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  • Sanyo-so Outdoor Onsen - Rotemburo, or outdoor hot spring -  relaxing at an open air hot spring called a rotemburo in Japan is a favorite - surrounding yourself in nature while soaking and relaxing - what could be more restful?
    sanyo-so-onsen-1.jpg
  • Onsen or hot springs are a popular form of recreation in Japan . As a volcanically active country, Japan has thousands of onsen on its islands.  They were traditionally used as public bathing places and still are today though most people have efficient baths in their homes.  Onsen come in many types and shapes, including outdoor rotenburo or notenburo and indoor baths. Baths are often run as part of a hotel, ryokan, minshuku or Japanese inn.
    rotemburo-6.jpg
  • Izakaya Outdoor Bar, Tokyo - Outdoor drinking establishment in Akasaka a popular watering hole in downtown Tokyo
    izakaya-1.jpg
  • Sawada Park Onsen Outdoor Bath, a famous outdoor hot spring or rotemburo as they are known in Japan.  Though Sawada is small, its magnificent view over the Pacific Ocean makes up for its small size. Hot spring or onsen bathing is a popular form of entertainment and relaxation for the Japanese.
    rotemburo-31.jpg
  • Giant Outdoor Chessboard
    giant-chess-game-1.jpg
  • Onsen or hot springs are a popular form of recreation in Japan . As a volcanically active country, Japan has thousands of onsen on its islands.  They were traditionally used as public bathing places and still are today though most people have efficient baths in their homes.  Onsen come in many types and shapes, including outdoor rotenburo or notenburo and indoor baths. Baths are often run as part of a hotel, ryokan, minshuku or Japanese inn.
    rotemburo-15.jpg
  • Giant Outdoor Chessboard
    giant-chess-game-2.jpg
  • Dogashima Onsen Outdoor Bath, Izu Hot spring or onsen bathing is a popular form of entertainment and relaxation for the Japanese.
    rotemburo-19.jpg
  • Onsen or hot springs are a popular form of recreation in Japan . As a volcanically active country, Japan has thousands of onsen on its islands.  They were traditionally used as public bathing places and still are today though most people have efficient baths in their homes.  Onsen come in many types and shapes, including outdoor rotenburo or notenburo and indoor baths. Baths are often run as part of a hotel, ryokan, minshuku or Japanese inn.
    rotemburo-11.jpg
  • Komatsu Onsen Rotemburo, Outdoor Bath.  The Izu Peninsula is one of the most active volcanic regions of Japan, in the vicinity of Mt Fuji and frequent tremors, but also a great spot for numerous hot springs. Hot spring or onsen bathing is a popular form of entertainment and relaxation for the Japanese.
    rotemburo-10.jpg
  • Rotemburo, or outdoor hot spring -  relaxing at an open air hot spring called a rotemburo in Japan is a favorite - surrounding yourself in nature while soaking and relaxing - what could be more restful?
    rotemburo-2.jpg
  • Rotemburo, Outdoor Bath
    rotemburo-1.jpg
  • Shodoshima Outdoor Kabuki Stage where an outdoor kabuki stage on which local kabuki plays have been performed since the Edo Period.  Nakayama Noson Kabuki was brought back from Osaka by islanders with a painting of some famous kabuki scenes, and kabuki costumes in order to offer them to the local shrine. As a result Kabuki became popular on Shodoshima island.  Consequently some traveling kabuki groups were invited to the island.  Eventually Shodoshima islanders started to perform of their own. Nakayama theater was registered as an important tangible folk-cultural property.
    outdoor-kabuki-25.jpg
  • Shodoshima Outdoor Kabuki Stage where an outdoor kabuki stage on which local kabuki plays have been performed since the Edo Period.  Nakayama Noson Kabuki was brought back from Osaka by islanders with a painting of some famous kabuki scenes, and kabuki costumes in order to offer them to the local shrine. As a result Kabuki became popular on Shodoshima island.  Consequently some traveling kabuki groups were invited to the island.  Eventually Shodoshima islanders started to perform of their own. Nakayama theater was registered as an important tangible folk-cultural property.
