Article about Lovely Places

Rediscovering Japan's Cultural Heritage: The Allure of Ashiya Gama-no-Sato in Kitakyushu
Misako Matsukura Misako Matsukura

Rediscovering Japan's Cultural Heritage: The Allure of Ashiya Gama-no-Sato in Kitakyushu

ocated in Ashiya Town near Kitakyushu City, Ashiya Gama-no-Sato is a unique cultural facility where you can explore the history and beauty of the renowned "Ashiya Gama" tea kettles. These iron kettles, crafted during the Muromachi period, played an essential role in the development of Japanese tea culture. Renowned for their intricate designs and exceptional functionality, Ashiya Gama were so highly prized that they were referred to as "the finest tea kettles under heaven." However, over time, production ceased, and they became known as the "phantom tea kettles."

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Koso Hachiman Shrine : Exploring the Timeless Beauty and Cultural Heritage of Kitakyushu
Misako Matsukura Misako Matsukura

Koso Hachiman Shrine : Exploring the Timeless Beauty and Cultural Heritage of Kitakyushu

Nestled in the Moji Ward of Kitakyushu, Koso Hachiman Shrine is a tranquil and mystical sanctuary where history and nature come together in perfect harmony. Believed to have been established during the Kamakura period over 800 years ago, this sacred site has long served as a place of worship and solace for the local community. Revered as a “samurai shrine,” it is dedicated to Hachiman, the guardian deity of warriors, and has a rich history as a site where prayers for victory and protection were offered.

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Soaring Art of Kitakyushu: The Legacy and Allure of Magoji Kites
Misako Matsukura Misako Matsukura

Soaring Art of Kitakyushu: The Legacy and Allure of Magoji Kites

When visiting Kitakyushu, a city rich in culture and history, one must discover the charm of its traditional craft, the Magoji Kite. Originating in the late Edo period, this craft has been cherished for centuries as both a cultural symbol and a work of art, representing the identity of Kitakyushu.

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