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  • Awa Odori Street Art in Tokushima where one of the most famous dance festivals across Japan is held in summer. Awa Odori has a long history dating back more than 400 years. The local motto is "fools dance and fools watch, if both are fools, you might as well dance" which are also the lyrics to a common dance song.  The local identity of residents of Tokushima very much depends on Awa Odori, and so naturally there is street art to commemorate this.
    awa-odori-art-1.jpg
  • Science Gate at the original Tsukuba Expo site grounds. The main display in this center is a full size model of a real 50 m. tall H-II rocket. The center offers tangible exhibitions relating to space, the deep sea and energy. Using the most up to date systems, the center provides what is the world's largest scale planetarium is 26.6 m. across - opened again in April, 2006. Studies and research activities carried out in Tsukuba's research centers and university are also introduced.
    science-gate-01.jpg
  • Antique Chinese coins at the Panjiayuan Market in Beijing. The holes in the middle of coins make it easy to sort, string and count.
    Panjiayuan-7.jpg
  • Science Gate at the original Tsukuba Expo site grounds. The main display in this center is a full size model of a real 50 m. tall H-II rocket. The center offers tangible exhibitions relating to space, the deep sea and energy. Using the most up to date systems, the center provides what is the world's largest scale planetarium is 26.6 m. across - opened again in April, 2006. Studies and research activities carried out in Tsukuba's research centers and university are also introduced.
    tsukuba-science-gate-1.jpg
  • Science Gate at the original Tsukuba Expo site grounds. The main display in this center is a full size model of a real 50 m. tall H-II rocket. The center offers tangible exhibitions relating to space, the deep sea and energy. Using the most up to date systems, the center provides what is the world's largest scale planetarium is 26.6 m. across - opened again in April, 2006. Studies and research activities carried out in Tsukuba's research centers and university are also introduced.
    tsukuba-science-gate-2.jpg
  • Korakuen Metro Station
    tokyo-modern-architecture-11.jpg
  • The George Town Penang Central Fire Station was once known as Beach Street Fire Station. It was built in 1908, and retains its original architecture which has been preserved in Penang’s historical district. The building is a mix of architectural styles: it’s classical facade blends with Mughal style 4 stores tower, with Edwardian influences for good measure.  The fire station is the oldest in Penang, and is also said to be the oldest in Malaysia.
    penang-central-fire-station-02.jpg
  • Rakanji Silver Homage - 64.2 Rakanji 羅漢寺 is a Shingon Buddhism temple built in 1776 to hold memorial services for local silver miners. There are about 500 Jizo statues in the temple's caves all with different facial expressions.  The jizo are well preserved thanks to the caves. The jizo statues were placed here for those who died while mining silver, do that they may rest in peace. The technique for building the arched stone bridges leading to the temple was brought to Japan from China.
    64.2.IWAMI.RAKANJI-03.jpg
  • Rakanji Silver Homage - Gohyaku-Rakan Rakanji is a Shingon Buddhism temple built in 1776 to hold a memorial services for local silver miners. There are about 500 Jizo statues in the temple’s caves all with different facial expressions.  The jizo are well preserved thanks to the caves. Actually 501 stone statues are placed in here for those who died while silver mining to rest in peace.  The technique for building these arched stone bridges leading to the temple was brought to Japan from China.
    rakanji-silver-1.jpg
  • Vietnamese coffee filter.  Though it takes a long time for the coffee to filter through the typical Vietnamese coffee filtering system, the wait is usually worth it.  In fact it is rather fun to watch the liquid slowly dripping high octane caffeine into your cup.
    vietnamese-coffee.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-7.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-4.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-12.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-11.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-10.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-9.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-8.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-6.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-3.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-1.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-2.jpg
  • Anata No Warehouse - Your Warehouse is a very unusual, quirky gaming arcade in Kawasaki, like no other in Japan or on Earth for that matter.  The theme, for some reason, is Hong Kong’s Kowloon Walled City, in all its grungy detail.  Think: rusting sheet metal, dim flickering florescent lighting, dripping pipes, and filthy windows.  It is ugly on purpose, though nobody knows seems to know or care why.  As you enter the thick metal gates, you emerge into a dark hallway as the one-way door slams behind you, giving you the impression that you are trapped in this den of iniquity.  Naturally, you are indeed free to exit from the back gate, after passing over a slimy pond then through another forbidding metal door clanking behind you forevermore.  Upstairs are plenty of high-tech and retro games, not to mention some Kowloon tenements, including a run-down kitchen, plastic ducks hanging in a fake shop, and even a resting doll woman behind grimy windows.  As unique and macabre as the place is, most of the customers are there for the gaming, with only a handful of sightseers.
