Asia Images / John Lander Photography

  • Portfolio
  • About
  • Contact
  • Archive
    • All Galleries
    • Search
    • Cart
    • Lightbox
    • Client Area
  • Books
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
x

Search Results

Refine Search
Match all words
Match any word
Prints
Personal Use
Royalty-Free
Rights-Managed
(leave unchecked to
search all images)
77 images found
twitterlinkedinfacebook

Loading ()...

  • Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An. This bridge used to join the Japanese sector of the town with the Chinese one. It has been here since 1593 and is still used today by foot traffic and cyclists. Inside the bridge there is a small temple and the two entrances of the bridge are guarded by dog figurines on one side and monkeys on the other.
    hoi-an-japanese-bridge-5.jpg
  • Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An. This bridge used to join the Japanese sector of the town with the Chinese one. It has been here since 1593 and is still used today by foot traffic and cyclists. Inside the bridge there is a small temple and the two entrances of the bridge are guarded by dog figurines on one side and monkeys on the other.
    hoi-an-japanese-bridge-1.jpg
  • Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An. This bridge used to join the Japanese sector of the town with the Chinese one. It has been here since 1593 and is still used today by foot traffic and cyclists. Inside the bridge there is a small temple and the two entrances of the bridge are guarded by dog figurines on one side and monkeys on the other.
    hoi-an-japanese-bridge-2.jpg
  • Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An. This bridge used to join the Japanese sector of the town with the Chinese one. It has been here since 1593 and is still used today by foot traffic and cyclists. Inside the bridge there is a small temple and the two entrances of the bridge are guarded by dog figurines on one side and monkeys on the other.
    hoi-an-japanese-bridge-4.jpg
  • Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An.  This  bridge used to join the Japanese sector of the town with the Chinese one. It has been here since 1593 and is still used today by foot traffic and cyclists.  Inside the bridge there is a small temple and the two entrances of the bridge are guarded by dog figurines on one side and monkeys on the other.
    Japanese-Bridge-Hoi-An-2.jpg
  • Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An.  This  bridge used to join the Japanese sector of the town with the Chinese one. It has lasted since the year 1593 when it was constructed and still used today by foot traffic and cyclists.  Inside the bridge there is a small temple and the two entrances of the bridge are guarded by a pair of dogs on one side and monkeys on the other.
    Japanese-Bridge-Hoi-An-1.jpg
  • Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An.  This  bridge used to join the Japanese sector of the town with the Chinese one. It has lasted since the year 1593 when it was constructed and still used today by foot traffic and cyclists.  Inside the bridge there is a small temple and the two entrances of the bridge are guarded by a pair of dogs on one side and monkeys on the other.
    Japanese-Bridge-Hoi-An-4.jpg
  • The Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An was erected in 1593 and is still in use today by pedestrians and cyclists. Inside the bridge there is a small temple; the two entrances of the bridge are guarded by dog figurines on one side and monkey figurines on the other.
    Japanese-Bridge-Hoi-An-7.jpg
  • Old Bridge over the Kampot River - Kampot is a provincial Cambodian town where fishing is a major industry as well as pepper and salt. The body of water is actually an estuary, thanks to its location near the coast.
    kampot-river-1.jpg
  • Ghost Bridge - The Malacca River cuts across Malacca town on its way to the Straits of Malacca.  The river played an important role in the development of Malacca as it was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest products such as rattan, cane and resin could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The Kampung Morten footbridge is probably the river's showpiece.
    ghost-bridge-1.jpg
  • Kampung Morten Bridge- The Malacca River is the river that cuts across Malacca town, on its way to the Straits of Malacca. It separates the civic district clustered at the foot of St Paul's Hill, from the residential and commercial district of Heeren Street and Jonker Street. Malacca plays an important role in the development of Malacca. In the good old days the Malacca River was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest produce such as rattan, cane and resin, could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. These shophouses have their warehouses, called godowns so that goods can unloaded directly from the river into them. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The final sight before heading back on your cruise is the famous "Kampung Morten" and the Kampung Morten footbridge. .