    outdoor-kabuki-1.jpg
  • A Japanese man relaxing at an open air hot spring called a "rotemburo" in Japan.  Bathing in a natural atmosphere, among the trees and under open skies is a favorite with Japanese.  Nowadays it is almost a requirement for any hot spring resort to have outdoor baths thanks to their popularity.
    rotemburo-3.jpg
  • Onsen or hot springs are a popular form of recreation in Japan. As a volcanically active country, Japan has thousands of onsen on its islands. They were traditionally used as public bathing places and still are today though most people have efficient baths in their homes. Onsen come in many types, including outdoor rotenburo and indoor baths. Baths are often run as part of a hotel, ryokan, minshuku or Japanese inn.
    rotemburo-18.jpg
  • Tenkei Hot Springs near Mt Fuji has a variety of baths, including this "rotemburo" or outdoor bath with Mt Fuji in background.
    fuji-onsen-1.jpg
  • An onsen is a term for hot springs in the Japanese language, though the term is often used describe the bathing facilities and inns around a hot springs town. A volcanically active country, Japan has thousands of onsen scattered along its length and breadth. Onsen were traditionally used as public bathing places. Onsen come in many types and shapes, including outdoor rotenburo and indoor baths. Onsen are a central feature of Japanese tourism often found out in the countryside but there a number of popular establishments still found within major cities. They are a major tourist attraction drawing Japanese couples, families or company groups who want to get away from the hectic life of the city to relax. Japanese often talk of the virtues of "naked communion".
    rotemburo-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-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-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-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-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-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
  • Sai-No-Kawara Onsen - Kusatsu visitors like to take the waters and soak in the town's hot spring baths such as at Sai No Kawara, which has an outdoor bath or rotemburo.
    rotemburo-17.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-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
  • Clocks are instruments to indicate time, and one of the world's oldest inventions starting with timepieces sundails. hourglasses, and water clocks. Mechanical clocks were developed in the 13th century.
    clock-1.jpg
  • Tenkei Hot Springs near Mt Fuji has a variety of baths, including this "rotemburo" or outdoor bath with Mt Fuji in background.
    fuji-onsen-2.jpg
  • Coffee was introduced into Vietnam by French colonists in the late 19th century and the country quickly became a major exporter of coffee.  Vietnamese coffee is often roasted with butter to give it a distinctively mellow aroma though it is almost always served very strong.  Outdoor cafes are a ubiquituous part of the scene in almost any Vietnamese city and serve as neighborhood hangouts for locals.
    hoan-kiem-cafe-1.jpg
  • Rotemburo is an open-air hot spring called a "rotemburo" in Japan. Bathing in a natural atmosphere, among the trees and under open skies is a favorite with Japanese. Nowadays it is almost a requirement for any hot spring resort to have outdoor baths thanks to their popularity.
    rotemburo-1.jpg
  • Coffee was introduced into Vietnam by French colonists in the late 19th century and the country quickly became a major exporter of coffee.  Vietnamese coffee is often roasted with butter to give it a distinctively mellow aroma though it is almost always served very strong.  Outdoor cafes are a ubiquituous part of the scene in almost any Vietnamese city and serve as neighborhood hangouts for locals.
    hoan-kiem-cafe-2.jpg
  • Chinese Ear Cleaning at Wenshu Teahouse in Chengdu - Barbers in China offer various services besides haircuts including ear cleaning.  They don't even have to offer their service at a barber shop but outdoors sometimes such as at Wenshu Pagoda Teahouse in Chengdu in between pots of tea, napping and chats with friends.
    chinese-barber-1.jpg
  • Al Fresco Barber in the Beijing Hutongs -  Beijing traditional hutong life is now being protected in an attempt to preserve this aspect of Chinese cultural history and way of life. Hutong life, as described by Beijingers, usually means local or courtyard life.  Yet the hutong, or alleys, are dear to the hearts of the citizens of this city.  Hutong life refers not only to the alleyways, but mostly to the neighborly way of life that is said to be disappearing.
    outdoor-chinese-barber.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-14.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-03.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-07.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-15.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge, or "full moon bridge" built in the Chinese style at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden in Tokyo.  It has this name because a full moon is formed by the arch of the bridge and its reflection in the pond beneath.
