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  • Japanese Cyclist on the Rails for Trails Tsukuba Bike Route.  Bicycles are both good exercise and have zero emissions.
    rails-for-trails.jpg
  • The Bagan Archeological Park is made up of a massive land area, connecting the temples are a few paved roads but mostly dirt trails which are made use of by the numerous goat herders in the area.
    bagan-3.jpg
  • Japanese Cyclist on the Rails for Trails Tsukuba Bike Route
    japanese-family.jpg
  • Japanese Cyclist on the Rails for Trails Tsukuba Bike Route
    japanese-cyclist-01.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-31.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-30.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-29.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-28.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-27.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-19.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-18.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-14.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-09.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-08.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-04.jpg
  • Hikers at Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-36.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-25.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-24.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-23.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-20.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-12.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-11.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-16.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-13.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-25.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-24.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-21.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-18.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-13.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-12.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-11.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-02.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-01.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-20.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-19.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-16.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-15.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-14.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-10.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-09.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-08.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-07.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-05.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-23.jpg
  • Suspension Bridge at Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine - a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-37.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-32.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-07.jpg
  • 78.6  Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass 名越切通 was constructed as an important pathway into Kamakura. The structural characteristics of this pass was considered as protection and defense during the Kamakura Period.  Along the trail there are caves that were once used as burial sites.  Access to Kamakura has always been difficult, bordered by mountains on three sides and the ocean on the other. These passes were essential for transport, but at the same time gave limited access as horses could not pass through such narrow trails, obstructing intruders.  Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed in the early 13th century
    78.6.TENTATIVE-KAMAKURA-KIRIDOSHI-01.jpg
  • Suspension Bridge at Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine - a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-06.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-05.jpg
  • The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush nature park containing many of Yakushima island's ancient cedars.  The park offers a network of hiking trails that run along the ravine varying in length from one to five hours long, though many prefer to choose their own routes among the paths. The trails vary in difficulty from basic footpaths to developed paved paths using stone and wood.  One of the main attractions of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a part of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. Oga Kazuo, the lead artist for the film, spent lots of time here working on sketches for the movie's forests.  Besides the ancient cedar trees, some of them thousands of years old, the continually wet microclimate protects the cedars by enabling them to produce more than usual resin,  It also is an ideal climate for moss, which grows everywhere here.
    shiretani-unsui-gorge-22.jpg
  • 78.6  Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass 名越切通 was constructed as an important pathway into Kamakura. The structural characteristics of this pass was considered as protection and defense during the Kamakura Period.  Along the trail there are caves that were once used as burial sites.  Access to Kamakura has always been difficult, bordered by mountains on three sides and the ocean on the other. These passes were essential for transport, but at the same time gave limited access as horses could not pass through such narrow trails, obstructing intruders.  Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed in the early 13th century
    78.6.TENTATIVE-KAMAKURA-KIRIDOSHI-02.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-04.jpg
  • Yakusugiland - although it may sound like a tacky theme park devoted to trees, it is really more of a nature hiking park.  There are short trails that have wooden steps and you don't have to go far before you're surrounded by the quiet cedar forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature left mostly undisturbed. On the longer trail routes, the forest becomes denser, leaving civilization far behind. Some of these trees are thousands of years old so you feel like an explorer. Everywhere there are fallen trees and stumps, exposed roots, trees overgrown with moss and lichens, ferns sprouting from the sides of trees and from overhanging branches, growth upon growth.
    yakusugiland-03.jpg
  • Henro, or Japanese Buddhist pilgrims, making their way along the sacred trails of Koya-san.  Though the most famous trail in Japan is around Shikoku Island's 88 temples, Koya-san is another hot spot.  Nowadays it is common to undertake pilgrimages in stages, completing one cycle in a number of trips; many devotees repeat the pilgrimage - even hundreds of times. Some become so addicted to the sites and the route that they spend their entire lives on the road and end their pilgrimage only in death, a memorial stone marking the ending  of their life's journey.