    anata-no-warehouse-5.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-1.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-6.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-8.jpg
  • Grotte des Bains d’Apollon - Apollo Bath and Grotto - Apollo's Fountain and Grove dates from the reign of Louis XVI  laid out in 1778.  In the same location, Le Notre initially installed the picturesque Marsh Grove , its main focal poinot was of a pool bordered by painted metal reeds centering around a metal tree with a fountain springing from it. In 1705 this fantastical grove was eliminated to make room for Apollo Fountain and Apollo Grove.
    apollo-grotto-01.jpg
  • Grotte des Bains d’Apollon - Apollo Bath and Grotto - Apollo's Fountain and Grove dates from the reign of Louis XVI  laid out in 1778.  In the same location, Le Notre initially installed the picturesque Marsh Grove , its main focal poinot was of a pool bordered by painted metal reeds centering around a metal tree with a fountain springing from it. In 1705 this fantastical grove was eliminated to make room for Apollo Fountain and Apollo Grove.
    apollo-grotto-02.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-18.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-4.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-2.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-9.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-5.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-11.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-12.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-10.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-13.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-16.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-15.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-14.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-3.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-7.jpg
  • Murou Art Forest is a feast for the eyes in a remote location of Nara Prefecture.  This outdoor sculpture and modern Japanese garden is found in Muro Village.  It is filled with giant sculptures designed by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan in 2006.  The designer, Karavan, is known for his amazing and monumental landscapes. Karavan gained international recognition for placing extraordinary art works in public places so he was a perfect choice to turn this area into an art trail - the theme of which is to bring nature and art together.  The first sculpture the Spiral Bamboo Forest with an entrance surrounded by bamboo trees with metal spiral stairs leading deep into the ground.  Afterwards, the path leads to the undulating Spiral Canal - a channel to that is a protection from rain.  Next on the trail is Sun Island, a circular staircase tower where the sunlight creates a thin line of bright light. It is in the middle of a pond though you can walk to the top.  The next scenic architecture is Stage Island with a circular wooden stage in the middle of another pond complete with a semicircle of seats - a great spot for outdoor performances. Then there is Pyramid Island, which is a large metal triangle in the pond near Stage Island. It is split right down the center making it two separate triangles. The last man-made island in the park is For the Birds which is simply trees and grass and not intended for park visitors, but as its name implies, it is “for the birds” underscoring the theme of harmony with nature.
    murou-art-forest-17.jpg
  • Kamala Beach Tsunami Monument - "Mind Universe" by Udon Jiraksa -  The Kamala Tsunami Monument was built as a memorial to commemorate the Boxing Day Tsunami which devastated parts of the west coast of Phuket in December 26, 2004.  The main feature of the memorial park is the metal sculpture "Mind Universe" -  the sculpture is made out of metal wire in the form of a wave. Each year on the anniversary of the tsunami, ceremonies take place here with prayers and devotional flowers for those who were lost in the disaster.
    kamala-tsunami-monument-1.jpg
  • Chigo Gyoretsu is a colourful children’s procession that promotes wishes for kids' happiness and health.  In Japanese, chigo means small child’and gyoretsu means procession - And so chigo-gyoretsu means exactly that – a procession of small children. At this festival, kids aged three to five dress up in orange and purple to wish for growth and health. Wearing matching costumes, the boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called an eboshi, while the girls wear a crown with a phoenix bird and bright metal pendants called a tenkan.  Although this ceremony is typically performed at shinto shrines, it is increasing praticied at Buddhist temples in Japan.  It is similar to 7-5-3 or Shichi Go San where kids of those ages are trotted out in their finest at the local shinto shrine on November 16.  Since Chigo Gyorentsu usually is performed in September or October, it would be repetitative to perform  similar rites at a shrine, which is probably why it is being celebrated at Buddhist temples.
    chigo-gyoretsu-02.jpg
  • Chigo Gyoretsu is a colourful children’s procession that promotes wishes for kids' happiness and health.  In Japanese, chigo means small child’and gyoretsu means procession - And so chigo-gyoretsu means exactly that – a procession of small children. At this festival, kids aged three to five dress up in orange and purple to wish for growth and health. Wearing matching costumes, the boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called an eboshi, while the girls wear a crown with a phoenix bird and bright metal pendants called a tenkan.  Although this ceremony is typically performed at shinto shrines, it is increasing praticied at Buddhist temples in Japan.  It is similar to 7-5-3 or Shichi Go San where kids of those ages are trotted out in their finest at the local shinto shrine on November 16.  Since Chigo Gyorentsu usually is performed in September or October, it would be repetitative to perform  similar rites at a shrine, which is probably why it is being celebrated at Buddhist temples.
