The Kiso River running through central Japan offers glorious views on the old Nakasendo road that joined Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto during Japan’s feudal era.
Deer are scattered through the ancient Japanese capital of Nara.
Kukai is one of the most influential figures in Japanese Buddhism. He founded what is now the mountain town of Koyasan, located atop Mount Koya. Kukai, who was born in the 8th century, also established Shingon Buddhism, one of the main sects of Japanese Buddhism. Shingon followers believe Kukai is still alive. They take meals to him daily.
Wakayama Castle is resplendent in both daytime and at night as it watches majestically over the modern-day city to which it gives its name.
Dogo Onsen is a famous hot spring in Matsuyama, the largest city on the smallest of Japan’s main islands, Shikoku (an island that many Japanese say is shaped like Australia). Dogo Onsen’s traditional bath was said to have been the inspiration for the bathhouse that is the main setting for Japan’s most successful movie, Spirited Away.