    henro-19.jpg
  • Cycling or simply bicycle riding is a popular form of exercise.  Human powered vehicles such as bikes, unicycles, tandem bikes and bicycles been popular for centuries.  In modern history cycling is now a competitive sport with various categories.  Cross country cycling or cyclo cross was once for road racers during off season to step up their training during off months.  It has become popular on short courses though wooded trails, rails for trails and along rivers with distances between 15 minutes and one hour long. Cross country cycling is especially popular in Japan, France, Belgium and the Netherlands.  Bicycle races are popular all over the world, especially in Europe and is recognized as a sport at the Olympics with various types of competitions devoted to the event.
    cyclist-japanese-4.jpg
  • Cycling or simply bicycle riding is a popular form of exercise.  Human powered vehicles such as bikes, unicycles, tandem bikes and bicycles been popular for centuries.  In modern history cycling is now a competitive sport with various categories.  Cross country cycling or cyclo cross was once for road racers during off season to step up their training during off months.  It has become popular on short courses though wooded trails, rails for trails and along rivers with distances between 15 minutes and one hour long. Cross country cycling is especially popular in Japan, France, Belgium and the Netherlands.  Bicycle races are popular all over the world, especially in Europe and is recognized as a sport at the Olympics with various types of competitions devoted to the event.
    cyclist-japanese-3.jpg
  • Cycling or simply bicycle riding is a popular form of exercise.  Human powered vehicles such as bikes, unicycles, tandem bikes and bicycles been popular for centuries.  In modern history cycling is now a competitive sport with various categories.  Cross country cycling or cyclo cross was once for road racers during off season to step up their training during off months.  It has become popular on short courses though wooded trails, rails for trails and along rivers with distances between 15 minutes and one hour long. Cross country cycling is especially popular in Japan, France, Belgium and the Netherlands.  Bicycle races are popular all over the world, especially in Europe and is recognized as a sport at the Olympics with various types of competitions devoted to the event.
    cyclist-japanese-1.jpg
  • Cycling or simply bicycle riding is a popular form of exercise.  Human powered vehicles such as bikes, unicycles, tandem bikes and bicycles been popular for centuries.  In modern history cycling is now a competitive sport with various categories.  Cross country cycling or cyclo cross was once for road racers during off season to step up their training during off months.  It has become popular on short courses though wooded trails, rails for trails and along rivers with distances between 15 minutes and one hour long. Cross country cycling is especially popular in Japan, France, Belgium and the Netherlands.  Bicycle races are popular all over the world, especially in Europe and is recognized as a sport at the Olympics with various types of competitions devoted to the event.
    cyclist-japanese-5.jpg
  • Cycling or simply bicycle riding is a popular form of exercise.  Human powered vehicles such as bikes, unicycles, tandem bikes and bicycles been popular for centuries.  In modern history cycling is now a competitive sport with various categories.  Cross country cycling or cyclo cross was once for road racers during off season to step up their training during off months.  It has become popular on short courses though wooded trails, rails for trails and along rivers with distances between 15 minutes and one hour long. Cross country cycling is especially popular in Japan, France, Belgium and the Netherlands.  Bicycle races are popular all over the world, especially in Europe and is recognized as a sport at the Olympics with various types of competitions devoted to the event.
    cyclist-japanese-2.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-04.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-07.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-05.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-02.jpg
  • 66.1. Shiretani Unsui Gorge 白谷雲水峡の森林 is a lush nature park containing a number of Yakushima's ancient cedars such as the Nidaio-sugi, Kuguri-sugi and Yayoi-sugi. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a popular destination to see these forests without much strenuous hiking with a network of well-maintained trails that run along the ravine.  One of the main attractions here is an area of the forest that served as the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime Princess Mononoke.
