for those who wish to experience Japanese tradition and hospitality as part of their stay.

    What Is a Minshuku (Guesthouse)?

    A minshuku is a family-run or small-scale lodging, offering a cozy and homely atmosphere unique to the local area.

    Rooms are usually Japanese-style, and meals are simple yet hearty home-cooked dishes made from local ingredients.

    The charm of a minshuku lies in the opportunity to interact with local hosts and experience regional life firsthand.
    Hosts often share local tips and sightseeing advice, making it perfect for travelers who want a deeper, more personal connection with Japan.

    Minshuku are generally more affordable than hotels or ryokan, making them popular among backpackers and long-stay travelers.

    Tips for Choosing the Right Type

    When deciding where to stay, consider your travel purpose and priorities.

    Hotel

    Convenient for urban stays, business trips, and international travelers. Offers modern facilities and reliable service.

    • Ryokan

    Ideal for hot spring experiences and cultural immersion. Perfect for enjoying Japanese hospitality and cuisine.

    Minshuku

    Great for those seeking local interaction and a homely atmosphere. Affordable and community-oriented.

    Some modern accommodations combine the comfort of hotels with the tradition of ryokan, creating a “Wa-Modern” hybrid style that offers even more choices.

    Choosing Based on Your Travel Style

    For first-time visitors to Japan, hotels provide convenience and ease of use.
    If you’re visiting an onsen resort or rural area, staying at a ryokan allows you to feel Japan’s cultural depth.
    For travelers wanting to experience daily Japanese life, a minshuku stay is especially rewarding.

    Understanding these differences helps you plan a stay that matches your travel goals and enhances your overall experience in Japan.

    Conclusion

    Each accommodation type—hotel, ryokan, and minshuku—offers a unique way to experience Japan.
    By choosing based on your preferences for comfort, tradition, or local connection, you can enrich your travel journey.

    On your next visit to Japan, select the style that suits you best and enjoy a comfortable, memorable stay.

  • Manners for Visiting a Shinto Shrine – Enjoying Japan’s Sacred Spaces

    Experience the charm of shrines while observing proper etiquette

    What is a Shinto Shrine?

    A Shinto shrine is not just a tourist spot but a sacred place where kami (gods or spirits) are enshrined. People honor natural elements, ancestors, and guardian deities, offering daily gratitude and prayers.

    When visiting a shrine, it’s important not only to sightsee but also to understand the cultural and religious background. By following proper etiquette, you can experience the full depth and charm of a shrine.

    Etiquette When Passing Through a Torii

    At the entrance of a shrine, you will find a torii gate. The torii marks the boundary between the secular world and the sacred space, so it is customary to bow lightly before passing through. When walking along the approach (the path leading to the shrine), avoid the center as it is considered the path for the kami; walk to the sides instead. This simple action already shows respect for the shrine.

    Purification at the Temizuya

    Most shrines have a water pavilion called a temizuya. The ritual to cleanse your hands and mouth before worship is as follows:

    1. Take the ladle with your right hand and scoop water.
    2. Pour water over your left hand, then cleanse your right hand.
    3. Pour water into your left hand to rinse your mouth (do not touch the ladle directly to your lips).
    4. Finally, cleanse the ladle handle and return it to its original place.

    This ritual symbolizes purification of body and mind and demonstrates respect for the kami.

    How to Pray at the Haiden

    The basic procedure when approaching the shrine’s main hall (haiden) is as follows:

    1. Bow lightly in front of the haiden.
    2. Place an offering in the saisenbako (offertory box).
    3. If there is a bell, ring it gently.
    4. Perform the ritual of two bows, two claps, and one final bow.
    5. Silently offer your prayers in your heart.

    Following this flow allows you to calmly and respectfully present your prayers to the kami.

    Behavior Within the Shrine Grounds

    Shrines are sacred spaces. Avoid loud conversations, running, or taking photos in ways that disturb other visitors. While photography is allowed in some areas, it is considered polite to refrain from photographing the haiden or other worshippers. Pets and eating or drinking are generally restricted within the grounds.

    Additionally, each shrine has unique customs. Items such as ema (votive plaques), omikuji (fortune slips), and goshuin (seal stamps) are meant to be enjoyed as part of worship, not merely as souvenirs.

    Points to Keep in Mind During Crowds or Festivals

    Shrines can become extremely crowded during New Year’s visits or festivals. During these times, remain calm, wait your turn, and be considerate of other visitors. Do not cut in line, and handle charms and omikuji with care when purchasing them.

