JAPAN PHOTOS

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in January. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri01

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 85 linked files, 86 files total
Album viewed 1293 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in Feb. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri2

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 49 linked files, 50 files total
Album viewed 1160 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in Mar. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri3

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 56 linked files, 57 files total
Album viewed 1224 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in Apr. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri4

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 66 linked files, 67 files total
Album viewed 2083 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in May. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri5

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 119 linked files, 120 files total
Album viewed 1018 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in June. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri6

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 17 linked files, 18 files total
Album viewed 1001 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in July. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri7

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 48 linked files, 49 files total
Album viewed 1322 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in Aug. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri8

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 77 linked files, 78 files total
Album viewed 1331 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in Sept. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri9

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 37 linked files, 38 files total
Album viewed 1055 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in Oct. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri10

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 40 linked files, 41 files total
Album viewed 991 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in Nov. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri11

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 33 linked files, 34 files total
Album viewed 1079 times

Pictures of Japanese festivals held in Dec. The images are taken from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP and are in random order.
matsuri12

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 23 linked files, 24 files total
Album viewed 1107 times

Pictures of women in kimono taken from various albums.
kimonobijin

5 files, last one added on Nov 24, 2006, 103 linked files, 108 files total
Album viewed 3171 times

Pictures of geisha, geiko, maiko, and hangyoku from various albums. Random order.
japangeisha

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 73 linked files, 74 files total
Album viewed 4044 times

Women at various festivals. In random order.
matsuribijin

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 104 linked files, 105 files total
Album viewed 1066 times

Pictures of samurai, people dressed as samurai, and other related images from various albums. In random order.
japansamurai

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 70 linked files, 71 files total
Album viewed 1124 times

Fashion models, trade show attendants, etc.
japanfashion

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 53 linked files, 54 files total
Album viewed 970 times

Costume players dressed as manga, anime, or video game characters.
japancosplayer

24 files, last one added on Jul 15, 2009, 41 linked files, 65 files total
Album viewed 2024 times

Pictures of junior high and high school students taken from various albums. In random order.
japanteen

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 24 linked files, 25 files total
Album viewed 1132 times

Cute children and children in kimono from various albums. In random order.
japanchild

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 126 linked files, 127 files total
Album viewed 835 times

Pictures of famous people in Japan from various albums. In random order.
japanceleb

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 59 linked files, 60 files total
Album viewed 1206 times

Sports athletes including martial artists (except sumo).
japansports

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 46 linked files, 47 files total
Album viewed 553 times

Pictures of shrine and temple priests from various albums.
japanpriest

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 41 linked files, 42 files total
Album viewed 570 times

Pictures of Japanese castles from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP. Click on a thumbnail to see more photos of that castle.
japancastle

1 files, last one added on Mar 16, 2006, 150 linked files, 151 files total
Album viewed 2529 times

Random pictures of Shinto shrines and torii from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP.
japanshrine

0 files, 172 linked files, 172 files total
Album viewed 813 times

Random pictures of Buddhist temples from various albums at PHOTOGUIDE.JP.
japantemple

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 177 linked files, 178 files total
Album viewed 968 times

Pictures of homes, palaces, villas, and inns from various albums.
japanhouse

0 files, 124 linked files, 124 files total
Album viewed 1062 times

Interesting train station buildings in Japan. japaneki

0 files, 55 linked files, 55 files total
Album viewed 201 times

Pictures of other buildings in Japan.
japanbuilding

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 106 linked files, 107 files total
Album viewed 728 times

Photos of mountains in Japan taken from various albums. In random order.
japanmt

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 54 linked files, 55 files total
Album viewed 668 times

Photos of lakes and ponds in Japan taken from various albums. In random order.
japanlake

0 files, 32 linked files, 32 files total
Album viewed 942 times

Photos of the ocean, coasts, and beaches in Japan taken from various albums. In random order.
japanocean

0 files, 31 linked files, 31 files total
Album viewed 493 times

Photos of rivers and waterfalls in Japan. In random order taken from various albums.
japanriver

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 27 linked files, 28 files total
Album viewed 466 times

Photos of gardens and trees in Japan taken from various albums. In random order.
japangarden

0 files, 68 linked files, 68 files total
Album viewed 602 times

Photos of flowers in Japan taken from various albums. In random order.
japanflower

13 files, last one added on Jan 02, 2007, 175 linked files, 188 files total
Album viewed 2329 times

Photos of Japan's National Parks taken from various albums. In random order.
japannationalpark

0 files, 47 linked files, 47 files total
Album viewed 495 times

Photos of wildlife in Japan taken from various albums. In random order.
japanwildlife

0 files, 63 linked files, 63 files total
Album viewed 1125 times

Photos of spring in Japan. From various albums.
japanharu

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 56 linked files, 57 files total
Album viewed 576 times

Photos of summer in Japan. From various albums.
japannatsu

0 files, 11 linked files, 11 files total
Album viewed 896 times

Photos of autumn in Japan. From various albums.
japanaki

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 59 linked files, 60 files total
Album viewed 704 times

Photos of winter in Japan. From various albums.
japanfuyu

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 22 linked files, 23 files total
Album viewed 736 times

Photos of sculpture from various albums. In random order.
japansculpture

2 files, last one added on Sep 11, 2009, 236 linked files, 238 files total
Album viewed 1310 times

Photos of paintings from various albums. In random order.
japanpaint

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 48 linked files, 49 files total
Album viewed 1199 times

Beautiful and artistic work in Japanese products. Automobiles, trains, etc. japandesign

0 files, 107 linked files, 107 files total
Album viewed 133 times

Japan has about 15 million manholes, mainly for sewage. Every city and town in Japan have their own uniquely-designed manholes. Some are colorfully painted. Three million manholes are worn out and need to be replaced. Those can be quite slippery so be careful.

0 files, 114 linked files, 114 files total
Album viewed 520 times

The 2nd World Baseball Classic's Asia Round was held in March 2009. This game was between Korea and China on March 8, 2009 at Tokyo Dome.

34 files, last one added on Mar 22, 2009
Album viewed 220 times

The first WBC game in the Asia Round kicked off on March 3, 2006 at Tokyo Dome. In the second game that day, Japan played and defeated its first opponent, China. The main attraction was Ichiro.

21 files, last one added on Mar 10, 2006
Album viewed 614 times

Pictures of fans attending the 2002 World Cup soccer games in Osaka, Kobe, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa (Brazil vs. England on on June 21, 2002), and the final match at International Stadium in Yokohama on June 30, 2002 (Brazil vs. Germany). Photos taken by Kjeld Duits, Mariko Hinaga, and Philbert Ono.

