tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42549240294950769832024-03-26T23:35:33.055-07:00Travel for LifeTravel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.comBlogger473125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-16850403845798641232024-03-16T18:52:00.000-07:002024-03-18T08:29:09.734-07:00Soak and Explore: A Relaxing and Rewarding Escape to Lake Toya<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XK51zTwa7xg?si=CookttWt41vQgySt" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Onsen Ryokan with Stunning Lake Views in Hokkaido (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XK51zTwa7xg" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><p>This title paints a picture of a rejuvenating and enriching getaway to Lake Toya in Hokkaido, Japan. Let's delve deeper into what this escape might entail:</p><b>Soak:</b><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Natural Hot Springs (Onsen):</b> Lake Toya is renowned for its numerous natural hot springs offering stunning views of the lake or surrounding mountains. Imagine unwinding in steaming hot water, surrounded by nature, and letting your worries melt away.</li><li><b>Relaxing Treatments: </b>Many hotels and resorts around Lake Toya offer traditional Japanese spa treatments like massages and aromatherapy to further enhance your relaxation experience.</li></ul><b>Explore:</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Scenic Beauty: </b>Lake Toya itself is a breathtaking volcanic caldera lake nestled amidst picturesque mountains. You can enjoy breathtaking views by strolling along the lakefront or taking a scenic boat ride.<sup>[3]</sup></li><li><b>Outdoor Activities:</b> Depending on the season, you can explore the surrounding area through hiking trails, biking excursions, or even winter sports like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.</li><li><b>Cultural Delights:</b> Hokkaido offers a unique blend of Ainu (indigenous people of Hokkaido) and Japanese culture. Visit local museums, historical sites, or try authentic Hokkaido cuisine for a taste of the region's heritage.</li><li><b>Wildlife Watching: </b>Lake Toya is a habitat for various wildlife, including bears (during safe viewing seasons) and birds. You might even be lucky enough to spot some on your explorations.</li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">Saddle Up for Adventure: </h3></div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to soaking in the serenity of the natural hot springs and exploring the captivating beauty of Lake Toya, your Hokkaido escape can be further enriched by a thrilling horseback riding adventure.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Immerse Yourself in Nature:</b> Embrace the breathtaking scenery of Lake Toya and the surrounding mountains from a unique perspective – on horseback! Imagine trotting through serene forests or traversing gentle slopes with the cool mountain air brushing against your face.</li><li><b>Experience Hokkaido's Landscape: </b>Horseback riding allows you to access areas that might be difficult to reach on foot, offering a more intimate connection with Hokkaido's diverse landscapes.</li><li><b>Suitable for All Levels: </b>Lake Toya offers horse riding experiences catering to riders of all skill sets. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a complete beginner, you can enjoy a safe and memorable ride with experienced guides by your side.</li><li><b>Family-Friendly Activity:</b> Horseback riding is a fantastic activity for families with children. It provides a fun and engaging way for everyone to connect with nature and create lasting memories together.</li></ul>Overall, "Soak and Explore: A Relaxing and Rewarding Escape to Lake Toya, Hokkaido" entices travelers seeking a getaway that combines relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion in a stunning natural setting.<br /><br />By incorporating Lake Toya Horse Riding into your "Soak and Explore" escape, you'll add a touch of adventure and create a well-rounded itinerary that caters to relaxation, exploration, and creating unforgettable memories in the heart of Hokkaido.<div><span style="font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0zEWfZzbJcc?si=GL161_v9N4WjTx4R" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: small;">Visiting active volcanoes in Shikotsu-Toya National Park (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zEWfZzbJcc" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">References</h3><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.jphorseriding.com/trail/" target="_blank">Lake Toya Horse Riding</a></li><li><a href="https://www-jphorseriding-com.translate.goog/toya/yoyaku2/?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja&_x_tr_pto=wapp" target="_blank">Lake Toya Ranch</a></li><li><a href="https://www.toyakokisen.com/en/" target="_blank">洞爺湖汽船 Nakanoshima Cruise</a></li><li><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5306.html" target="_blank">Sapporo: Getting there and around</a></li><li><a href="http://www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/niseko-united-annapurigrand-hirafuhanazononiseko-village/trail-map/">ski resort information</a></li><li><a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6745.html">定山渓温泉, Jōzankei Onsen</a></li><li><a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5306.html">How to travel between Sapporo and Tokyo</a></li><li><a href="http://www.shogetsugrand.com/english/jozankei/">Taking a stroll around Jozankei</a></li><li><a href="http://jozankei.jp/en/category/tourism-and-stroll">Jozankei Onsen Tourist Asso</a></li><li><a href="http://jozankei.jp/en/sapporo-kokusai-ski-resort/442">Jozankei Kogen Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort</a></li><li><a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6720.html">Niseko</a> (Japan-guide)</li><li><a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/14411687?checkin=03%2F31%2F2017&checkout=04%2F07%2F2017&guests=1&adults=1&children=0&infants=0&s=cmIWml_X">Airbnb</a></li><li><a href="http://www.sufentan.com/2016/06/hokkaido-8-days-7-nights-winter.html">Hokkaido 8 days 7 nights Winter Itinerary</a></li><li><a href="https://www.city.otaru.lg.jp/sisei_tokei/otaru/foreigner/otaru-map.data/omote-en.pdf">Otaru Tourism Access Guide</a> (pdf)</li><li><a href="http://www.powderhounds.com/Japan/Hokkaido/Furano.aspx">Furano Ski</a></li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYKsVGXzOYY&t=217s">Journeys in Japan: Niseko - Snowy Adventures</a></li><li><a href="http://www.iamili.com/">ili translator</a></li><li><a href="https://www.busytourist.com/things-to-do-in-hokkaido-japan/">Hokkaido Travel Guide: 54 Things To Do In Hokkaido (Japan)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqZA5-gCFyY">Biei, Hokkaido Layers of beauty in the Patchwork Hills</a></li></ol><p></p></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-47333108308971738942024-03-10T09:57:00.000-07:002024-03-10T10:02:21.055-07:00Illuminated Love River: A Journey from Chateau de Chine to Pier-2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXTvFWhaRxUW61xQmZ5RQbiNr-Vqslmu1mKGejJgPuReUiVZ29ZDOR1LaMr46trioZZczAOqBm1zhEF1etaFZzyu6DDaVbPPIOyKivs60PF8A0Cwv4TS-iJZu2B3lUjXPW0llUuXbxDUxcyBqocTQhiRcAUw4FrPGT3taORTAQqMLCqB815pKpThzs-C7/s4000/20230502_201604.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXTvFWhaRxUW61xQmZ5RQbiNr-Vqslmu1mKGejJgPuReUiVZ29ZDOR1LaMr46trioZZczAOqBm1zhEF1etaFZzyu6DDaVbPPIOyKivs60PF8A0Cwv4TS-iJZu2B3lUjXPW0llUuXbxDUxcyBqocTQhiRcAUw4FrPGT3taORTAQqMLCqB815pKpThzs-C7/w640-h480/20230502_201604.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>The <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Love+River/@22.6499252,120.2648679,13z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x346e04fb21935ccd:0xf44e336c93ecbd!8m2!3d22.6529037!4d120.3054076!16zL20vMGQyNTVx?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Love River</a> (Ai He) in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is a picturesque waterway that winds through the heart of the city. As day turns into night, the river transforms into a magical spectacle, especially when illuminated.<div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery </h3><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p>On a delightful May evening, the 2nd in 2023, I embarked on a stroll from my <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Chateau+de+Chine+Hotel+Kaohsiung/@22.6242216,120.2799909,16z/data=!3m1!5s0x346e0470aba7534b:0x2a7d39db4f3010bb!4m19!1m8!3m7!1s0x346e0389dfa8dd57:0x78f910f5db523b38!2sPier-2+Art+Center,+Yancheng+District,+Kaohsiung+City,+Taiwan+803!3b1!8m2!3d22.6199049!4d120.2816865!16s%2Fg%2F11b6bpm5b3!3m9!1s0x346e0470a97bfccd:0xbdf2cfcf0393771f!5m3!1s2024-03-13!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d22.6248664!4d120.2856229!16s%2Fg%2F1vxw602s?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kaohsiung hotel</a> to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pier-2+Art+Center,+Yancheng+District,+Kaohsiung+City,+Taiwan+803/@22.6199237,120.2632324,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x346e0389dfa8dd57:0x78f910f5db523b38!8m2!3d22.6199049!4d120.2816865!16s%2Fg%2F11b6bpm5b3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Pier-2 Art Center</a>, following the scenic route along the Love River. The scenic route followed the gentle curves of the Love River, its surface shimmering with the reflections of the awakening city lights. The day's warmth lingered in the air, but a gentle breeze whispered by, carrying the promise of a cool evening. The atmosphere was undeniably romantic, a perfect harmony of light, water, and the city's gentle hum.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSwly5xiQboSVDUh_2-NALR97wM8kzQCEs3yjeIUKbOSeB3L6AtFaSTXBOgYKNKNnAz4jM4ulM2rbZtzHbbRxDqqMv6QCb7cqP864UjtFNPxzwZnhB2B4x989di61zBcQoXDzVXzaXCFQ8-3uHb5U2PA54LgClsut0oMYUjZwDixC0dybi2yt4eV9hTZH/s4000/20230502_195813.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSwly5xiQboSVDUh_2-NALR97wM8kzQCEs3yjeIUKbOSeB3L6AtFaSTXBOgYKNKNnAz4jM4ulM2rbZtzHbbRxDqqMv6QCb7cqP864UjtFNPxzwZnhB2B4x989di61zBcQoXDzVXzaXCFQ8-3uHb5U2PA54LgClsut0oMYUjZwDixC0dybi2yt4eV9hTZH/w480-h640/20230502_195813.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kaohsiung+Music+Center/@22.6181374,120.2796427,16z/data=!3m1!5s0x346e038783b2ec89:0x1f10e3129a9be280!4m13!1m5!2m4!1sKaohsiung+Music+Center!5m2!5m1!1s2024-03-13!3m6!1s0x346e037fc2013e71:0xc61249aec47e0cd1!8m2!3d22.6181374!4d120.2886549!15sChZLYW9oc2l1bmcgTXVzaWMgQ2VudGVyWhgiFmthb2hzaXVuZyBtdXNpYyBjZW50ZXKSARBsaXZlX211c2ljX3ZlbnVlmgEkQ2hkRFNVaE5NRzluUzBWSlEwRm5TVVJUTW1SeWFTMVJSUkFC4AEA!16s%2Fg%2F11gx_n5_mg?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kaohsiung Music Center</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxlSD8ihCgS-qzpCHG7aYYzc7xGRIA25_JI8tDUlbznQ5Qkf5OFaBogzqU5PKYBo78k5MQaz2z9Oh2IG7wY3ZnzCQJc40UL2DUOzLgN4UjEAlDr5WcCkrdtXDVERTagQqNnDTH4BcpL8we7oBn4lWf0sKa4DP-QLi_XduU37cAlWulFsI-KvOUc9oYDN5/s4000/20230502_200327.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxlSD8ihCgS-qzpCHG7aYYzc7xGRIA25_JI8tDUlbznQ5Qkf5OFaBogzqU5PKYBo78k5MQaz2z9Oh2IG7wY3ZnzCQJc40UL2DUOzLgN4UjEAlDr5WcCkrdtXDVERTagQqNnDTH4BcpL8we7oBn4lWf0sKa4DP-QLi_XduU37cAlWulFsI-KvOUc9oYDN5/w640-h480/20230502_200327.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Great+Harbor+Bridge/@22.6178999,120.2812781,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x346e05ef92e80f25:0xf795aa6f20cacb0f!8m2!3d22.617895!4d120.283853!16s%2Fg%2F11j13yw1nn?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Great Harbor Bridge</a></b></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVaI3kRQciICkC2V7OGLkN1mDn3yKWF5C2WH8fz2sv9Ao4U3JkPastbTq8SqGbRToQUnv0_9R0pN-UKOlEl9Hu33xoAMqQiqk8zYl-7AaVc7FXcNn-KeIcm6QAKybENXzE585SO34YGDPvJ2oASlQwYfTBuXQc_bUbf87rH9tJK9udKPlwA2rUWBNklA9/s4000/20230502_200522.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVaI3kRQciICkC2V7OGLkN1mDn3yKWF5C2WH8fz2sv9Ao4U3JkPastbTq8SqGbRToQUnv0_9R0pN-UKOlEl9Hu33xoAMqQiqk8zYl-7AaVc7FXcNn-KeIcm6QAKybENXzE585SO34YGDPvJ2oASlQwYfTBuXQc_bUbf87rH9tJK9udKPlwA2rUWBNklA9/w480-h640/20230502_200522.