    kampung-morten-bridge-1.jpg
  • Hang Tuah Bridge - The Malacca River is the river that cuts across Malacca town, on its way to the Straits of Malacca. It separates the civic district clustered at the foot of St Paul's Hill, from the residential and commercial district of Heeren Street and Jonker Street. Malacca plays an important role in the development of Malacca. In the good old days the Malacca River was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest produce such as rattan, cane and resin, could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. These shophouses have their warehouses, called godowns so that goods can unloaded directly from the river into them. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The final sight before heading back on your cruise is the famous "Kampung Morten" and the Kampung Morten footbridge. .
    hang-tuah-bridge-1.jpg
  • Kampung Morten Bridge - The Malacca River is the river that cuts across Malacca town, on its way to the Straits of Malacca. It separates the civic district clustered at the foot of St Paul's Hill, from the residential and commercial district of Heeren Street and Jonker Street. Malacca plays an important role in the development of Malacca. In the good old days the Malacca River was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest produce such as rattan, cane and resin, could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. These shophouses have their warehouses, called godowns so that goods can unloaded directly from the river into them. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The final sight before heading back on your cruise is the famous "Kampung Morten" and the Kampung Morten footbridge. .
    kampung-morten-bridge-2.jpg
  • Old Bus Station Bridge - The Malacca River is the river that cuts across Malacca town, on its way to the Straits of Malacca. It separates the civic district clustered at the foot of St Paul's Hill, from the residential and commercial district of Heeren Street and Jonker Street. Malacca plays an important role in the development of Malacca. In the good old days the Malacca River was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest produce such as rattan, cane and resin, could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. These shophouses have their warehouses, called godowns so that goods can unloaded directly from the river into them. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The final sight before heading back on your cruise is the famous "Kampung Morten" and the Kampung Morten footbridge. .
    old-bus-station-bridge-2.jpg
  • Old Bus Station Bridge  - The Malacca River is the river that cuts across Malacca town, on its way to the Straits of Malacca. It separates the civic district clustered at the foot of St Paul's Hill, from the residential and commercial district of Heeren Street and Jonker Street. Malacca plays an important role in the development of Malacca. In the good old days the Malacca River was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest produce such as rattan, cane and resin, could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. These shophouses have their warehouses, called godowns so that goods can unloaded directly from the river into them. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The final sight before heading back on your cruise is the famous "Kampung Morten" and the Kampung Morten footbridge. .
    old-bus-station-bridge-3.jpg
  • The Sayabashi Bridge is a bridge over the Kanakura River in Kotohira, Kagawa Prefecture. This arched wooden bridge with copper roof in Kara-hafu style is said to have been constructed during the Genroku period(1688-1703).  It was named Sayabashi because its curved shape is similar to the scabbard of a sword. It is also known as the "Uki Bashi or "Floating Bridge" because it no legs. It was registered as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property in 1998.
    sayabashi-bridge-kotohira-03.jpg
  • The Sayabashi Bridge is a bridge over the Kanakura River in Kotohira, Kagawa Prefecture. This arched wooden bridge with copper roof in Kara-hafu style is said to have been constructed during the Genroku period(1688-1703).  It was named Sayabashi because its curved shape is similar to the scabbard of a sword. It is also known as the "Uki Bashi or "Floating Bridge" because it no legs. It was registered as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property in 1998.
    sayabashi-bridge-kotohira-05.jpg
  • The Sayabashi Bridge is a bridge over the Kanakura River in Kotohira, Kagawa Prefecture. This arched wooden bridge with copper roof in Kara-hafu style is said to have been constructed during the Genroku period(1688-1703).  It was named Sayabashi because its curved shape is similar to the scabbard of a sword. It is also known as the "Uki Bashi or "Floating Bridge" because it no legs. It was registered as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property in 1998.