    koishikawa-korakuen-24.jpg
  • Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. It was built by close relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun in the early Edo Period..Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature, using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill.
    koishikawa-korakuen-23.jpg
  • Ninomaru garden was designed by the famous landscape architect and tea master, Kobori Enshu. It is located between the two main rings of fortifications, next to the palace of the same name. The garden has a large pond with three islands and features numerous carefully placed stones and topiary pine trees.  Nijo Castle and its garden are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninomaru-7.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-06.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-21.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-08.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-04.jpg
  • Japanese Tea House at the Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate park was originally part of the Pan Pacific Exposition.  One of the craftsmen of the Japanese village, Makoto Hagiwara, helped design the Japanese village, and later he became responsible for the majority of the Japanese Tea Garden.  Hagiwara and his family became residents of one of the buildings in the garden, living within Golden Gate Park at the time.
    golden-gate-tea-9.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-12.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-01.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-10.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lord during the Edo Period and considered one of the most esquisite gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features ponds, hills and pavilions set in the woods which acts as background and a textbook example of borrowed scenery.
    ritsurin-garden-16.jpg
  • Yunohana Hot Springs, Niijima - Yunohana onsen, located a short walk away from the ferry port, has a series of pleasantly warm pools set into the oceanside rock. Free of charge and a great view of the Pacific Ocean. Hot spring or onsen bathing is a popular form of entertainment and relaxation for the Japanese.
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  • Sunset Hills Hot Springs, Izu Hot spring or onsen bathing is a popular form of entertainment and relaxation for the Japanese.
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  • A yatai is a small, mobile food stall typically selling ramen, yakitori or oden. The name literally means "shop stand." The stall is set up in the early evening on sidewalks and removed late at night or in the early morning hours. Beer, sake and shochu are usually available. A salaryman might relax with colleagues over dinner and drinks at a yatai on his way home from work. Fukuoka is well known in Japan for keeping the yatai tradition alive.
    fukuoka-yatai-6.jpg
  • Ashitsuki Hot Springs on Shikinejima island. These hot springs are free of charge, but the temperature changes radically throughout the day depending on the tides as the water seeps in from the ocean. These springs are famous throughout Japan for their healing properties. Hot spring or onsen bathing is a popular form of entertainment and relaxation for the Japanese.
    rotemburo-21.jpg
  • Zuiho-in Zen Garden's most intriguing feature is its main rock garden called "Dozuka-tei" which is raked into appealing patterns to suggest water ripples and waves lapping against rock formations representing the Hohrai Mountains. It was designed by Mirei Shigemori and is considered one of his most important modern Japanese gardens.
    zuiho-in-1.jpg
  • Kiyosumi Teien Garden was the site of the residence of the Edo Period business magnate, Kinokuniya Bunzaemon. Later it became the residence of the Edo of the Lord of Sekiyado castle, Shimofusa-no-kuni the period when the basic form of the garden came into existence.  In 1878,  Iwasaki Yataro, chose this property to use a garden for the entertainment of important guests. After the design and construction phases ended, the garden opened in 1880 under the name of "Fukagawa Shimbokuen." In later years, the waters of the Sumida River were brought into the grounds to make the pond. Hills and waterless waterfalls were constructed and famous rocks from all over Japan were brought in to embellish the garden. The garden was completed in the Meiji Period and developed into a famous strolling garden centered around a large pond.
    kiyosumi-28.jpg
  • Kiyosumi Teien Garden was the site of the residence of the Edo Period business magnate, Kinokuniya Bunzaemon. Later it became the residence of the Edo of the Lord of Sekiyado castle, Shimofusa-no-kuni the period when the basic form of the garden came into existence.  In 1878,  Iwasaki Yataro, chose this property to use a garden for the entertainment of important guests. After the design and construction phases ended, the garden opened in 1880 under the name of "Fukagawa Shimbokuen." In later years, the waters of the Sumida River were brought into the grounds to make the pond. Hills and waterless waterfalls were constructed and famous rocks from all over Japan were brought in to embellish the garden. The garden was completed in the Meiji Period and developed into a famous strolling garden centered around a large pond.