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/85+Sky+Tower/@22.6116987,120.2975556,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x346e037f27a376dd:0xca7b7bfca3c5a93b!4m6!3m5!1s0x346e037f2a5a9001:0x28af37aaf30894aa!8m2!3d22.6116938!4d120.3001305!16zL20vMDNmc3Nr?entry=ttu" target="_blank">85 Sky Tower</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9oiBLrCKqZHz2kNmrjLwsLKOyv9gNME_QkvSklHNJhoxC-hSwAHxoR8sHiZKK30U9upC70uTRIByLLO8vUcHja9iqo0wApZgs_kfjM3y8N-SLicluTBBLn2OjfivWBiBndVnKgpaGgOcHDWw_R7fssyJzInI5EsYz_EEps5ucqGZs3SaoB05VuMfH5jpt/s4000/20230502_200914.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9oiBLrCKqZHz2kNmrjLwsLKOyv9gNME_QkvSklHNJhoxC-hSwAHxoR8sHiZKK30U9upC70uTRIByLLO8vUcHja9iqo0wApZgs_kfjM3y8N-SLicluTBBLn2OjfivWBiBndVnKgpaGgOcHDWw_R7fssyJzInI5EsYz_EEps5ucqGZs3SaoB05VuMfH5jpt/w480-h640/20230502_200914.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZhmgmsp-bzGHux-wNyx_QScesZHHaI6mMG2Rwf0wwgS6GEj-gRm8oFJczrc2fquoFK_OCSFgOJ6AbD8GeiOOui9EoLqiUVEhxwY0heDfDeVzOVRr6XxDehDMao7HwjY1_EgY2CP1Pv88yZIbY7epyz80o8KMe8MEpaaCCca8FE4RKlzsH-e7FUe5xMyNF/s4000/20230502_201158.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZhmgmsp-bzGHux-wNyx_QScesZHHaI6mMG2Rwf0wwgS6GEj-gRm8oFJczrc2fquoFK_OCSFgOJ6AbD8GeiOOui9EoLqiUVEhxwY0heDfDeVzOVRr6XxDehDMao7HwjY1_EgY2CP1Pv88yZIbY7epyz80o8KMe8MEpaaCCca8FE4RKlzsH-e7FUe5xMyNF/w640-h480/20230502_201158.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqKmeBkVx2cyuTBdtsBDAk-gZsukYjf21hdMgy6iaeF6HazKdkRcwNoG6EqPWfUaXq6ICfc_Lu3_eXSAvFjiKvQJKFeNKa8Oj6XIHhi4BEx6yjinRVi2mjiheVYbbXA2yScAK81W7kEohSQ6E9iJOzM5JzqI5GW0yYHSSqTRUbqMlefXBL1jzOgWRRwOV/s4000/20230502_201346.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqKmeBkVx2cyuTBdtsBDAk-gZsukYjf21hdMgy6iaeF6HazKdkRcwNoG6EqPWfUaXq6ICfc_Lu3_eXSAvFjiKvQJKFeNKa8Oj6XIHhi4BEx6yjinRVi2mjiheVYbbXA2yScAK81W7kEohSQ6E9iJOzM5JzqI5GW0yYHSSqTRUbqMlefXBL1jzOgWRRwOV/w480-h640/20230502_201346.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Great Harbor Bridge</b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAIx6eskOLqIEt78pqxZ_z4RvOiHPurm_pspfTCr4dkU4vj2l2DJjlQEUjeqLylhKc602qaHVCdCmj0fjIs2JQXi_zKOlEv-YbbqmJEOvgQ2mh3ay9cJuGf1ZEY4hbSX0Ur3n0AJNddNOMaS2U5BSQ7YDI39Qy7bec7JMTEX7-SS3Y1jHSf6SZFBEWAVN/s4000/20230502_201628.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAIx6eskOLqIEt78pqxZ_z4RvOiHPurm_pspfTCr4dkU4vj2l2DJjlQEUjeqLylhKc602qaHVCdCmj0fjIs2JQXi_zKOlEv-YbbqmJEOvgQ2mh3ay9cJuGf1ZEY4hbSX0Ur3n0AJNddNOMaS2U5BSQ7YDI39Qy7bec7JMTEX7-SS3Y1jHSf6SZFBEWAVN/w640-h480/20230502_201628.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK00BcB6vheCL-goUDq7VZa30JG7zyBCrsl31QWZ4RoErO0OWY2TGNlzoEJCwlQ2hbbk9W2mGqyts_wCyuYXdVaYMV1h62PFRrCqnhAydwB1uJJWyIkQabqddmGX2fBByiOcDGWC8LcFZvRK-VnF8IaOCuM48o2RcZcUZJZZUls-xQ_mDA_lI39PFcTAxn/s4000/20230502_202524.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK00BcB6vheCL-goUDq7VZa30JG7zyBCrsl31QWZ4RoErO0OWY2TGNlzoEJCwlQ2hbbk9W2mGqyts_wCyuYXdVaYMV1h62PFRrCqnhAydwB1uJJWyIkQabqddmGX2fBByiOcDGWC8LcFZvRK-VnF8IaOCuM48o2RcZcUZJZZUls-xQ_mDA_lI39PFcTAxn/w640-h480/20230502_202524.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoIhudi326nsFB_aNPCmueLpNcutqu2VHBQW81VyXWm-giKK9z_U2hOuH0iQJS-xvNsWBg15tTVGffkQSQLYK2B8RILHXVoDhkIyNDRFLgl_SwqtChOpdkMgp2DcGTr7lKYbx35aIIwvoS6wExSlNLmOVucyh2vYGGKuYAl0xTJE6iztomSwzunCc1tkb/s4000/20230502_205103.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoIhudi326nsFB_aNPCmueLpNcutqu2VHBQW81VyXWm-giKK9z_U2hOuH0iQJS-xvNsWBg15tTVGffkQSQLYK2B8RILHXVoDhkIyNDRFLgl_SwqtChOpdkMgp2DcGTr7lKYbx35aIIwvoS6wExSlNLmOVucyh2vYGGKuYAl0xTJE6iztomSwzunCc1tkb/w640-h480/20230502_205103.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Pier2+Art+Center/@22.6199852,120.2789538,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x346e047620e1c45b:0xe6d6d1bd1c764df2!8m2!3d22.6199803!4d120.2815287!16s%2Fm%2F010glgxt?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Pier-2 Art Center</a></b></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStq7_Jfs2co4HKfIFz645SPYfQzpAFRgIqsLXmFpRxntukZPuXcucGLkHQe2l_QLWyT8EH7xbQjYpL2CEzwEfNWRkaGI5ciJ8DXWCSEq9ITzJNlGc74x8X454SyIyt53Pk-HQgiQ5edtl4qixdN1GD3J0S9GjA6mNIZ6RN-gC8AF0rzadTZcbtoPmFFNV/s4000/20230502_205450.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStq7_Jfs2co4HKfIFz645SPYfQzpAFRgIqsLXmFpRxntukZPuXcucGLkHQe2l_QLWyT8EH7xbQjYpL2CEzwEfNWRkaGI5ciJ8DXWCSEq9ITzJNlGc74x8X454SyIyt53Pk-HQgiQ5edtl4qixdN1GD3J0S9GjA6mNIZ6RN-gC8AF0rzadTZcbtoPmFFNV/w640-h480/20230502_205450.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdKmPmuA4XIjhYeYhBSNLruD8U-T9C2ak7c8-SJIWBRL13uYsFgabD3kn0NHLF5taMC1zvyYxnJpoy_3BLAoQZfurdFoDPYXm_IOB3gseN22HxsYlfGtT3qOlnOpXPm94y-EvvYpjX-L_t7-FDf6Y0ayChtD-8RdqY9vK0Isr6P8JOWMBPcTPW6St0nOw/s4000/20230502_205754.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdKmPmuA4XIjhYeYhBSNLruD8U-T9C2ak7c8-SJIWBRL13uYsFgabD3kn0NHLF5taMC1zvyYxnJpoy_3BLAoQZfurdFoDPYXm_IOB3gseN22HxsYlfGtT3qOlnOpXPm94y-EvvYpjX-L_t7-FDf6Y0ayChtD-8RdqY9vK0Isr6P8JOWMBPcTPW6St0nOw/w640-h480/20230502_205754.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHjknVgeS4hyphenhyphen_DYRRr3UfzLLTtWDThb3reWpUKiob4ps9PsKUQ7TLZunIA_Tsagrw49PT1zWZmtTo2qNgXLz1iVSHlh9gziv4RJJI5NlwoPCaSZ0HWUXBNLZEEDbwsxDCdiCqQyE6ej9KoO9AhE29qRTpWieQKzS3VRqddZQwuLy7SmDoVW9uxvq6CFWI/s4000/20230502_210952.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHjknVgeS4hyphenhyphen_DYRRr3UfzLLTtWDThb3reWpUKiob4ps9PsKUQ7TLZunIA_Tsagrw49PT1zWZmtTo2qNgXLz1iVSHlh9gziv4RJJI5NlwoPCaSZ0HWUXBNLZEEDbwsxDCdiCqQyE6ej9KoO9AhE29qRTpWieQKzS3VRqddZQwuLy7SmDoVW9uxvq6CFWI/w640-h480/20230502_210952.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kaohsiung+Bridge,+Kaohsiung+City,+Taiwan/@22.6200096,120.2712289,15z/data=!4m10!1m2!2m1!1sKaohsiung+Bridge!3m6!1s0x346e0478de1de16d:0x485df3780f916c41!8m2!3d22.6206584!4d120.2899709!15sChBLYW9oc2l1bmcgQnJpZGdlkgEFcm91dGXgAQA!16s%2Fg%2F1vf992t3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kaohsiung Bridge</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidP0S3EVill81z7MUp_vZu-ew6emU1aa1Q9rS8L7lCM8GLVmhxi7pBMNViK6XZYecE9B0mG-eX0J1fAaJzFaIXBJ9QkwYmMT2QfcJN7Ks1Mdgw4zzGtb1N9klanEQ8ybvYPGGzieSPdjqIJvAweXMpRaApAhXZkcneUmlU35GJH6zrEHXdTwbIjLeqd5Uw/s4000/20230502_211322.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidP0S3EVill81z7MUp_vZu-ew6emU1aa1Q9rS8L7lCM8GLVmhxi7pBMNViK6XZYecE9B0mG-eX0J1fAaJzFaIXBJ9QkwYmMT2QfcJN7Ks1Mdgw4zzGtb1N9klanEQ8ybvYPGGzieSPdjqIJvAweXMpRaApAhXZkcneUmlU35GJH6zrEHXdTwbIjLeqd5Uw/w640-h480/20230502_211322.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>A love boat in Love River</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span face=""Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><p></p></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-85767405281752951072024-03-05T18:13:00.000-08:002024-03-05T18:14:15.718-08:00Kasuga-taisha: A World Heritage Site of Beauty and Significance<p><span><span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kasuga-taisha" target="_blank"></a></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijL0_T9ZIitZ_7W86tIUe6EwxU_y7n1xFZ_-nbx4-fsdgFMXkmm2NgftAQjgEdTqR8OBqzUZx73YWFnKU-qWot6BgOAcTkWfr4NynBHddRMbzpZeKxt7pCZXia3lqIh2-rhbveyOLMyhSuqQxLFbKUuErzLX1E6uwir3-Z3fRnnLwZPHfmly9oRCD6rZt3/s4000/20230510_084852.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijL0_T9ZIitZ_7W86tIUe6EwxU_y7n1xFZ_-nbx4-fsdgFMXkmm2NgftAQjgEdTqR8OBqzUZx73YWFnKU-qWot6BgOAcTkWfr4NynBHddRMbzpZeKxt7pCZXia3lqIh2-rhbveyOLMyhSuqQxLFbKUuErzLX1E6uwir3-Z3fRnnLwZPHfmly9oRCD6rZt3/w480-h640/20230510_084852.jpg" width="420" /></a></span></span></div><span><span><br />Kasuga-taisha</span></span>(春日大社⭐⭐⭐) is more than just a beautiful building; it's a
testament to Japan's cultural heritage and spiritual connection with nature.
It's a place where history whispers through the trees, and the serene
atmosphere invites tranquility and reflection.<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Setsubun_Mantoro_Festival_20150203_01.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Degueulasse, CC BY 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Setsubun Mantoro Festival 20150203 01" height="560" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/71/Setsubun_Mantoro_Festival_20150203_01.jpg/256px-Setsubun_Mantoro_Festival_20150203_01.jpg" width="373" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Hanging lanterns and Andons in the Setsubun Mantoro Festival (Degueulasse, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> , via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><b><span>Key
Facts</span></b></span></h3>
<ul>
<li><span><b><span>Location</span></b><span>: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kasuga+Taisha/@34.6815498,135.845897,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x600139c06bb06ad5:0x4c97e78382e39596!8m2!3d34.6815454!4d135.8484719!16zL20vMDNrMnpo?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kasuga-taisha</a> is nestled among ancient trees in <a href="https://travel4apurpose.blogspot.com/search/label/Nara%20Travel" target="_blank">Nara</a>, Japan.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li><span><b><span>Significance</span></b><span>: Recognized as a <b>UNESCO
World Heritage Site</b>, it drips with beauty and historical importance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li><span><b><span>Shinto Tradition</span></b><span>:<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<ul>
<li><span><span>Founded in 768 by the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fujiwara_family" target="_blank">Fujiwara</a> clan, it’s a
significant Shinto shrine.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li><span><span>Dedicated to the kami (spirits) of Kasuga Mountain.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ul>
<li><span><b><span>Architectural Gem</span></b><span>:<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<ul>
<li><span><span>The shrine complex follows the distinctive
<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kasuga-zukuri" target="_blank">Kasuga-zukuri</a> </span></span>(春日造) <span><span>style.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li><span><span>Bright red pillars, white walls, and cypress bark
roofs define its uniqueness.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li><span><span>The Shikinen Zotai ceremony</span></span> (式年造替) <span><span>rebuilds the shrine every
20 years.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ul>
<li><span><b><span>Realm of Lanterns</span></b><span>:<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<ul>
<li><span><span>Over 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns line the path.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li><span><span>Donated by worshippers, they create a mystical
atmosphere.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li><span><span>Festivals showcase the shrine bathed in warm lantern
glow.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ul>
<li><span><b><span>Harmony with Nature</span></b><span>:<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<ul>
<li><span><span>Surrounded by the Kasugayama Primeval Forest (another
UNESCO site).<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li><span><span>Towering cedars and cypress trees add to its
spiritual aura.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<p><span><span>Kasuga Grand Shrine is a