    chigo-gyoretsu-03.jpg
  • Strasbourg Gare Centrale is the main railway station serving Strasbourg, France. Strasbourg Station serves as the station for TGV from major French cities like Paris and Lyon as well as International trains connecting Strasbourg to other European cities like Vienna, Brussels and Frankfurt.  The original architecture of the station was preserved by covering it in a glass and metal shell cocoon that protects it from the elements in a striking contrast between modern and traditional architecture.
    strasbourg-station-1.jpg
  • Gunkanjima Island 1905 - Hashima Island once had a population of 5000 coal miners, but was abandoned in 1974. The island was left to the elements, now serving as a time capsule of the past.  A cameo role in the 007 James Bond Skyfall movie put it back on the map.  It is often called Gunkanjima or battleship island because of its shape.  Before the place became famous, it was slated to become a huge trash pit, but preservationists put that to a stop. Alighting from the boat onto the island is like entering a sci-fi scenario or a video game with crumbling and ruined concrete apartment buildings and collapsing brick stairways, twisted metal girders and plant life growing in the cracks.  Many sites on the island are prohibited because of safety reasons, though the place and its sad history spooks many people out.
    hashima.1905.jpg
  • Marble Mountain Pagoda - The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountain-pagoda-12.jpg
  • Marble Mountains Buddhist Hell Caves - The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-18.jpg
  • The word mahout comes from the Hindi which originates from Sanskrit.  Usually, a mahout starts as a boy as this is a family business.  As a youngster he is assigned an elephant early in life. The young boy and young elephant remain bonded to each other throughout their lives.  The most common tool used by mahouts is a sharp metal hook used in the training and handling of the elephant by jabbing the elephant in areas of its body it is most sensitive.
    mahout-1.jpg
  • Sculptor at Artisans d'Angkor - a group trained by the Chantiers Écoles de Formation Professionnelle. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with two training schools. An initiative of the National Cambodian Institutions, the French Foreign Ministry and the European Union, Chantiers Ecoles de Formation Professionnelle provides unschooled rural youth with free vocational training programs, while Artisans d'Angkor provides them a professional, economic and social integration into providing a service for their locale. Its objectives are to support and promote Khmer art and culture, educating local youth, and provide jobs to youth interested in traditional crafts. The Artisan's centre, established to perpetuate the art and culture of the World Heritage Site of Angkor through training the present generation of local youth in the disciplines of metal working, silk weaving, and wood and stone carving had the distinction of the artisans of the institute won the award "Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts" in a competition organized by UNESCO.
    artisans-angkor-8.jpg
  • The origin of bento can be traced back to the Kamakura Period when cooked and dried rice called hoshi-ii literally "dried meal" was developed. In the Edo Period bento culture spread and became more refined. Bento became even more popular in the 80s with the help of the microwave and the proliferation of convenience stores. The expensive wood and metal boxes have been replaced at most bento shops with inexpensive, disposable plastic ones Even handmade bento have made a comeback, and they are once again a common sight at picnics.
    bento-4.jpg
  • Chigo Gyoretsu is a colourful children’s procession that promotes wishes for kids' happiness and health.  In Japanese, chigo means small child’and gyoretsu means procession - And so chigo-gyoretsu means exactly that – a procession of small children. At this festival, kids aged three to five dress up in orange and purple to wish for growth and health. Wearing matching costumes, the boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called an eboshi, while the girls wear a crown with a phoenix bird and bright metal pendants called a tenkan.  Although this ceremony is typically performed at shinto shrines, it is increasing praticied at Buddhist temples in Japan.  It is similar to 7-5-3 or Shichi Go San where kids of those ages are trotted out in their finest at the local shinto shrine on November 16.  Since Chigo Gyorentsu usually is performed in September or October, it would be repetitative to perform  similar rites at a shrine, which is probably why it is being celebrated at Buddhist temples.