47 files, last one added on Sep 16, 2008
Album viewed 1522 times

Photos of competitive college rowers at major rowing races, especially at Lake Biwa.

1 files, last one added on Feb 04, 2008, 49 linked files, 50 files total
Album viewed 524 times

Built in 1985, the Ryogoku Kokugikan is a modern, spacious, and well-designed sumo arena where three of the six Grand Sumo tournaments are held. In January, May, and September, Tokyoites can see sumo live and enjoy numerous things inside the facility.

89 files, last one added on Jan 29, 2013
Album viewed 578 times

Photos of a Grand Sumo Tournament. These pictures aim to give you an idea of what you see at a real sumo tournament at the Kokugikan sumo arena in Tokyo. The colorful ring-entering ceremony by the top two divisions (Makunouchi and Juryo) as well as by the yokozuna. See a few sumo matches fought by foreign wrestlers as well.

193 files, last one added on Jan 29, 2013
Album viewed 1361 times

On Oct. 17, 2008, the Ozumo Maibara Basho exhibition sumo tournament was held at Green Park Santo in Maibara, Shiga Prefecture. Most of the famous sumo stars came and showed their stuff including Yokozuna Hakuho; Ozeki Chiyotaikai, Kotomitsuki, Kotooshu, and Kaio; Takamisakari, Baruto, Kisenosato, and Homasho. It has been nine years since they came to Shiga for an exhibition tournament.

134 files, last one added on Nov 08, 2008
Album viewed 641 times

Yokozuna Musashimaru, the last of the Hawaiian sumo greats, held his retirement ceremony on Oct. 2, 2004 at the Ryogoku Kokugikan sumo arena in Tokyo. His departure marks the end of the Hawaii's Golden Age of Sumo. For the first time since 1968, sumo in Japan is without a wrestler from Hawaii. Also see the video at YouTube.

97 files, last one added on Apr 08, 2006
Album viewed 2345 times

Sumo practice at the Kokugikan sumo arena in Ryogoku, Tokyo. The practice, held before the Yokozuna Deliberation Council, was open to the public on April 29, 2005. Surprisingly, about 8,000 people attended, taking advantage of free admission. Also see the video at YouTube.

33 files, last one added on May 03, 2005
Album viewed 529 times

Top sumo wrestlers from various albums. In random order.
japansumo

1 files, last one added on Sep 21, 2006, 87 linked files, 88 files total
Album viewed 911 times

Pictures of Japanese food.
japanfood

55 files, last one added on Sep 27, 2016, 59 linked files, 114 files total
Album viewed 893 times

Japanese sweets, desserts, and confections.
japansweets

7 files, last one added on Feb 11, 2014, 9 linked files, 16 files total
Album viewed 690 times

One of the enduring symbols of Japan, the geisha and maiko were very popular subjects for tourist postcards at the turn of the 20th century. Here are some postcards showing geisha (called geiko in Kyoto) and maiko (apprentice geisha). Includes postcards of my favorite girl, the Laughing Geisha.

72 files, last one added on Sep 19, 2008
Album viewed 10438 times

You've heard it before: "The most important bilateral relationship in the world." (According to the late US Ambassador to Japan, Mike Mansfield.) Well, for me it's very important because of my dual Japanese and American heritage. With these postcards, I've traced some of the history of Japan-U.S. relations starting with Commodore Mathew Perry's landing in 1853.

22 files, last one added on Sep 19, 2008
Album viewed 3036 times

Other vintage postcards in my collection include Japanese children and scenic views. Children were another facet of Japan that fascinated early foreign tourists in Japan. Children dressed in kimono and those babysitting their younger siblings were the most popular. Most of the scenic cards are oil-painted. (If I could paint, I would rather be a painter than a photographer.)

22 files, last one added on Sep 19, 2008
Album viewed 1150 times

A quick, illustrated introduction to Japanese postcards. It centers on how to date vintage postcards by checking postmarks and other characteristics.

12 files, last one added on Sep 19, 2008
Album viewed 2271 times

Gamagori's main attraction is this small island accessible by bridge.

5 files, last one added on Jan 24, 2006
Album viewed 399 times

The Handa Dashi Matsuri is a huge festival of 31 ornate wooden floats held only once every five years (in years ending in "2" and "7") on the first weekend in Oct. It is a non-religious festival that started in 1979. It has been held only eight times since 1979. The floats are first parked and paraded on the streets near JR Handa Station before they all proceed and gather at a large parking lot. Handa is not far from Nagoya and Toyota. The headquarters of Mizkan vinegar is in Handa. These photos were taken on Oct. 7, 2017. Official website: http://handa-dashimatsuri.jp/

252 files, last one added on Oct 07, 2018
Album viewed 96 times

Hazu-cho is a coastal town next to Gamagori. There are two small islands which used to be accessible by boat. One was nicknamed Rabbit (Usagi) island and the other was Monkey (Saru) island.

11 files, last one added on Jan 24, 2006
Album viewed 331 times

The city of Ichinomiya takes its name after Masumida Shrine which I visited on Jan. 1, 2011. A short walk from Ichinomiya Station. Also see my YouTube video here.

56 files, last one added on Jan 08, 2011
Album viewed 1063 times

Konomiya Shrine holds the Hadaka (Naked or Nude) Festival in early March, or Jan. 13 of the lunar calendar. Men in loincloths parade around the streets until they reach the shrine. A Sacred Man (Shin-otoko) also appears in the shrine and the men try to touch him before he slips into the shrine's window. The festival's real name is Naoi-shinji 儺追神事 which is a rite to dispel bad luck.

68 files, last one added on Mar 09, 2007
Album viewed 1010 times

Perched on a mountain on the bank of Kiso River, Inuyama Castle is one of four castles in Japan designated as a National Treasure. First built in 1537, it is Japan's oldest surviving castle. It is also the only privately owned castle in Japan.

47 files, last one added on Jan 23, 2006
Album viewed 482 times

Shrine famous for worshipping a rock shaped like the female sexual organ. It also holds the Honen Matsuri for a good harvest and fertility on the Sunday before March 15. It is the female counterpart to Tagata Shrine which worships the phallus in neighboring Komaki. The shrine is also noted for weeping plum blossoms.

60 files, last one added on Mar 14, 2007
Album viewed 712 times

Other sights in Inuyama, Aichi Prefecture.

