Between Tradition and Modernity

Kyoto was the capital of Japan from 794 to 1869, and therefore has crucial historic value. The popularity of Gion revealed its prosperity, where the rich spent lavishly on entertainment by geisha. It was where Chiyo Sakamoto was sold by her family in “Memoirs of a Geisha”.

One of the iconic scenes is when Chiyo ran through the vermilion torii gates, the tunnel from the secular to the sacred, and prayed for meeting her true love Mameha in the Fushimi Inari Shrine. The shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of rice and foxes became his messengers.

Founded in 780, Pure Water Temple is one of the city's traditional icons. The building of Jishu Shrine was dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. 2 stones are placed 18m apart, to test if the couple can find their way to each other fatefully with their eyes closed.

The Otowa Waterfall is divided into 3 streams. Drinking them brings you longevity, academic success and romance. Take a slight bow of water. Pour water to your left hand and right hand orderly with the dipper held. Rinse your mouth with your left hand cupping the water.

An extended wooden stage in the temple allows you to appreciate a sea of color, while I simply enjoyed my Ujikintoki. A day trip to Uji is for matcha lovers. Aside from its originality of tea cultivation, both Byodoin Temple and the museum of Tale of Genji are suggested.

The Golden Pavilion is also top ranked. It is a two-storey structure covered in gold leaf. As the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the Zen temple was renovated in 1408 based on his will. However, the present one was rebuilt in 1956 due to several fires.

The coexistence of tradition is not confined to the culture aspect, but covers the natural part. Since the Heian Period, nobles have enjoyed the vibe of Arashiyama, the sprawling bamboo grove in particular. The Sagano Scenic Railway brings you to Kameoka with a pleasant view.

To dialogue with history, in order to reflect upon our present and future. - Osaka Museum of History

Local culture has been redefined when it faces globalization. Some are assimilated into the tradition. Snowy mooncake is derived from the ancient one. Some are replaced by the foreign one, such as the way we dress is similar. How does Kansai showcase coexistence?

Standing 131m tall, the Kyoto Tower is a rare modern landmark, which offers a view as far as Osaka. As the second largest metropolitan area in Japan, it is the economic powerhouse of Kansai. The classic Shunkinshō showed its rapid industrialization in the Meiji Restoration.

Osaka owns the third zoo of Japan. Tennoji Zoo has over 1000 animals. How it recreates nature is impressive, namely the African Savanna Zone. For animal lovers, feeding the crackers in Nara Park must be included. Don’t mix up the deer poop with the delicious one.

In addition to Shinsaibashi, shopping in Hep Five may draw your further attention. The mall has been filled with over 170 fashion stores. Addicted to the game machines. Take the wild river ride. Enjoy the Ferris wheel that brings you 106m above the ground. What time is it?

Every thrill seeker put Universal Studios Japan in the bucket list. Opened in 2001, the park has copied some classic one, including Water World and Jurassic Park. Who is excited to see the local element, such as the Super Nintendo World and Hello Kitty's Fashion Avenue.

Remember Nobita used to practice baseball with Doraemon? This national sports baseball was introduced during the Meiji Period. What is it but a perfect ending to watch a match in the Koshien Stadium near Kobe. Releasing the jet balloons in the Lucky Seven was impressive.

What does the transition between tradition and modernity feel like? Just like taking the Golden Wasen and cruising around the Osaka Castle in an acceptable and gradual manner.