    Be Mindful of Cultural Respect

    Even if you are unfamiliar with Shinto customs, being aware of etiquette is important. A simple bow, speaking softly, and following the temizuya ritual already show respect for the shrine. Mistakes are usually overlooked by locals, but paying attention to manners enhances the quality of your visit.

    Conclusion – Visiting Shrines with Respect

    Shrines are valuable places to experience Japanese culture and spirituality. By following basic etiquette—bowing at the torii, purifying at the temizuya, praying correctly at the haiden, and behaving respectfully on the grounds—you can enjoy a deeper connection with the shrine.

    Walking quietly and praying sincerely allows you to experience a sacred moment away from everyday life. Through shrine visits, you can gain insight into Japan’s history, culture, and the spirit of Shinto.

  • Yoshida Castle – Surrounded by the Natural Moat of the Toyokawa River | Toyohashi City

    Yoshida Castle – Surrounded by the Natural Moat of the Toyokawa River | Toyohashi City

    A Natural Fortress Protected by Rivers

    Yoshida Castle in Toyohashi was built at the point where the Toyokawa River makes a wide bend and joins with its tributary, the Asakura River. These natural waterways served as moats, enhancing the castle’s defenses and making it a true natural stronghold. Standing on slightly elevated ground, the castle offers a view of the meandering Toyokawa, and with few tall buildings in the area, visitors can still imagine the scenery as it once appeared centuries ago.

    Today, a reconstructed keep has been built, making the site a popular sightseeing spot. The remaining stone walls and moats allow visitors to stroll through the grounds while experiencing the atmosphere of the Sengoku period.

    Although it is called “Yoshida Castle,” it stands in present-day Toyohashi City because the area was once known as “Yoshida.” Both the castle and its castle town shared the same name, giving visitors deeper insight into the historical connection between the place and the castle.

    A Castle Linked to Renowned Generals

    Several prominent warlords in Japanese history once ruled Yoshida Castle.

    One was Sakai Tadatsugu, a loyal retainer of Tokugawa Ieyasu. He was counted among both the “Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa” and the “Sixteen Generals of Tokugawa.” His role as lord of Yoshida Castle highlights the strategic importance of the site.

    Another notable figure was Ikeda Terumasa, later famous for his large-scale renovation of Himeji Castle. At Yoshida, Terumasa strengthened the castle’s defenses by building stone walls around the honmaru (main bailey) and expanding the grounds with secondary and tertiary enclosures and samurai residences. Had he governed the area longer, Yoshida Castle might have evolved into a grand early modern fortress on par with Himeji. In this sense, Yoshida can be seen as a “phantom great castle” that never reached its full potential.

    Now Part of Toyohashi Park

    Today, Yoshida Castle is located within Toyohashi Park, serving as a beloved relaxation spot for both locals and visitors. The spacious park can be enjoyed with a leisurely one-hour stroll and is especially famous for its cherry blossoms, attracting crowds of people for hanami (flower viewing) in spring.

    The combination of stone walls, the reconstructed keep, and the seasonal beauty of nature makes it a place where history and scenery can be enjoyed together. Walking along the flow of the Toyokawa River, visitors can imagine the lives of people in the Sengoku period and spend a special moment immersed in both history and nature.

    Access

    3 Imahashi-cho, Toyohashi City (inside Toyohashi Park) 440-0801

    About 10 minutes from JR/Meitetsu Toyohashi Station on the Toyotetsu City Line.
    Get off at “Shiyakusho-mae” stop and walk 5 minutes.

  • Bars Lined Up in the Alluring Nishiguchi District｜Toyohashi

    Bars Lined Up in the Alluring Nishiguchi District｜Toyohashi

    A Bar District with Post-War Charm

    Just a few minutes from the west exit (Shinkansen side) of Toyohashi Station, you’ll find a retro street where small bars stand shoulder to shoulder. Formed during Japan’s post-war reconstruction, this area still retains a strong Showa-era atmosphere. Neon signs and wooden facades glow against the night, creating a nostalgic yet slightly mysterious mood.

    On both sides of the street, you’ll discover red lantern izakaya pubs, yakiniku restaurants sending up savory smoke, and even international spots serving pizza and Mexican cuisine. A simple stroll is exciting in itself—you’ll be drawn in by laughter and the clinking of glasses from the alleys, and before you know it, that “just one drink” might turn into an evening of bar-hopping.