    chigo-gyoretsu-11.jpg
  • Chigo Gyoretsu is a colourful children’s procession that promotes wishes for kids' happiness and health.  In Japanese, chigo means small child’and gyoretsu means procession - And so chigo-gyoretsu means exactly that – a procession of small children. At this festival, kids aged three to five dress up in orange and purple to wish for growth and health. Wearing matching costumes, the boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called an eboshi, while the girls wear a crown with a phoenix bird and bright metal pendants called a tenkan.  Although this ceremony is typically performed at shinto shrines, it is increasing praticied at Buddhist temples in Japan.  It is similar to 7-5-3 or Shichi Go San where kids of those ages are trotted out in their finest at the local shinto shrine on November 16.  Since Chigo Gyorentsu usually is performed in September or October, it would be repetitative to perform  similar rites at a shrine, which is probably why it is being celebrated at Buddhist temples.
    chigo-gyoretsu-12.jpg
  • Chigo Gyoretsu is a colourful children’s procession that promotes wishes for kids' happiness and health.  In Japanese, chigo means small child’and gyoretsu means procession - And so chigo-gyoretsu means exactly that – a procession of small children. At this festival, kids aged three to five dress up in orange and purple to wish for growth and health. Wearing matching costumes, the boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called an eboshi, while the girls wear a crown with a phoenix bird and bright metal pendants called a tenkan.  Although this ceremony is typically performed at shinto shrines, it is increasing praticied at Buddhist temples in Japan.  It is similar to 7-5-3 or Shichi Go San where kids of those ages are trotted out in their finest at the local shinto shrine on November 16.  Since Chigo Gyorentsu usually is performed in September or October, it would be repetitative to perform  similar rites at a shrine, which is probably why it is being celebrated at Buddhist temples.
    chigo-gyoretsu-09.jpg
  • Chigo Gyoretsu is a colourful children’s procession that promotes wishes for kids' happiness and health.  In Japanese, chigo means small child’and gyoretsu means procession - And so chigo-gyoretsu means exactly that – a procession of small children. At this festival, kids aged three to five dress up in orange and purple to wish for growth and health. Wearing matching costumes, the boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called an eboshi, while the girls wear a crown with a phoenix bird and bright metal pendants called a tenkan.  Although this ceremony is typically performed at shinto shrines, it is increasing praticied at Buddhist temples in Japan.  It is similar to 7-5-3 or Shichi Go San where kids of those ages are trotted out in their finest at the local shinto shrine on November 16.  Since Chigo Gyorentsu usually is performed in September or October, it would be repetitative to perform  similar rites at a shrine, which is probably why it is being celebrated at Buddhist temples.
    chigo-gyoretsu-08.jpg
  • Chigo Gyoretsu is a colourful children’s procession that promotes wishes for kids' happiness and health.  In Japanese, chigo means small child’and gyoretsu means procession - And so chigo-gyoretsu means exactly that – a procession of small children. At this festival, kids aged three to five dress up in orange and purple to wish for growth and health. Wearing matching costumes, the boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called an eboshi, while the girls wear a crown with a phoenix bird and bright metal pendants called a tenkan.  Although this ceremony is typically performed at shinto shrines, it is increasing praticied at Buddhist temples in Japan.  It is similar to 7-5-3 or Shichi Go San where kids of those ages are trotted out in their finest at the local shinto shrine on November 16.  Since Chigo Gyorentsu usually is performed in September or October, it would be repetitative to perform  similar rites at a shrine, which is probably why it is being celebrated at Buddhist temples.
    chigo-gyoretsu-07.jpg
  • Chigo Gyoretsu is a colourful children’s procession that promotes wishes for kids' happiness and health.  In Japanese, chigo means small child’and gyoretsu means procession - And so chigo-gyoretsu means exactly that – a procession of small children. At this festival, kids aged three to five dress up in orange and purple to wish for growth and health. Wearing matching costumes, the boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called an eboshi, while the girls wear a crown with a phoenix bird and bright metal pendants called a tenkan.  Although this ceremony is typically performed at shinto shrines, it is increasing praticied at Buddhist temples in Japan.  It is similar to 7-5-3 or Shichi Go San where kids of those ages are trotted out in their finest at the local shinto shrine on November 16.  Since Chigo Gyorentsu usually is performed in September or October, it would be repetitative to perform  similar rites at a shrine, which is probably why it is being celebrated at Buddhist temples.
    chigo-gyoretsu-05.jpg
  • Yokoamicho Park was built and opened by the Tokyo Metropolitan government in 1930. The Great Kanto Earthquake struck on September 1st, 1923, and many people were evacuated to this vacant site. They brought their personal belongings which caught fire and many died.  To remember the people who died in the earthquake and fire Tokyo Memorial Hall and the Memorial Hall of Reconstruction were built. It also became a memorial to those who died in the Great Tokyo Air<br />
Raid during WWII which also caused massive fires.  Several displays outside the museum show melted pipes and metal objects that melted or cracked because of the intense heat caused by the fires.