magical blend of history, architecture, and nature.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrdfRT9ouIDkIh_ip1rjWdFieIZ-Oh_uQzDvfIg9FYTT3u49BWAoU4kNFzyeC6FBYq66ULDWp4FGCSOqWHLporcfnJHw3601jA7Wtyi-Y_RgsKKYAquCcmNcijdhUSFAyH9C6-FFMF3hdzbddQpVlr4UtUxZcP8Cb2LYEKsodMONM9e5aj8ecLuWXn2PH/s766/precincts%20of%20Kasugataisha.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="593" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrdfRT9ouIDkIh_ip1rjWdFieIZ-Oh_uQzDvfIg9FYTT3u49BWAoU4kNFzyeC6FBYq66ULDWp4FGCSOqWHLporcfnJHw3601jA7Wtyi-Y_RgsKKYAquCcmNcijdhUSFAyH9C6-FFMF3hdzbddQpVlr4UtUxZcP8Cb2LYEKsodMONM9e5aj8ecLuWXn2PH/s16000/precincts%20of%20Kasugataisha.jpg" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>Photo Gallery</span></h3><br />Last year, on May 10th, 2023, we arrived by bus and disembarked near the <b>First Torii Gate</b>, as shown in the diagram. It took approximately 20 minutes to walk from there to the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Second+Torii/@34.6810204,135.8425174,17z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x600139c06bb06ad5:0x4c97e78382e39596!2sKasuga+Taisha!8m2!3d34.6815454!4d135.8484719!16zL20vMDNrMnpo!3m5!1s0x600139b8ba2f8a1b:0xe3459145a0b71b2f!8m2!3d34.6808316!4d135.8469668!16s%2Fg%2F11h3qrffrh?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Second Torii Gate</a> and the main building. After exploring the main area, we caught a bus from a nearby stop (pictured below) that brought us back to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kintetsu-Nara+Station/@34.6842487,135.8230211,17z/data=!4m9!1m2!2m1!1sbus+stop!3m5!1s0x60013a29d1dd2621:0x540d42181874f344!8m2!3d34.6842485!4d135.8275275!16zL20vMGRjdjE3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kintetsu-Nara Station</a>.<div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXwnhwYx33zHzjrvxqShRJM0EhI5xUibDw3n9xRVaaU-rKsMA8yLMg6LVdEjK9zIJliBg9fyC4UcVwxBQCIarsuPtclBh3WZjD0e3K51hz2yIBLnggLlNTPVyxDz4DeNpLv_Y8Y9D8ud157cLlGfBX08wp5hu6wBRkpUwb5ZqTBPjbkrLCcHf-c0b4dFvd/s4000/20230510_082827.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXwnhwYx33zHzjrvxqShRJM0EhI5xUibDw3n9xRVaaU-rKsMA8yLMg6LVdEjK9zIJliBg9fyC4UcVwxBQCIarsuPtclBh3WZjD0e3K51hz2yIBLnggLlNTPVyxDz4DeNpLv_Y8Y9D8ud157cLlGfBX08wp5hu6wBRkpUwb5ZqTBPjbkrLCcHf-c0b4dFvd/w640-h480/20230510_082827.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz00zdw_D-jy8_p-oX4n8REj0k20xVCEYvxjYZkf-YrdfQwcGuySBCxC9IJq2G8NO73iwbetdQi6COG8LHK9U0cGiDOYahFDd3vTEylaK6XYc2AKSF2-itWdt5c9mKHclHt3GRUDfkZLA6KN0xOjNrnfZe9RTqAwUc2KKNxa7QCx-9e-drpww5M6kixghM/w640-h480/20230510_084015.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj77cxKlgXckho4qpVgmIsJh6h6cdWnGCF91n1voIwxqm8dOx6aJnVPCIEamWOSu8lkZpNBFbbOj8YqwhDJOl0ygVVnjc6x8YWIkGYZWs2l-LjzhhAzGvghNjaetF0iF5o1p0GqeHItqbZGCyMmNCTKUxAg1JU69tFTZn397gMN3iq_lRqU-cEpPlzwE1Do/s4000/20230510_084256.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj77cxKlgXckho4qpVgmIsJh6h6cdWnGCF91n1voIwxqm8dOx6aJnVPCIEamWOSu8lkZpNBFbbOj8YqwhDJOl0ygVVnjc6x8YWIkGYZWs2l-LjzhhAzGvghNjaetF0iF5o1p0GqeHItqbZGCyMmNCTKUxAg1JU69tFTZn397gMN3iq_lRqU-cEpPlzwE1Do/w640-h480/20230510_084256.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEyqWo4tYqiSnKQpmFouiuaFZNSzdXpWFLxxMQZi1s4y4mkffgPdtnWH8NMHt6natqQ5bbFRzZ1H7f0Zefevz-AMFYGwG-bIuIopsXSMRCwYSPsoT1JcLszNfhLtB_ue0ikjnZQPh8rX0wRp-YFXBMzbF0iQx1PVxcTHFWnWhiBpVth5rakJpHwzK4FhFw/s4000/20230510_084643.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEyqWo4tYqiSnKQpmFouiuaFZNSzdXpWFLxxMQZi1s4y4mkffgPdtnWH8NMHt6natqQ5bbFRzZ1H7f0Zefevz-AMFYGwG-bIuIopsXSMRCwYSPsoT1JcLszNfhLtB_ue0ikjnZQPh8rX0wRp-YFXBMzbF0iQx1PVxcTHFWnWhiBpVth5rakJpHwzK4FhFw/w640-h480/20230510_084643.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Second+Torii/@34.6810204,135.8425174,17z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x600139c06bb06ad5:0x4c97e78382e39596!2sKasuga+Taisha!8m2!3d34.6815454!4d135.8484719!16zL20vMDNrMnpo!3m5!1s0x600139b8ba2f8a1b:0xe3459145a0b71b2f!8m2!3d34.6808316!4d135.8469668!16s%2Fg%2F11h3qrffrh?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Second Torii Gate</a></b></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPU9WzbnJZRUG7pOJMI-OPWWRJ0opFaicDS64HsVnIM-wbUHA2HnMxjZBYMrZrblD1f9iCMqnLoYjGuVugwlgXpqsRPsT32wi5Ki3qWflxsfM9IhX3a4Fc_UkE52BiDzIvbvMgjekdXNv4nPy8fLIQItQnSQwXUM_qL5ApCDJF-LTRC7PJeIJEHwcU0fQq/s4000/20230510_084843.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPU9WzbnJZRUG7pOJMI-OPWWRJ0opFaicDS64HsVnIM-wbUHA2HnMxjZBYMrZrblD1f9iCMqnLoYjGuVugwlgXpqsRPsT32wi5Ki3qWflxsfM9IhX3a4Fc_UkE52BiDzIvbvMgjekdXNv4nPy8fLIQItQnSQwXUM_qL5ApCDJF-LTRC7PJeIJEHwcU0fQq/w480-h640/20230510_084843.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuN5jyxhtXGYDxIN5ZmP5hP6Bya8xNa-LOOO7PCetH46I0arAUYN2HX9T5eYtQ1KdP4t9PQqZT8ysUkzhLN6PjqCpMuzvWOOcUBaO5EvS8nI3yur8-aJP_Q0_X6nKNnIhWtPylaCu6-w1QTTJDPQ_u634D7C6kDzkWanPUuCvq-q1mmsbGOSNZAEVfZ7HU/s4000/20230510_085307.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuN5jyxhtXGYDxIN5ZmP5hP6Bya8xNa-LOOO7PCetH46I0arAUYN2HX9T5eYtQ1KdP4t9PQqZT8ysUkzhLN6PjqCpMuzvWOOcUBaO5EvS8nI3yur8-aJP_Q0_X6nKNnIhWtPylaCu6-w1QTTJDPQ_u634D7C6kDzkWanPUuCvq-q1mmsbGOSNZAEVfZ7HU/w640-h480/20230510_085307.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3czKizyDmSPp_Wu_JOL1J3N2Xsft2QE3VCnNf7L6MHa1dEF1WPll02qf5nRk7E3tAFp4yoRTBGiWF8LG0Oe7aoGe7vfjmfpC5S3_H4dlo1bddSA5gwoXzemAndikhAI38pgeMhlqcWIJWzl_9vbg8DIqvzwFqfNu0GLc5_mdhp5tVPjAINOW2_9xLb5X/s4000/20230510_085429.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3czKizyDmSPp_Wu_JOL1J3N2Xsft2QE3VCnNf7L6MHa1dEF1WPll02qf5nRk7E3tAFp4yoRTBGiWF8LG0Oe7aoGe7vfjmfpC5S3_H4dlo1bddSA5gwoXzemAndikhAI38pgeMhlqcWIJWzl_9vbg8DIqvzwFqfNu0GLc5_mdhp5tVPjAINOW2_9xLb5X/w640-h480/20230510_085429.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kasuga+Taisha/@34.6815498,135.845897,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x600139c06bb06ad5:0x4c97e78382e39596!8m2!3d34.6815454!4d135.8484719!16zL20vMDNrMnpo?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kasuga-taisha</a> main build on the left</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wriUOzmbALj6RSQplxUsyLaOS-rrA3ihn-PijjGzSStz7GFR5OcjShVAq3petEnuNctAYnOhR3f05M2MlMqD0yNQFLzGFvyK-M8hBfIgFRrTlIlKYWPzjNY1FYBoCeIjdU3lT3qCY6mSEA_vx6I9v544Aam2iWyMeRMFoS7Nztit0v46NqClagjbuY64/s4000/20230510_090133.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wriUOzmbALj6RSQplxUsyLaOS-rrA3ihn-PijjGzSStz7GFR5OcjShVAq3petEnuNctAYnOhR3f05M2MlMqD0yNQFLzGFvyK-M8hBfIgFRrTlIlKYWPzjNY1FYBoCeIjdU3lT3qCY6mSEA_vx6I9v544Aam2iWyMeRMFoS7Nztit0v46NqClagjbuY64/w640-h480/20230510_090133.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAa5p5i1NFL6wMUGRz7TvxeQVxju_g_jQkkOlVdtwqgWjkX3OE_I5HYTL6fyfjr9zBlByJSy6XiGAmbhlEDZ9d4lkl8JPC-nCLD9MUCAW7kkSFVAx3C6sz9bUfHJ6neOrkO_E08IjQzbCQLea0fapRvkpvBqf2JQuqFS3F33w2LMGddS6ixHM767iJiDs/s4000/20230510_090158.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZmMqv_SvUXBwZbx1jw2Vgk4WjkMSq_lRVI2fRkAdQkYx0DFZc-I-UZvqSvr7Yp9RFfMGOwYfJLsjEVx8mLMLunpWRAxbGNqe-rW41Yk__Md_bnux6uLisQNi9EnWhImq_ZDfkZ8HALVU17HB72BxDnrhwgTsvfTRlHRS7-xjHJ9cM9g7KzAsj9O8NZkwm/w640-h480/20230510_094205.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqC15elm16VJoH1Eapw-U7luHpOfA2oxOSFObYTCbZ1haqQ1UH359YUCyBlIuxWjeRqFaPnY19fcgNOY3_k9lnhrPcXZOfu6yA0SfaaMT_3hLlzzLQIM851wu8p2BcfNtbsG3mqVF4NzTPubBEQd68HJpUEgmtOBVNTMRI6CmSmivhcZvgJCq0_sba2mmy/s4000/20230510_095412.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqC15elm16VJoH1Eapw-U7luHpOfA2oxOSFObYTCbZ1haqQ1UH359YUCyBlIuxWjeRqFaPnY19fcgNOY3_k9lnhrPcXZOfu6yA0SfaaMT_3hLlzzLQIM851wu8p2BcfNtbsG3mqVF4NzTPubBEQd68HJpUEgmtOBVNTMRI6CmSmivhcZvgJCq0_sba2mmy/w640-h480/20230510_095412.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4QZGdBISuCNHOYICyGPDSwAudx8e0riDGAzlweJ-jOlR_GkF22A67L6lvbuOPykNiMoM4V43Nqm5yYWdu2rQV5acL4WKxzsCrVixrh58BNAMIje3hsG63Mnnsfsf42esNkudV-XzjKVWq_5g1MxrpJaA9bf3UDrRn_DtJWD6p9ycy38TF59X8mPt1e9mV/s3724/20230510_095827.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2764" data-original-width="3724" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4QZGdBISuCNHOYICyGPDSwAudx8e0riDGAzlweJ-jOlR_GkF22A67L6lvbuOPykNiMoM4V43Nqm5yYWdu2rQV5acL4WKxzsCrVixrh58BNAMIje3hsG63Mnnsfsf42esNkudV-XzjKVWq_5g1MxrpJaA9bf3UDrRn_DtJWD6p9ycy38TF59X8mPt1e9mV/w640-h476/20230510_095827.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Lines <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">7, 78, 88, and 98</span> all return to Lines 7, 78, 88, and 98 all return to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kintetsu-Nara+Station/@34.6842487,135.8230211,17z/data=!4m9!1m2!2m1!1sbus+stop!3m5!1s0x60013a29d1dd2621:0x540d42181874f344!8m2!3d34.6842485!4d135.8275275!16zL20vMGRjdjE3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kintetsu-Nara Station</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><h3><span>References</span></h3><ol><li><span><a href="https://twitter.com/KASUGASHRINE" target="_blank">春日大社 kasugataisha shrine</a> (Twitter)</span></li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/KASUGASHRINE" target="_blank"><span>春日大社</span></a></li><li><a href="https://www.kasugataisha.or.jp/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/%E6%92%AE%E5%BD%B1%E6%B3%A8%E6%84%8F%E4%BA%8B%E9%A0%85%EF%BC%88%E8%8B%B1%E8%AA%9E%EF%BC%89.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Attention of Photography and Videography in the Precincts of Kasugataisha Shrine</span></a></li></ol></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-18571157240245260682024-03-03T15:47:00.000-08:002024-03-04T08:40:53.025-08:00Ascending the Keep: A Majestic View from Osaka Castle<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Osaka-Castle-cherry-blossom-2018-Luka-Peternel.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Luka Peternel, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Osaka-Castle-cherry-blossom-2018-Luka-Peternel" height="372" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b0/Osaka-Castle-cherry-blossom-2018-Luka-Peternel.jpg/512px-Osaka-Castle-cherry-blossom-2018-Luka-Peternel.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Cherry Blossom on March 31, 2018 (Luka Peternel, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> , via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Ascending <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osaka_Castle" target="_blank">Osaka Castle’s</a> ⭐⭐keep is like stepping into a time machine, where history, architecture, and natural beauty converge. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Osaka, providing both educational insights and awe-inspiring views.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%E5%A4%A7%E9%98%AA%E5%9F%8E%E5%A4%A9%E5%AE%88%E9%96%A3%E3%81%A8%E6%A2%85%E6%9E%97_Plum_Grove_and_Osaka_Castle.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="吉田宅浪, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="大阪城天守閣と梅林 Plum Grove and Osaka Castle" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/50/%E5%A4%A7%E9%98%AA%E5%9F%8E%E5%A4%A9%E5%AE%88%E9%96%A3%E3%81%A8%E6%A2%85%E6%9E%97_Plum_Grove_and_Osaka_Castle.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>梅林 Plum Grove on March 18, 2018 (吉田宅浪, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Key Facts</h3><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>A Historic Landmark: </b>Osaka Castle is a famous castle in Osaka, Japan. It was built a long time ago, in the late 1500s!</li><li><b>Built by a Powerful Leader:</b> A strong warrior named <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyotomi_Hideyoshi" target="_blank">Toyotomi Hideyoshi</a> (豊臣 秀吉) built the castle to show off his power and unite Japan.</li><li><b>Cool Architecture:</b> The castle is a mix of Japanese and European styles.</li><li><b>Explore the Castle:</b></li><ul><li>Climb the main tower for amazing views of the city!</li><li>Check out the museum inside the tower to learn about the castle's history.</li><li>Relax in the Nishinomaru Garden, especially during cherry blossom season.</li></ul><li>More to See:</li><ul><li>Pay respects to Hideyoshi at the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H%C5%8Dkoku_Shrine_(Osaka)" target="_blank">Hōkoku Shrine</a>.</li><li>Smell the sweet flowers in the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Osaka+Castle%E2%80%99s+Plum+Grove/@34.6867068,135.5100344,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x6000e0cd9433106f:0xb1664aef9498803c!8m2!3d34.6866905!4d135.5284884!16s%2Fg%2F11bz_030_k?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Plum Grove</a>, which boasts over <a href="https://www.osakacastlepark.jp/flower/plum_grove.html?lang=en" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">1,200 plum trees</span></a>.</li><li>Learn about the castle's defenses by seeing the walls and moats.</li></ul></ul><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3></div></div><div><br /></div><div>On a beautiful sunny day, May 9th, 2023, we made our way to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Osaka+Castle/@34.6867068,135.5100344,15z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x6000e0cd9433106f:0xb1664aef9498803c!2sOsaka+Castle%E2%80%99s+Plum+Grove!8m2!3d34.6866905!4d135.5284884!16s%2Fg%2F11bz_030_k!3m5!1s0x6000e0cd5c283afd:0xf01d07d5ca11e41!8m2!3d34.6872571!4d135.5258546!16zL20vMDI0Yl9n?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Osaka Castle</a> from Nara. After arriving at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/%C5%8Csaka-Uehommachi+Station/@34.665558,135.4795392,13z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x6000e7523d9ac435:0xdd0f9ce886d82429!8m2!3d34.6655536!4d135.5207379!16zL20vMDR0Y3Rq?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Ōsaka-Uehommachi Station</a>, we fueled up for our exploration with a delicious sushi lunch at a nearby restaurant. With full bellies, we set off for the castle on foot, enjoying a leisurely 30-40 minute walk.