    sayabashi-bridge-kotohira-06.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
  • 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
  • Mitsui Shimogamo Villa is a fine example of a classical residence of the Taisho era. The entrance is composed in the shoin-zukuri style and the main building has a tower on the third floor with views of the Kamo River, Higashiyama Hills and Mt Hiei. The garden contains a central pond in the shape of a gourd, a tea ceremony hut, and a moss garden adorned with a stone bridge that crosses the pond, stepping stones, stone lanterns, artificial hills and large stones punctuating the rest of the space. The villa was built by Hachiroemon Takamine, the head of the Mitsui clan, in 1925 for relatives visiting Shimogamo Shrine. Thanks to its well preserved condition, the villa was desiginated as an important cultural property of Japan. The Omoya main building whose biggest feature is the Boro watch tower is built within the beatiful garden, showing off the prosperity of the merchant in the old days. The Mitsui clan were a powerful business family that began trading during the Edo period and rose to become the richest family in Japan. Now the villa and gardens are open to the public.
    old-mitsui-2.jpg
  • Mitsui Shimogamo Villa is a fine example of a classical residence of the Taisho era. The entrance is composed in the shoin-zukuri style and the main building has a tower on the third floor with views of the Kamo River, Higashiyama Hills and Mt Hiei. The garden contains a central pond in the shape of a gourd, a tea ceremony hut, and a moss garden adorned with a stone bridge that crosses the pond, stepping stones, stone lanterns, artificial hills and large stones punctuating the rest of the space. The villa was built by Hachiroemon Takamine, the head of the Mitsui clan, in 1925 for relatives visiting Shimogamo Shrine. Thanks to its well preserved condition, the villa was desiginated as an important cultural property of Japan. The Omoya main building whose biggest feature is the Boro watch tower is built within the beatiful garden, showing off the prosperity of the merchant in the old days. The Mitsui clan were a powerful business family that began trading during the Edo period and rose to become the richest family in Japan. Now the villa and gardens are open to the public.
    old-mitsui-3.jpg
  • Mitsui Shimogamo Villa is a fine example of a classical residence of the Taisho era. The entrance is composed in the shoin-zukuri style and the main building has a tower on the third floor with views of the Kamo River, Higashiyama Hills and Mt Hiei. The garden contains a central pond in the shape of a gourd, a tea ceremony hut, and a moss garden adorned with a stone bridge that crosses the pond, stepping stones, stone lanterns, artificial hills and large stones punctuating the rest of the space. The villa was built by Hachiroemon Takamine, the head of the Mitsui clan, in 1925 for relatives visiting Shimogamo Shrine. Thanks to its well preserved condition, the villa was desiginated as an important cultural property of Japan. The Omoya main building whose biggest feature is the Boro watch tower is built within the beatiful garden, showing off the prosperity of the merchant in the old days. The Mitsui clan were a powerful business family that began trading during the Edo period and rose to become the richest family in Japan. Now the villa and gardens are open to the public.
    old-mitsui-4.jpg
  • Mitsui Shimogamo Villa is a fine example of a classical residence of the Taisho era. The entrance is composed in the shoin-zukuri style and the main building has a tower on the third floor with views of the Kamo River, Higashiyama Hills and Mt Hiei. The garden contains a central pond in the shape of a gourd, a tea ceremony hut, and a moss garden adorned with a stone bridge that crosses the pond, stepping stones, stone lanterns, artificial hills and large stones punctuating the rest of the space. The villa was built by Hachiroemon Takamine, the head of the Mitsui clan, in 1925 for relatives visiting Shimogamo Shrine. Thanks to its well preserved condition, the villa was desiginated as an important cultural property of Japan. The Omoya main building whose biggest feature is the Boro watch tower is built within the beatiful garden, showing off the prosperity of the merchant in the old days. The Mitsui clan were a powerful business family that began trading during the Edo period and rose to become the richest family in Japan. Now the villa and gardens are open to the public.
    old-mitsui-1.jpg
  • The Malacca River is the river that cuts across Malacca town, on its way to the Straits of Malacca. It separates the civic district clustered at the foot of St Paul's Hill, from the residential and commercial district of Heeren Street and Jonker Street. Malacca plays an important role in the development of Malacca. In the good old days the Malacca River was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest produce such as rattan, cane and resin, could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. These shophouses have their warehouses, called godowns so that goods can unloaded directly from the river into them. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The final sight before heading back on your cruise is the famous "Kampung Morten" and the Kampung Morten footbridge. .
