Asia

The Ultimate Guide to Mount Koya

Mount Koya is an isolated town in the Koyassan Mountains that serves as the home for Shingon Buddhism in Japan. The area has extremely important religious significance and houses many Buddhist temples. The town itself is small, only 6km x 3km, but the small region is home to some of the most important Buddhist teachings in the country.

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Sunset by the itsukushima floating torii gate at Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island: Japan’s Hidden Gem

Mountains, beaches, sunsets, and lots of deer, Miyajima is not your typical destination spot in Japan. However, if you love gorgeous scenery, and the outdoors find some space in your itinerary to make it over here. This small island of Hiroshima is the perfect place to enjoy picturesque views while taking a break from the busy and hectic life of a tourist.

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Tea Master holds up a poster with the Japanese characters for Ichi Go Ichi e

Ichigo Ichie: The Meaning Behind the Powerful Japanese Phrase

Ichi-go Ichi-e, 11 letters that I resonated with in Japan. The phrase, in rough translation, means to treasure the moment, it may never come again. It is the perfect way to describe the way I’ve tried to live my life and the way I believe many people should. When I heard this phrase used by a tea master in Japan, I instantly formed a deeper connection with the country. It wasn’t just a nice sounding phrase, but one that actually seemed to represent the Japanese culture.

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Posing for a Go-Pro picture as the Microlight flight hovers in front of the Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Microlight Flight: A Surreal Experience

I could see a large white smoke cloud in the air and didn’t need an explanation from the pilot to know where it was we were headed. You are unable to see the falls as you approach it but you sure as hell can sense it’s presence. It was almost as if it was daring you to come feel its wrath. Challenge accepted.

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