    66.1.YAKUSHIMA.SHIRETANI-01.jpg
  • Hiking Mt Takao - Trail 1 from the base of the mountain is a bit ofa  tough climb climb, but it is paved most of the way and leads past the top stations of both the ropeway and the funicular on the way to the summit. The "Inariyama Trail" is unpaved and starts from the base of the mountain and goes all the way to the summit, but do not pass the ropeway and funicular top stations. Some visitors to Takao ride up the mountain and then walk back down.
    takao-trail-02.jpg
  • Hiking Mt Takao - Trail 1 from the base of the mountain is a bit ofa  tough climb climb, but it is paved most of the way and leads past the top stations of both the ropeway and the funicular on the way to the summit. The "Inariyama Trail" is unpaved and starts from the base of the mountain and goes all the way to the summit, but do not pass the ropeway and funicular top stations. Some visitors to Takao ride up the mountain and then walk back down.
    takao-trail-03.jpg
  • Mandarado Yagura a series of caves sites along an ancient footpath that is now a popular hiking trail that passes through three cuttings known as the Nagoe Kiridoshi.  Yagura are caves that contain the remains of warriors, samurai and Buddhist monks. They can be found across Japan, but history and topography have resulted in large numbers of  yagura in Kamakura. The Mandarado Yagura is made up of more than 160 caves in three tiers is the largest known collection of yagura in Japan.  It was surveyed and restored by volunteers and opened to the public on a limited basis making this a rare opportunity to visit the site.
    mandarado-yagura-03.jpg
  • Mandarado Yagura a series of caves sites along an ancient footpath that is now a popular hiking trail that passes through three cuttings known as the Nagoe Kiridoshi.  Yagura are caves that contain the remains of warriors, samurai and Buddhist monks. They can be found across Japan, but history and topography have resulted in large numbers of  yagura in Kamakura. The Mandarado Yagura is made up of more than 160 caves in three tiers is the largest known collection of yagura in Japan.  It was surveyed and restored by volunteers and opened to the public on a limited basis making this a rare opportunity to visit the site.
    mandarado-yagura-05.jpg
  • Mandarado Yagura a series of caves sites along an ancient footpath that is now a popular hiking trail that passes through three cuttings known as the Nagoe Kiridoshi.  Yagura are caves that contain the remains of warriors, samurai and Buddhist monks. They can be found across Japan, but history and topography have resulted in large numbers of  yagura in Kamakura. The Mandarado Yagura is made up of more than 160 caves in three tiers is the largest known collection of yagura in Japan.  It was surveyed and restored by volunteers and opened to the public on a limited basis making this a rare opportunity to visit the site.
    mandarado-yagura-2.jpg
  • Mandarado Yagura a series of caves sites along an ancient footpath that is now a popular hiking trail that passes through three cuttings known as the Nagoe Kiridoshi.  Yagura are caves that contain the remains of warriors, samurai and Buddhist monks. They can be found across Japan, but history and topography have resulted in large numbers of  yagura in Kamakura. The Mandarado Yagura is made up of more than 160 caves in three tiers is the largest known collection of yagura in Japan.  It was surveyed and restored by volunteers and opened to the public on a limited basis making this a rare opportunity to visit the site.
    mandarado-yagura-1.jpg
  • Mandarado Yagura a series of caves sites along an ancient footpath that is now a popular hiking trail that passes through three cuttings known as the Nagoe Kiridoshi.  Yagura are caves that contain the remains of warriors, samurai and Buddhist monks. They can be found across Japan, but history and topography have resulted in large numbers of  yagura in Kamakura. The Mandarado Yagura is made up of more than 160 caves in three tiers is the largest known collection of yagura in Japan.  It was surveyed and restored by volunteers and opened to the public on a limited basis making this a rare opportunity to visit the site.
    mandarado-yagura-04.jpg
  • 73.3 Yatsusegawa River Trail 八ツ瀬川 Chichijima, part of the Ogasawara Island chain, has many nature trails for spotting rare plant species and bird watching.  Several of them are reserved sanctuaries for the conservation of the habitat of endangered  species.  Most of these nature trails require a licensed guide when going into a forest trail of buffer zones. One of the few trails that allow the solo adventurer is along the Yatsusegawa River Trail where visitors can breathe in nature in its abundance with hardly any other souls nearby, despite its being next door to one of the very best beaches in Japan.
