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  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-10.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-9.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-8.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-4.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-3.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-6.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-7.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-5.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-2.jpg
  • Okutama Hiking - Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama-trail-1.jpg
  • Okutama has a wide of hiking courses, the easiest course is the so-called  In Touch with the Forest Fureai Shinrinyoku which is a 40 minute ramble in the woods near Okutama Station, suitable for Tokyo city folk who may not be equipped for heavy-duty hiking. For more energetic hikers the Hikawa Gorge Trail, takes hikers along the  Tamagawa and Nipparagawa rivers for a bit longer. Along the way, hikers pass over two hanging suspension bridges, Hikawakobashi and Tokebashi.
    okutama.jpg
  • Hiking Mt Takao - Trail 1 from the base of the mountain is a bit ofa  tough climb climb, but it is paved most of the way and leads past the top stations of both the ropeway and the funicular on the way to the summit. The "Inariyama Trail" is unpaved and starts from the base of the mountain and goes all the way to the summit, but do not pass the ropeway and funicular top stations. Some visitors to Takao ride up the mountain and then walk back down.
    takao-trail-02.jpg
  • Hiking Mt Takao - Trail 1 from the base of the mountain is a bit ofa  tough climb climb, but it is paved most of the way and leads past the top stations of both the ropeway and the funicular on the way to the summit. The "Inariyama Trail" is unpaved and starts from the base of the mountain and goes all the way to the summit, but do not pass the ropeway and funicular top stations. Some visitors to Takao ride up the mountain and then walk back down.
    takao-trail-03.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-04.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-16.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-15.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-10.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-03.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-01.jpg
  • 78.6  Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass 名越切通 was constructed as an important pathway into Kamakura. The structural characteristics of this pass was considered as protection and defense during the Kamakura Period.  Along the trail there are caves that were once used as burial sites.  Access to Kamakura has always been difficult, bordered by mountains on three sides and the ocean on the other. These passes were essential for transport, but at the same time gave limited access as horses could not pass through such narrow trails, obstructing intruders.  Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed in the early 13th century
    78.6.TENTATIVE-KAMAKURA-KIRIDOSHI-01.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-13.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-02.jpg
  • The footprints of Buddha are on the path from aniconic to iconic which starts at symbols like the wheel and moves to statues of Buddha. His footprints are meant to remind us that Buddha was present on earth and left a spiritual path to be followed. The veneration of the feet of gurus or deities was commonplace in ancient India, placing one's head at or under their feet was once  a ritual gesture signifying deference or hierarchy.
    buddha-footprints-2.jpg
  • The footprints of Buddha are on the path from aniconic to iconic which starts at symbols like the wheel and moves to statues of Buddha. His footprints are meant to remind us that Buddha was present on earth and left a spiritual path to be followed. The veneration of the feet of gurus or deities was commonplace in ancient India, placing one's head at or under their feet was once  a ritual gesture signifying deference or hierarchy.
    buddha-footprints-1.jpg
  • Peace hangs in the air at Higashiyama Temple Area which has become a hiking trail in the outskirts of Takayama.  It  began when Lord Kanamori Nagachika constructed many temples on the elevated hilly area in the eastern part of town. <br />
Higashiyama Walk is a 4 kilometer walking course from Higashiyama Temple Area to Shiroyama Park.
    takayama-higashiyama-1.jpg
  • Hiking Trail in Shin Hodaka
    shin-hodaka-hiking.jpg
  • Peace hangs in the air at Higashiyama Temple Area which has become a hiking trail in the outskirts of Takayama.  It  began when Lord Kanamori Nagachika constructed many temples on the elevated hilly area in the eastern part of town. <br />
Higashiyama Walk is a 4 kilometer walking course from Higashiyama Temple Area to Shiroyama Park.
    takayama-higashiyama-2.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-32.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-28.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-27.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-18.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-14.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-09.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-04.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-07.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-04.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-02.jpg
  • 53. The Kumano Kodo 熊野古道 is a network of pilgrimage routes, trekked for centuries by the Japanese from all levels of society. Kumano has been sacred since prehistoric times, associated with animism in which mountains and water are key elements in shaping the Japanese sense of spirituality.  Kumano is considered to be the abode of the gods by the Japanese.  Along the Kumano Kodo pilgrims walk through leafy paths deep into the mountains every year to purify themselves, praying to deities dwelling in the trees and rocks. Over time, hiking the Kumano Kodo became less of an animistic or Shinto rite, especially after followers of Kobo Daishi made it into a Shingon Buddhist pilgrimage route.  Koyasan is also considered to be a major stop before or after the Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail.  In modern times, tourists have largely replaced pilgrims.