While the famous cherry blossoms weren't in bloom during our visit (note that Osaka will likely see its <b>first flowers</b> around <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">March 24</span>, with <b>full bloom</b> predicted for <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">April 1</span>)<sup>[1]</sup>, the castle grounds still offered stunning views, which you can see in the pictures below. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTPiWbpY1k81BoYAH7DF24hmXrjQtCk1KJ77H8yLj309HsiAs-0rqdKTGHlxZp1w9547FgGyd8SBov07qfVRoDZ38ztSrc8h1GsxyXAVZ0hP_2Y4I-nFYG03m7G724FkE5xDFX_47c9oEFt85Eq-v1i9fND24f-f1A27NiaPvW90B3nJ2rQrY4hMW7qs3/s4000/20230509_134631.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTPiWbpY1k81BoYAH7DF24hmXrjQtCk1KJ77H8yLj309HsiAs-0rqdKTGHlxZp1w9547FgGyd8SBov07qfVRoDZ38ztSrc8h1GsxyXAVZ0hP_2Y4I-nFYG03m7G724FkE5xDFX_47c9oEFt85Eq-v1i9fND24f-f1A27NiaPvW90B3nJ2rQrY4hMW7qs3/w480-h640/20230509_134631.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpec2CFp0_B4R05hy-C6AG-VKT6CHEEHKOxDJ7keipusCHGyVsnDymslRCV36QhNXyuEMFkMLcUS0WyqXkZvkG-NJPzHUaX-1KlnmwHLb78Ix8LvqWVDpdZcHJj4b-baIL26caRPUaGaUsdOYKNmn_FOfsgP0OYgItY7dLeRAf4bzdY97CEwK0qGLsdPR/s4000/20230509_144923.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpec2CFp0_B4R05hy-C6AG-VKT6CHEEHKOxDJ7keipusCHGyVsnDymslRCV36QhNXyuEMFkMLcUS0WyqXkZvkG-NJPzHUaX-1KlnmwHLb78Ix8LvqWVDpdZcHJj4b-baIL26caRPUaGaUsdOYKNmn_FOfsgP0OYgItY7dLeRAf4bzdY97CEwK0qGLsdPR/w640-h480/20230509_144923.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2HcqlJEB3PKuhXwbngJX14Jan9Zv_bWN4bvhEcQt3ppSEvmITCP-wv0uIlCOEXFsSi9_1m1sF5saQ9HJW7Ic182F9H8S4A1GnFI30_6RO8tq-dMwypzgLI8EhTb9vcX4-VvNbqv-2atmvDFXKb08Gj9bP-OKro1dBUgGb6WzeKssbbGMrZEH5IDBpgaqd/s4000/20230509_145028.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2HcqlJEB3PKuhXwbngJX14Jan9Zv_bWN4bvhEcQt3ppSEvmITCP-wv0uIlCOEXFsSi9_1m1sF5saQ9HJW7Ic182F9H8S4A1GnFI30_6RO8tq-dMwypzgLI8EhTb9vcX4-VvNbqv-2atmvDFXKb08Gj9bP-OKro1dBUgGb6WzeKssbbGMrZEH5IDBpgaqd/w640-h480/20230509_145028.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE64F_oALhe_OV-8Ed7Ao-JONY5VA2y5y_QJoV4odfo_Guycjft38rL8TADdZ4N95e9G6URQ5R9RJ1XFJFbhv2DCA-fvMYWzI03w8pMN9HYZo3gu-_6GLWX-qJAnl0wqmRSSq9WJzwpf3tsRaGM9WZXRFbc5Iu1o3yoJ_Ihfuc7lmdpYTEWvdAi_L27ADG/s4000/20230509_145808.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE64F_oALhe_OV-8Ed7Ao-JONY5VA2y5y_QJoV4odfo_Guycjft38rL8TADdZ4N95e9G6URQ5R9RJ1XFJFbhv2DCA-fvMYWzI03w8pMN9HYZo3gu-_6GLWX-qJAnl0wqmRSSq9WJzwpf3tsRaGM9WZXRFbc5Iu1o3yoJ_Ihfuc7lmdpYTEWvdAi_L27ADG/w640-h480/20230509_145808.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7H50n0hAgZDgQUUFNjJrdgsBQ3L87iGNVG7MIqGRnCiz8RX2Iv5-SXAfCsfZVlvUiYhDPI6RhcaBSxk-o85GW0cskGfBoe6DcEDMWIDqFFzDJewLA6jHNssZLohp1sW7GecZ_lb7aEJnoKvL09c8gxqgvjZJFOXqHVoU3CeKDtb6ensWjVw7RrgR-mUA_/s4000/20230509_152516.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7H50n0hAgZDgQUUFNjJrdgsBQ3L87iGNVG7MIqGRnCiz8RX2Iv5-SXAfCsfZVlvUiYhDPI6RhcaBSxk-o85GW0cskGfBoe6DcEDMWIDqFFzDJewLA6jHNssZLohp1sW7GecZ_lb7aEJnoKvL09c8gxqgvjZJFOXqHVoU3CeKDtb6ensWjVw7RrgR-mUA_/w640-h480/20230509_152516.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uUJXgWhvUYEIt57_Io4lIqF9lfCGlcpwfatKe4keOT9JbyHwoWATgdgRxZIAszVnh0yyChO9Xgyvnlm1X1zJ_TAJIKI8frGdbwdgDN9sHTl7umLkd28sC_xNfK2BSZLF-YGbAwDRbSwtX9PeGpIJJneGZzg2phGJ42xuYedJUpTy38xU0juyD67vZkff/s4000/20230509_153211.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uUJXgWhvUYEIt57_Io4lIqF9lfCGlcpwfatKe4keOT9JbyHwoWATgdgRxZIAszVnh0yyChO9Xgyvnlm1X1zJ_TAJIKI8frGdbwdgDN9sHTl7umLkd28sC_xNfK2BSZLF-YGbAwDRbSwtX9PeGpIJJneGZzg2phGJ42xuYedJUpTy38xU0juyD67vZkff/w640-h480/20230509_153211.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">References</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/news/the-official-japan-cherry-blossom-forecast-for-2024-is-out-now-011124" target="_blank">The official Japan cherry blossom forecast for 2024 is out now – updated February 29</a></li></ol></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-69313327356858802902024-03-01T10:55:00.000-08:002024-03-01T11:53:33.144-08:00A Step into Roman Life: Unveiling the Treasures of Pompeii<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Theathres_of_Pompeii.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="ElfQrin, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Theathres of Pompeii" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d4/Theathres_of_Pompeii.jpg/512px-Theathres_of_Pompeii.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Theaters of Pompeii seen from the above with a drone, with Mt. Vesuvius in the background (ElfQrin, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> , via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pompeii" target="_blank">Pompeii</a>⭐⭐, famously buried by the eruption of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Vesuvius" target="_blank">Mount Vesuvius</a> in 79 AD, offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives, beliefs, and desires of its inhabitants. <br /><br />Reasons why visiting Pompeii might be worth it:<div><ul><li><b>Unique historical experience:</b> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pompeii" target="_blank">Pompeii</a> offers a glimpse into a frozen moment in time, providing a unique opportunity to learn about ancient Roman life and culture. Walking through the ruins and seeing preserved homes, shops, and streets can be a fascinating experience.</li><li><b>Well-preserved archaeological site:</b> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pompeii" target="_blank">Pompeii</a> is one of the most <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">well-preserved archaeological sites in the world</span>, offering a tangible connection to the past. You can see the intricate details of everyday life, from bakeries and bathhouses to villas and temples.</li><li><b>UNESCO World Heritage Site:</b> Recognized for its outstanding cultural value, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pompeii" target="_blank">Pompeii</a> is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its historical significance and global importance.</li><li><b>Beautiful location:</b> Situated near <a href="https://travel4apurpose.blogspot.com/2023/10/naples-italy-stroll-through.html" target="_blank">Naples</a> and the <a href="https://travel4apurpose.blogspot.com/search/label/Amalfi%20Coast" target="_blank">Amalfi Coast</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pompeii" target="_blank">Pompeii</a> offers stunning views of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Vesuvius" target="_blank">Mount Vesuvius</a> and the surrounding landscapes. You can combine your visit with exploring other attractions in the area.</li><li><b>Educational opportunity:</b> Visiting <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pompeii" target="_blank">Pompeii</a> can be a valuable learning experience, especially for history buffs and anyone interested in ancient civilizations. It allows you to visualize and understand the past in a way that textbooks and documentaries cannot.</li></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Roman_fresco_Villa_dei_Misteri_Pompeii_006.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="gisleh, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Roman fresco Villa dei Misteri Pompeii 006" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/34/Roman_fresco_Villa_dei_Misteri_Pompeii_006.jpg/512px-Roman_fresco_Villa_dei_Misteri_Pompeii_006.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Fresco from the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_dei_Misteri" target="_blank">Villa dei Misteri</a> (gisleh, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> , via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Photo Gallery</h3><br />Under a warm sun on October 19th, 2023, our tour group embarked on a captivating exploration of the ancient Roman city of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pompeii" target="_blank">Pompeii</a>. Stepping through its gates felt like stepping back in time, as remnants of daily life stand frozen and preserved. The following photos capture some of the remarkable discoveries we made during our visit.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8ElA6SaUIl-4DXx1gqlOuVAqXqMI6A6E_Y9EZtCGGcvbYgScy_rZ5EVa2UUYKwAMs8Umw77VzvkV59vuxP0mNcIOYaPjGVQzzBINEnDgNNzCXk-j2ekLI0RksjISkv53grO2olBR9u8fRWErBHnnsdb8qKK7zs4b8vRTQw5Pw04wrywcWhvSwdoJqKR0/s4000/20231019_151718.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8ElA6SaUIl-4DXx1gqlOuVAqXqMI6A6E_Y9EZtCGGcvbYgScy_rZ5EVa2UUYKwAMs8Umw77VzvkV59vuxP0mNcIOYaPjGVQzzBINEnDgNNzCXk-j2ekLI0RksjISkv53grO2olBR9u8fRWErBHnnsdb8qKK7zs4b8vRTQw5Pw04wrywcWhvSwdoJqKR0/w640-h360/20231019_151718.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTveSJiao1JfyZqY_rjYYn854O2kv2AfnMGfJZDCKnKlPCQMjC8n3d3HLZtxGRsu2Y_ZndVZocBzD_BSXxBg3qsXvWjR21Bfc5YWA7tFLYBh3o0CSlCTFIjSyOOswG1zmgsFx4_tRCuAyjmJwYQZ08fRPPP1bnuyZeFLZqrq4puwHKocNysY67vw_d5ynX/s4000/20231019_151930.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTveSJiao1JfyZqY_rjYYn854O2kv2AfnMGfJZDCKnKlPCQMjC8n3d3HLZtxGRsu2Y_ZndVZocBzD_BSXxBg3qsXvWjR21Bfc5YWA7tFLYBh3o0CSlCTFIjSyOOswG1zmgsFx4_tRCuAyjmJwYQZ08fRPPP1bnuyZeFLZqrq4puwHKocNysY67vw_d5ynX/w640-h360/20231019_151930.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Quadriporticus+of+the+theatres/@40.7474376,14.4803568,16z/data=!4m10!1m2!2m1!1sTeatro+Grande!3m6!1s0x133bbcbbe22e7467:0x1095f2cae393c18!8m2!3d40.7483601!4d14.4888857!15sCg1UZWF0cm8gR3JhbmRlWg8iDXRlYXRybyBncmFuZGWSARJ0b3VyaXN0X2F0dHJhY3Rpb26aASNDaFpEU1VoTk1HOW5TMFZKUTBGblNVUkJjazFQTFZwM0VBReABAA!16s%2Fg%2F11cfv210l?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Quadriporticus of the theatres</a> in Pompeii is a large rectangular plaza surrounded by a continuous colonnade of 74 Doric grey tuff columns from Nocera. It was built in the 2nd century BC and served as a foyer for spectators attending the Large Theatre and the Odeon (Small Theatre).</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHfjidPOvRMMrV2rXQO-SXWzzR9Ol3BAjjx0lSPjgo8oScvgnB4j52QVN2rV7e9wqNAmoEwZ85cSanyt1kHcx6pKx0pwi2kJUwh3qBoie0eKFaxp0qQ2iZrTKAxciTOS96WBGqQfLBsRP3-hXZa4IZr8EzA_oPVsjyKkxdRRaDygvp9WlXRLgWuOAr4gq/s4000/20231019_152917.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHfjidPOvRMMrV2rXQO-SXWzzR9Ol3BAjjx0lSPjgo8oScvgnB4j52QVN2rV7e9wqNAmoEwZ85cSanyt1kHcx6pKx0pwi2kJUwh3qBoie0eKFaxp0qQ2iZrTKAxciTOS96WBGqQfLBsRP3-hXZa4IZr8EzA_oPVsjyKkxdRRaDygvp9WlXRLgWuOAr4gq/w640-h360/20231019_152917.