21 files, last one added on Jun 28, 2011
Album viewed 371 times

Between Nagoya and Gifu, this castle reconstructed in 1989 can be seen from the train on the Tokaido Line. It was one of Oda Nobunaga's strategic castles to unify Japan.

74 files, last one added on Feb 15, 2009
Album viewed 388 times

The Honen-sai or Honen (Hounen) Matsuri is held by Tagata Jinja on March 15 to pray for an abundant harvest. "Honen" literally means "Year of abudant harvest." Since a giant penis is used as an offering, it is popularly called the "penis festival." Also see the video at YouTube.

120 files, last one added on Mar 17, 2007
Album viewed 2094 times

Shrine famous for numerous phallic objects used as offerings to the gods. The 1500-year-old shrine worships a deity called Tamahime-no-Mikoto who was a daughter of a powerful local lord from the 5th century. The shrine is near Tagata Jinja-mae Station on the Meitetsu Railways' Komaki Line. From Shin-Nagoya Station or Shin-Gifu Station, go to Inuyama Station and transfer to the Komaki Line.

36 files, last one added on Mar 20, 2007
Album viewed 756 times

Sponsored by the Toyota Automobile Museum, the Classic Car Festival is held every spring in Nagakute. About 150 classic cars of various makes paraded through the city and were displayed at the Aichi Expo 2005 Park. Toyota Automobile Museum also has a world-class collection of classic cars, not just Toyota. From JR Nagoya Station, it takes about 45 min. to the museum by subway and train. First take the Higashiyama subway line to Fujigaoka. Then transfer to the Linomo Line. Get off at Geidai-dori Station. Museum is a short walk away.

123 files, last one added on Jun 09, 2017
Album viewed 185 times

The Aichi Expo 2005 was held from March 25 to September 25, 2005 at three locations in Aichi Prefecture. The main site was at Nagakute where these photos were taken. The theme of the Expo was "Nature's Wisdom," with Japanese and international pavilions showing nature, ecology, and Earth-related exhibits. Over 22 million people visited the expo which was quite crowded at times.

101 files, last one added on Feb 16, 2009
Album viewed 537 times

Nagoya Castle is Nagoya's most visible attraction and symbol of the city. It is most closely associated with the Tokugawa after Ieyasu decided to rebuild it in the early 1600s. It was the base of the Tokugawa's Owari branch. The main castle tower was paired with a smaller tower and the Hommaru Palace and Ninomaru Palace were built nearby. Sadly, the original buildings were destroyed by World War II firebombings by the US. The main castle tower was reconstructed with ferro-concrete in 1959. From 2009 to 2018, they reconstructed the magnificent Hommaru Palace using traditional materials and methods of construction.

244 files, last one added on Sep 20, 2016
Album viewed 498 times

Atsuta Jingu is one of Japan's most important shrines dedicated to Atsuta-no-Ookami or Amaterasu-Oomikami, represented by the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-tsurugi which is one of the three sacred treasures of the Imperial family. It ranks second behind Grand Shrines of Ise in Mie Prefecture. On Jan. 1, 2008, I visited this shrine along with huge crowds.

61 files, last one added on Feb 18, 2009
Album viewed 382 times

If you like the Tokaido shinkansen old and new or the Maglev trains, visiting this railway museum on the outskirts of Nagoya is a must. See 39 full-size railway cars, train simulators, and a railway model diorama. Operated by JR Central in Nagoya, the museum opened in March 2011. Near Kinjo-futo Station on the Aonami Line that starts from Nagoya Station.

167 files, last one added on Jun 17, 2017
Album viewed 172 times

Osu is a famous area in Nagoya, centering on Osu Kannon Temple amid numerous shopping arcades.

27 files, last one added on Feb 16, 2009
Album viewed 316 times

Originally built in 1455, Okazaki Castle was dismantled during the Meiji Period and the area was made into a castle park. The castle tower was later rebuilt in 1959.

7 files, last one added on Apr 24, 2011
Album viewed 375 times

Originally built by lord Ujichika Imagawa in 1505 as Imahashi Castle, it was renamed Yoshida Castle. It is now within Toyohashi Park. Only a turret was rebuilt in 1954.

1 files, last one added on Jan 24, 2006
Album viewed 255 times

One of the Big Three Festivals in Tohoku, this matsuri has men in happi coats balancing tall paper lantern-bedecked bamboo poles, called kanto, on their foreheads, shoulders, hand palms, or hips.

16 files, last one added on Jul 16, 2006
Album viewed 494 times

Kubota Castle was what started Akita city. It is right near Akita Station.

2 files, last one added on Jan 24, 2006
Album viewed 353 times

Other sights in Akita city.

2 files, last one added on Jul 17, 2006
Album viewed 393 times

Held during Aug. 2-7, this matsuri features Nebuta floats which are giant, wire-frame, paper lanterns shaped in various legendary and macho characters such as samurai warriors, demons, and gods. They are dramatically illuminated from the inside and paraded on the streets at night.

18 files, last one added on Jul 16, 2006
Album viewed 567 times

Held during Aug. 1-7, the Hirosaki Neputa Matsuri is without the rowdiness of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri. Instead of the haneto, there are many children pulling the floats with ropes.

20 files, last one added on Jul 16, 2006
Album viewed 457 times

Originally built in 1611 by Lord Tsugaru Nobuhira, Hirosaki Castle's current donjon was rebuilt in 1810. Although the structure is small, it is a well-known architectural work. In 1895, the castle was made public and the castle park has become one of Japan's famous sites for cherry blossoms.

4 files, last one added on Jan 24, 2006
Album viewed 317 times

Chiba Castle is within Inohana Park 亥鼻公園 which is noted for cherry blossoms in spring. The reconstructed castle tower is a Folk Museum tracing the history of the Chiba clan who ruled Chiba during the 15th and 16th centuries.

44 files, last one added on Apr 14, 2006
Album viewed 491 times

Great place to see a lot of weeping cherry blossoms showering the small pond. Over 600 cherry trees. About a 10-min. walk from Chba Station or one stop via monorail to Chiba Koen Station.

55 files, last one added on Apr 14, 2006
Album viewed 671 times

Chiba Marine Stadium (QVC Marine Field) is the home field for the Chiba Lotte Marines pro baseball team. Saw a game between the Marines and Nippon Ham Fighters on Oct. 5, 2015. Near JR Kaihin-Makuhari Station on the Keiyo Line, about 40 min. from Tokyo Station.

39 files, last one added on Sep 27, 2016
Album viewed 172 times

Other sights include Chiba Station, the monorail, and prefectural capital.