    kiyosumi-27.jpg
  • The Galle Face Hotel, founded in Colombo, Sri Lanka in 1864 is the oldest hotel east of the Suez.  The hotel was originally built by four British entrepreneurs in 1864. Its name derives from the stretch of lawn which it faces, known as the Galle Face Green. It began as a Dutch villa called Galle Face House.  Famous guests have included Prince Philip, Roger Moore, Richard Nixon, Lord Mountbatten and Japanese Emperor Hirohito.
    galle-face-1.jpg
  • Zuiho-in Zen Garden's most intriguing feature is its main rock garden called "Dozuka-tei" which is raked into appealing patterns to suggest water ripples and waves lapping against rock formations representing the Hohrai Mountains. It was designed by Mirei Shigemori and is considered one of his most important modern Japanese gardens.
    zuiho-in-8.jpg
  • Entoku-in Garden was originally part of Fushimijo Castle and also a sub-temple of Kodaiji Temple. It was founded by a nephew of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The northern dry garden shows the essence of Momoyama style and is a registered National Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government. It was built in 1605 and dedicated as a Rinzai sect temple in 1633..
    entoku-in-6.jpg
  • Entoku-in Nantei, Southern Garden - Entoku-in Garden was originally part of Fushimijo Castle and also a sub-temple of Kodaiji Temple. It was founded by a nephew of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The northern dry garden shows the essence of Momoyama style and is a registered National Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government. It was built in 1605 and dedicated as a Rinzai sect temple in 1633..
    entoku-in-7.jpg
  • Mount Tsukuba or Tsukuba-san as it is known to the Japanese is an 877 meter high mountain located near Tsukuba Science City. It is one of the most famous mountains in Japan, particularly well-known for its double peaks, Nyotai-san and Nantai-san. Many people climb the so-called "purple mountain" every year for the panoramic view of the Kanto plain from the summit. On clear days the Tokyo skyline, and even Mount Fuji are visible from the mountain top. Most mountains in Japan are volcanic but Mount Tsukuba is composed of non volcanic rock such as granite.
    mt-tsukuba-cyclist.jpg
  • Hirabashi Bridge at Shomyoji - Shomyoji was built by Sanetoki Hojo during the Kamakura period, and was made the Hojo family temple of the Kanazawa area. The Jodo style garden with Ajiike Pond in front of the main temple is its most unique feature when considering the arched bridge. The temple's bell was portrayed in the woodblock print "Shomyo-no-Bansho," one of eight prints depicting views of Kanazawa by Hiroshige Utagawa.
    shomyoji-hiraibashi-bridge-1.jpg
  • Zuiho-in Zen Garden's most intriguing feature is its main rock garden called "Dozuka-tei" which is raked into appealing patterns to suggest water ripples and waves lapping against rock formations representing the Hohrai Mountains. It was designed by Mirei Shigemori and is considered one of his most important modern Japanese gardens.
    zuiho-in-6.jpg
  • Hama Rikyu, the garden of a feudal lord's residence during the Edo Period, is one of Tokyo's most attractive landscape gardens. It is located next to Tokyo Bay, beside the futuristic Shiodome district. Seawater ponds, former duck hunting grounds, forested areas and a teahouse in the middle of the pond are some of the park's attractions. The difference between the traditional garden with Shiodome's skyscrapers as a background shows a remarkable contrast between modern Japan and traditional Japan which seem to co-exist in harmony.
    hama-rikkyu-10.jpg
  • Yoko-en Garden at Taizo-in Temple displays both elegance and austerity and has been called one of the Showa era's finest gardens. The landscape gardener Nakane Kinsaku designed this expansive garden.  While difficult to see at a glance, great pains have gone into the details. An example of this is the spacious impression one gets when the garden is viewed from the front.
    taizo-in-7.jpg
  • Tsutenkyo Bridge at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden -  one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. It was built by close relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun in the early Edo Period..Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature, using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill..