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Teatro+Grande/@40.7488226,14.3521444,12z/data=!3m1!5s0x133bbcbbdd256803:0x623bb01cac25ee99!4m10!1m2!2m1!1sTeatro+Grande!3m6!1s0x133bbcbbdd76f877:0x32e47bc5f6bb08d3!8m2!3d40.7488226!4d14.4883922!15sCg1UZWF0cm8gR3JhbmRlWg8iDXRlYXRybyBncmFuZGWSARJ0b3VyaXN0X2F0dHJhY3Rpb26aASRDaGREU1VoTk1HOW5TMFZKUTBGblNVTlNhRzk1TXpkUlJSQULgAQA!16s%2Fg%2F112yfysdp?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Teatro grande</a>—This horseshoe-shaped Roman theater was preserved by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshgcb_hsIcEVTxXCjVZFbrPVCW94ZgVNtLAdHThad_UZmGfHlF_Po9M6JaSJHp7AwUF2L3IaZIzd2E7nlrYi5mjut6YU0jIqojUchAuLGwjK6w40LbDdondxmg6TDS5uGQMBSP4CI_zRs7ksPe7U7DsgwlaL8NsPlmqse7JbB7njt7YFxGZMgzlbFiFWY/s4000/20231019_152428.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshgcb_hsIcEVTxXCjVZFbrPVCW94ZgVNtLAdHThad_UZmGfHlF_Po9M6JaSJHp7AwUF2L3IaZIzd2E7nlrYi5mjut6YU0jIqojUchAuLGwjK6w40LbDdondxmg6TDS5uGQMBSP4CI_zRs7ksPe7U7DsgwlaL8NsPlmqse7JbB7njt7YFxGZMgzlbFiFWY/w640-h360/20231019_152428.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Teatro+Grande/@40.7488226,14.3521444,12z/data=!3m1!5s0x133bbcbbdd256803:0x623bb01cac25ee99!4m10!1m2!2m1!1sTeatro+Grande!3m6!1s0x133bbcbbdd76f877:0x32e47bc5f6bb08d3!8m2!3d40.7488226!4d14.4883922!15sCg1UZWF0cm8gR3JhbmRlWg8iDXRlYXRybyBncmFuZGWSARJ0b3VyaXN0X2F0dHJhY3Rpb26aASRDaGREU1VoTk1HOW5TMFZKUTBGblNVTlNhRzk1TXpkUlJSQULgAQA!16s%2Fg%2F112yfysdp?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Teatro grande</a> (Large Theater)</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXqkWbMbrKpAlEN-B2kPSMzISRf3vZq8p3P11pQrB0QSWAuZ_oCwvgo0fRlvYZqFz58uBN8wT7m_7UWYoW0JmO9hRRtWaoTBZdEHkownKsJOSsBgE-H1Fe2G5jEhLAoSQJ2T0B_vqInTW2ncyaocXaVjSu5OIdEVY6n8FKpAXqJLCqzlLWxUhmBI2Uz2Ev/s4000/20231019_154536.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXqkWbMbrKpAlEN-B2kPSMzISRf3vZq8p3P11pQrB0QSWAuZ_oCwvgo0fRlvYZqFz58uBN8wT7m_7UWYoW0JmO9hRRtWaoTBZdEHkownKsJOSsBgE-H1Fe2G5jEhLAoSQJ2T0B_vqInTW2ncyaocXaVjSu5OIdEVY6n8FKpAXqJLCqzlLWxUhmBI2Uz2Ev/w640-h360/20231019_154536.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vyTEEd1ChPfDdJgGEYiYHexr4n8a4URdEzmWPdK9NlYAJk3UH49tLEpgah3B27FXSEsjt1tu48M_E8g-jhKaXWdSXhK2T4f4z3LuCTvGLu7xRNoMHRZqrIUxiS2xvw52QOQjwR3gDdpzntdC-hWpIQa8wLN62LxIE8TRZ7ZRfC33iTYRYsBcHJcg3NjO/s4000/20231019_155156.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESZqBI9oMg2-s3A18uV0Xu423J4TYwsKvgrgkzLI4CZuKLIlZOl9pNMpSkzh260EZblJAE5ZJmsI93pQPRiiRhVPkahErr9sxBIaMuEYXRnzddJy8S86FMJ8fb1-x20h_Dhh1hGd7YgsxeQhsfV5BHtOrOctvCOJyxwd42gAV7sulI1MwbFwgKsaknbQ7/w640-h360/20231019_161711.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFwW-bbblA3riVQwaxqeYIJfa_zIe3B8Xk05SrY2PW-O6wB5JqSUu7HV-xu0AWybLM6h9zwwMBC-zG04iCX7Xjt0SionHCclBAmcO3EiA7mOC9VK3g5Jh9oQi_q2iW-s5uUWkHbK6W0VWlufHleLL4yoVWr0p3MxcxYNFD2fcTjVCd_fYSIB-EBLoy8cg0/s4000/20231019_161836.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFwW-bbblA3riVQwaxqeYIJfa_zIe3B8Xk05SrY2PW-O6wB5JqSUu7HV-xu0AWybLM6h9zwwMBC-zG04iCX7Xjt0SionHCclBAmcO3EiA7mOC9VK3g5Jh9oQi_q2iW-s5uUWkHbK6W0VWlufHleLL4yoVWr0p3MxcxYNFD2fcTjVCd_fYSIB-EBLoy8cg0/w640-h360/20231019_161836.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/ad79eruption/pompeii/regio-i/reg-i-ins-8/thermopolium-of-vetutius-placidus" target="_blank">thermopolium of Vetutius Placidus</a>: Thermopolia were inns or snack-bars in which hot food and drinks were sold and in Pompeii there were nearly 100.</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><b>Remarkable artistry: </b>This particular domus is famous because of the exceptional artwork found in two specific rooms (rooms 8 and 12).<div><div><b>Room purpose: </b>These rooms were small and meant <b>for resting</b> or sleeping (cubicula).</div><div><b>Decoration style:</b> The paintings date from the Augustan period (approximately 27 BC – 14 AD) and belong to the third artistic style of Pompeii (Style III).</div><div><b>Subject matter:</b> The paintings depict lush gardens filled with various elements:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Plants: </b>Palm trees, shrubs, and fruit trees such as lemon, fig, cherry, pear, plum, and pomegranate.</li><li><b>Animals: </b>Birds of different species, adding life and movement to the scene.</li></ul></div><div>Overall, the detailed paintings of gardens create a peaceful and vibrant atmosphere in the bedrooms, reflecting the <b>popular style of the Augustan era</b>.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistsUdGChrN37-FmHxkZABg5Zo12q08haIUFv5i9QJr4jxVkZJaU34YTWv9RUbxFTZYVRFija1n9UInDzke1RqbRNz8PCWkgkL57S_76mFhoGPr_8NAr4gOr0XGJ7rjmZNQaZmlaYuRARaokPMImeWCoTuT0AJ9tZAv2sy7E_i0VyjSj52Mah0uVgtirAq/s4000/20231019_162042.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistsUdGChrN37-FmHxkZABg5Zo12q08haIUFv5i9QJr4jxVkZJaU34YTWv9RUbxFTZYVRFija1n9UInDzke1RqbRNz8PCWkgkL57S_76mFhoGPr_8NAr4gOr0XGJ7rjmZNQaZmlaYuRARaokPMImeWCoTuT0AJ9tZAv2sy7E_i0VyjSj52Mah0uVgtirAq/w640-h360/20231019_162042.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE0gBnmXOUbouTAnp6dtm2y26BtF-Qote1ov30MyWsGbSI2XlHNuZet2okRK4l3qrxFpWF8Piy4NeaOuiYnffB7oBlOe3XL8h4c04VVCXyagCKOP6lBH4EEv8g49gNRQzaguv-cMY9bnB6iXPgFTVAI8C3rkl3sF1Y5F-xI-mAJ1oE1eX1OI7DsWp1Lg7x/s4000/20231019_162327.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE0gBnmXOUbouTAnp6dtm2y26BtF-Qote1ov30MyWsGbSI2XlHNuZet2okRK4l3qrxFpWF8Piy4NeaOuiYnffB7oBlOe3XL8h4c04VVCXyagCKOP6lBH4EEv8g49gNRQzaguv-cMY9bnB6iXPgFTVAI8C3rkl3sF1Y5F-xI-mAJ1oE1eX1OI7DsWp1Lg7x/w360-h640/20231019_162327.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfq7kqb-uMUuid3FjREC5Dkz4OkWhjOiu52JwcxL55E_EwXJ4Mx5200IRsvGul9vcqqam7oizQ503ACp6FhPOGv7x-PxNAM4oX-JVViomD_DVesDt_Gl9kpXG6ulmKHW13dSt0hnrqxcrUnMrFI-Y99W_F6858Kz7Kzg8jukisqjarGqR_pzJ6dH98AqJg/s4000/20231019_162413.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfq7kqb-uMUuid3FjREC5Dkz4OkWhjOiu52JwcxL55E_EwXJ4Mx5200IRsvGul9vcqqam7oizQ503ACp6FhPOGv7x-PxNAM4oX-JVViomD_DVesDt_Gl9kpXG6ulmKHW13dSt0hnrqxcrUnMrFI-Y99W_F6858Kz7Kzg8jukisqjarGqR_pzJ6dH98AqJg/w640-h360/20231019_162413.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvHcRGVarrLWkTNC84-PjPST2AgnTv0Q3ZGnTkBz59BnqOkUJgzF2oqY4x_H1iJ2-UjNf3oq4tMzJx7JR5DcIcaBKtoADRAxShOcs-kgDERAIOzh_Pc1x0XR9ApJW_HKHMUf9ZB54kEQkyN1DETwboBsqNBC2k8mnnzHK2CSfjBLG0kKceL4JCy3kGQH3/s4000/20231019_163031.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvHcRGVarrLWkTNC84-PjPST2AgnTv0Q3ZGnTkBz59BnqOkUJgzF2oqY4x_H1iJ2-UjNf3oq4tMzJx7JR5DcIcaBKtoADRAxShOcs-kgDERAIOzh_Pc1x0XR9ApJW_HKHMUf9ZB54kEQkyN1DETwboBsqNBC2k8mnnzHK2CSfjBLG0kKceL4JCy3kGQH3/w640-h360/20231019_163031.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQZBSH6wd7ebs99dZMdxkRc2F1Ax0Z-leg6bLpGJnmVb1VSf5bzGm0EsYulv23xaCQ5JEkZMdglLeprW8kctZIBN1TRLSoLeCC_u9-KJT8CB1s4aIqOysNDuJxLDDQqRXqFpWqEV04h8VtmoDXhV3CGQrEnByCEICxcJp9idX5zCtHUiOKICqe3Eh5r1E/s4000/20231019_163540.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQZBSH6wd7ebs99dZMdxkRc2F1Ax0Z-leg6bLpGJnmVb1VSf5bzGm0EsYulv23xaCQ5JEkZMdglLeprW8kctZIBN1TRLSoLeCC_u9-KJT8CB1s4aIqOysNDuJxLDDQqRXqFpWqEV04h8VtmoDXhV3CGQrEnByCEICxcJp9idX5zCtHUiOKICqe3Eh5r1E/w640-h360/20231019_163540.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfNyWsMXgm7cRt5eDQuIGVy5RDjMJK4fjN5Ft944INicuQ3FAFQX3Fib7Vy_ajVLoEhmZ_tLH0vy0WWi_CquZJ2-NDUlE1ydSqbCK8-vWzm1x9KD5y9kpIOzgdAXe4_TcuDlr8grpeF7adTii4I-ijweWc85OkzzhpX1OhAJKvKGkCOFXFxKNYHHFp8UV/s4000/20231019_163947.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfNyWsMXgm7cRt5eDQuIGVy5RDjMJK4fjN5Ft944INicuQ3FAFQX3Fib7Vy_ajVLoEhmZ_tLH0vy0WWi_CquZJ2-NDUlE1ydSqbCK8-vWzm1x9KD5y9kpIOzgdAXe4_TcuDlr8grpeF7adTii4I-ijweWc85OkzzhpX1OhAJKvKGkCOFXFxKNYHHFp8UV/w640-h360/20231019_163947.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5YofAS7O40JyaHlsa7jtFW7MhcDhmaM0HWxWPB4WSFjqXzLybO-RwT5bynEiUZ_Gm7DJ_k2M5poKW5kaJaRDP8X49Eb18_woMNgcdHW3mmLDpSC3dwN8PDMd8D0Pi4wDXe7btH31UcttLf6qxSTU0I1Z5-wKS7153mMC-E7PTU-UbV4U-T2nN_OgYat96/s4000/20231019_164312.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5YofAS7O40JyaHlsa7jtFW7MhcDhmaM0HWxWPB4WSFjqXzLybO-RwT5bynEiUZ_Gm7DJ_k2M5poKW5kaJaRDP8X49Eb18_woMNgcdHW3mmLDpSC3dwN8PDMd8D0Pi4wDXe7btH31UcttLf6qxSTU0I1Z5-wKS7153mMC-E7PTU-UbV4U-T2nN_OgYat96/w640-h360/20231019_164312.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/House_of_Menander" target="_blank">House of Menander </a></h3><div><br /></div>Since its initial construction around 200 BC, the house belonged to a <b>high-ranking family</b>. From the late 1st century BC it probably belonged to the Poppeii, who were related to Poppaea, the second wife of Empreror <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nero" target="_blank">Nero</a>. The atrium leads to the peristyle, onto which refined dining rooms faced; one of these features, at its center, a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opus_vermiculatum" target="_blank">vermiculatum</a>, in the form of an elegant mosaic created with minute tesserae that depicted Pygmies on the Nile. On the western side find a small private bath complex with a colonnaded atrium. Here, in an underground corridor, a rich silver service was found wrapped in cloth, featuring 118 pieces that are today held at the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Archaeological_Museum,_Naples" target="_blank">National Archaeological Museum of Naples</a>. At the end of the portico is an altar for household worship which contained the imagines, or the portrait casts of ancestors. A narrow corridor leads to the rustic area where the reconstruction of a cart is kept.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2AzGKb3HwCKLSoy86OAMS8FULgOiQeF-2wN2C1qe0yT8tzhCjcqPP6-0it3ZA-4fjkm2hiWCIDawwXLjjDbHfLdTDaDq9zLKKcTBoTJxAg4ns3Y4NSg1ucWhkNt8lBNvZuwMY6DYGQxPfUTjZQfaCJJLTXlPmHNfyCulQd2Y2gP9yEPV4oRx3Q2Pv8hQ/s4000/20231019_164853.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2AzGKb3HwCKLSoy86OAMS8FULgOiQeF-2wN2C1qe0yT8tzhCjcqPP6-0it3ZA-4fjkm2hiWCIDawwXLjjDbHfLdTDaDq9zLKKcTBoTJxAg4ns3Y4NSg1ucWhkNt8lBNvZuwMY6DYGQxPfUTjZQfaCJJLTXlPmHNfyCulQd2Y2gP9yEPV4oRx3Q2Pv8hQ/w640-h360/20231019_164853.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4jRL34F4zS5VjnHWa5IPrVqbuLFr2ywvvZCKQQ8XO9nlTgTMz0bK6Jd9dYnNZEI5uHlg52Y9vd7b3IiU_EEZdPMlL0YW5vDUFudGcXy3hy82e3XS4utP74iM_0799ZzbbQjgdyjx0QlZvS0F8DEw8O4MGB78zr0sTtWh4cxog2frCJBB-g49pAdfXmKI/s4000/20231019_164953.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4jRL34F4zS5VjnHWa5IPrVqbuLFr2ywvvZCKQQ8XO9nlTgTMz0bK6Jd9dYnNZEI5uHlg52Y9vd7b3IiU_EEZdPMlL0YW5vDUFudGcXy3hy82e3XS4utP74iM_0799ZzbbQjgdyjx0QlZvS0F8DEw8O4MGB78zr0sTtWh4cxog2frCJBB-g49pAdfXmKI/w640-h360/20231019_164953.