19 files, last one added on Apr 15, 2006
Album viewed 356 times

Nakayama Hokekyoji Temple was established by Nichiren, therefore it belongs to the Nichiren Buddhist sect. From mid Feb. to March 3, it holds the Hina Matsuri Girl's Day festival with displays of ornate dolls. Short walk from JR Shimousa-Nakayama Station on JR Sobu Line or from Keisei-Nakayama Station on Keisei Main Line. Address: 千葉県市川市中山2-10-1

148 files, last one added on Jan 04, 2017
Album viewed 184 times

Also called the Hadaka (Nude) Matsuri, this annual festival is held by Tamasaki Shrine near Kazusa-Ichinomiya Station (JR Sotobo Line). On Sept. 13, 2009 (Sun.), the main festival day, portable shrines from twelve shrines (junisha) in the same area are paraded and rushed to the beach with hundreds of people surrounding each one. They run with the portable shrine. At the beach in ankle-deep water, they jostle and toss the mikoshi in the air. In the evening, they return to town near the train station and parade the shrines again. Also see my video at YouTube.

127 files, last one added on Jun 06, 2010
Album viewed 905 times

This annual festival is held in Ohara on Sept. 23-24, climaxing with many people carrying portable shrines into the ocean. Portable shrines from 18 shrines in the area join in the festival. "Hadaka" means nude, but no one is nude. They go into the ocean only on the 23rd. These photos were taken on Sept. 23, 2004. Also see the video at YouTube.

38 files, last one added on Sep 08, 2006
Album viewed 485 times

Sawara is a designated traditional townscape (group of traditional buildings) along the Ono River near JR Sawara Station. Many traditional Japanese merchant buildings dating from the Edo Period.

82 files, last one added on Sep 07, 2016
Album viewed 201 times

Festival of ornate floats paraded around Sawara in Oct. Floats (called dashi) are about 7 meters high and weigh 3 to 4 tons. They have intricate wood carvings and a large doll depicting a historical or legendary Japanese figure. Each float is from a neighborhood in Sawara. Most of the floats and dolls were made in the late 19th century or early 20th century.

Dating back 300 years, the festival is held for three days in July (10 floats) and Oct. (14 floats). The float pullers also dance and the main highlight is when they turn the float a few times. The festival is a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. In fall 2016, it will be one of the 33 Yama, Hoko, and Yatai float festivals in Japan to be inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Held near JR Sawara Station (JR Narita Line) and along Ono River's traditional townscape.

101 files, last one added on Sep 07, 2016
Album viewed 230 times

The small coastal town of Katsuura holds one of Japan's most impressive hina matsuri doll festival during late Feb. to early March. A whopping 25,000 hina ningyo dolls are displayed all over town.

110 files, last one added on Mar 04, 2010
Album viewed 704 times

A scenic coastal park with dramatic views of the ocean, rocky shore, torii island, and Katsuura lighthouse.

36 files, last one added on Mar 04, 2010
Album viewed 323 times

Umihotaru is an artificial island serving as a highway rest area and tourist attraction in the middle of Tokyo Bay. It's part of the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line highway traversing Tokyo Bay above and below the ocean to connect Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture and Kisarazu, Chiba Prefecture. Umihotaru is built atop the entrance/exit of the undersea tunnel going to Kawasaki.

55 files, last one added on Jan 04, 2017
Album viewed 179 times

After her first Space Shuttle flight in April 2010, astronaut Naoko Yamazaki returned to Japan briefly and included a visit to her hometown of Matsudo, Chiba where she had a homecoming parade on May 22, 2010. NASA photos of her training and STS-131 shuttle mission are also included. Also see my video at YouTube.

146 files, last one added on Jun 05, 2010
Album viewed 2796 times

Built in 1884, Tojotei was the residence of Tokugawa Akitake (1853-1910), brother of the last Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu. Akitake was supposed to be the next shogun after Yoshinobu, but the Tokugawa reign and Edo Period ended before his time. Akitake only became the last daimyo of the Mito Clan in Ibaraki. He retired at age 30 and lived the rest of his life at Tojotei, a spacious, Japanese-style residence on a hilltop. Tojotei is within the garden-like Tojogaoka History Park that was part of Akitake's estate. It now has the Tojo History Museum displaying Akitake artifacts, plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, lots of azalea, and fall foliage. Short walk from Matsudo Station. Park hours are 9 am to 5 pm, closed Mon. (open if a national holiday) Free admission. Small admission charged by Tojotei and the museum.

49 files, last one added on Mar 26, 2016
Album viewed 189 times

Photos of Ozeki Kotoshogiku's victory parade in Feb. 2016, Matsudo Shrine, Kawazu-zakura cherry blossoms, Matsudo-juku, and JR Matsudo Station.

62 files, last one added on Mar 26, 2016
Album viewed 266 times

Shinshoji temple (Narita-san), Japan's most famous temple for Setsubun Festival was jam-packed on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013. Most people came to see the celebrities throwing the beans for mamemaki. They included sumo wrestlers Yokozuna Hakuho, Ozeki Kisenosato, Baruto, and Okinoumi. Also Haruka Ayase, Ayame Goriki, Kotaro Koizumi and other stars of the current NHK Taiga Drama, "Yae no Sakura." Also see my video at YouTube.
The first time I saw this was on Feb. 3, 2001. Celebrities then included Yokozuna Musashimaru and actresses Riho Makise.

114 files, last one added on Feb 06, 2013
Album viewed 566 times

Narita-san Shinshoji Temple is Chiba Prefecture's most famous temple. Belonging to the Shingon Buddhist Sect, it holds many of Narita's major festivals such as Setsubun. Four buildings are also Important Cultural Properties. It also has a large Japanese garden, including cherry blossoms. A short walk from JR and Keisei Narita Stations.

63 files, last one added on Apr 18, 2014
Album viewed 400 times

The biggest taiko drum festival in the Kanto region is held annually in April. Various taiko drum troupes perform for two full days on various outdoor stages in Narita, including the main stage in front of the Narita-san temple. Most of these pictures were taken on April 9, 2005.

44 files, last one added on May 02, 2005
Album viewed 268 times

Held in July, this is a festival of ornate floats pulled on the streets of Narita and to Narita-san temple. These pictures were taken in 2002.

31 files, last one added on May 02, 2005
Album viewed 300 times

Other pictures of Narita city including the Museum of Aeronautical Sciences near Narita International Airport.

12 files, last one added on May 02, 2005
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Onjuku is a well-known beach town famous for its beach and ama women divers (no longer topless).