    Small-Scale Bars with Big Personality

    Most establishments are two stories, with cozy first floors featuring counters of just 7 or 8 seats. The close quarters make it easy to strike up conversations with locals and owners, even on your first visit. Some places also offer upstairs seating or private rooms, perfect for settling in with friends—or for stopping by alone on a whim.

    At the counter in particular, the aromas from the kitchen, the sizzling sounds of cooking, and casual chats with the owner all become part of the experience, naturally encouraging you to order another round.

    Redevelopment Looms—A “Now or Never” Experience

    Although this area sits right next to the station, it has remained largely untouched for decades. Recently, however, aging buildings and new city planning discussions have raised the possibility of redevelopment. If that begins in earnest, the days of this Showa-style nightlife district may be numbered.

    That’s exactly why now is the time to experience its charm. Immerse yourself in the nostalgic, bustling warmth of this community, where memories of post-war Japan still linger, and enjoy a uniquely Toyohashi night before it changes forever.

    Access

    Hanada Ichiban-cho, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8013

  • Beautiful Approach Path and Magnificent Main Hall – Harina Jinja Shrine｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Beautiful Approach Path and Magnificent Main Hall – Harina Jinja Shrine｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Located in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Harina Jinja” is a venerable shrine with over 1,100 years of history, quietly nestled in a peaceful residential neighborhood. Despite being just a 10-minute walk from Hirabari Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line, it boasts a spacious approach path and grounds. The moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a sacred atmosphere far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

    For Autoproject, Inc. which operates this website, Harina Jinja holds special significance. As our local tutelary deity, we receive daily protection and blessings from this sacred place.

    What Is a Ujigami?

    Over a Thousand Years of History in an Elegant Setting

    According to ancient documents, Harina Jinja was founded around 900 AD, making it one of Nagoya’s most historically significant shrines. While the current shrine buildings have been beautifully maintained and are impeccably clean, you can truly feel the weight of over a millennium of history within its grounds.

    The shrine is said to have deep connections with Ise Grand Shrine and Atsuta Shrine, and has been gathering the faith of people since ancient times.

    Multiple Deities and Diverse Blessings

    One of Harina Jinja’s attractions is that it enshrines many different deities. In addition to the main hall, the grounds contain multiple auxiliary shrines, with the “Shinmei-sha” alone housing six additional shrines. It’s rare to find a shrine with so many gathered deities, allowing it to answer the diverse prayers of its visitors.

    The blessings offered are equally diverse, including good fortune, protection from misfortune, academic success, health, traffic safety, and business prosperity – making it a reliable source of support for various aspects of life. It’s believed that during the Edo period, as people gathered at this important point along the “Hirabari Highway,” various deities were successively enshrined here as the center of regional faith.

    Surrounded by Vibrant Vermillion Torii Gates

    The rows of vermillion torii gates standing before Harina Inari Shrine are truly spectacular. Each time you pass through a gate, your mindset shifts from the ordinary to the extraordinary, creating a sense of spiritual focus. Few shrines in Nagoya offer the sight of so many torii gates lined up together.

    They’re also perfect for photography, so be sure to capture a memorable shot during your visit.

    Finding Inner Peace in Tranquility

    Unlike nationally famous shrines such as Ise Grand Shrine or Atsuta Shrine, Harina Jinja typically doesn’t see large crowds of visitors. As a result, time flows peacefully within the grounds, allowing you to truly feel the sacred atmosphere.

    The ability to quietly clasp your hands together, reflect on yourself, and make inner vows about future goals and wishes is one of Harina Jinja’s unique charms.

    Allow Extra Time for New Year’s Visits

    During the first three days of the New Year, the shrine receives enormous numbers of visitors, and worship can take over three hours. If you prefer a more leisurely visit, we recommend coming at a different time of year. The mild seasons of spring and autumn are particularly ideal, when the natural beauty of the grounds is at its peak and perfect for strolling.

    Access Information

    Address

    175 Oaza Hirabari Daikon-ga-koshi, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0021

    Access

    10-minute walk from Hirabari Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line

  • Experience Japan’s Festival Spirit Now! “Genki-ssu! Hekinan”｜Hekinan City, Aichi

    Experience Japan’s Festival Spirit Now! “Genki-ssu! Hekinan”｜Hekinan City, Aichi

    A vibrant summer event where modern Japan’s festival culture comes alive

    Every August in Hekinan City, Aichi Prefecture, the annual summer festival “Genki-ssu! Hekinan” brings together local energy and contemporary Japanese festival culture. Unlike traditional festivals with bon odori dances and mikoshi (portable shrines), this event invites everyone to dance freely, join performances, and celebrate side by side—blurring the line between performer and audience.