    melaka-river-1.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-11.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-12.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-10.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-5.jpg
  • Rickshaw have made a big comeback in Japan, especially around traditional places such as Takayama, though it is more for a photo opportunity than for real transportation.  Nowadays rickshaws are pulled by Japanese university students as a part-time job, rather than a low level blue-collar job.
    japanese-rickshaw-12.jpg
  • Suizenji Garden is strolling style Japanese garden located in Kumamoto Its centerpiece is a tsukiyama representation of Mount Fuji.  Lord Hosokawa began construction of the garden in 1636 as a teahouse retreat.  Hosokawa selected the site for the spring fed pool that provided excellent tea water. The Tea Arbor and Kokindenju Room are nearly 400 years old.
    suizenji-3.jpg
  • Banna-ji Temple Pond Garden -  the main temple building of Banna-ji Temple was originally built from the ruins of the Ashikaga Clan residence. It was later rebuilt in 1299. Constructed in the traditional Zen architectural style of the Kamakura Period. The temple grounds are enclosed within a moat and earthen walls, retaining the 40,000 square metres of its original samurai domain.  The precincts are open as a public park, with cherry trees and even a large 600 years old gingko tree. It was designated a National Historic Site in 1922 and the Main Hall was made the National Treasure in 2013. Apart from temple buildings, there are gardens and objects of art.
    banna-ji-10.jpg
  • The Nawikawa Cloisonné Museum is located in a small villa lost in the narrow streets south of Heian Jingu. This residence, built in 1894, was the home of Namikawa Yasuyuki an artist of the Meiji and Taisho periods. Namikawa started his career of cloisonné artist at 28. Cloisonne is an old technique for decorating metallic objects. It consists in building wire frame enclosures in which enamel of different colors is poured. Every outline of every coloured region in the drawing is first delimited by wires, then enamel is poured and the piece is cooked, and finally polished. The museum has around 130 pieces from Namikawa. Namikawa earned a few international prizes, among which is the Exposition Internationale de Paris. This made him famous worldwide and resulted in many foreigners visiting him in Kyoto. The villa also has many sliding partitions that use glass instead of rice paper which was very unusual at the time. Besides the museum, the villa has a nice photogenic garden with a pond that reaches under the main building making it appear to float upon the pond.
    namikawa-cloisonne-garden-10.jpg
  • The Nawikawa Cloisonné Museum is located in a small villa lost in the narrow streets south of Heian Jingu. This residence, built in 1894, was the home of Namikawa Yasuyuki an artist of the Meiji and Taisho periods. Namikawa started his career of cloisonné artist at 28. Cloisonne is an old technique for decorating metallic objects. It consists in building wire frame enclosures in which enamel of different colors is poured. Every outline of every coloured region in the drawing is first delimited by wires, then enamel is poured and the piece is cooked, and finally polished. The museum has around 130 pieces from Namikawa. Namikawa earned a few international prizes, among which is the Exposition Internationale de Paris. This made him famous worldwide and resulted in many foreigners visiting him in Kyoto. The villa also has many sliding partitions that use glass instead of rice paper which was very unusual at the time. Besides the museum, the villa has a nice photogenic garden with a pond that reaches under the main building making it appear to float upon the pond.
    namikawa-cloisonne-garden-08.jpg
  • The Nawikawa Cloisonné Museum is located in a small villa lost in the narrow streets south of Heian Jingu. This residence, built in 1894, was the home of Namikawa Yasuyuki an artist of the Meiji and Taisho periods. Namikawa started his career of cloisonné artist at 28. Cloisonne is an old technique for decorating metallic objects. It consists in building wire frame enclosures in which enamel of different colors is poured. Every outline of every coloured region in the drawing is first delimited by wires, then enamel is poured and the piece is cooked, and finally polished. The museum has around 130 pieces from Namikawa. Namikawa earned a few international prizes, among which is the Exposition Internationale de Paris. This made him famous worldwide and resulted in many foreigners visiting him in Kyoto. The villa also has many sliding partitions that use glass instead of rice paper which was very unusual at the time. Besides the museum, the villa has a nice photogenic garden with a pond that reaches under the main building making it appear to float upon the pond.
