I have been to Japan many times.  In fact, this trip to Japan was my seventh since 2004.  Prior to this trip, the last time I was in Tokyo was 2007.  What can I say?  I just love Tokyo.  It is an exciting and beautiful city.  It is a city full of energy.  What's more, traveling to Japan is cheaper for me than going to New York or Europe.

One of the major reasons why I go to Tokyo is the shopping.  I find it much easier to shop for myself anywhere in Japan.  The clothes fit and they are very fashionable.  In fact, I can buy anything, including suits off the rack without many alterations.   People say that Japan is expensive.  Truth be told, it can be inexpensive too if only you know where to eat and stay.   Trust me.

For years as a young man, I only thought of the USA and Europe as the best places to vacation in.  Little did I know, Asia, is an equally beautiful place to visit as well.  In fact, of all the continents I have visited, Asia is by far my favorite.  Since 2001, I have been exploring this beautiful continent region by region, country by country.

Here are some pictures we took of our latest trip to Japan last December 2010 to January 2011.

The Higashi Honganji, also known as the Shinshu Honbyo, is the mother temple of the Shinshu Otani-ha branch of Jodo Shinshu, whose founder is Shinran (1173-1262).  It is one of the largest Buddhist denominations in Japan.

Marc at the Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple located a few blocks away from the impressive Kyoto Train Station.