    koishikawa-korakuen-21.jpg
  • Japanese Cyclist on the Rails for Trails Tsukuba Bike Route
    japanese-cyclist-01.jpg
  • Soribashi Bridge at Shomyoji - Shomyoji was built by Sanetoki Hojo during the Kamakura period, and was made the Hojo family temple of the Kanazawa area. The Jodo style garden with Ajiike Pond in front of the main temple is its most unique feature when considering the arched bridge. The temple's bell was portrayed in the woodblock print "Shomyo-no-Bansho," one of eight prints depicting views of Kanazawa by Hiroshige Utagawa.
    shomyoji-soribashi-bridge-2.jpg
  • Soribashi and Hirabashi Bridges at Shomyoji - Shomyoji was built by Sanetoki Hojo during the Kamakura period, and was made the Hojo family temple of the Kanazawa area. The Jodo style garden with Ajiike Pond in front of the main temple is its most unique feature when considering the arched bridge. The temple's bell was portrayed in the woodblock print "Shomyo-no-Bansho," one of eight prints depicting views of Kanazawa by Hiroshige Utagawa.
    shomyoji-bridges-2.jpg
  • Ryoanji or the Temple of the Dragon at Peace is a Zen temple in northwest Kyoto, Ryoanji belongs to the My shin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. The garden is considered to be the finest examples of a karesansui, Japanese rock garden, or zen garden, in the world. The temple and gardens are listed as Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    ryoanji-2.jpg
  • Zuiho-in Garden of the Cross is raked into patterns to suggest a cross.  The founder of the temple, Otomo became a Christian before it was outlawed in Japan, and was renamed Francisco.  However, for hundreds of years the Christian background of this garden was hidden.  The Garden of the Cross is called this for the pattern that the stones make on the sand. The original idea of a cross was inspired the hidden beliefs of Otomo.
    zuiho-in-12.jpg
  • Ryoanji or the Temple of the Dragon at Peace is a Zen temple in northwest Kyoto, Ryoanji belongs to the My shin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. The garden is considered to be the finest examples of a karesansui, Japanese rock garden, or zen garden, in the world. The temple and gardens are listed as Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    ryoanji-1.jpg
  • Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, was built in 1393 as a retirement villa for Shogun Yoshimitsu Ashikaga. He intended to cover the exterior with gold, but only managed to coat the the ceiling of the third floor with gold leaf before his death. After his death, his son converted the building into a Zen temple of the Rinzai school named Rokuonji, in accordance with Ashikaga's wishes.
    kinkakuji-1.jpg
  • Hama Rikyu, the garden of a feudal lord's residence during the Edo Period, is one of Tokyo's most attractive landscape gardens. It is located next to Tokyo Bay, beside the futuristic Shiodome district. Seawater ponds, former duck hunting grounds, forested areas and a teahouse in the middle of the pond are some of the park's attractions. The difference between the traditional garden with Shiodome's skyscrapers as a background shows a remarkable contrast between modern Japan and traditional Japan which seem to co-exist in harmony.
    hama-rikkyu-12.jpg
  • Tsutenkyo Bridge at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden -  one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. It was built by close relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun in the early Edo Period..Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature, using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill..
    koishikawa-korakuen-20.jpg
  • Mt Fuji at Shonan Beach - Mount Fuji or Fuji-san as it is called in Japan (not Fujiyama) is the highest mountain in Japan in altitude. Mt Fuji is an active volcano that last erupted in 1707; Mount Fuji's symmetrical cone is a well known symbol of Japan and is frequently visible in art, movies and photographs. Although Mount Fuji has not erupted in over 300 years its still not considered to be extinct. Shonan Beach has long been a popular escape from Tokyo and has a rich history. Many manga and films have been set at Shonan, especially in Kamakura, solidifying its reputation as a great escape from Tokyo. It is known for its views and perspective of Mt Fuji, tides, surfing, beaches and windsurfing.