    The Sounds of Summer in Japan – Discovering the Charm of Bon Odori

    This flagship event of Hekinan draws not only local residents but also many visitors from across Japan and abroad. Generations and nationalities come together, creating a true sense of unity in the heart of summer.

    Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss

    Taste Hekinan’s Local Flavors

    The festival grounds are filled with food stalls offering both classic Japanese festival snacks and Hekinan’s own regional specialties. From sizzling street food to nostalgic treats, the lively calls of vendors and the aroma of grilled delights set the festive mood.

    Dance in the Parade – Everyone’s Invited!

    A signature attraction is the dance parade, where groups perform in creative costumes with original choreography. Unlike the fixed style of bon odori, each team showcases its own way of expressing the joy of dance. The energy is contagious—you’ll feel uplifted whether you’re performing or simply watching.

    Live Music and Performances

    On the main stage, dance teams and live bands keep the excitement going. From local students to professional artists, the lineup is diverse and dynamic. International groups also join in, adding a multicultural flair and making the festival a true celebration of diversity.

    A Day to Feel Japan’s Passion

    “Genki-ssu! Hekinan” is more than just a local festival—it’s a chance to experience the vitality of modern Japan. Surrounded by music, dancing, and smiles, you’ll step out of the everyday and into an atmosphere of pure celebration.

    For travelers, it’s also an opportunity to discover a side of Japan far from the quiet and reserved stereotype. Here, you’ll encounter passion, energy, and joy shared openly by everyone around you. Joining the festival—whether by chance or by plan—will surely become one of your most unforgettable memories of Japan.

    Discover Today’s Japan in Summer Hekinan

    True to its name, “Genki-ssu!” is a festival that fills you with energy. Watch, dance, eat, or simply soak it all in—however you take part, it’s a summer experience like no other.

    Venue

    Around Hekinan City Hall

    Official Website

  • Ueda Hachiman Shrine – A Historic Sanctuary in a Peaceful Residential Area | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Ueda Hachiman Shrine – A Historic Sanctuary in a Peaceful Residential Area | Nagoya, Tenpaku

    A majestic shrine nestled in a city known for its livability

    The Ueda district of Nagoya’s Tenpaku Ward is a quiet residential area, beloved for its comfortable lifestyle, with local cafés and coffee shops scattered throughout the neighborhood. Amid this calm setting stands Ueda Hachiman Shrine, a spiritual landmark with a history dating back to the 1400s, making it over 600 years old.

    The enshrined deity is Emperor Ōjin, who was once revered by the Genji clan and many samurai warriors as their guardian. Even today, the shrine remains deeply respected by the local community.

    What Is a Hachimangu Shrine?

    A Place Steeped in History

    One of Ueda Hachiman Shrine’s most fascinating aspects lies in its location. It is built on an ancient burial mound believed to date back to around the 6th century. This area is thought to have once been the site of a small settlement, making the shrine grounds a rare place where traces of everyday life and spirituality have been interwoven for centuries.

    While locals may pass by without much thought, visitors often find themselves amazed to discover such deep layers of history hidden in this quiet neighborhood.

    Summer Ritual: Purification Through the“Chinowa”Ring

    Every July, around Marine Day, the shrine hosts the traditional Shinto ritual called “Nagoshi no Harae,” or the Great Summer Purification. A large ring made of reeds, known as a chinowa, is set up at the entrance. Worshippers walk through the ring to pray for good health and protection from illness.

    Although performed at many shrines across Japan, few people actually experience this ritual firsthand, making it a rare and memorable event for travelers.

    The Striking Arch Bridge

    Within the shrine grounds stands a rare and unusually steep arched bridge (soribashi). With its athletic, almost daring slope, it is not recommended for small children or those unsteady on their feet.

    Traditionally, rivers near shrines serve as symbolic boundaries between the human world and the sacred realm. Since Ueda Hachiman Shrine does not have a river, this distinctive arched bridge may instead act as a symbolic border, adding a deeper spiritual meaning to the experience of crossing it.

    A Calming Retreat Just Minutes from the Station

    Located only about 5 minutes on foot from Ueda Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line, the shrine is easily accessible. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood just off the main road, many first-time visitors are pleasantly surprised to find such an impressive shrine in this residential setting.

    Unlike bustling tourist spots, Ueda Hachiman Shrine offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere—a perfect place to slow down, reflect, and recharge.