    73.3.YATSUSEGAWA-TRAIL.jpg
  • Yatsusegawa River Trail -  Chichijima on the Ogasawara Island chain has many nature trails for vieiwng rate plant species and bird watching.  Several of them are reserved sanctuaries to conserve the habitat of endangered or endemic species to the island.  Most of these nature trails require a licensed guide when going into a forest trail of buffer zones. One of the few trails that allow the solo adventurer is along the Yatsusegawa River Trail where visitors can breathe in nature in its abundance with hardly any other souls nearby, despite is being next door to one of the very best beaches in Japan.
    Yatsusegawa-river-02.jpg
  • Yatsusegawa River Trail -  Chichijima on the Ogasawara Island chain has many nature trails for vieiwng rate plant species and bird watching.  Several of them are reserved sanctuaries to conserve the habitat of endangered or endemic species to the island.  Most of these nature trails require a licensed guide when going into a forest trail of buffer zones. One of the few trails that allow the solo adventurer is along the Yatsusegawa River Trail where visitors can breathe in nature in its abundance with hardly any other souls nearby, despite is being next door to one of the very best beaches in Japan.
    Yatsusegawa-river-05.jpg
  • Yatsusegawa River Trail -  Chichijima on the Ogasawara Island chain has many nature trails for vieiwng rate plant species and bird watching.  Several of them are reserved sanctuaries to conserve the habitat of endangered or endemic species to the island.  Most of these nature trails require a licensed guide when going into a forest trail of buffer zones. One of the few trails that allow the solo adventurer is along the Yatsusegawa River Trail where visitors can breathe in nature in its abundance with hardly any other souls nearby, despite is being next door to one of the very best beaches in Japan.
    Yatsusegawa-river-04.jpg
  • Yatsusegawa River Trail -  Chichijima on the Ogasawara Island chain has many nature trails for vieiwng rate plant species and bird watching.  Several of them are reserved sanctuaries to conserve the habitat of endangered or endemic species to the island.  Most of these nature trails require a licensed guide when going into a forest trail of buffer zones. One of the few trails that allow the solo adventurer is along the Yatsusegawa River Trail where visitors can breathe in nature in its abundance with hardly any other souls nearby, despite is being next door to one of the very best beaches in Japan.
    Yatsusegawa-river-03.jpg
  • Yatsusegawa River Trail -  Chichijima on the Ogasawara Island chain has many nature trails for vieiwng rate plant species and bird watching.  Several of them are reserved sanctuaries to conserve the habitat of endangered or endemic species to the island.  Most of these nature trails require a licensed guide when going into a forest trail of buffer zones. One of the few trails that allow the solo adventurer is along the Yatsusegawa River Trail where visitors can breathe in nature in its abundance with hardly any other souls nearby, despite is being next door to one of the very best beaches in Japan.
    Yatsusegawa-river-01.jpg
  • Chichijima on the Ogasawara Island chain has many nature trails for vieiwng rate plant species and bird watching.  Several of them are reserved sanctuaries to conserve the habitat of endangered or endemic species to the island.  Most of these nature trails require a licensed guide when going into a forest trail of buffer zones. One of the few trails that allow the solo adventurer is along the Yatsusegawa River Trail where visitors can breathe in nature in its abundance with hardly any other souls nearby, despite is being next door to one of the very best beaches in Japan.