    namikawa-cloisonne-garden-12.jpg
  • The Nawikawa Cloisonné Museum is located in a small villa lost in the narrow streets south of Heian Jingu. This residence, built in 1894, was the home of Namikawa Yasuyuki an artist of the Meiji and Taisho periods. Namikawa started his career of cloisonné artist at 28. Cloisonne is an old technique for decorating metallic objects. It consists in building wire frame enclosures in which enamel of different colors is poured. Every outline of every coloured region in the drawing is first delimited by wires, then enamel is poured and the piece is cooked, and finally polished. The museum has around 130 pieces from Namikawa. Namikawa earned a few international prizes, among which is the Exposition Internationale de Paris. This made him famous worldwide and resulted in many foreigners visiting him in Kyoto. The villa also has many sliding partitions that use glass instead of rice paper which was very unusual at the time. Besides the museum, the villa has a nice photogenic garden with a pond that reaches under the main building making it appear to float upon the pond.
    namikawa-cloisonne-garden-09.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
  • Takeshima Island is ust off the coast of the seaside town of Gamagori, is a small island long held in esteem by travelers of old. The island is connected to the mainland by a 387 meter long causeway. Yaotomi Shrine is locagted on the island, dedicated to the Goddess of music and of entertainers, Benten. It’s said that worshipping at the ancient shrine will provide good luck in marriage and in childbirthTakeshima was designated a National Treasure of Japan.
    takeshima-island-1.jpg
  • Hoi An Old Town - UNESCO World Heritage town Hoi An is a popular stop for visitors to Vietnam.  The towns architectural styles, relaxed atmosphere, and some of the country’s best food.  The town is an attraction in itself, but just 7 km away is an excellent beach and heading the other direction is My Son ruins, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
    thu-bon-bridge.jpg
  • The Kalingas are the indigenous people of the Kalinga area. They are generally known to be tall, dark complexioned and lissome with high bridged noses. Among the Kalinga people there is a strong sense of tribal membership and filial loyalty results in frequent tribal unrest and occasional outright war. Due to the mountainous terrain and warrior culture of the people, the Kalingas were able to maintain their culture despite the attempted occupation of the Spaniards, Japanese and Americans.
    kalinga-2.jpg
  • Mitsui Shimogamo Villa is a fine example of a classical residence of the Taisho era. The entrance is composed in the shoin-zukuri style and the main building has a tower on the third floor with views of the Kamo River, Higashiyama Hills and Mt Hiei. The garden contains a central pond in the shape of a gourd, a tea ceremony hut, and a moss garden adorned with a stone bridge that crosses the pond, stepping stones, stone lanterns, artificial hills and large stones punctuating the rest of the space. The villa was built by Hachiroemon Takamine, the head of the Mitsui clan, in 1925 for relatives visiting Shimogamo Shrine. Thanks to its well preserved condition, the villa was desiginated as an important cultural property of Japan. The Omoya main building whose biggest feature is the Boro watch tower is built within the beatiful garden, showing off the prosperity of the merchant in the old days. The Mitsui clan were a powerful business family that began trading during the Edo period and rose to become the richest family in Japan. Now the villa and gardens are open to the public.