    yokoamicho-park-08.jpg
  • Yokoamicho Park was built and opened by the Tokyo Metropolitan government in 1930. The Great Kanto Earthquake struck on September 1st, 1923, and many people were evacuated to this vacant site. They brought their personal belongings which caught fire and many died.  To remember the people who died in the earthquake and fire Tokyo Memorial Hall and the Memorial Hall of Reconstruction were built. It also became a memorial to those who died in the Great Tokyo Air<br />
Raid during WWII which also caused massive fires.  Several displays outside the museum show melted pipes and metal objects that melted or cracked because of the intense heat caused by the fires.
    yokoamicho-park-07.jpg
  • Yokoamicho Park was built and opened by the Tokyo Metropolitan government in 1930. The Great Kanto Earthquake struck on September 1st, 1923, and many people were evacuated to this vacant site. They brought their personal belongings which caught fire and many died.  To remember the people who died in the earthquake and fire Tokyo Memorial Hall and the Memorial Hall of Reconstruction were built. It also became a memorial to those who died in the Great Tokyo Air<br />
Raid during WWII which also caused massive fires.  Several displays outside the museum show melted pipes and metal objects that melted or cracked because of the intense heat caused by the fires.
    yokoamicho-park-06.jpg
  • Yokoamicho Park was built and opened by the Tokyo Metropolitan government in 1930. The Great Kanto Earthquake struck on September 1st, 1923, and many people were evacuated to this vacant site. They brought their personal belongings which caught fire and many died.  To remember the people who died in the earthquake and fire Tokyo Memorial Hall and the Memorial Hall of Reconstruction were built. It also became a memorial to those who died in the Great Tokyo Air<br />
Raid during WWII which also caused massive fires.  Several displays outside the museum show melted pipes and metal objects that melted or cracked because of the intense heat caused by the fires.
    yokoamicho-park-01.jpg
  • 61. Hashima Island 端島炭坑 once had a population of 5000 coal miners, but was abandoned in 1974. The island was left to the elements, now serving as a time capsule of the past.  A cameo role in the 007 James Bond Skyfall movie put it back on the map.  It is often called Gunkanjima or Battleship Island because of its shape.  Before the place became famous, it was slated to become a huge trash pit, but preservationists put a stop to that plan.  Alighting from the boat onto the island is like entering a sci-fi scenario with its crumbling and ruined concrete apartment buildings and collapsing brick stairways, twisted metal girders and plant life growing in the cracks.  Access to many of the sites on the island are prohibited because of safety reasons.
    51.MEIJI-HASHIMA-ARCHIVAL.jpg
  • Marble Mountain Pagoda - The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountain-pagoda-11.jpg
  • Marble Mountains Buddhist Hell Caves - The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-17.jpg
  • Marble Mountains Buddhist Hell Caves - The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-16.jpg
  • Marble Mountains Buddhist Hell Caves - The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-15.jpg
  • The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.
    marble-mountains-12.jpg
  • The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-10.jpg
  • The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-08.jpg
  • The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-05.jpg
  • The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-02.jpg
  • The Marble Mountains are made up of five hills made of limestone and marble near Danang Vietnam. Each mountain represents one of the five elements of the universe: water, wood, fire, metal and earth. It's also a Buddhist pilgrimage site with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples.  They are located in an area renowned for stone-cutting and sculpture - evident by the many sculpture and monument shops surrounding the attractions. . The caves within the mountains contain Buddhist sanctuaries and places of worship as well as a special circular cave that leads to the summit.  At the base of one of the mountains the Am Phu Cave depict heaven and hell, mostly Buddhist hell in all its gory freakishness with sculptures of people being tortured, monstrous faces showing fear and anger stare at visitors. The path leading upwards is where heaven is found with where beautiful carvings and lanterns adorning the walls.
    marble-mountains-01.jpg
  • The limestone rocks in Krabi attract rock climbers and sports climbers from all around the world.  Especially popular is the rock climbing on the monumental peaks of Railay Beach.  Sport climbing is a form of roped climbing where metal bolts placed in the rock are used for protection. If you slip, your harness and rope will arrest the fall leaving you to concentrate on improving your climb worry free.
    railay-rock-climbing-5.jpg
  • The limestone rocks in Krabi attract rock climbers and sports climbers from all around the world.  Especially popular is the rock climbing on the monumental peaks of Railay Beach.  Sport climbing is a form of roped climbing where metal bolts placed in the rock are used for protection. If you slip, your harness and rope will arrest the fall leaving you to concentrate on improving your climb worry free.
    railay-rock-climbing-3.jpg
  • The gong village of Phibun Mangsahan, near the confluence of the Mekong and Mun Rivers at  Khong Chiam, is famous for its hand forged bronze gongs used in temples and Asian music ensembles.   This is a local cottage industry -  and one of the remaining few.  Visitors can view the artisans making these prized gongs - the process involves hammering metal disks and tempering them in fire. The gongs range from the simple to the detailed and decorated, and are available for purchase.