    Visitor Information

    Address

    3-605 Ueda-nishi, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
    Phone: 052-808-3818

    Access

    About a 5-minute walk from Ueda Station (Tsurumai Subway Line)

  • Village Vanguard Flagship Store – The Birthplace of “Virevan”｜Nagoya, Tenpaku

    Where the playful bookstore culture began

    Village Vanguard is famous across Japan as the “bookstore you can play in.” Its very first store opened in 1986 in Ueda, a quiet neighborhood of Tempaku Ward, Nagoya. Even today, this flagship location keeps the same quirky atmosphere that started it all, offering visitors a mix of discovery, surprise, and fun.

    From the outside, the shop looks more like a casual garage store than a typical bookstore. Step inside, and you’ll find warm wooden floors, winding staircases, and a playful layout that makes browsing feel like an adventure. True to the brand’s spirit of creativity, even the displays are unusual—watches and wallets, for example, are arranged on a billiards table.

    An extraordinary find in an ordinary neighborhood

    The surrounding area of Ueda is a calm residential district. Against this everyday backdrop, the Village Vanguard flagship feels like a hidden world of subculture. The contrast between the quiet streets and this imaginative space makes the visit all the more memorable.

    A “not-so-Japanese” Japan that fascinates travelers

    The store is not limited to books. Visitors can browse through fashion, accessories, food items, novelty goods, and much more. The eclectic selection feels like wandering through an overseas marketplace, creating a sense of stepping outside Japan while still being in the heart of Nagoya.

    For international travelers, this flagship store often becomes a highlight of their trip. Unlike the many branch stores across the country, the Ueda location preserves the original style of Village Vanguard. For fans, it’s considered a kind of “pilgrimage site” where they can connect with the roots of the brand.

    Why you should visit

    Among the many Village Vanguard stores nationwide, the flagship in Tempaku Ward stands out with its unique atmosphere. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to experience Japanese subculture, discover unusual souvenirs, or simply enjoy a bookstore that is anything but ordinary. Visiting the birthplace of “Virevan” is more than shopping—it’s a cultural experience in itself.

    Access

    1-515 Uedanishi, Tempaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0058
    A 10-minute walk from Ueda Station on the subway.

  • A Toast to Everyday Life – What Is an Izakaya, Japan’s Beloved Drinking Spot?

    Where drinks, snacks, and smiles abound. The casual, cozy hub of Japan’s social scene.

    What Is an Izakaya?

    An izakaya is a type of casual Japanese bar where you can enjoy a wide variety of alcoholic beverages along with small dishes, commonly known as “otsumami.” The term izakaya originally referred to a sake shop that allowed customers to “stay” (iru) and drink on the premises—hence, “izakaya,” meaning “stay-in sake shop.”

    Beverage selections typically include beer, sake, shochu, and highballs, while food offerings range from sashimi and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) to fried dishes and small plates. What makes izakaya especially appealing is their relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices, making them accessible to a wide audience.

    A History Rooted in Everyday Life

    The roots of izakaya trace back to the Edo period. At first, these were simply liquor stores offering a small standing space for on-the-spot drinking. Over time, they evolved into full-fledged establishments with seating and food, becoming a social gathering place for everyday people.

    During the Meiji and Taisho eras, and especially into the Showa period, izakaya culture blossomed alongside the rise of the Japanese salaryman. The phrase “a drink after work” became synonymous with daily routine. Today, izakaya attract a broader clientele, including women and tourists, and the variety of styles continues to grow.

    What’s on the Menu?

    An izakaya menu is designed to be shared and enjoyed slowly with drinks. Common dishes include:

    Edamame & chilled tofu

    Light appetizers often served first.

    Yakitori

    Skewered grilled chicken, a staple of any izakaya.

    Assorted sashimi

    Fresh seafood that pairs perfectly with sake.

    Karaage (fried chicken) & agedashi tofu

    Hearty and satisfying.

    Closing dishes

    Rice balls, ramen, or soup to end the night.

    One unique aspect of izakaya dining is the otoshi—a small appetizer automatically served (and charged) at the start of your meal. It acts as both a starter and a table charge, with its contents and cost varying by shop.

    A Variety of Izakaya Styles

    Modern izakaya come in all shapes and sizes:

    Standing izakaya

    For quick, casual drinking sessions.

    Private-room izakaya

    Offering more privacy for meetings or dates.

    Creative/modern izakaya

    Fusion cuisine and stylish decor, popular with younger crowds.

    Chain izakaya

    Consistent food and pricing, with nationwide locations.