    53.KII-KUMANO-KODO-01.jpg
  • Suspension Bridge at Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine - a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-37.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-31.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-30.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-29.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-25.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-19.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-12.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-11.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-08.jpg
  • Suspension Bridge at Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine - a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-06.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-07.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-05.jpg
  • Mt. Takatori and Jinmu-ji Temple  and hiking along old pilgrim trails of this sacred mountain temple is like stepping into old Japan.  It is hard to remember that one is only minutes away from Yokohama or Zushi railway stations. Although Jinmu-ji temple itself is simple and plain, it is nestled into the side of an ancient mountain forest where several old hiking trails intersect which makes it special.
    jimuji-temple-4.jpg
  • Considered among the world's greatest national parks, Khao Yai National Park is the oldest in Thailand.  Khao Yai has one of the largest monsoon forests intact that remain in Asia - one of the main reasons it was named a Unesco World Heritage site.
    khao-yai-hiking-trail-1.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-05.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-01.jpg
  • 53. The Kumano Kodo 熊野古道 is a network of pilgrimage routes, trekked for centuries by the Japanese from all levels of society. Kumano has been sacred since prehistoric times, associated with animism in which mountains and water are key elements in shaping the Japanese sense of spirituality.  Kumano is considered to be the abode of the gods by the Japanese.  Along the Kumano Kodo pilgrims walk through leafy paths deep into the mountains every year to purify themselves, praying to deities dwelling in the trees and rocks. Over time, hiking the Kumano Kodo became less of an animistic or Shinto rite, especially after followers of Kobo Daishi made it into a Shingon Buddhist pilgrimage route.  Koyasan is also considered to be a major stop before or after the Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail.  In modern times, tourists have largely replaced pilgrims.
    53.KII-KUMANO-KODO-02.jpg
  • Hikers at Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-36.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-24.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-23.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-20.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-16.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-13.jpg
  • Daibutsu Hiking Trail, Kamakura
    daibutsu-trail.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-22.jpg
  • Mt. Takatori and Jinmu-ji Temple  and hiking along old pilgrim trails of this sacred mountain temple is like stepping into old Japan.  It is hard to remember that one is only minutes away from Yokohama or Zushi railway stations. Although Jinmu-ji temple itself is simple and plain, it is nestled into the side of an ancient mountain forest where several old hiking trails intersect which makes it special.
    jimuji-temple-2.jpg
  • Sarubatake at Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula.  It was once considered to be a rampart to protect Kamakura though in fact it is the remains of a quarry.  The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    sarubatake-2.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-19.jpg
  • Kadowaki Suspension Bridge — The suspension bridge in Jogasaki is a famous tourist spot, at 23 meters in height and 48 meters in width. The Kadowaki Suspension bridge looms right above the Jogasaki coast, which was formed by the eruption of nearby Mt. Omuro, upon which the lava flow eroded in the sea, forming cliffs, bluffs and a craggy coastline. The bridge hangs over Cape Kadowaki, the scenery of the precipice eroded by seawater is both magnificent, beautiful but somewhat scary.
    Kadowaki-tsuri-suspension-bridge-4.jpg
  • Kadowaki Suspension Bridge — The suspension bridge in Jogasaki is a famous tourist spot, at 23 meters in height and 48 meters in width. The Kadowaki Suspension bridge looms right above the Jogasaki coast, which was formed by the eruption of nearby Mt. Omuro, upon which the lava flow eroded in the sea, forming cliffs, bluffs and a craggy coastline. The bridge hangs over Cape Kadowaki, the scenery of the precipice eroded by seawater is both magnificent, beautiful but somewhat scary.
    Kadowaki-tsuri-suspension-bridge-2.jpg
  • Pilgrim Staffs at Okuboji - the 88th temple on the pilgrimage route of the 88 Shikoku Holy Places and the last temple of the 88. It is dedicated to getting rid of bad luck, and to grant your wishes. It is called the 'Temple of Wish Fulfillment'. Next to the cave is a spring where pristine water bubbles. As this is the last sacred spot along the pilgrimage, many people leave their pilgrim staffs here once they have completed their journey, and dedicate their staffs to all pilgrims who have completed the route.  Although Okuboji is the 88th and final stop, most pilgrims feel that the entire journey has not yet been completed until they pass by temple number one, then onto Koyasan afterwards.