    Phibun-gongs-7.jpg
  • The gong village of Phibun Mangsahan, near the confluence of the Mekong and Mun Rivers at  Khong Chiam, is famous for its hand forged bronze gongs used in temples and Asian music ensembles.   This is a local cottage industry -  and one of the remaining few.  Visitors can view the artisans making these prized gongs - the process involves hammering metal disks and tempering them in fire. The gongs range from the simple to the detailed and decorated, and are available for purchase.
    Phibun-gongs-5.jpg
  • The gong village of Phibun Mangsahan, near the confluence of the Mekong and Mun Rivers at  Khong Chiam, is famous for its hand forged bronze gongs used in temples and Asian music ensembles.   This is a local cottage industry -  and one of the remaining few.  Visitors can view the artisans making these prized gongs - the process involves hammering metal disks and tempering them in fire. The gongs range from the simple to the detailed and decorated, and are available for purchase.
    Phibun-gongs-3.jpg
  • The gong village of Phibun Mangsahan, near the confluence of the Mekong and Mun Rivers at  Khong Chiam, is famous for its hand forged bronze gongs used in temples and Asian music ensembles.   This is a local cottage industry -  and one of the remaining few.  Visitors can view the artisans making these prized gongs - the process involves hammering metal disks and tempering them in fire. The gongs range from the simple to the detailed and decorated, and are available for purchase.
    Phibun-gongs-1.jpg
  • Truong Tien Bridge, Hue is rather majestic at night when the ever changing lights give a new lease of life to this dull metal structure.  Truong Tien Bridge has six spans  with narrow pedestrian walkway on both sides, over the Perfume River.  It is normally lit up at night, and colored by the ever-changing lights.  By day it is a rather ordinary looking 6 span bridge but serves an important function for residents of Hue as the river divides the two sides of the city.
    truong-tien-bridge-5.jpg
  • Truong Tien Bridge, Hue is rather majestic at night when the ever changing lights give a new lease of life to this dull metal structure.  Truong Tien Bridge has six spans  with narrow pedestrian walkway on both sides, over the Perfume River.  It is normally lit up at night, and colored by the ever-changing lights.  By day it is a rather ordinary looking 6 span bridge but serves an important function for residents of Hue as the river divides the two sides of the city.
    truong-tien-bridge-1.jpg
  • Truong Tien Bridge, Hue is rather majestic at night when the ever changing lights give a new lease of life to this dull metal structure.  Truong Tien Bridge has six spans  with narrow pedestrian walkway on both sides, over the Perfume River.  It is normally lit up at night, and colored by the ever-changing lights.  By day it is a rather ordinary looking 6 span bridge but serves an important function for residents of Hue as the river divides the two sides of the city.
    dragon-boat-hue-3.jpg
  • Folk healing is common in many places around the world. The Philippines is well known in this department  because of the highland peoples who resisted Spanish colonization.  Modern medical care is beyond the reach of the average islander who survives on fishing and farming which explains healers continued popularity.  In these healing sessions there are no incantations.  The "therapy" consists of filling a clear jar with fresh water. The "bolo bolo" practitioner places the jar and starts to blow through a metal straw into the water.  Moving the jar over the head, continuing to blow.  After a few minutes of this, the bolo bolo practitioner checks the clarity of the water.  If it has turned brown then fresh water is put into the jar and another round is done until the water is clear. Bad spirits are removed by the rock in the water and the bubbles.  Once the water is clear after 3 or 4 passes, it means a clean bill of health.
    bolo-bolo-4.jpg
  • Folk healing is common in many places around the world. The Philippines is well known in this department  because of the highland peoples who resisted Spanish colonization.  Modern medical care is beyond the reach of the average islander who survives on fishing and farming which explains healers continued popularity.  In these healing sessions there are no incantations.  The "therapy" consists of filling a clear jar with fresh water. The "bolo bolo" practitioner places the jar and starts to blow through a metal straw into the water.  Moving the jar over the head, continuing to blow.  After a few minutes of this, the bolo bolo practitioner checks the clarity of the water.  If it has turned brown then fresh water is put into the jar and another round is done until the water is clear. Bad spirits are removed by the rock in the water and the bubbles.  Once the water is clear after 3 or 4 passes, it means a clean bill of health.