    Innovations like day-drinking izakaya and alcohol-free izakaya are also emerging, reflecting broader changes in social and drinking culture.

    A Hit with International Visitors

    Izakaya offer a unique cultural experience for tourists. Unlike upscale restaurants or street food, they allow visitors to dine alongside locals in an authentic, unfiltered setting.

    Many izakaya now provide English menus or picture-based ordering to accommodate non-Japanese speakers. Some even offer “omakase” (chef’s choice) courses or casual interaction with staff, adding to the charm and spontaneity of the experience.

    A Special Place in Everyday Life

    Izakaya are not reserved for special occasions. They thrive on spontaneity: “I feel like drinking today,” “I want to catch up with someone,” or “I need a little snack.” They exist between work and home, between routine and relaxation.

    Whether stopping by after work, reconnecting with a friend, or just dining solo, izakaya provide comfort without formality. Their unpretentious warmth makes them an essential part of Japan’s social and culinary fabric.

  • Marking Memories in Vermilion – What Is a “Goshuin” from Shrines and Temples?

    A sacred stamp that tells the story of your journey – Discover the cultural and spiritual charm of Japan’s goshuin.

    What Is a Goshuin?

    A goshuin (御朱印) is a type of seal or stamp that visitors can receive at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples across Japan. Traditionally written in brush and ink by the shrine or temple staff, the goshuin typically includes beautiful calligraphy showing the name of the site and the date of the visit, often accompanied by a red vermilion stamp symbolizing the deity or temple’s mark.

    More than a mere souvenir, the goshuin is considered a sacred record of a person’s visit, a kind of spiritual footprint. While collecting them has become a popular hobby among both locals and tourists, they are deeply rooted in Japanese religious and cultural practices.

    Origin and Cultural Background

    The practice of receiving a goshuin dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868) or even earlier. Originally, it served as proof that a worshipper had copied Buddhist sutras—a form of devotion. Over time, it evolved into a formal seal of pilgrimage and prayer, eventually becoming more widely available to everyday visitors.

    Even today, many pilgrims traveling ancient pilgrimage routes, such as the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, carry special books to collect goshuin along their spiritual journey.

    Goshuin-chō – The Special Book

    Goshuin are typically collected in a goshuin-chō (御朱印帳), a special notebook made of accordion-folded washi paper. These books are often adorned with elegant, seasonal, or shrine-specific designs, and are available for purchase at most temples and shrines.

    While some people collect goshuin as religious mementos, others enjoy them as artistic expressions. Each goshuin is handwritten and unique, reflecting the individuality of the shrine, the temple, and even the calligrapher’s brushwork.

    Etiquette When Receiving a Goshuin

    Although goshuin have grown in popularity, it’s important to approach the practice with respect and reverence, as they are not simple stamps like those found in tourist attractions.

    • Here are a few points of etiquette to keep in mind.
    • Pay your respects at the shrine or temple before requesting a goshuin.
    • Have your goshuin-chō ready and open to the correct page.
    • A small fee (usually 300 to 500 yen) is customary as a donation, not a transaction.
    • Avoid requesting goshuin during religious ceremonies or when the staff is visibly busy.

    If you do not have a goshuin-chō, some sites may offer pre-stamped paper versions.

    A Journey Through Calligraphy

    Each goshuin offers more than just a name and date—it captures the atmosphere and philosophy of the sacred site. The flowing brushstrokes, the red vermilion stamp, and even the occasional gold or silver ink turn each seal into a work of living art.

    Some enthusiasts travel across Japan with the goal of collecting unique goshuin from famous locations like Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto or Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo, while others cherish the seals from small, lesser-known shrines discovered along quiet country roads.

    Why Foreign Visitors Enjoy Goshuin

    Recently, more and more international travelers have discovered the beauty of goshuin. It’s a tangible and meaningful way to commemorate a spiritual or cultural experience. Unlike mass-produced souvenirs, goshuin reflect your personal presence at a specific time and place in Japan.

    For many, they also serve as an introduction to Japan’s dual religious traditions—Shinto and Buddhism—offering a glimpse into how spirituality is seamlessly woven into daily life.

    A Lasting Memory in Red Ink

    Goshuin are not just keepsakes; they are markers of experience, symbols of intention, and reminders of moments of calm, gratitude, or reflection.

    Whether you’re visiting a grand temple in the city or a quiet shrine in the countryside, receiving a goshuin can turn a short visit into a lasting memory—recorded gracefully in red ink and brushstrokes, just as it has been for centuries in Japan.