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6bXNUWyn_6Z8wivCrTKytCUmq88vibrsPXpX7IU6FBOUjNjuxWk6I8FRntjhy-FUSdyTyG6qRSQRhVP-Ug9LhraHlVSytDFs54cXmA0BTy7Wc8LRracpRkRyXdSxdjLPntYt1kQQlE4x8EifVKe0tUlfMf3NoJNIuBSMg8J5lya9WdDnbe0U1M8iy0Mi/s4000/20231019_165104.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6bXNUWyn_6Z8wivCrTKytCUmq88vibrsPXpX7IU6FBOUjNjuxWk6I8FRntjhy-FUSdyTyG6qRSQRhVP-Ug9LhraHlVSytDFs54cXmA0BTy7Wc8LRracpRkRyXdSxdjLPntYt1kQQlE4x8EifVKe0tUlfMf3NoJNIuBSMg8J5lya9WdDnbe0U1M8iy0Mi/w640-h360/20231019_165104.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLlCKOKSVzyz219UnA-A05VbPA1Hut91e_KWpVBJzfclQuiRJUXVvlBIhDCX2FWbI6aeuyy1DfxUfXysFUZQi-43_ORSdxYT9_LwThpGF5VDNfzxf7g6miNivQJiTDyow_TW4SyzjVecycbBBeiE-6gZ3T6pDi-N5-WMhlcZNKp9x0Z9AWljwgRNLnM_e/s4000/20231019_165842.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLlCKOKSVzyz219UnA-A05VbPA1Hut91e_KWpVBJzfclQuiRJUXVvlBIhDCX2FWbI6aeuyy1DfxUfXysFUZQi-43_ORSdxYT9_LwThpGF5VDNfzxf7g6miNivQJiTDyow_TW4SyzjVecycbBBeiE-6gZ3T6pDi-N5-WMhlcZNKp9x0Z9AWljwgRNLnM_e/w640-h360/20231019_165842.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>In 1931, in the servant's quarter of the house, the remains of a small wheeled cart were discovered, known as a <i><a href="https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=228603" target="_blank">cisium birotus</a></i>, a two-seated vehicle pulled by two mules or horses that was used for short journeys or for carrying light loads.</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGejuL3KSZqCaYTU2kjUkdV3Mq9qaduk5B_lB1zeVZX_DNnGZ_3E5eizS_MLTzwR7HBsUtIVLqM6rkKHkape2RG5PNJaFLEzuneMH84GB0xizWjXLrDfs4zSeaCTu_waySU6KeGU0NOidRnW-HkG9R7HeQxW4IKLHsxcfICEJd8Jg3z3TsfUn-BopCV2Uw/s4000/20231019_170231.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGejuL3KSZqCaYTU2kjUkdV3Mq9qaduk5B_lB1zeVZX_DNnGZ_3E5eizS_MLTzwR7HBsUtIVLqM6rkKHkape2RG5PNJaFLEzuneMH84GB0xizWjXLrDfs4zSeaCTu_waySU6KeGU0NOidRnW-HkG9R7HeQxW4IKLHsxcfICEJd8Jg3z3TsfUn-BopCV2Uw/w640-h360/20231019_170231.jpg" width="560" /></a></div></div></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-26486617209101875712024-02-27T20:18:00.000-08:002024-02-27T20:18:23.474-08:00Unveiling the Secrets of Rongjin Gorgeous Time: Taipei's Hidden Gem<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6Ev3XdRn3GajJFYHtDMJn5G4pL8LdFOTnUKzp9utrJPCI2q2XbF6-Wtt2CIPyEbvH94frsJDqqpBx9FU6rnCDnTebcW-laa_KHoIMAQ-aVxsIQEL1-qdZtNu7E7V_m_lr8Er4ya5yMpTmyKCm6G48wGYROqoBWMYHtAqvWXySAWwosTSszbzrIxQtEmH/s4000/20230507_144311.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6Ev3XdRn3GajJFYHtDMJn5G4pL8LdFOTnUKzp9utrJPCI2q2XbF6-Wtt2CIPyEbvH94frsJDqqpBx9FU6rnCDnTebcW-laa_KHoIMAQ-aVxsIQEL1-qdZtNu7E7V_m_lr8Er4ya5yMpTmyKCm6G48wGYROqoBWMYHtAqvWXySAWwosTSszbzrIxQtEmH/w640-h480/20230507_144311.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Boasting a rich history and vibrant atmosphere, <a href="https://www.goldenpin.org.tw/en/winners/1282" target="_blank">Rongjin Gorgeous Time</a> ⭐in Taipei is a unique blend of old and new, captivating visitors with its Japanese-inspired transformation.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Recommended Places:</h3><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Must-Try Cafes:</b> <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Simple+Kaffa+THE+COFFEE+ONE/@25.030369,121.5237891,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x3442a9d3cda5789b:0x4fcf01216fa36ead!8m2!3d25.0303642!4d121.526364!16s%2Fg%2F11tcbjrd07?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Simple Kaffa The Coffee One</a> offers a cozy and aromatic coffee experience.</li><li><b>Delicious Restaurants:</b> </li><ul><li><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Taihu+Dongmen/@25.0304827,121.5229031,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x3442a957fe3d3d05:0xe6d46ba4ac80e9c7!8m2!3d25.0304779!4d121.525478!16s%2Fg%2F11s46rqjpc?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Taihu Dongmen</a> is a favorite for their delectable dumplings and gyoza.</li><li><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/HOYA-%E8%99%8E%E7%88%BA%E5%8F%B0%E8%8F%9C%E7%A7%81%E5%BB%9A/@25.0303856,121.5235183,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x3442a905ff0e5f73:0xbc6804dbec822fa3!8m2!3d25.0303808!4d121.5260932!16s%2Fg%2F11vk3yg8ct?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Ho-Ya (虎爺串烤)</a> serves Taiwanese dishes. The restaurant offers a wide variety of skewered meats and vegetables, as well as other traditional Taiwanese dishes.</li></ul></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW6fCC0Ln01UnMK7OWSzUgGRRBc-5JYooNToxtDj-_6r8TBuitHHG6b0-K5ZTIH43I3ZUvI1lM3EQ71tQdXy67CcG6UDbzLaUV9tMbMjGIgz-7EWR639Ds6NvUqLH_3YiKWGqw83XyeoMWW3scuRQ-nYzU0BtO-enjXfutpCvRFBVzHerEP7rmxJSrOr4R/s1920/Rongjin%20Gorgeous%20Time.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1920" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW6fCC0Ln01UnMK7OWSzUgGRRBc-5JYooNToxtDj-_6r8TBuitHHG6b0-K5ZTIH43I3ZUvI1lM3EQ71tQdXy67CcG6UDbzLaUV9tMbMjGIgz-7EWR639Ds6NvUqLH_3YiKWGqw83XyeoMWW3scuRQ-nYzU0BtO-enjXfutpCvRFBVzHerEP7rmxJSrOr4R/w640-h240/Rongjin%20Gorgeous%20Time.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Store location map</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div></div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div><div>Whether you crave a glimpse of Taipei's past, yearn for authentic Japanese flavors, or simply seek a unique and photogenic experience, <a href="https://www.goldenpin.org.tw/en/winners/1282" target="_blank">Rongjin Gorgeous Time</a> offers something for everyone. </div><div><br /></div><div>On a rainy May 7th, 2023, we were lucky to experience the park's quiet charm. The drizzle thinned the crowds, allowing us to appreciate its tranquil beauty without the usual bustle. As the lights came on, <a href="https://www.goldenpin.org.tw/en/winners/1282" target="_blank">Rongjin Gorgeous Time</a> became even more enchanting.</div><div><div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLac4XnRcC22Xoch8Z_8wGtbDk_-ZmnHi0Y0FHG35IVKj8jPS5QYt7ridY9AU74L4jQMVuEXpHL1rCLcVQ0TM7_EJd_cWwDgTnLTPF0AokDi9pHxtp0aK14qRconRt3vdbC7TROgt023cMy3O0JVqJ4Cjzl1iis8I5sq8oQpjVVKF6CoHbnYEWYOL7uWir/s3385/20230507_143740.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3385" data-original-width="2285" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLac4XnRcC22Xoch8Z_8wGtbDk_-ZmnHi0Y0FHG35IVKj8jPS5QYt7ridY9AU74L4jQMVuEXpHL1rCLcVQ0TM7_EJd_cWwDgTnLTPF0AokDi9pHxtp0aK14qRconRt3vdbC7TROgt023cMy3O0JVqJ4Cjzl1iis8I5sq8oQpjVVKF6CoHbnYEWYOL7uWir/w432-h640/20230507_143740.jpg" width="378" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZZuv6TRywMXYjEpSzEMn-tVyS_WWx1qo5ek_1htxUMtiGGJgk0AOZQel3M-o3TDzwGJUQhWPIIyT-vL4I9q14FuqEg4bQ7xxI1skPf1yZjKxjv1nJpgOu_wujdVEvoWyn2SRWtnelOZdknjooP5axxhp1tfD02DXMzmZ69XanUhaADNV_C2XBKGpLIxN/s4000/20230507_152239.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZZuv6TRywMXYjEpSzEMn-tVyS_WWx1qo5ek_1htxUMtiGGJgk0AOZQel3M-o3TDzwGJUQhWPIIyT-vL4I9q14FuqEg4bQ7xxI1skPf1yZjKxjv1nJpgOu_wujdVEvoWyn2SRWtnelOZdknjooP5axxhp1tfD02DXMzmZ69XanUhaADNV_C2XBKGpLIxN/w640-h480/20230507_152239.jpg" width="560" /></a></div></div></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-87237824960808264672024-02-27T17:04:00.000-08:002024-02-27T20:50:10.645-08:00Nijo Castle (Nijo-jo Castle): A World Heritage Site in Kyoto<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmd8SXJyNjEWDxCRU-mz4AdCZPUROe58v5fJsYzpzHV_a_9VSScXL-fzQgsCOaeI7fYXZHxIMshcOVC9TKhpEythoY_7DonWdrSBY7kFcPAfqux4bl1FxhgwER6Yk2kXxJLCJZoizk-IgZ2U55n0L3SHZotcrs8n4CNafVCvXpzk-jZBX-TAdntL51PnW/s1166/cherry%20blossoms.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="1166" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmd8SXJyNjEWDxCRU-mz4AdCZPUROe58v5fJsYzpzHV_a_9VSScXL-fzQgsCOaeI7fYXZHxIMshcOVC9TKhpEythoY_7DonWdrSBY7kFcPAfqux4bl1FxhgwER6Yk2kXxJLCJZoizk-IgZ2U55n0L3SHZotcrs8n4CNafVCvXpzk-jZBX-TAdntL51PnW/w640-h480/cherry%20blossoms.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/news/%e6%a2%85%e3%81%ae%e9%96%8b%e8%8a%b1%e7%8a%b6%e6%b3%81/" target="_blank">Plum blossoming status</a> in Nijo Castle (confirmed date: 02/22/2024)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />If you're interested in Japanese history, architecture, or just want to experience a unique and beautiful location, then <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nij%C5%8D_Castle" target="_blank">Nijō Castle</a> ⭐⭐is a must-visit during your time in Kyoto!<p></p><p><b>History:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Built in 1603 by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokugawa_Ieyasu" target="_blank">Tokugawa Ieyasu</a>(徳川家康), founder of the Edo Shogunate.</li><li>Served as the residence of the Tokugawa Shogun family for over 260 years.</li><li>Later became a palace for the Imperial family.</li><li>Designated a <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">UNESCO World Heritage Site</span> in 1994.</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Highlights:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nij%C5%8D_Castle#Ninomaru_Palace" target="_blank">Ninomaru Palace</a>:</b> Features stunning murals and decorations.</li><li><b>Karamon Gate:</b> A Chinese-style gate with ornate decorations.</li><li><b>Gardens:</b> Beautiful gardens offering scenic views throughout the year.</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ninomaru Palace</h3><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>After entering Nijo Castle through the large east gate, you can rent English audio guides at the nearby kiosk. Continue on to explore the Chinese-style Karamon Gate. This leads to the Ninomaru (secondary defense area) where you'll find the beautiful <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nij%C5%8D_Castle#Ninomaru_Palace" target="_blank">Ninomaru Palace</a>, the <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">castle's highlight</span>.<p></p><div><div><div><b>Ninomaru Palace: A Legacy of Japanese Architecture</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Composed of six buildings, Ninomaru Palace stands as a prime example of Shoin-zukuri architecture, a style that emerged during the early Edo period. This significant structure played a vital role in the history of Japanese architecture.