    Fuji-1.jpg
  • Hong Kong Star Ferry - Crossing Victoria Harbour from Central to Kowloon since 1888, the Star Ferry is an icon of Hong Kong. All the ferries bear the name star: Morning Star, Night Star, Electric Star. The Star Ferry made an appearance in the 1950s movie, The World of Suzie Wong, when William Holden takes a ferry to Hong Kong Island and meets Suzie Wong.  Star Ferry consistently is rated the top number 1 attraction in Hong Kong, partly because it is cheap and its unsurpassed views of the harbor.
    star-ferry-hong-kong-05.jpg
  • Mt Fuji at Shonan Beach - Mount Fuji or Fuji-san as it is called in Japan (not Fujiyama) is the highest mountain in Japan in altitude.  Mt Fuji is an active volcano that last erupted in 1707;  Mount Fuji's symmetrical cone is a well known symbol of Japan and is frequently visible in art, movies and photographs.  Although Mount Fuji has not erupted in over 300 years its still not considered to be extinct.  Shonan Beach has long been a popular escape from Tokyo and has a rich history. Many manga and films have been set at Shonan, especially in Kamakura, solidifying its reputation as a great escape from Tokyo.  It is known for its views and perspective of Mt Fuji, tides, surfing, beaches and windsurfing.
    mt-fuji-shonan-beach-04.jpg
  • Shinjuku Gyoen was designed and built on the estate of Lord Naito, a feudal lord of the Edo period. Shinjuku Gyoen was originally an imperial garden,but then donated to the public and designated a national garden after WWII. One of Tokyo's largest parks, it covers over 144 acres. Besides the Japanese Traditional Garden, Shinjuku Gyoen also has a French Formal Garden and an English Garden. Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the most important gardens of the Meiji era.
    shinjuku-gyoen-garden-9.jpg
  • Shinjuku Gyoen was designed and built on the estate of Lord Naito, a feudal lord of the Edo period. Shinjuku Gyoen was originally an imperial garden,but then donated to the public and designated a national garden after WWII. One of Tokyo's largest parks, it covers over 144 acres. Besides the Japanese Traditional Garden, Shinjuku Gyoen also has a French Formal Garden and an English Garden. Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the most important gardens of the Meiji era.
    shinjuku-gyoen-garden-6.jpg
  • Togetsukyo Bridge at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden -  one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. It was built by close relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun in the early Edo Period..Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature, using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill.
    koishikawa-korakuen-18.jpg
  • Shofu-en has three famous gardens: Iwakura, Horai and Kyokusui. These modern Japanese gardens were designed by Mirei Shigemori during the Showa era. They are among the greatest of Japanese gardens designed after the Meiji era. Mirei designed them with a combination of rocks, and the opposite concepts of "stillness" and "movement" in harmony.
    matsuo-shrine-garden-13.jpg
  • The garden of Shoren-in temple is believed to have been designed by Soami during the Muromachi era. The garden on the east side of Sokaden, known as the Garden of Kirishima, was designed by Enshu Kobori. The garden effectively utilises its surrounding natural beauty. To the south of the pond there is a waterfall, Sensin-no-taki, which flows from Mt. Awata. Located at the centre of the pond is a big stone; its shape gives the appearance of the back of a dragon bathing in the pond. Shoren-in temple is one of the five Monzeki temples of the Tendai sect in Kyoto; the head priests at these temples originally belonged to the imperial family.
    shoren-in-12.jpg
  • The garden of Shoren-in temple is believed to have been designed by Soami during the Muromachi era. The garden on the east side of Sokaden, known as the Garden of Kirishima, was designed by Enshu Kobori. The garden effectively utilises its surrounding natural beauty. To the south of the pond there is a waterfall, Sensin-no-taki, which flows from Mt. Awata. Located at the centre of the pond is a big stone; its shape gives the appearance of the back of a dragon bathing in the pond. Shoren-in temple is one of the five Monzeki temples of the Tendai sect in Kyoto; the head priests at these temples originally belonged to the imperial family.
    shoren-in-11.jpg
  • One of Beijing's many gates that separate different areas of the city from one another, with high-rise apartment buildings in the horizon.
    Beijing-City-Gate-1.jpg
  • Mihama-en was built in Makuhari  with the intention of maintaining a bit of traditional Japanese design within a very modern urban environment. Its other purpose is to provide an oasis for residents and visitors to rest from modern life.  Mihama-en is the only traditional garden in Japan that intentionally used skyscrapers as its background contrast scenery.