39 files, last one added on Feb 21, 2009
Album viewed 758 times

Opened in 1983, the National Museum of Japanese History is a large museum in a large park in the city of Sakura which is on the way to Narita Airport. It traces the entire history, archaeology, and folklore of Japan from the Stone Age. Near Keisei Sakura Station on the way to Narita Airport.

14 files, last one added on Jul 02, 2011
Album viewed 315 times

Tokyo German Village is a large agricultural park with attractions in each season. In winter from Nov. 1 to March 31, it has a grand display of Christmas lights. The lights turn on right after sunset which is 5 pm or later. It's not very "German." The park is geared for people who can drive there. Very few buses run from JR Sodegaura Station.

52 files, last one added on Jan 04, 2017
Album viewed 193 times

This hadaka (nude) festival held on Feb. 25 has a unique is being a mud festival. Men wearing loincloths wrestle in the mud in a rice paddy. They also make it fashionable to have mud on your face.

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Originally built in 1604 by Lord Takatora Todo, Imabari Castle today is still a very good castle complex with great views of the city and Inland Sea. The castle tower was reconstructed in 1980. Unfortunately, my camera lens had a fogging problem.

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Other sights in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture.

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Proudly overlooking the city, Matsuyama Castle took 26 years to complete in 1602. It gives great views of the Inland Sea.

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This is a small, but very scenic island 400 meters off the coast of Matsuyama.

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Originally completed in 1601 by master castle builder Lord Todo Takatora. The castle tower is small, but designated as an Important Cultural Asset. It gives great views of the city and bay. Unfortunately, my camera lens had a fogging problem.

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Other sights in Uwajima, Ehime Prefecture. Uwajima was the home of the Ehime Maru boat which was sunk by the USS Greeneville submarine in Hawaii in Feb. 2001. I visited Uwajima before the accident.

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Fukui Castle has been largely taken over by the prefectural government and police department with huge buildings which totally ruin the castle's historical significance and scenery. What remains, the moat and stone walls and foundations, are impressive.

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Photos of Fukui Station area, Fukui Shrine, etc.

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Japan has a number of places named "Obama," and the city of Obama in Fukui Prefecture has played up its coincidence of its name with new US President Barack Obama. A citizens' group called "Obama wo Katte ni Oen Suru Kai" (Obama Informal Booster Association) has been active in promoting the city on the presidential candidate's and later president-elect's coattails. They even formed the Obama Girls and Obama Boys hula troupe. These pictures were taken on Jan. 20, 2009 when they celebrated the inauguration of Barack Obama. Also see my video at YouTube.

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Obama has some notable sights like Obama Castle ruins, Wakasa Fisherman's Wharf, lookout deck at Obama Park, Saba Kaido, and more.

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Featuring Japan's oldest surviving castle tower although it collapsed during the Fukui Earthquake in 1948. Rebuilt in 1955 with most of the original materials. Originally built in 1576 by Shibata Katsutoyo and also called Kasumiga-jo (Misty Castle).

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Spectacular, natural rock columns and walls on the coast. Hiking trails and boat rides give you a closer look at this rare natural monument. Tojimbo is accessible by bus from JR Awara Onsen Station on the Hokuriku Line.

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Established in 702 and nicknamed "Kei-san," Kehi Jingu is a major shrine in the Hokuriku Region. The main torii gate is one of Japan's three most famous wooden toriis. Kehi Jingu Shrine is a 20-min. walk from JR Tsuruga Station or a short bus ride. I visited on New Year's Day 2016 when it was a warm period with no snow.

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Held during the Bon season in Aug., toro nagashi is candle-lit paper lanterns floated on the ocean as a Buddhist offering to the spirits of the deceased. Tsuruga holds its mass toro nagashi (6,000 lanterns) on its famous Kehi no Matsubara beach at 6:30 pm, and then shoots off a grand fireworks display. Photos taken on Aug. 16, 2006. Also see the video at YouTube.

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Out in the boondocks of Tsuruga is the Tsuruga Nuclear Power Plant. Near the plant is their public relations facility and museum called the Tsuruga Nuclear Power Pavilion or Tsuruga PR Pavilion. A 40-min. bus ride from JR Tsuruga Station.

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Other sights in Tsuruga.

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Although a few turrets and stone walls remain, much of the castle grounds is now occupied by sports facilities and schools.

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Other sights of Fukuoka city such as Hakata dolls, sumo, etc.

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Built in 1602 by Lord Hosokawa Tadaoki. the castle tower was reconstructed in 1959. Near JR Kokura Station.

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Other sights in Kita-Kyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture.

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In Aizu-Wakamatsu, it is called Tsuruga-jo Castle. Outside the city, many call it Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle. The official name is Wakamatsu Castle. Lord Gamo Ujisato (from Shiga Prefecture) in 1593 built most of the castle and renamed it Tsurugajo. The castle tower was reconstructed in 1965 and serves as a castle history museum. In 2001, the Hoshii Yagura turret and the Minami Hashiri Nagaya corridor were also reconstructed.

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In 1868, a unit of teenage warriors called Byakkotai (White Tiger Battalion) fought against the Emperor-backed Imperial forces encroaching their domain of Aizu. The Byakkotai were outnumbered and forced to retreat. Twenty of them escaped to Iimoriyama Hill where they saw what looked liked a burning Tsurugajo Castle which actually had not fallen yet. In despair, the boys decided to kill themselves rather than die in the hands of the enemy. Their tombstones are on this hill near where they killed themselves. Their story has become legend.

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Native of Hino, Shiga Prefecture, Lord Gamo (Gamoh) Ujisato (1556-1595) is best known for building Aizu-Wakamatsu (Tsurugajo) Castle and founding Aizu-Wakamatsu. He suddenly died at age 40. One theory says that he was poisoned by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

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Other sights in Aizu-Wakamatsu.

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Hanamiyama Park is literally a Flower-Viewing Mountain Park famous for spring flowers especially cherry blossoms sprinkled on the mountainsides. A short bus ride from JR Fukushima Station. It started in 1935 when local flower growers began planting flowers all over the place. In April 1959, it became Hanamiyama Park.

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Held on the first Fri. and Sat. of Aug., the Fukushima Waraji Matsuri is mainly an evening parade of dancers. During Aug. 7-8, 2009, the 40th Fukushima Waraji Festival was held. I saw it on the second day. Waraji are straw sandals. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Fukushima Station, Tanabata Matsuri Star Festival along Paseo Road and Bunka-dori in early Aug., and bird's eye views of the city.