    okuboji-6.jpg
  • Sarubatake at Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula.  It was once considered to be a rampart to protect Kamakura though in fact it is the remains of a quarry.  The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    sarubatake-4.jpg
  • Sarubatake at Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula.  It was once considered to be a rampart to protect Kamakura though in fact it is the remains of a quarry.  The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    sarubatake-1.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-18.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-17.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-12.jpg
  • Sarubatake Escarpment at Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula.  It was once considered to be a rampart to protect Kamakura though in fact it is the remains of a quarry.  The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-06.jpg
  • The Kumano Kodo is a network of pilgrimage routes, trekked for centuries by Japanese from all levels of society. Such pilgrims wear white and are known as Henro. The trails provide access to the Kumano region, an undeveloped area of Japan with clean river and waterfalls, pristine mountains and forests. Kumano has been sacred since prehistoric times, and is considered to be the origin of Japanese spirituality.  Along the Kumano Kodo pilgrims walk through leafy paths deep into the mountains every year to purify themselves,  praying to deities dwelling in the trees and rocks.  Kumano is considered to be the abode of the gods by the Japanese.  Thanks in part to UNESCO, Kumano Kodo networks of trails are well signposted and maintained.
    kumano-kodo-2.jpg
  • Hokkaido Floral Trail - the winter is long and severe in Japan's northermost islands.  To celebrate spring and summer, residents of Hokkaido often set up elaborate flower gardens.
    hokkaido-flowers-2.jpg
  • Forest Camp is situated along the Banica River in the remote town of Valencia, Negros Oriental, 11 kilometers from Dumaguete City. Because of the naturally cool climate and its verdant surroundings, it quickly became a favorite family weekend getaway.  All materials used to make the cottages are bamboo and nipa both inexpensive indigenous materials that can be sourced anywhere in the area.
    Forest-Camp-Valencia-2.jpg
  • Yugashima Autumn Trail near Shuzenji, Izu - Shuzenji’s unique history has inspired travelers and Japanese writers alike and listed as one of the 100 Best Hot Springs in the country
    autumn-trail.jpg
  • Kadowaki Suspension Bridge — The suspension bridge in Jogasaki is a famous tourist spot, at 23 meters in height and 48 meters in width. The Kadowaki Suspension bridge looms right above the Jogasaki coast, which was formed by the eruption of nearby Mt. Omuro, upon which the lava flow eroded in the sea, forming cliffs, bluffs and a craggy coastline. The bridge hangs over Cape Kadowaki, the scenery of the precipice eroded by seawater is both magnificent, beautiful but somewhat scary.
    Kadowaki-tsuri-suspension-bridge-5.jpg
  • Kadowaki Suspension Bridge — The suspension bridge in Jogasaki is a famous tourist spot, at 23 meters in height and 48 meters in width. The Kadowaki Suspension bridge looms right above the Jogasaki coast, which was formed by the eruption of nearby Mt. Omuro, upon which the lava flow eroded in the sea, forming cliffs, bluffs and a craggy coastline. The bridge hangs over Cape Kadowaki, the scenery of the precipice eroded by seawater is both magnificent, beautiful but somewhat scary.
    Kadowaki-tsuri-suspension-bridge-1.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass Burial Stone - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-14.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-11.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-09.jpg
  • Sarubatake Escarpment at Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula.  It was once considered to be a rampart to protect Kamakura though in fact it is the remains of a quarry.  The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-08.jpg
  • Sarubatake Escarpment at Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula.  It was once considered to be a rampart to protect Kamakura though in fact it is the remains of a quarry.  The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-07.jpg
  • The Kumano Kodo is a network of pilgrimage routes, trekked for centuries by Japanese from all levels of society. Such pilgrims wear white and are known as Henro. The trails provide access to the Kumano region, an undeveloped area of Japan with clean river and waterfalls, pristine mountains and forests. Kumano has been sacred since prehistoric times, and is considered to be the origin of Japanese spirituality.  Along the Kumano Kodo pilgrims walk through leafy paths deep into the mountains every year to purify themselves,  praying to deities dwelling in the trees and rocks.  Kumano is considered to be the abode of the gods by the Japanese.  Thanks in part to UNESCO, Kumano Kodo networks of trails are well signposted and maintained.
    kumano-kodo-1.jpg
  • Suspension Bridge at Khao Yai National Park -  Khao Yai was Thailand's first national park. Today it is the second largest national park in Thailand.  With hundreds of species of birds, and wild deer and elephants roaming around. Khao Yai  was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
    khao-yai-bridge-2.jpg
  • Forest Camp is situated along the Banica River in the remote town of Valencia, Negros Oriental, 11 kilometers from Dumaguete City. Because of the naturally cool climate and its verdant surroundings, it quickly became a favorite family weekend getaway.  All materials used to make the cottages are bamboo and nipa both inexpensive indigenous materials that can be sourced anywhere in the area.