    ogasawara-nature-trail-1.jpg
  • Mt. Takatori and Jinmu-ji Temple  and hiking along old pilgrim trails of this sacred mountain temple is like stepping into old Japan.  It is hard to remember that one is only minutes away from Yokohama or Zushi railway stations. Although Jinmu-ji temple itself is simple and plain, it is nestled into the side of an ancient mountain forest where several old hiking trails intersect which makes it special.
    jimuji-temple-4.jpg
  • Mt. Takatori and Jinmu-ji Temple  and hiking along old pilgrim trails of this sacred mountain temple is like stepping into old Japan.  It is hard to remember that one is only minutes away from Yokohama or Zushi railway stations. Although Jinmu-ji temple itself is simple and plain, it is nestled into the side of an ancient mountain forest where several old hiking trails intersect which makes it special.
    jimuji-temple-2.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-16.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-10.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-04.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-03.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-01.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-15.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-13.jpg
  • Nagoe Kiridoshi Pass was constructed on an important road from Kamakura toward the Miura Peninsula via Zushi in the southeast. The present kiridoshi pass extends along spots where the pass zigzags near the border of Kamakura City and Zushi City and near the exit on the Zushi side. Therefore, the structural characteristics of this pass considered as a defense during the Kamakura Period have been retained. More than 160 yagura caves have been identified until today and another buried row of yagura stage has also been identified. Therefore, it is a group of  yagura caves in the largest-scale, exceeding the Hyakuhachi Yagura Caves. This group of yagura caves are congregated in particular. The way all-scale yagura caves of several square meter floor space open up on stages produces unique funereal space in combination with large numbers of enshrined five-wheel pagodas. The sight is overwhelming. Kamakura Kiridoshi Passes are thought to have been constructed by the early 13th century.
    nagoe-kiridosh-pass-02.jpg
  • The footprints of Buddha are on the path from aniconic to iconic which starts at symbols like the wheel and moves to statues of Buddha. His footprints are meant to remind us that Buddha was present on earth and left a spiritual path to be followed. The veneration of the feet of gurus or deities was commonplace in ancient India, placing one's head at or under their feet was once  a ritual gesture signifying deference or hierarchy.
    buddha-footprints-2.jpg
  • The footprints of Buddha are on the path from aniconic to iconic which starts at symbols like the wheel and moves to statues of Buddha. His footprints are meant to remind us that Buddha was present on earth and left a spiritual path to be followed. The veneration of the feet of gurus or deities was commonplace in ancient India, placing one's head at or under their feet was once  a ritual gesture signifying deference or hierarchy.
    buddha-footprints-1.jpg
  • 66.2 Yakusugi Land 屋久杉ランド  In spite of its theme park name Yakusugi Land is a cedar grove where visitors can enjoy observing ancient trees and the epiphytes which grow on them. This hiking course here is relatively flat and is suitable for beginning hikers. There are a wide range of courses from 30 to 150 minutes long depending on weather conditions, the hikers ability and stamina.  Several of the trees are more than 3000 years old, covered with epiphytes plant life including chamaecyparis obtusa, rhododendron, sorbus commixta, ilex crenata, and illicium arisatum.
    66.2.YAKUSHIMA-YAKUSUGILAND-07.jpg
  • 66.2 Yakusugi Land 屋久杉ランド  In spite of its theme park name Yakusugi Land is a cedar grove where visitors can enjoy observing ancient trees and the epiphytes which grow on them. This hiking course here is relatively flat and is suitable for beginning hikers. There are a wide range of courses from 30 to 150 minutes long depending on weather conditions, the hikers ability and stamina.  Several of the trees are more than 3000 years old, covered with epiphytes plant life including chamaecyparis obtusa, rhododendron, sorbus commixta, ilex crenata, and illicium arisatum.