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  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
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  • Kiun-kaku was once among the three greatest houses in Atami.  When it became a hotel, it was used by many Japanese authors and so is thought of as a historical and cultural asset because of its atmosphere of elegance.  The garden at Kiun-kaku is a strolling pond garden, with gentle slopes, winding paths, the garden exudes an atmosphere of privacy and privilege.
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  • Ishitani Residence Garden - During the Edo period Chizu flourished as a post station. Among the quaint buildings in Chizu Town the residence of the Ishitani family, an upper class family.  Japanese, gardens are often designed to be viewed from a sitting position. The most celebrated garden at Ishitani Residence is the Chisen Garden, with plants artfully arranged around a pond, the Karesansui Garden, a dry landscape garden that uses no water to represent mountains and streams, and the Shibafu Garden showing the charm of green lawns. The space from indoors to the veranda and the gardens are connected in a gentle way.  In this way Japanese can appreciate living alongside nature by viewing from within the home.
    ishitani-garden-9.jpg
  • Ishitani Residence Garden - During the Edo period Chizu flourished as a post station. Among the quaint buildings in Chizu Town the residence of the Ishitani family, an upper class family.  Japanese, gardens are often designed to be viewed from a sitting position. The most celebrated garden at Ishitani Residence is the Chisen Garden, with plants artfully arranged around a pond, the Karesansui Garden, a dry landscape garden that uses no water to represent mountains and streams, and the Shibafu Garden showing the charm of green lawns. The space from indoors to the veranda and the gardens are connected in a gentle way.  In this way Japanese can appreciate living alongside nature by viewing from within the home.
    ishitani-garden-7.jpg
  • Lafcadio Hearn lived in Matsue for about one year during his long life in Japan.  His former residence is open to the public and is dedicated to his work.  Hearn was born in Greece in 1850 to an Irish father and a Greek mother and lived in Greece, Ireland, Britain, France and the USA before ending up in  Japan in 1890 where he married a Japanese and was naturalized as Japanese as Koizumi Yakumo, his name in Japan.  He is best know for books that introduced Japan to the western world.   His most famous work was "Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan”.  In his home at Matsue, Hearn described the Japanese garden of the residence: “There are large rocks in it, heavily mossed and fantastic basins of stone for holding water; and stone lamps green with years... and there are green knolls like islets.”  In his well known essay “In A Japanese Garden” he writes: “These are the gardens of the past. The future will know them only as dreams, creations of a forgotten art.”
    lafcadio-hearn-garden-1.jpg
  • Apart from its teahouse, the main attraction at Yamamoto-tei is its pond garden.  It is the showpiece of the teahouse, from which it can be viewed from the windows and balcony. The garden is arranged around a pond with pine trees surrounding and the sound of waterfalls.
    yamamoto-tei-4.jpg
  • Showa Kinen Park is a large space surrounded by greenery in the outer suburbs of Tokyo.  A traditional Japanese garden was created in 1997 in a corner of this spacious park.  The strolling garden surrounds a pond, overlooking a tea house.   The delicacy of traditional Japanese landscaping takes account of details as small as a single flower plant or small stone. Kanfu-tei is the tea house built in the Sukiya style in harmony with the pond garden. It was built using mostly cypress special techniques such as roofing with cypress bark and special joints at pillars and beams.
    showa-kinen-garden-5.jpg
  • Momijiyama Garden is located near the ruins of Sunpu Castle in Shizuoka.  Garden of the Village is made up of various flowers, plants and a wooden pavilion. The zigzag wooden bridge is surrounded by irises in late May and June.  Garden of the Mountain Village is composed of a hill meant to resemble Mt. Fuji.  Surrounding the hill are azalea bushes arranged to as to look like the terraced tea fields of Shizuoka.  Shizuoka’s claims to fame are green tea and Mt Fuji.  Next, Garden of the Sea or is meant to be viewed between the pines facing the pond with the white beach below, so as to resemble the seashore of Miwa. Stones in the pond and the opposite shore represent Izu coastline, also part of Shizuoka Prefecture and known for its seascapes.  Finally the Garden of the Mountain is composed of two small waterfalls meant to symbolize mountain scenes of Japan.
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