    Forest-Camp-Valencia-5.jpg
  • Sarubatake at Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula.  It was once considered to be a rampart to protect Kamakura though in fact it is the remains of a quarry.  The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    sarubatake-3.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass Burial Stone - Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-05.jpg
  • Established in 1962, Khao Yai was Thailand's first national park. Today it is the second largest national park in Thailand.  With hundreds of species of birds, and wild deer and elephants roaming around Khao Yai  was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
    khao-yai-bridge-1.jpg
  • Haew Suwat Waterfall runs over a 20 meter cliff into a large pool below. It is located about east of the visitors center and can be visited easily by car along one of the main  roads. It can also be reached by a 8 km hike from the visitors center taking hike number 4 which takes about 5 hours. The waterfall structure is made up mainly of multiple layers of sandstone conglomerates with large interbeds of basalt.
    khao-yai-waterfall-1.jpg
  • Cat Cat Waterfall - Its a simple hike from Sapa down to Cat Cat village a town inhabited by friendly Black H'Mong montagnards. The track is also easy to find so no guide is necessary.   Since the hike is mostly downhill, many visitors like to take a moto or motobike taxi back up the hill into Sapa town.
    cat-cat-waterfall.jpg
  • Roussillon is one of the most famous sites in the Luberon thanks to its geological wonders. Ochre quarries streaked with red and gold ochre sand have made.  Besides the village itself, <br />
the Ochre Trail or Sentier des Ocres is an enjoyable hiking trail through a former ochre quarry. Sometimes referred to as the Giants' Causeway or Chaussée des Géants is an easy and dramatic mini hike near town.  It is not clearly known why the pigments in soil have produced geological changes here and not elsewhere.  Jean-Étienne Astier, a local who studied the properties of ochre, started extracting it from sand on an industrial scale during the 18th century.
    ochre-trail-17.jpg
  • Roussillon is one of the most famous sites in the Luberon thanks to its geological wonders. Ochre quarries streaked with red and gold ochre sand have made.  Besides the village itself, <br />
the Ochre Trail or Sentier des Ocres is an enjoyable hiking trail through a former ochre quarry. Sometimes referred to as the Giants' Causeway or Chaussée des Géants is an easy and dramatic mini hike near town.  It is not clearly known why the pigments in soil have produced geological changes here and not elsewhere.  Jean-Étienne Astier, a local who studied the properties of ochre, started extracting it from sand on an industrial scale during the 18th century.
    ochre-trail-13.jpg
  • Roussillon is one of the most famous sites in the Luberon thanks to its geological wonders. Ochre quarries streaked with red and gold ochre sand have made.  Besides the village itself, <br />
the Ochre Trail or Sentier des Ocres is an enjoyable hiking trail through a former ochre quarry. Sometimes referred to as the Giants' Causeway or Chaussée des Géants is an easy and dramatic mini hike near town.  It is not clearly known why the pigments in soil have produced geological changes here and not elsewhere.  Jean-Étienne Astier, a local who studied the properties of ochre, started extracting it from sand on an industrial scale during the 18th century.
    ochre-trail-10.jpg
  • Roussillon is one of the most famous sites in the Luberon thanks to its geological wonders. Ochre quarries streaked with red and gold ochre sand have made.  Besides the village itself, <br />
the Ochre Trail or Sentier des Ocres is an enjoyable hiking trail through a former ochre quarry. Sometimes referred to as the Giants' Causeway or Chaussée des Géants is an easy and dramatic mini hike near town.  It is not clearly known why the pigments in soil have produced geological changes here and not elsewhere.  Jean-Étienne Astier, a local who studied the properties of ochre, started extracting it from sand on an industrial scale during the 18th century.
    ochre-trail-8.jpg
  • Roussillon is one of the most famous sites in the Luberon thanks to its geological wonders. Ochre quarries streaked with red and gold ochre sand have colored the village itself.  The Ochre Trail or Sentier des Ocres is an enjoyable hiking trail through a former ochre quarry. Sometimes referred to as the Giants' Causeway or Chaussée des Géants is an easy and dramatic mini hike near town.  It is not clearly known why the pigments in the soil have produced geological changes here and not elsewhere.
    ochre-trail-5.jpg
  • Roussillon is one of the most famous sites in the Luberon thanks to its geological wonders. Ochre quarries streaked with red and gold ochre sand have made.  Besides the village itself, <br />
the Ochre Trail or Sentier des Ocres is an enjoyable hiking trail through a former ochre quarry. Sometimes referred to as the Giants' Causeway or Chaussée des Géants is an easy and dramatic mini hike near town.  It is not clearly known why the pigments in soil have produced geological changes here and not elsewhere.  Jean-Étienne Astier, a local who studied the properties of ochre, started extracting it from sand on an industrial scale during the 18th century.
    ochre-trail-3.jpg
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