    66.2.YAKUSHIMA-YAKUSUGILAND-03.jpg
  • 66.2 Yakusugi Land 屋久杉ランド  In spite of its theme park name Yakusugi Land is a cedar grove where visitors can enjoy observing ancient trees and the epiphytes which grow on them. This hiking course here is relatively flat and is suitable for beginning hikers. There are a wide range of courses from 30 to 150 minutes long depending on weather conditions, the hikers ability and stamina.  Several of the trees are more than 3000 years old, covered with epiphytes plant life including chamaecyparis obtusa, rhododendron, sorbus commixta, ilex crenata, and illicium arisatum.
    66.2.YAKUSHIMA-YAKUSUGILAND-02.jpg
  • 66.2 Yakusugi Land 屋久杉ランド  In spite of its theme park name Yakusugi Land is a cedar grove where visitors can enjoy observing ancient trees and the epiphytes which grow on them. This hiking course here is relatively flat and is suitable for beginning hikers. There are a wide range of courses from 30 to 150 minutes long depending on weather conditions, the hikers ability and stamina.  Several of the trees are more than 3000 years old, covered with epiphytes plant life including chamaecyparis obtusa, rhododendron, sorbus commixta, ilex crenata, and illicium arisatum.
    66.2.YAKUSHIMA-YAKUSUGILAND-01.jpg
  • 66.2 Yakusugi Land 屋久杉ランド  In spite of its theme park name Yakusugi Land is a cedar grove where visitors can enjoy observing ancient trees and the epiphytes which grow on them. This hiking course here is relatively flat and is suitable for beginning hikers. There are a wide range of courses from 30 to 150 minutes long depending on weather conditions, the hikers ability and stamina.  Several of the trees are more than 3000 years old, covered with epiphytes plant life including chamaecyparis obtusa, rhododendron, sorbus commixta, ilex crenata, and illicium arisatum.
    66.2.YAKUSHIMA-YAKUSUGILAND-06.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
  • The Kumano Kodo is a network of pilgrimage routes, trekked for centuries by Japanese from all levels of society. Such pilgrims wear white and are known as Henro. The trails provide access to the Kumano region, an undeveloped area of Japan with clean river and waterfalls, pristine mountains and forests. Kumano has been sacred since prehistoric times, and is considered to be the origin of Japanese spirituality.  Along the Kumano Kodo pilgrims walk through leafy paths deep into the mountains every year to purify themselves,  praying to deities dwelling in the trees and rocks.  Kumano is considered to be the abode of the gods by the Japanese.  Thanks in part to UNESCO, Kumano Kodo networks of trails are well signposted and maintained.
    kumano-kodo-1.jpg
  • The Kumano Kodo is a network of pilgrimage routes, trekked for centuries by Japanese from all levels of society. Such pilgrims wear white and are known as Henro. The trails provide access to the Kumano region, an undeveloped area of Japan with clean river and waterfalls, pristine mountains and forests. Kumano has been sacred since prehistoric times, and is considered to be the origin of Japanese spirituality.  Along the Kumano Kodo pilgrims walk through leafy paths deep into the mountains every year to purify themselves,  praying to deities dwelling in the trees and rocks.  Kumano is considered to be the abode of the gods by the Japanese.  Thanks in part to UNESCO, Kumano Kodo networks of trails are well signposted and maintained.
    kumano-kodo-2.jpg
  • Asaina Pass or Asaina Kiridooshi  is a designated historic site of Japan.  The  Kamakura Shogunate Yasutoki Hojo in 1240 had this pass built as a road leading into the capital of Kamakura, well protected outsiders from all directions by mountains and ocean.  These Kiridoshi carved passageways were the only way in and out of Kamakura and that was very much by design.  These ancient trails and pathways still exist though not for government functionaries but these days are devoted to weekend hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.  This particular route was very important as it was a passage from the East where salt was coming from at the time via what is known today as Mutsuura Yokohama, where the trail begins.   In 1969 it was designated as a national historic site that shows the terrain of Kamakura and the status of communication with the outside as one of the "Kamakura Seven Exits" Shichikiri-dori.
    asiana-pass-kiridoshi-8.jpg
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