    old-mitsui-5.jpg
  • Manshu-in also known as Manshuin Monzeki is a Tendai sect Zen Buddhist temple located near the Shugakuin Imperial Villa in Kyoto.  The temple's major garden is in the Karesansui style, and now designated as an eminent scenery; it contains a notable Pinus pentaphylla tree, now about 400 years old, set within an "island" on a stream of white sand.  This garden lies just south of Shugakuin Detached Palace on the grounds of the Monzekiji-in temple (a Tendai sect temple). Prince Toshihito's (who designed Katsura) second son, Yoshihisa seems to have had some connection with this garden's construction in 1656. The original buildings still stands in their original locations, and their Shoin style closely resembles that of Katsura. The garden is wrapped around both the large and small shoin, but according to Gunter Nitsche, it is best viewed from the small shoin. Its design is that of a pond garden in terms of layout, but the older Heian form has been transformed into the dry karesansui of the Edo period. An artificial Mount Horai is paired with rock groupings on its left. A stone bridge "Ishibashii" crosses a dry stream and a second bridge of stone slabs links a penninsula to a crane island in the far west. On the crane island are three undulating rock groups that resemble the nosuji of the Heian period . In front is a turtle island floating in an expanse of white gravel.
    manshu-in-garden-4.jpg
  • Manshu-in also known as Manshuin Monzeki is a Tendai sect Zen Buddhist temple located near the Shugakuin Imperial Villa in Kyoto.  The temple's major garden is in the Karesansui style, and now designated as an eminent scenery; it contains a notable Pinus pentaphylla tree, now about 400 years old, set within an "island" on a stream of white sand.  This garden lies just south of Shugakuin Detached Palace on the grounds of the Monzekiji-in temple (a Tendai sect temple). Prince Toshihito's (who designed Katsura) second son, Yoshihisa seems to have had some connection with this garden's construction in 1656. The original buildings still stands in their original locations, and their Shoin style closely resembles that of Katsura. The garden is wrapped around both the large and small shoin, but according to Gunter Nitsche, it is best viewed from the small shoin. Its design is that of a pond garden in terms of layout, but the older Heian form has been transformed into the dry karesansui of the Edo period. An artificial Mount Horai is paired with rock groupings on its left. A stone bridge "Ishibashii" crosses a dry stream and a second bridge of stone slabs links a penninsula to a crane island in the far west. On the crane island are three undulating rock groups that resemble the nosuji of the Heian period . In front is a turtle island floating in an expanse of white gravel.
    manshu-in-garden-3.jpg
  • Biwa Aquaduct at Nanzenji - Suirokaku at Nanzen-ji Temple was built in 1890. It’s a high-rise architectural canal that bridges over the Biwakososui River. This aqueduct brings water from Lake Biwa to Nanzenji and Kyoto itself.  The bridge reminds us of Roman structures, but was designed by Sakuro Tanabe, a 22 year old architect, in the 1890s. Tanabe had his own policy that stated, “Every architectural structure should be perfect from any perspective.”  It is indeed beautiful from any direction and somehow blends in with the scenery of Nanzen-ji Temple and gardens. 
    nanzenji-biwa-aquaduct-2.jpg
  • Biwa Aquaduct at Nanzenji - Suirokaku at Nanzen-ji Temple was built in 1890. It’s a high-rise architectural canal that bridges over the Biwakososui River. This aqueduct brings water from Lake Biwa to Nanzenji and Kyoto itself.  The bridge reminds us of Roman structures, but was designed by Sakuro Tanabe, a 22 year old architect, in the 1890s. Tanabe had his own policy that stated, “Every architectural structure should be perfect from any perspective.”  It is indeed beautiful from any direction and somehow blends in with the scenery of Nanzen-ji Temple and gardens. 
    nanzenji-biwa-aquaduct-1.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-13.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-08.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-05.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-04.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-01.jpg
  • Hosen-in was built more than 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in Temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is 700 years old.  When watched from the entrance path, the foliage of this venerable pine tree is shaped like Mount Fuji. Entrance includes a tea set whether you want it or not.   The tsukubai water basin has uniquely artistic flower arrangements to decorate the basin.  Hosen-in has second zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree.  Called the "Garden of the Crane and Turtle" -  both symbols of long life. This garden features various stones and patterns in an unusual way. The main features are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with arranged stones around it.