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A huge, Hawaiian-themed water park and hot spring facility. Great place for families to play in large and small pools and hot springs. A Polynesian show with the famous hula girls is held twice a day. Restaurants, gift shops, rest areas, and outdoor hot spring baths make this a major attraction in Tohoku. The movie, "Hula Girl" in 2006 made it famous.

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Yumoto Station and Yumoto Onsen Spa.

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A series of small ponds with very deep and rich colors, like emerald green/blue. Pleasant hiking trails lead to a variety of ponds. Part of the Bandai-Asahi National Park.

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The Miharu Takizakura (Waterfall cherry blossoms) cherry tree is one of Japan's most famous and grandest weeping cherry tree. It is over 1,000 years old and the mother of thousands of weeping cherry trees in Japan and even overseas. While in bloom, it is lit up in the evening. Accessible from JR Miharu Station on the Ban'etsu-to Line from Koriyama Station. A National Natural Monument.

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Nihonmatsu Castle, also popularly called Kasumigajo Castle, is in Kasumigajo Park on a low hill amid the flat plains of central Nihonmatsu. It is one of Japan's 100 Famous Castles as well as one of Japan's 100 Famous Cherry Blossom Sites. During the Edo Period, Nihonmatsu Castle was the residence of the Niwa clan who ruled Nihonmatsu. Although it lacks a central tower or donjon, Nihonmatsu Castle features impressive stone walls and gate (reconstructed), not to mention many cherry tees and pine trees.

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Besides Nihonmatsu Castle, Nihonmatsu has other sights like poet Takamura Chieko's birth home, Dairinji temple noted for the graves of the Nihonmatsu Shōnentai (二本松少年隊) or the Nihonmatsu Teenage Corps, Nihonmatsu Shrine, and the Nihonmatsu History Museum.

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From May 11 to Oct. 15, the famous Nagara River Ukai cormorant fishing is performed by fishing masters. In the evenings, you can ride on a boat on Nagaragawa River to watch them fish ayu sweetfish with a bright torch and the birds diving and catching the fish in their throats. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Gifu Castle is a mountaintop castle on Mt. Kinkazan in central Gifu city. It was once the residence of Lord Dosan Saito and later Nobunaga Oda. The present castle was reconstructed as a ferro-concrete building in 1956. The castle commands spectacular views of Gifu. Accessible by ropeway. Also see the video at YouTube.

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Held on the first weekend in Oct., the Gifu Nobunaga Matsuri's highlight is a Sunday afternoon parade (12:30 pm–2:20 pm) of people dressed in historical costumes centering on Oda Nobunaga (usually played by a celebrity), considered to be the father of Gifu city. They parade on the main drag from JR Gifu Station to the foot of Mt. Kinkazan, the location of Gifu Castle.

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Inaba Shrine is near the foot of Mt. Kinkazan (Gifu Castle) and Gifu city's most popular shrine for worship during New Year's. I visited on Jan. 1, 2011.

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That super tall building next to JR Gifu Station is Gifu City Tower 43 that opened in Oct. 2007. Besides a few shops and restaurants, the building has a great lookout deck on the top. And it's free. On a clear day, you can see far and wide, like skyscrapers in Nagoya and Mt. Ibuki.

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Kano-juku was the 53rd station or lodging/post town of the Nakasendo Road. No original buildings remain, except for Tenmangu Shrine and Kano Castle's stone walls. A few markers indicate the location of the Waki Honjin and Honjin. Short walk south of JR Gifu Station.

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Takehana Matsuri is a festival of ornate floats paraded in central Hashima on May 3. Each float features a performance of puppets (karakuri) or kids dancing. The festival is coupled with the Wisteria Festival at Takehana Betsuin temple.

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Hashima has a nice folk history museum and movie museum.

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Ogaki Castle is said to have been built in 1535 by Lord Miyagawa Yasusada. It served as the base for the Ishida Mitsunari's western forces during the Sekigahara War in 1600. The original castle was a National Treasure until it was destroyed during the war in 1945. The castle tower was reconstructed in 1959. Very pretty during cherry blossom season. Near JR Ogaki Station.

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This promenade is a 2.2 km walking path from Ogaki Station to Matsuo Basho's final point in his Oku-no-Hosomichi journey. It follows along the Suimon River and is especially pretty during cherry blossom season when rides on wooden tub boats (tarai-bune) are offered.

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Ogaki's biggest festival held on May 9-10 features eleven ornate floats called "yama." They are paraded along the streets in central Ogaki. Highlights include karakuri mechanical doll performances atop the floats and the floats lit up at night with paper lanterns. Held by Hachiman Jinja Shrine. On Dec. 1, 2016 (JST), Ogaki Matsuri Festival was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of 33 "Yama, Hoko, and Yatai float festivals in Japan." Also see my YouTube video of karakuri puppets here and of children's dances here.

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According to legend, Sunomata Castle was built overnight by Toyotomi Hideyoshi while he was still an lowly samurai. Sunomata Ichiya Castle was reconstructed in April 1991. Now a local history museum. Accessible by Gifu Bus (W65 on Obusa Sunomata Route) from JR Gifu Station and Ogaki Station. Get off at Sunomata bus stop.

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Other sights in Ogaki, Gifu Prefecture. Includes Ogaki Keirinjo or Ogaki Cycling Stadium where bicycle races are held.

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One of Japan's most pivotal battles took place here on Oct. 21, 1600 (Sept. 15 of Keicho 5) between Tokugawa Ieyasu's Eastern Forces and Toyotomi Hideyoshi loyalist Ishida Mitsunari's Western Forces. Ieyasu's victory in the Battle of Sekigahara sealed Japan's historical fate for the next 250 years. The former battlefield is dotted with monuments indicating the positions of various warlords during the battle.

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On Oct. 19, 2008, the town of Sekigahara held a special two-day festival to commemorate the Battle of Sekigahara. These photos were taken on the second day when a procession and mock battle were staged. Matchlock gun battalions added to the colorful drama. Also see my YouTube video here.

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This is an outdoor park with larger-than-life, painted concrete sculptures depicting the Battle of Sekigahara between Tokugawa Ieyasu and Ishida Mitsunari. The battlefield is not geographically recreated. Admission charged.

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Small but pleasant and popular cavern especially in summer when it is cool inside the cavern. Various rock formations and clear spring water are highlights. Admission charged.