    bolo-bolo-2.jpg
  • The word mahout comes from the Hindi which originates from Sanskrit.  Usually, a mahout starts as a boy as this is a family business.  As a youngster he is assigned an elephant early in life. The young boy and young elephant remain bonded to each other throughout their lives.  The most common tool used by mahouts is a sharp metal hook used in the training and handling of the elephant by jabbing the elephant in areas of its body it is most sensitive.
    mahout-2.jpg
  • The word mahout comes from the Hindi which originates from Sanskrit.  Usually, a mahout starts as a boy as this is a family business.  As a youngster he is assigned an elephant early in life. The young boy and young elephant remain bonded to each other throughout their lives.  The most common tool used by mahouts is a sharp metal hook used in the training and handling of the elephant by jabbing the elephant in areas of its body it is most sensitive.
    mahout-3.jpg
  • Mannen Bashi Bridge replaced an ancient wooden arched structure, made famous in a Hokusai woodblock painting, "Under Mannen Bridge at Fukagawa" with its view of Mt Fuji.  The more modern steel structure appears to be neon at night, though it is only reflection onto the metal from the illuminations.  The view of Mt Fuji cannot be seen these days because of tall buildings on the opposite side of the Sumida River.
    Mannen-Bashi-Bridge-2.jpg
  • Jeepneys are a popular means of public transportation in the Philippines and were originally made of abandoned US army jeeps left behind after World War II.  Jeepneys are known for flamboyant decorations and funny names given by their owners such as "One Love" or "Cry Me a River". They have become almost a symbol of Filipino culture and ingenuity. The word Jeepney derives from a combination of jeep and jitney. At the end of WWII jeeps were stripped down, metal roofs were added for shade; and they were decorated with vibrant colors and ornaments.
    jeepney-1.jpg
  • Sala Savanh Guest House was constructed in 1926. Until recently, it was used as the Thai Consulate. Apart from some additional elements like metal doors, the building retains its original features and is now one of Savannakhet's nicest hotels. .
    french-colonial-savannakhet-5.jpg
  • Sculptor at Artisans d'Angkor - a group  trained by the Chantiers Écoles de Formation Professionnelle. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with two training schools. An initiative of the National Cambodian Institutions, the French Foreign Ministry and the European Union, Chantiers Ecoles de Formation Professionnelle provides unschooled rural youth with free vocational training programs, while Artisans d'Angkor provides them a professional, economic and social integration into providing a service for their locale.  Its objectives are to support and promote Khmer art and culture, educating local youth, and provide jobs to youth interested in traditional crafts.  The Artisan's centre, established to perpetuate the art and culture of the World Heritage Site of Angkor through training the present generation of local youth in the disciplines of metal working, silk weaving, and wood and stone carving had the distinction of the artisans of the institute won the award "Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts" in a competition organized by UNESCO.
    artisans-angkor-4.jpg
  • Silkworms at Silk Farm Artisans d'Angkor - Artisans d'Angkor is a group trained by the Chantiers Écoles de Formation Professionnelle. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with two training schools. An initiative of the National Cambodian Institutions, the French Foreign Ministry and the European Union, Chantiers Ecoles de Formation Professionnelle provides unschooled rural youth with free vocational training programs, while Artisans d'Angkor provides them a professional, economic and social integration into providing a service for their locale.  Its objectives are to support and promote Khmer art and culture, educating local youth, and provide jobs to youth interested in traditional crafts.  The Artisan's centre, established to perpetuate the art and culture of the World Heritage Site of Angkor through training the present generation of local youth in the disciplines of metal working, silk weaving, and wood and stone carving had the distinction of the artisans of the institute won the award "Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts" in a competition organized by UNESCO.
    artisan-angkor-silk-farm-8.jpg
  • Silk Farm at Artisans d'Angkor - a group  trained by the Chantiers Écoles de Formation Professionnelle. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with two training schools. An initiative of the National Cambodian Institutions, the French Foreign Ministry and the European Union, Chantiers Ecoles de Formation Professionnelle provides unschooled rural youth with free vocational training programs, while Artisans d'Angkor provides them a professional, economic and social integration into providing a service for their locale.  Its objectives are to support and promote Khmer art and culture, educating local youth, and provide jobs to youth interested in traditional crafts.  The Artisan's centre, established to perpetuate the art and culture of the World Heritage Site of Angkor through training the present generation of local youth in the disciplines of metal working, silk weaving, and wood and stone carving had the distinction of the artisans of the institute won the award "Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts" in a competition organized by UNESCO.