    hosen-in-3.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-14.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-12.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-09.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-10.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-03.jpg
  • Gyokuzoin Jizodo is a temple of the Shingon sect developed by Kobo Daishi. Besides the main temple Jizo-do temple is adjacent as one part of the whole. <br />
Gyokuzoin Jizodo is known for its splendid Japanese garden and stone bridge in front of the main hall, the only one of its kind in Saitama Prefecture. Gyokuzoin is the 55th of the 88 temples in the Kita-Adachi pilgrimage. Besides its historical significance and uniqueness it is a beloved spot for viewing the large weeping cherryblossom.  The cherry tree is 100 years old.  The temple’s Jizodo or Jizo statue has been designated as a tangible cultural property which was created during the Heian period, is enshrined apart from the main temple and has a long history as a temple devoted to Jizo.  Jizo statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth. As such they are often found along roadsides, temples or even street corners.
    gyokuzoin-jizodo-1.jpg
  • The Ramparts of Avignon encircle the entire old city of Avignon and are more than 4 kilometers long.  They were built by Pope Innocent VI, to protect the city from bands of mercenaries.  The entrance of the Avignon Bridge provides access onto the ramparts. Prior to the walls constructed by the popes, the city has always had some sort of wall to protect it, going back to Roman times. The Remparts of Avignon are a UNESCO World Heritage site
    avignon-remparts-1.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-06.jpg
  • Hosen-in Garden - Hosen-in was founded about 800 years ago as priest quarters for nearby Sanzen-in temple. The zen garden surrounding the main hall is about 300 years old, but the large pine tree on the south side is much older: 700 years! On the west of the hall, behind the little shoji window is a tsukubai water basin with a small wooden terrace leading to it. Two planks in the terrace are removable and the temple places artistic works, such as the leaves and carvings. Next time you come, the planks will likely be different. Another unique feature for this temple: Note also the pair of bamboo tubes going trough the terrace: you can listen to the sound of water dripping below the basin if you put your ear to it. Like a few other temples in Kyoto the ceiling of the main hall contains special planks that used to be floor boards for the Fushimi castle that bear traces of blood from 370 samurai's who committed ritual suicide when they lost the battle for their caste. Hosen-in has another zen garden with a very different style, just south of the old tree. Called the garden of the crane and turtle “Tsurukame Teien” -  both symbols of long life.  It features various stones and patterns in a very unusual way. The three main features of the place are the stone bridge, a racked gravel area and nice tsukubai water basin with neatly arranged stones around it.
    Hosen-in-02.jpg
  • Gyokuzoin Jizodo is a temple of the Shingon sect developed by Kobo Daishi. Besides the main temple Jizo-do temple is adjacent as one part of the whole. <br />
Gyokuzoin Jizodo is known for its splendid Japanese garden and stone bridge in front of the main hall, the only one of its kind in Saitama Prefecture. Gyokuzoin is the 55th of the 88 temples in the Kita-Adachi pilgrimage. Besides its historical significance and uniqueness it is a beloved spot for viewing the large weeping cherryblossom.  The cherry tree is 100 years old.  The temple’s Jizodo or Jizo statue has been designated as a tangible cultural property which was created during the Heian period, is enshrined apart from the main temple and has a long history as a temple devoted to Jizo.  Jizo statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth. As such they are often found along roadsides, temples or even street corners.
    gyokuzoin-jizodo-3.jpg
  • Gyokuzoin Jizodo is a temple of the Shingon sect developed by Kobo Daishi. Besides the main temple Jizo-do temple is adjacent as one part of the whole. <br />
Gyokuzoin Jizodo is known for its splendid Japanese garden and stone bridge in front of the main hall, the only one of its kind in Saitama Prefecture. Gyokuzoin is the 55th of the 88 temples in the Kita-Adachi pilgrimage. Besides its historical significance and uniqueness it is a beloved spot for viewing the large weeping cherryblossom.  The cherry tree is 100 years old.  The temple’s Jizodo or Jizo statue has been designated as a tangible cultural property which was created during the Heian period, is enshrined apart from the main temple and has a long history as a temple devoted to Jizo.  Jizo statues are popular in Japan as Bodhisattva who console beings awaiting rebirth. As such they are often found along roadsides, temples or even street corners.