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Imasu-juku was the fifty-ninth of the sixty-nine stations or shukuba post towns of the Nakasendo Road. It follows Sekigahara-juku and comes before Kashiwabara-juku in Shiga Pref. Today, it has very few remnants of its Nakasendo past. It is between Sekigahara and Kashiwabara Stations on the JR Tokaido Line.

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Other sights in Sekigahara, Gifu Pref. such as Fuwa-no-seki site and museum.

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World Heritage Site for its traditional gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs.

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One of the main attractions of Shirakawa-go, this privately-owned house is the largest gassho-zukuri house in Shirakawa-go. The Wada family still live in the house while much of the house is open to the public. See the huge attic where they used to produce silk.

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Myozenji is a Buddhist temple belonging to the Jodo Shinshu sect, the most common sect in Shirakawa-go. It's the only temple in the gassho-zukuri style with a thatched roof. The Hondo worshp hall is the largest building in Shirakawa-go.

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Shirakawa-go's main source of income is tourism. Many old farmhouses with thatched roofs have been converted into lodging called "minshuku." But looks can be deceiving as the interior is completely modern. I have experience at four minshuku at Shirakawa-go.

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Central Takayama near Takayama Station is noted for traditional buildings. Many attractions are within walking distance from the station. The Important Traditional Building Preservation Area is popular with tourists.

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Central Takayama's most important traditional building is this former Government House. Originally the palace of Lord Kanamori of Takayama Castle, it was later used by local government administrators from 1692 to 1868. It is a National Historic Site.

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The Takayama Festival is held twice a year, during April 14-15 and Oct. 9-10. The spring festival is held by Hieda Shrine and it is called Sanno Matsuri. The festival features twelve ornate "yatai" floats which are displayed and pulled along the streets. In a large plaza, katakuri puppets perform on a few of the floats. The festival is also dramatic at night with a float procession. On Dec. 1, 2016 (JST), Takayama Matsuri Festival was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of 33 "Yama, Hoko, and Yatai float festivals in Japan."

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Famous for its giant torii next to the shinkansen train tracks, this shrine is dedicated to Kanayama-hiko-no-Mikoto 金山彦命. It is the headquarters shrine for all Kanayama Shrines and iron-related shrines in Japan. Many of the buildings are Important Cultural Properties.

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Held on May 2-4, three ornate hikiyama floats are displayed and paraded around town. Young boys also perform in kabuki plays on the floats. May 3 is the main festival day, but May 2 is also a good day to see the matsuri. These photos were taken on May 2, 2009. Also see my YouTube video here.

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Other sights in Tarui town, Gifu, including the Sakura Matsuri with koinobori carp streamers along the river, Takenaka Hanbei's castle remains, and Tarui-juku post town on the Nakasendo.

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Yoro town's most famous attraction is Yoro Park and Yoro (Yoro-no-taki) Falls, especially during cherry blossom season in early April and during the autumn foliage. Yoro was named by Empress Gensho in the 8th century and proclaimed Yoro as the fountain of youth. She even named her era after Yoro (717-724). Even today, Yoronotaki Falls is one of Japan's 100 Famous Waterfalls and 100 Famous Water Springs.

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Held during late April to early May, the Koinobori festival of carp streamers is this town's claim to fame. About 800 colorful carp streamers swim in the sky above a river.

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Near the entrance to the Stone Steps, Ikaho has the summer home of Robert Walker Irwin, American businessman from Philadelphia, PA and the Hawaiian Minister to Japan during the late 19th century. He oversaw the Japanese immigration to Hawaii during 1885-1894. Part of his summer villa has been preserved here. Next to the house is the Guidance Museum with exhibits related to the Irwin family and Japanese emigration to Hawaii. Open 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Free admission. Map here 渋川市伊香保町伊香保32 Tel: 0279-20-3033

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Ikaho Onsen's major sights including the Stone Steps, Ikaho Shrine, and Mt. Uenoyama. (Updated in 2016.)

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Ikaho Onsen Spa held the 12th King Kalakaua Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Festival during Aug. 3-6, 2008. During the day, numerous Japanese hula groups performed on stage. Hawaiian seminars were also taught by kumu hula Aloha Dalire. In the evenings, Hula Halau 'O Kamuela from Oahu performed as the festival's main event. Ikaho's connection to Hawaii lies with the summer residence of Robert Walker Irwin, the Hawaiian Minister to Japan during the late 19th century.

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The overall winner of the Merrie Monarch Festival held in Hilo, Hawai'i in April is invited to perform at Ikaho's annual Hawaiian Festival in Aug. During the evenings of Aug. 3-6, 2008, Hula Halau 'O Kamuela gave a spellbinding, one-hour performance with numerous costume changes and surprise solo performances by kumu hula Aloha Dalire and Kunewa Mook on different nights.

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During Aug. 5-7, 2003, Ikaho hosted the 7th King Kalakaua Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Festival featuring hula performances by numerous Japanese hula groups. In the evenings, Hawaii's top hula halau (overall winner of the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hawaii) performed as the festival's main event. Ikaho's connection to Hawaii lies with the summer residence of Robert Walker Irwin, the Hawaiian Minister to Japan during the late 19th century.

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Takasaki is one of Japan's leading producers of daruma dolls. This temple symbolizes Takasaki with numerous darumas offered at the temple. The Daruma Museum next to the temple is also interesting.

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Byakui Dai-Kannon means Giant Kannon in white wardrobe. Buiilt in 1936, this giant Kannon statue is almost like a temple itself with 20 Buddha figures inside. You can climb up the stairs inside and see Takasaki from above.

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Pictures of Takasaki Station and other street shots.

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Insanely spectacular azaleas in full bloom at Tsutsujigaoka Park and Tsutsuji-en Garden. Also see koinobori carp streamers along the river to Lake Jonuma.

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Soto-Zen temple famous for the Bunpuku Chagama (分福茶釜) folk tale about a tanuki raccoon dog that transformed into a steel pot used by the temple priest over the fire. When it got too hot, the tanuki reverted back to itself and ran away. Tatebayashi is a Tanuki Town because you see it everywhere. Souvenir shops also sell the beckoning tanuki which are made in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture. Near Morinji-mae Station on the Tobu Line. Temple address: 群馬県館林市堀工町1570 Thanks to my friend Bessie (also from Hawaii) for taking me around the city.

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Flower garden with roses, moss pink, and more near Morinji temple. Formerly named Yachonomori Garden. Roses were in bloom when I went in late May. Operated by Tobu.

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Tatebayashi Castle remains, Rekishi-no-Mori history park, and Tataranuma Park (多々良沼公園). Tataranuma Park is a prefectural park with a small, marshy lake with enough reed fields to attract swans migrating from Siberia every winter. A shrine on a small island is dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten. The pleasant lakeside park also has lots of picnic space and wisteria.