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today, <a href="https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/introduction/highlights/ninomaru/" target="_blank">Ninomaru Palace</a> holds the distinction of being the only remaining palace complex within a Japanese castle, as other prominent palaces like Edo Castle, Osaka Castle, and Nagoya Castle have been lost. This unique status has earned it national treasure designation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking display of luxury befitting a shogun's residence. The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kan%C5%8D_school" target="_blank">Kano school</a>, the most prominent school of Japanese painting throughout history, adorns the walls with vibrant murals. Intricate transom carvings and decorative metal fittings further enrich the ambiance, creating a truly magnificent space.</div><div><br /></div></div><div><b>Key Features:</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Located within the secondary circle of defense (Ninomaru).</li><li>Served as the residence and office of the shogun during visits to Kyoto.</li><li>Original form preserved.</li><li>Consists of multiple separate buildings connected by corridors with “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nightingale_floor" target="_blank">nightingale floors</a>” (<span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">squeaking floors as a security measure</span>).</li><li>Rooms feature tatami mats, decorated ceilings, and <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">beautifully painted sliding doors</span> (<b>Click <a href="https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/introduction/highlights/ninomaru/" target="_blank">here</a></b> to see the <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">awe-inspiring wall paintings of </span><a href="https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/introduction/highlights/ninomaru/" target="_blank">Ninomaru Palace</a>).</li></ul><div><br /></div></div></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div><div><p>On a rainy day, May 14th, 2023, we began our visit at the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nij%C5%8D_Castle#Ninomaru_Palace" target="_blank">Ninomaru Palace</a>, the castle's main attraction. <b>Photography and videography</b> are <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">not allowed</span> inside the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nij%C5%8D_Castle#Ninomaru_Palace" target="_blank">Ninomaru Palace</a> to help preserve the historical and delicate nature of its interior, including the original paintings and decorations.</p><p>We then explored the castle's sprawling gardens, which feature ponds and meticulously landscaped areas. As it was not cherry blossom season, we didn't see any in bloom. However, according to available information, <b>cherry blossoms</b> <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">typically begin blooming around late February</span>.</p><div><p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlm-yMM-K0QH_uct2AG8HhlPknQ1NAd-o6r4-UufDvUxCHXUAWv4ft_JHcjXWN2Myf_D0F-WnTyr28nxxqNEUqvfiZ-V9JmgPFchGaBUNOvpEJNTCUiwR0vpCd5oVYVkx3yWXpE6uvoJ-JOoddv937x9hFzYOqW4m1jW3hXzPk8B4MjTCvKHZFWjH_vof/s4000/20230514_130004.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlm-yMM-K0QH_uct2AG8HhlPknQ1NAd-o6r4-UufDvUxCHXUAWv4ft_JHcjXWN2Myf_D0F-WnTyr28nxxqNEUqvfiZ-V9JmgPFchGaBUNOvpEJNTCUiwR0vpCd5oVYVkx3yWXpE6uvoJ-JOoddv937x9hFzYOqW4m1jW3hXzPk8B4MjTCvKHZFWjH_vof/w640-h480/20230514_130004.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2TMDKmvCnRNPVFRA4xB1761tUQgLZPl_y_tog0VLl1EuX3rkh6me393B0FLmQiK1SwLEEs0Vx0GPEnjB_Gz7L142gLnuT3ahUcPXOiXHFTzY7Ny_0WWFFQl9h8wd0_qs5pXc5L08X6XJp_7o2RKFoatGLPUe78vCy5QGqA-cSl9DdpQ8-1dnaMZ0f_XY/s4000/20230514_130051.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2TMDKmvCnRNPVFRA4xB1761tUQgLZPl_y_tog0VLl1EuX3rkh6me393B0FLmQiK1SwLEEs0Vx0GPEnjB_Gz7L142gLnuT3ahUcPXOiXHFTzY7Ny_0WWFFQl9h8wd0_qs5pXc5L08X6XJp_7o2RKFoatGLPUe78vCy5QGqA-cSl9DdpQ8-1dnaMZ0f_XY/w640-h480/20230514_130051.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Karamon Gate</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nd-MLcsB_w7uTsrYogVJQoPIDo744x8WBnV-CHifvJfWplpoNUp5DxSO9sZxzr6KyON52lrERgPHnlJSsQvP57GguoghdINEg5P4pRRwvK_0jObbUefA35JWevJepoz93DVBC-lAHtXPpBzKDc-Ucr3_gUFqaMP206VdtzYI0511odKBawRlEIdOit7g/s4000/20230514_130127.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nd-MLcsB_w7uTsrYogVJQoPIDo744x8WBnV-CHifvJfWplpoNUp5DxSO9sZxzr6KyON52lrERgPHnlJSsQvP57GguoghdINEg5P4pRRwvK_0jObbUefA35JWevJepoz93DVBC-lAHtXPpBzKDc-Ucr3_gUFqaMP206VdtzYI0511odKBawRlEIdOit7g/w640-h480/20230514_130127.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_dodP8r7nK8g-DEuVWjLUlkkNkiPtGvNPcePUu6WzldBM0_99XIlki04PdMn8xKGq1gr5fNifcJ63-QweOEP_csNj0nXZvgeJ4LGmHfrgGjN_w-wxS5s2dcy0V-73idxMlkDF5zlgoLEoE1p4IP1c0D9n8-khK4h4B53xJrSz3wSFcoRmQRz-aKS2ug3R/s4000/20230514_130219.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_dodP8r7nK8g-DEuVWjLUlkkNkiPtGvNPcePUu6WzldBM0_99XIlki04PdMn8xKGq1gr5fNifcJ63-QweOEP_csNj0nXZvgeJ4LGmHfrgGjN_w-wxS5s2dcy0V-73idxMlkDF5zlgoLEoE1p4IP1c0D9n8-khK4h4B53xJrSz3wSFcoRmQRz-aKS2ug3R/w640-h480/20230514_130219.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Entrance of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nij%C5%8D_Castle#Ninomaru_Palace" target="_blank">Ninomaru Palace</a> (</b></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>二の丸御殿)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvL1Xa-S4KOhmqm2B8Bxef1XOddV_47Qn1j9verMuEqDWjcvibHRy9EigPxfAgs34jtYgUVbRcjXwlBYV8R4lW_NuMgS2Onrs4_XT51cqyn58PCaVX0WsoRe8XnAKbIR8iyXrOQPWTPyAgKDqAHY87_dVYrNehDczwWIi7Icn7Jgywf4KisRkdczrgkYEM/s768/ceiling%20of%20Ninomaru%20Palace.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="576" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvL1Xa-S4KOhmqm2B8Bxef1XOddV_47Qn1j9verMuEqDWjcvibHRy9EigPxfAgs34jtYgUVbRcjXwlBYV8R4lW_NuMgS2Onrs4_XT51cqyn58PCaVX0WsoRe8XnAKbIR8iyXrOQPWTPyAgKDqAHY87_dVYrNehDczwWIi7Icn7Jgywf4KisRkdczrgkYEM/w480-h640/ceiling%20of%20Ninomaru%20Palace.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Ceiling paiting of Ninomaru Palace (Source: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nijojo-roka-tenjo2.jpg">commons.wikimedia.org</a>)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Taisei_H%C5%8Dkan.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="邨田丹陵, Tanryō Murata, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Taisei Hōkan" height="560" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e2/Taisei_H%C5%8Dkan.jpg/512px-Taisei_H%C5%8Dkan.jpg" width="511" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Tokugawa Yoshinobu in the Kuroshoin (邨田丹陵, Tanryō Murata, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJy2pInu9NctyUkkcgXMwYCWfqHJjzeq6nBNw1d-W7gKhCVtyK-w0vrnKQt4RvCOhtcaeLQNMSsWcFvASIiArTWNmfRDGd8ynYgT4mfLBN-lmcQ_eAQQWWTO8Q8dgJw4e9BgFkkkbAaA3kDYTB5Qv-C2MvVnqM-Dqj0nfYiCN4vMtsBoXAb3Rnvvv0NLl2/s4000/20230514_135210.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4iampK_Rid0H5GN6caAAcBHzyoPlwIOOvt3fhf16eE0xPZb3N71CH6Fk3G-fNvt9JcefBROoIFazyCSXEy86Iw1qZBIEpEa81TLItepdR1uM8tiPaa4myA3c07L8_8AlVlQZY78dbur9Dibw4xAtrB2JsdoQngtqV2Ea3HLr54slGYvtzGaJyfh2GPk0/s4000/20230514_144053.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4iampK_Rid0H5GN6caAAcBHzyoPlwIOOvt3fhf16eE0xPZb3N71CH6Fk3G-fNvt9JcefBROoIFazyCSXEy86Iw1qZBIEpEa81TLItepdR1uM8tiPaa4myA3c07L8_8AlVlQZY78dbur9Dibw4xAtrB2JsdoQngtqV2Ea3HLr54slGYvtzGaJyfh2GPk0/w640-h480/20230514_144053.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-Oi2zJUHSbzNjTV9DaBCurZbqp2rChvQWQRFn-IDb60N28E9J3E_G74Kvw-VOZrIaw-FFq9j82yPmHq6BHlOHh5tXk-4zUH5A8AGfLanBSS_2Db62MWeg6p3oW-pDSklDL_t9AinrGsUZ0IHHSiNKsfK1tgE-fFoyrvb3N0lAaM6SRcNSKoD8QQkarVK/s4000/20230514_144252.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-Oi2zJUHSbzNjTV9DaBCurZbqp2rChvQWQRFn-IDb60N28E9J3E_G74Kvw-VOZrIaw-FFq9j82yPmHq6BHlOHh5tXk-4zUH5A8AGfLanBSS_2Db62MWeg6p3oW-pDSklDL_t9AinrGsUZ0IHHSiNKsfK1tgE-fFoyrvb3N0lAaM6SRcNSKoD8QQkarVK/w640-h480/20230514_144252.jpg" width="560" /></a></div></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-47257338927754493852024-02-26T19:59:00.000-08:002024-02-26T19:59:31.245-08:00Unveiling Taipei's Beauty: A Hike to the Peak of Mount Elephant<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHA3ikvYnUi81km6FzrBA9cHC5NgHlCfzqA3iwthyphenhyphenk3q85jIU7YhK7VcIPlAgr5VwbN8cVPOpxLaoutNd5vcVFGW0sZ0D0PBFPQ9sMm-EeSFDaVobKDGd0WVLqHZDHpaGcgK6ZEjrri7X_fB-wGf6bawsik-5ztcT6nIJpMJYtJACCGc7qmRVgFib6FmZ/s4000/20230506_082137.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHA3ikvYnUi81km6FzrBA9cHC5NgHlCfzqA3iwthyphenhyphenk3q85jIU7YhK7VcIPlAgr5VwbN8cVPOpxLaoutNd5vcVFGW0sZ0D0PBFPQ9sMm-EeSFDaVobKDGd0WVLqHZDHpaGcgK6ZEjrri7X_fB-wGf6bawsik-5ztcT6nIJpMJYtJACCGc7qmRVgFib6FmZ/w640-h480/20230506_082137.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Taipei 101</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Mount Elephant, also known as Xiangshan in Chinese, is a popular hiking destination in Taipei, Taiwan. Located in the Xinyi District, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city, including the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm8jSC1tSag3nnbJXsr-fzkqs2MoztrA0wi2WbMb0X6g8x2EWMQ44vGesSvArgOOrK18XVLz0dZ4h5yX9qM5mfnageItKvAjtGYMkKyuHil84a9D9450GLxIzCI11CrQwpBBzzNRIEnvKMK-5_aDiVE5L_gsjv57PNz4jWH_qPG9PxoMXrWIz2IgXzAFd/s2891/20230506_080324.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2891" data-original-width="2197" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm8jSC1tSag3nnbJXsr-fzkqs2MoztrA0wi2WbMb0X6g8x2EWMQ44vGesSvArgOOrK18XVLz0dZ4h5yX9qM5mfnageItKvAjtGYMkKyuHil84a9D9450GLxIzCI11CrQwpBBzzNRIEnvKMK-5_aDiVE5L_gsjv57PNz4jWH_qPG9PxoMXrWIz2IgXzAFd/w486-h640/20230506_080324.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Hiking Mount Elephant: Official Routes to the Peak</h3><div><br /></div><p>There are two main official trails leading to the peak of Mount Elephant:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Xiangshan Trail:</b> This is the most popular and well-maintained trail, consisting of stairs and paved paths.</li><li><b>Six Giant Rocks Trail:</b> This trail is shorter and steeper, offering more challenging terrain and scenic views of the rock formations.</li></ul><div>While there are two main trails, you might encounter slight variations within them depending on which entrance you choose or if you take any small detours to explore other viewpoints.