
Spiritual & Wellness Travel Destinations in Nishinomiya-hama, Hyōgo, Japan
1. Kennin-ji Temple
59th temple on the famous pilgrimage route, offering Zen meditation and peaceful surroundings.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest temples in Japan, dating back to the Kamakura period.
- Zen Meditation Opportunities: Daily Zen meditation sessions available for visitors.
- Garden of Stones: Unique dry garden filled with carefully placed stones and moss.
2. Engyo-ji Temple
Temple located in a tranquil forest, offering Zen meditation and vegetarian meals.
- Forest Surroundings: Surrounded by over 200-year-old trees, providing a serene atmosphere.
- Vegetarian Meals: Offers traditional shojin ryori (Zen Buddhist cuisine) meals for visitors.
- Silent Retreats: Silent retreats available, encouraging self-reflection and peace.
3. Nishinomiya Shrine
Shinto shrine with a beautiful garden, dedicated to the deity Hachiman.
- Rich History: Originally built in the 6th century, it is one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
- Beautiful Garden: A large, well-maintained garden with ponds, bridges, and numerous cherry trees.
- Shinto Rituals: Witness traditional Shinto rituals such as the Harvest Festival (Tanabata) in July.
4. Nanshaku-ji Temple
Temple with a beautiful waterfall and hiking trails.
- Waterfall and Hiking Trails: Features a picturesque waterfall and multiple hiking trails for exploring the area.
- Zen Meditation Retreats: Offers Zen meditation retreats and accommodation for visitors.
- Nature Immersion: Ideal for those seeking a spiritual connection with nature.
5. Myoren-ji Temple
Temple known for its traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful garden.
- Traditional Architecture: Features a main hall that dates back to the Edo period.
- Beautiful Garden: Boasts a serene, traditional Japanese garden with numerous cherry trees.
- Zen Meditation Opportunities: Daily Zen meditation sessions available for visitors.
6. Kasuga-dera Temple
Temple with a long history and numerous stone lanterns.
- Long History: Originally built in the 8th century, it is one of Japan's oldest temples.
- Stone Lanterns: Over 1,000 stone lanterns light up the temple grounds during the Lantern Festival in May.
- Zen Meditation Opportunities: Daily Zen meditation sessions available for visitors.
7. Kannon-ji Temple
Temple known for its massive statue of Kannon and peaceful surroundings.
- Massive Kannon Statue: Houses one of the largest wooden statues of Kannon in Japan.
- Peaceful Surroundings: Surrounded by a beautiful garden and tranquil pond.
- Zen Meditation Opportunities: Daily Zen meditation sessions available for visitors.
8. Hoji-ji Temple
Temple known for its beautiful garden and ancient trees.
- Beautiful Garden: Features a stunning, well-maintained traditional Japanese garden.
- Ancient Trees: Over 400-year-old trees in the temple grounds provide shade and serenity.
- Zen Meditation Opportunities: Daily Zen meditation sessions available for visitors.
9. Katsurahama Shrine
Shinto shrine located by the sea with a beautiful view.
- Seaside Location: Located on a cliff overlooking the ocean, offering breathtaking views.
- Rich History: Dedicated to the god of wind and sea, it has been an important religious site since ancient times.
- Shinto Rituals: Witness traditional Shinto rituals such as the Harvest Festival (Tanabata) in July.
10. Sannomaru-kouken no Mori
Beautiful park with a spiritual atmosphere and numerous cherry trees.
- Cherry Blossoms: Over 1,000 cherry trees bloom in the spring, creating a stunning display.
- Spiritual Atmosphere: Surrounded by numerous temples and shrines, fostering a peaceful, spiritual environment.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails allow visitors to explore the area while enjoying the scenery.
11. Katsuragi-machi Onsen
Hot spring town with several traditional Japanese inns and bathhouses.
- Traditional Japanese Inns: Stay at a traditional ryokan for an authentic Japanese experience.
- Hot Spring Baths: Enjoy the healing properties of natural hot spring water in various bathhouses.
- Relaxation and Healing: The onsen is believed to have restorative powers, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation.
12. Nishinomiya-hama Oceanside Meditation Deck
Meditation deck located on the coast with a breathtaking view.
- Coastal View: Enjoy the calming sound of the ocean while meditating or reflecting.
- Peaceful Environment: Surrounded by nature, providing a serene atmosphere for meditation and relaxation.
- Sunrise and Sunset Viewing: Ideal for witnessing stunning sunrises and sunsets over the ocean.
13. Katsurahama Beach
Beach with a spiritual atmosphere and sacred rocks.
- Sacred Rocks: The three sacred rocks are believed to have protective powers and are popular for meditation.
- Spiritual Atmosphere: Surrounded by ancient temples and shrines, fostering a peaceful, spiritual environment.
- Beach Activities: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking on the beautiful beach.
14. Nishinomiya-hama Nature Therapy Center
Center offering nature therapy sessions and workshops.
- Nature Therapy Sessions: Participate in guided forest bathing, yoga, or meditation sessions.
- Workshops and Courses: Learn about the healing properties of herbs, traditional Japanese gardening, or tea ceremony.
- Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Immerse yourself in nature to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and stress reduction.
15. Katsurahama Shoreline Walk
Walking path along the coast with stunning views and spiritual significance.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and the sacred rocks.
- Spiritual Significance: The path is considered a spiritual journey, connecting visitors with the power of the sea.
- Exercise and Meditation: Ideal for walking, jogging, or meditating while enjoying the beautiful scenery.