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Etajima island is home to Japan's Naval Academy officially called the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force First Service School (海上自衛隊第1術科学校), akin to Annapolis in the US. It originally opened as the Imperial Naval Academy in 1888. The Naval Academy conducts free guided tours of the school 3 or 4 times a day. The main attraction for me was the display of a midget submarine used in the Pearl Harbor attack. For more info see the academy's Web site here.

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Built in 1622 by Lord Mizuno Katsunari. This is one castle you can see from the bullet train. The castle tower was rebuilt in 1966. A turret and a gate are Important Cultural Assets.

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Scenic Tomonoura is a part of the Seto Inland Sea National Park.

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Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima island is one of Japan's most famous sights and one of Japan's Scenic Trio (Nihon Sankei) and World Heritage Site. Short train ride from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima-guchi and a short ferry ride to the island.

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Hiroshima's No. 1 tourist attraction. The park has the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Memorial Cenotaph, Peace Flame, and numerous other memorials. Hordes of school kids on class trips visit here.

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Obviously destroyed during the war, the castle was reconstructed after World War II.

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The Yamato Museum's main attraction is a 1/10th scale model of battleship Yamato, Japan's most famous and legendary battleship in World War II. The museum is adjacent to Kure Port.

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The JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force) Kure Museum is mainly a submarine museum whose main attraction is the decommissioned sub called Akishio. The museum is conveniently right across the street from the Yamato Museum.

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Only stone walls and a moat remains.

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This Onomichi Castle never existed. It was built in 1964 solely as a tourist attraction. Sadly, the company that owned the castle went bankrupt and the castle is now an abandoned building.

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Hokkaido's main gateway and Japan third busiest airport after Narita and Haneda. Built in 1991 to replace the old Chitose Airport, it still looks very new and modern with a spacious terminal building with loads of shops and restaurants.

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A large history-oriented park with museums, historical buildings, culture center, public library, pool, Japanese garden, and souvenir shops. The Geihinkan Guesthouse 迎賓館 and Kaitaku Kinenkan Museum 開拓記念館 are the main attractions. Cherry blossoms also bloom in May. Date is a city of 37,000, founded in 1870 by a samurai named Date Kunishige and his vassals and citizens who migrated from Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture.

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A local organization called Date Cosmos 21 collects waste vegetable oil (tempura oil, etc.) for conversion to biodiesel fuel (BDF).

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"Date" is pronounced "DAH-tay." See some photos of Date Mombetsu Station and central Date.

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A port city, Hakodate is a major tourist city featuring many sights including Mt. Hakodate-yama.

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Toyako Onsen is a pleasant hot spring town on the southern shore of Lake Toya in Toyako-cho town. It is the lake's main town and tourist base. Besides numerous lakeshore hotels with hot spring waters, the town has a nice lakeside promenade, splendid views of the Nakajima islands, outdoor sculptures, lake cruises, swan boats, and free hot spring foot and hand baths. A day trip is also viable to enjoy the healthy spa.

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The Ekimae Sanbashi Pier, almost front and center along Toyako Onsen's lake shore, has cruise boats leaving for lake cruises to the Nakajima islands every 30 min. from 8 am to 4:30 pm during April-Oct. During Nov.-April, it operates every hour from 9 am to 4 pm. The cruise takes 50 min. if you don't get off to visit the Nakajima islands. Otherwise, allow 80 min. if you want to get also step foot on the Nakajima islands.

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I rented a bicycle at Toyako Onsen and rode around Lake Toya counterclockwise which is easier than going clockwise and the lake view is better on the left side of the road. From the hot spring, I rode through the eastern shore while admiring cherry blossoms (blooming in early May) and plum blossoms (which bloom at the same time as cherries). Lake Toya's east area is part of Sobetsu town.

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Continuing from Lake Toya's east shore, this album completes my counterclockwise cycling trip around the lake as we head north and then to the western shore back to Toyako Onsen. The northern shore has a nature trail, the Toya Mizunoeki tourist rest stop, Ukimido lakeside pagoda, and some beautiful cherry trees along the shore.

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Showa-Shinzan (398 meters high) is a sub-volcano and lava dome of neighboring Mt. Usu. Looking like a bald spot, it was created during 1943-45 from what used to be a flat piece of land. In the valley between Showa-Shinzan and Mt. Usuzan is a tourist village (called Kazan-mura) with souvenir shops and the Usuzan Ropeway terminal. The ropeway takes you up to Mt. Usu where you can see a great views of Showa-Shinzan and Lake Toya. A hiking trail also goes to another crater on Usuzan.

56 files, last one added on May 20, 2008
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The Nishiyama Craters are a series of craters on the west side of Mt. Usu, created during the latest eruption in March 2000. A walking trail takes you near the rim of a few craters, including wrecked roads and buildings still remaining. Very impressive with steam still being emitted. Takes 3 min. by bus from Toyako Onsen or 15 min. from Toya Station. The trail takes about 40 min. to walk one-way. Open from April 20 to Nov. 10. Free admission.

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Sobetsu Koen or Park is in Sobetsu-cho town on the eastern shore of Lake Toya. It is a hillside park with numerous ume plum trees and grand views of the lake. The plum trees bloom during early to mid-May, at the same time as cherry blossoms.

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With 24 tournament victories, Kitanoumi was one of sumo's greatest Yokozuna (grand champion) in modern times. "Kitanoumi" means "Lake of the North," and this refers to Lake Toya. Kitanoumi hails from Sobetsu town which is on the lake's eastern shore. This Yokozuna Kitanoumi museum is dedicated to him with numerous photos, memorabalia, and sculpture of Kitanoumi performing the dohyo-iri. The museum also houses the Sobetsu History Museum (壮瞥町郷土史料館).

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During July 7-9, 2008, the G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit will be held in Toyako town fronting Lake Toya in Shikotsu-Toya National Park in southwestern Hokkaido. Toyako was selected as the venue for its natural beauty and environment. The Lake Toya area, which includes Toyako and Sobetsu towns, are in a Welcome mode with welcome signs everywhere. A slew of Summit merchandise is also on sale. These photos were taken in early May 2008.

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JR Toya Station is the main railway gateway to the Lake Toya area. It is on the JR Muroran Line. Express trains run from Sapporo and Chitose. The station building has been renovated with a spacious waiting/exhibition room. In 2008, it is in welcome mode for the G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit with welcome signs.

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