    gyokuzoin-jizodo-2.jpg
  • The origins of Cathedra Saint Saveur are seen both in legend and in history. It was built on a former temple of Apollo. Its location on the old Aurelian road makes it a bridge between the Roman world and the Christian world of Aix.  The construction of the cathedral evolved between the fifth and eighteenth century.  The statues of the facade were destroyed during the French Revolution and only the Virgin of the Trumeau and Grand Saint Michel remain in their original state. The cathedral was classified as an historical monument in 1840.  Inside, the cathedral unites three naves of different styles: Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque
    cathedral-saint-saveur-aix-2.jpg
  • The origins of Cathedra Saint Saveur are seen both in legend and in history. It was built on a former temple of Apollo. Its location on the old Aurelian road makes it a bridge between the Roman world and the Christian world of Aix.  The construction of the cathedral evolved between the fifth and eighteenth century.  The statues of the facade were destroyed during the French Revolution and only the Virgin of the Trumeau and Grand Saint Michel remain in their original state. The cathedral was classified as an historical monument in 1840.  Inside, the cathedral unites three naves of different styles: Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque
    cathedral-saint-saveur-aix-1.jpg
  • The Ramparts of Avignon encircle the entire old city of Avignon and are more than 4 kilometers long. They were built by Pope Innocent VI, to protect the city from bands of mercenaries. The entrance of the Avignon Bridge provides access onto the ramparts. Prior to the walls constructed by the popes, the city has always had some sort of wall to protect it, going back to Roman times. The Remparts of Avignon are a UNESCO World Heritage site
    avignon-remparts-2.jpg
  • The Ramparts of Avignon encircle the entire old city of Avignon and are more than 4 kilometers long. They were built by Pope Innocent VI, to protect the city from bands of mercenaries. The entrance of the Avignon Bridge provides access onto the ramparts. Prior to the walls constructed by the popes, the city has always had some sort of wall to protect it, going back to Roman times. The Remparts of Avignon are a UNESCO World Heritage site
    avignon-remparts-3.jpg
  • The Ramparts of Avignon encircle the entire old city of Avignon and are more than 4 kilometers long.  They were built by Pope Innocent VI, to protect the city from bands of mercenaries.  The entrance of the Avignon Bridge provides access onto the ramparts. Prior to the walls constructed by the popes, the city has always had some sort of wall to protect it, going back to Roman times. The Remparts of Avignon are a UNESCO World Heritage site
    avignon-ramparts.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-13.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-8.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-7.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-6.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-4.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-2.jpg
  • Nishi Rokugo Koen in Tokyo is affectionately known as Tire Park or "Taiya Koen" made of up used recycled tires of every size in the shape of robots, dragons, swings, bridges, tunnels and mountains. Approximately 3,000 old tires were used to make  the playground, popular with local neighbors and visitors from other parks of Tokyo for its sheer novelty.
    tire-park-3.jpg
  • Nishi Rokugo Koen in Tokyo is affectionately known as Tire Park or "Taiya Koen" made of up used recycled tires of every size in the shape of robots, dragons, swings, bridges, tunnels and mountains. Approximately 3,000 old tires were used to make  the playground, popular with local neighbors and visitors from other parks of Tokyo for its sheer novelty.
    tire-park-2.jpg
  • Nishi Rokugo Koen in Tokyo is affectionately known as Tire Park or "Taiya Koen" made of up used recycled tires of every size in the shape of robots, dragons, swings, bridges, tunnels and mountains. Approximately 3,000 old tires were used to make  the playground, popular with local neighbors and visitors from other parks of Tokyo for its sheer novelty.
    tire-park-1.jpg
  • The Japanese garden at the Grand Prince Takanawa Hotel is a must-see spot if you happen to be staying at one of the Prince hotels in Shinagawa or happen to be in the area as access is free to guests as well as non guest . At the time of the renovation of the former Takanawa Prince Hotel in 1971, the garden replaced an old swimming pool. This garden features seasonal beauty, maples in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring, as well as colorful carps swimming in the pond, and Japanese traditional structures and bridges as well as the Ean Tea House.
    takanawa-prince-garden-1.jpg