    artisan-angkor-silk-farm-12.jpg
  • Silk Farm at Artisans d'Angkor - a group  trained by the Chantiers Écoles de Formation Professionnelle. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with two training schools. An initiative of the National Cambodian Institutions, the French Foreign Ministry and the European Union, Chantiers Ecoles de Formation Professionnelle provides unschooled rural youth with free vocational training programs, while Artisans d'Angkor provides them a professional, economic and social integration into providing a service for their locale.  Its objectives are to support and promote Khmer art and culture, educating local youth, and provide jobs to youth interested in traditional crafts.  The Artisan's centre, established to perpetuate the art and culture of the World Heritage Site of Angkor through training the present generation of local youth in the disciplines of metal working, silk weaving, and wood and stone carving had the distinction of the artisans of the institute won the award "Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts" in a competition organized by UNESCO.
    artisan-angkor-silk-farm-15.jpg
  • Silk Farm at Artisans d'Angkor - a group trained by the Chantiers Écoles de Formation Professionnelle. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with two training schools. An initiative of the National Cambodian Institutions, the French Foreign Ministry and the European Union, Chantiers Ecoles de Formation Professionnelle provides unschooled rural youth with free vocational training programs, while Artisans d'Angkor provides them a professional, economic and social integration into providing a service for their locale.  Its objectives are to support and promote Khmer art and culture, educating local youth, and provide jobs to youth interested in traditional crafts.  The Artisan's centre, established to perpetuate the art and culture of the World Heritage Site of Angkor through training the present generation of local youth in the disciplines of metal working, silk weaving, and wood and stone carving had the distinction of the artisans of the institute won the award "Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts" in a competition organized by UNESCO.
    artisan-angkor-silk-farm-1.jpg
  • Eki Bento - The origin of bento can be traced back to the Kamakura Period when cooked and dried rice called hoshi-ii literally "dried meal" was developed. In the Edo Period bento culture spread and became more refined. Bento became even more popular in the 80s with the help of the microwave and the proliferation of convenience stores. The expensive wood and metal boxes have been replaced at most bento shops with inexpensive, disposable plastic ones Even handmade bento have made a comeback, and they are once again a common sight at picnics.
    bento-7.jpg
  • Shokado Bento - The origin of bento can be traced back to the Kamakura Period when cooked and dried rice called hoshi-ii literally "dried meal" was developed. In the Edo Period bento culture spread and became more refined. Bento became even more popular in the 80s with the help of the microwave and the proliferation of convenience stores. The expensive wood and metal boxes have been replaced at most bento shops with inexpensive, disposable plastic ones Even handmade bento have made a comeback, and they are once again a common sight at picnics.
    bento-3.jpg
  • School Bento - The origin of bento can be traced back to the Kamakura Period when cooked and dried rice called hoshi-ii literally "dried meal" was developed. In the Edo Period bento culture spread and became more refined. Travelers would carry a simple bentoconsisting of several onigiri wrapped with bamboo leaves or in a woven bamboo box.   Bento became even more populari in the 1980s with the help of the microwave and the proliferation of convenience stores. The expensive wood and metal boxes have been replaced at most bento shops with inexpensive, disposable plastic boxes. However, even handmade bento have made a comeback, and they are once again a common sight at Japanese schools where they are known as gakko bento or school bento lunches.
    bento-6.jpg
  • The Louvre Pyramid "Pyramide du Louvre" is a large glass and metal pyramid surrounded by three smaller pyramids, in the main courtyard or Cour Napoléon, of the Louvre Palace in Paris. The large pyramid serves as the main entrance to the Louvre Museum. and has become one of the landmarks of the city of Paris.
    louvre-courtyard.jpg
  • The Louvre Pyramid "Pyramide du Louvre" is a large glass and metal pyramid surrounded by three smaller pyramids, in the main courtyard or Cour Napoléon, of the Louvre Palace in Paris. The large pyramid serves as the main entrance to the Louvre Museum. and has become one of the landmarks of the city of Paris.
    louvre-courtyard-fountain.jpg
  • Prayer Wheels for sale at Barkhor Square - A prayer wheel is a cylindrical wheel on a spindle made from metal or wood, traditionally, the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum is written in Sanskrit externally on the wheel.  According to the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, spinning such a wheel will have much the same meritorious effect as orally reciting the prayers.
    tibetan-prayer-wheels.jpg
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