</div><p></p><p><b>Key Facts:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Height: 183 meters (600 feet)</li><li>Hiking distance: Approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles)</li><li>Difficulty: Moderately challenging</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Highlights:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Breathtaking views of Taipei, especially at sunrise and sunset</li><li>Six Giant Rocks - unique rock formations on the peak</li><li>Lush greenery and diverse wildlife</li><li>Convenient location close to Xiangshan MRT station</li></ul>If you're looking for a moderate hike with amazing views in Taipei, Mount Elephant is a great option. Just be prepared for some crowds, especially on weekends.<div><br /><h3>Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div><div>On a sunny day, May 6th, 2023, I embarked on a hike up Mount Elephant via the Xiangshan Trail. The following photos showcase the journey in chronological order, capturing the gradual climb and scenic views.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzNbgEqBS41Rp5xY9QpCZRhBM-S8a1i-z6e3sSfwOu8hpRa-Mgi4rGwg_KtktLd01Maxmqg4XSevip1U9KSxKvbEUL-J-3NVV3IZphpVL14D2iHFp7s_Ojp1pAVFF59iYes0naxUVFNraX7tfYHDPQdtUuXh1OCyaL6XBxOXmSCh-ali235g-0weiTBBoG/s4000/20230506_073230.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzNbgEqBS41Rp5xY9QpCZRhBM-S8a1i-z6e3sSfwOu8hpRa-Mgi4rGwg_KtktLd01Maxmqg4XSevip1U9KSxKvbEUL-J-3NVV3IZphpVL14D2iHFp7s_Ojp1pAVFF59iYes0naxUVFNraX7tfYHDPQdtUuXh1OCyaL6XBxOXmSCh-ali235g-0weiTBBoG/w480-h640/20230506_073230.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDwHq_zvpzt-qkvgbjtLPeukXr_Cvcq2MG8Ev9LUC23Q7Qq4abFQT-AxPNa9vjKe9yrsDT_6YpxN9ht3D2yr10ZIBPXraOagjDt4wBXd1XbRDf5qFliTlRNsQ8h6m9bvU2ZTr605hJPpN8ESWQNyVL2F24MuTuP_ze9jofyKjRaTISW7I-ph6Ka4e7QfB/s4000/20230506_073619.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDwHq_zvpzt-qkvgbjtLPeukXr_Cvcq2MG8Ev9LUC23Q7Qq4abFQT-AxPNa9vjKe9yrsDT_6YpxN9ht3D2yr10ZIBPXraOagjDt4wBXd1XbRDf5qFliTlRNsQ8h6m9bvU2ZTr605hJPpN8ESWQNyVL2F24MuTuP_ze9jofyKjRaTISW7I-ph6Ka4e7QfB/w480-h640/20230506_073619.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXB0WZPMcpED6PVl9xB7SYMZ80PDa0dMnSwFzrtMg3blHsvgIqh510wRM7r2cM6ff7FXDLE010ANvfDA4jaiPwvMOHjVep5ym6wEf6I92rSPvvbJPSX3k-MI4tVn8KawsMNlOGVf0HsuHbkEo2lUW3crmxJGawh5_HJtJ9x9-HaSRhxX013jW44sfl5Atr/s4000/20230506_074238.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXB0WZPMcpED6PVl9xB7SYMZ80PDa0dMnSwFzrtMg3blHsvgIqh510wRM7r2cM6ff7FXDLE010ANvfDA4jaiPwvMOHjVep5ym6wEf6I92rSPvvbJPSX3k-MI4tVn8KawsMNlOGVf0HsuHbkEo2lUW3crmxJGawh5_HJtJ9x9-HaSRhxX013jW44sfl5Atr/w480-h640/20230506_074238.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm6zt2F-KNeRZTLnTfxhrsY-jdkkzEah1eawneuD4OyaNB6TWfybBEKRyv1U3g8OqnthXbVISGPW3a9VssFdfUdor8l48h9azW71tNVBgZAXuRJLM5qPblmBN5BmUBB7-WEtdbK_heOMRjtyS2BnajWACVhpsSwUzD4WxH-TTErE6z3jK5hiTmAwIFoC7K/w480-h640/20230506_074822.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYFfUVNmhvo6GqbUnyiods44d94SglKqiJL-1OPvvJIUB1VCSrGCZ9EIcwcbPMpUu1Aff7Yyi_qKUCKpY8YvbiPn3wlX8ENzayKbG7kD4Xa_am7z0A8Pcu2v34x6X1qPqHSlV2ofcqcj3JEwMUAgdRdVQB9Pwi2SR2MwDAqGJRJuCAuI-chvLze5fmV1l/s4000/20230506_075222.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYFfUVNmhvo6GqbUnyiods44d94SglKqiJL-1OPvvJIUB1VCSrGCZ9EIcwcbPMpUu1Aff7Yyi_qKUCKpY8YvbiPn3wlX8ENzayKbG7kD4Xa_am7z0A8Pcu2v34x6X1qPqHSlV2ofcqcj3JEwMUAgdRdVQB9Pwi2SR2MwDAqGJRJuCAuI-chvLze5fmV1l/w480-h640/20230506_075222.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Xiangshan Nature Trail</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lASPnXdb1WgZY_hyphenhyphenw-LDEmYBwzRlNQX98YChs-JNpgXoqNZDXaMYUAx9aGEMnLg4-jy2GYA-23JUq6M-Q8vj1ZWJr0VB2WBUG6JWA3eVBMq2zamEiMebJ_QxlYvEUp5zLNyvNHCaFEeNKaylQ3TiV_pnMUfg-JZDC0DuEx0lZWBqt1UZCDG9HhdslZs3/w480-h640/20230506_080143.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMJy3HN0YZKPVDpDU4RckAsueIodbqvblIdDiKLtpt73hfH47pT7sBuSGIRYOPaGaQep5cpJoLT1DbZYREQWXdPwY25VTC_uTOFKXPnzQ0_qpMpVQCQY7M0WORbihKfe7jrO5AaxK6BkYPDO8BBGiHpnko59s0nHGTOISzFNGfqWr8C-0wyvnx-xzUXKF/s4000/20230506_081557.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMJy3HN0YZKPVDpDU4RckAsueIodbqvblIdDiKLtpt73hfH47pT7sBuSGIRYOPaGaQep5cpJoLT1DbZYREQWXdPwY25VTC_uTOFKXPnzQ0_qpMpVQCQY7M0WORbihKfe7jrO5AaxK6BkYPDO8BBGiHpnko59s0nHGTOISzFNGfqWr8C-0wyvnx-xzUXKF/w640-h480/20230506_081557.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32un7Ssv3LwSr1kNKD2lf7u3xLX5zGVaEq2O0IddUJoqaDanyz7WJtxyhK9GWxoBroIrJ5uR86KecIF4MI8ypyChiQOiS69SqRQ_AP_fn3LDLeJDJIAREKIpSxTKcu4Ttx9F7iaXGj7sfG4ls2S22CSKr1crch_J6WYTh1zNhLiPbJbMhpY_ySed3PJPb/s4000/20230506_081750.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32un7Ssv3LwSr1kNKD2lf7u3xLX5zGVaEq2O0IddUJoqaDanyz7WJtxyhK9GWxoBroIrJ5uR86KecIF4MI8ypyChiQOiS69SqRQ_AP_fn3LDLeJDJIAREKIpSxTKcu4Ttx9F7iaXGj7sfG4ls2S22CSKr1crch_J6WYTh1zNhLiPbJbMhpY_ySed3PJPb/w480-h640/20230506_081750.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_1M-o1EgJA36XNoVCmrSNMip6K5kof_c-HhKMtiiKWxjm4CDRWG0eQdMN8B0iOS4gxfgzfz-KYKyfMNvlCo-RHpks260VMXIwEanefAfvDlwM1icbVibirzyKiRWSmcp_dVAGIi8-ERgCdE6_4CcNfw0TuamD44wWR8GL5df2LtFkj7d4zbwK5zWx4VW9/s4000/20230506_082017.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_1M-o1EgJA36XNoVCmrSNMip6K5kof_c-HhKMtiiKWxjm4CDRWG0eQdMN8B0iOS4gxfgzfz-KYKyfMNvlCo-RHpks260VMXIwEanefAfvDlwM1icbVibirzyKiRWSmcp_dVAGIi8-ERgCdE6_4CcNfw0TuamD44wWR8GL5df2LtFkj7d4zbwK5zWx4VW9/w480-h640/20230506_082017.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiTDTr7GeXRy6QDdsuizQhRlVHFNG_7KxvjJ3XNcpRyoYU5ZIHxPP1uUFkFmPzxbcJB5Nt4ShpggkGvXe-YvCDF0P2pnjsoTIZkQj3PYqw9pQ3lha5mVC-XyFLzlkTgfRQSldQR59v4pnFQtzXmcF6LsZBgCpvIbDvEWPl1KfcIFwDWuVyu5xtLkGa_CF/s4000/20230506_082032.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiTDTr7GeXRy6QDdsuizQhRlVHFNG_7KxvjJ3XNcpRyoYU5ZIHxPP1uUFkFmPzxbcJB5Nt4ShpggkGvXe-YvCDF0P2pnjsoTIZkQj3PYqw9pQ3lha5mVC-XyFLzlkTgfRQSldQR59v4pnFQtzXmcF6LsZBgCpvIbDvEWPl1KfcIFwDWuVyu5xtLkGa_CF/w640-h480/20230506_082032.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Unmissable Milestone: Signpost Identifies Mount Elephant's Peak</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMAWjs5rUskzXfWc2SqJ9rSMiRzh0UWEk69-MYKzuLNY03qXnBrkHhuVzGJxSYjUQZXocFuMYgUYaq1IPIIuixdEBiLN7QnsmFyriPwoiUrP1GVt2KW2bjN5RjQQMxyFvuflVfen9PR9dQVQL9mon5nx0R2aFAz_Da4pdWAF0gw9coUnH-trUKTmBfa0F/s4000/20230506_082653.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMAWjs5rUskzXfWc2SqJ9rSMiRzh0UWEk69-MYKzuLNY03qXnBrkHhuVzGJxSYjUQZXocFuMYgUYaq1IPIIuixdEBiLN7QnsmFyriPwoiUrP1GVt2KW2bjN5RjQQMxyFvuflVfen9PR9dQVQL9mon5nx0R2aFAz_Da4pdWAF0gw9coUnH-trUKTmBfa0F/w640-h480/20230506_082653.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Six Giant Rocks</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Kz3o5FCgKulWAP6CP4sLNb3GM19lw_9qkRROhcTG-YDbg9Mzvl7HqLhrkQvIUewmG3GthEUKmUQEGdOnFlDmPC3SpnTtrIEoP0DW5xxgpf9mGh57jRu43VtbfJAkachKIrnhyAjTKNps_bfv8cGxPtT0fY7YhiAFWt5c-ApLpKHJ4k3MINO1bRtwtj_w/s4000/20230506_082805.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Kz3o5FCgKulWAP6CP4sLNb3GM19lw_9qkRROhcTG-YDbg9Mzvl7HqLhrkQvIUewmG3GthEUKmUQEGdOnFlDmPC3SpnTtrIEoP0DW5xxgpf9mGh57jRu43VtbfJAkachKIrnhyAjTKNps_bfv8cGxPtT0fY7YhiAFWt5c-ApLpKHJ4k3MINO1bRtwtj_w/w640-h480/20230506_082805.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6TZdgQZnyELURITUxAjmaHWt0Qx_CXbxD37JeLrKH-a1KN4HvFVbN3oTuxcbKkoSKDjo0Rp5KqbCyhnlWqjqEwqxAKcfsOFsyHTcoDVM9otkUcSK3ydDFVePTlVjdI7jxfrV3-5HwymEpZUgAe05LS96cHKAeNSUIVK1gKoJk8oucfPDBD-12ar-5WH16/s4000/20230506_082856.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6TZdgQZnyELURITUxAjmaHWt0Qx_CXbxD37JeLrKH-a1KN4HvFVbN3oTuxcbKkoSKDjo0Rp5KqbCyhnlWqjqEwqxAKcfsOFsyHTcoDVM9otkUcSK3ydDFVePTlVjdI7jxfrV3-5HwymEpZUgAe05LS96cHKAeNSUIVK1gKoJk8oucfPDBD-12ar-5WH16/w640-h480/20230506_082856.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNpzVN3clvATk8dMmD2FvqhIqyyQUXyrdpZ_jN68dOxIeVMgpKAx2avJcWOJruxBglReh2VHp7iGHjs0SzV8hs5k8_hErpUkLYvXamCWir2KSyIJ8vkiixjzySz_3Zd8OcuTgob-Dtodcb5C9EW2U5W0I4BATU0SvpOhCwq98IiWKFf0-ngmTSF7GAvpwA/s4000/20230506_082914.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNpzVN3clvATk8dMmD2FvqhIqyyQUXyrdpZ_jN68dOxIeVMgpKAx2avJcWOJruxBglReh2VHp7iGHjs0SzV8hs5k8_hErpUkLYvXamCWir2KSyIJ8vkiixjzySz_3Zd8OcuTgob-Dtodcb5C9EW2U5W0I4BATU0SvpOhCwq98IiWKFf0-ngmTSF7GAvpwA/w640-h480/20230506_082914.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvZaLMLHoCMudxqE97jlvNlezPo2vCxjYsuGs5GjRkK5MJhK-dx5NVpvCyFNcK6pr1Do5pC8h6qCGpwbBwCLkP9b1viZjCL9L9hl3jYTVL84IN2-BzeFCv7SpxXKjyJqWLINseeCdvMHpHZPNHFtwh9MlhEn5_haAaI3AElrFrgQuCjWkpbXyH6yBnlhY/s4000/20230506_083541.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvZaLMLHoCMudxqE97jlvNlezPo2vCxjYsuGs5GjRkK5MJhK-dx5NVpvCyFNcK6pr1Do5pC8h6qCGpwbBwCLkP9b1viZjCL9L9hl3jYTVL84IN2-BzeFCv7SpxXKjyJqWLINseeCdvMHpHZPNHFtwh9MlhEn5_haAaI3AElrFrgQuCjWkpbXyH6yBnlhY/w480-h640/20230506_083541.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Six Giant Rocks</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQ4NTeMehc4T5Thm2viXaM_-u3h99ZDPb5Cc0jUaQy6kMaoITNzS7OSLlmNpubXDkRg78nnWZsmUxPfaYu9_Vwcq1sXB8j7OM8sL0saDIBFVotXEcjGS4CGSibTvS7fBZCPJbkA_zGXSoY4aMCV0NCjRuWx8buiu-kcKM-3oUUWe2tTfw9SmHKi8XzkbX/s4000/20230506_084018.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQ4NTeMehc4T5Thm2viXaM_-u3h99ZDPb5Cc0jUaQy6kMaoITNzS7OSLlmNpubXDkRg78nnWZsmUxPfaYu9_Vwcq1sXB8j7OM8sL0saDIBFVotXEcjGS4CGSibTvS7fBZCPJbkA_zGXSoY4aMCV0NCjRuWx8buiu-kcKM-3oUUWe2tTfw9SmHKi8XzkbX/w480-h640/20230506_084018.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBuMWd2a1O0AYkpjZ7L5PLYZLRayaoUsCFxASwKMg2zvIs4KKt3O3XkGD432y4fHYIIH_1AblbOweSKBIGTNRn1rJYF0XudhTnwybxHDi4w7q1CQMq6QOzkt3zQp1PLiJm6IxCogWxDaRUdyur20bNCjBni0NP6-T-VV7NJJ9owabzCbC32etWySABbmz/s4000/20230506_084321.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBuMWd2a1O0AYkpjZ7L5PLYZLRayaoUsCFxASwKMg2zvIs4KKt3O3XkGD432y4fHYIIH_1AblbOweSKBIGTNRn1rJYF0XudhTnwybxHDi4w7q1CQMq6QOzkt3zQp1PLiJm6IxCogWxDaRUdyur20bNCjBni0NP6-T-VV7NJJ9owabzCbC32etWySABbmz/w480-h640/20230506_084321.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgej9lZBvdgfgEky4nsHeJ_iN0KrKVEaLY2oVFJPNr0_FMMsNdjbThQ6xOEMH9WrppohHWlkEgxf-VN_kR917kPkpb_k7yzBTqnAFgbleJ8y1i_scF52CKlXwjxms35CRd60_qdm3L4LVK19uYn8iTQ9k16bw_7Xlf_-nCEQqVY47cZ_IZ8j_awE0nvO8Xk/s4000/20230506_084334.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgej9lZBvdgfgEky4nsHeJ_iN0KrKVEaLY2oVFJPNr0_FMMsNdjbThQ6xOEMH9WrppohHWlkEgxf-VN_kR917kPkpb_k7yzBTqnAFgbleJ8y1i_scF52CKlXwjxms35CRd60_qdm3L4LVK19uYn8iTQ9k16bw_7Xlf_-nCEQqVY47cZ_IZ8j_awE0nvO8Xk/w480-h640/20230506_084334.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9AINvpwQ-cCS-uSCFYlKRQheUfqKMB0Hm8avzLwOSPUmfDus0GFKlKid8KArcdJIArApy7tURL1zaPtQDtpfeck8hSEGfeFyHKlxSWT2R6NNRHSNHxVcorfL_vlIYiZ6Aaz0jmpGTTCneoiz2avOnoPQ3P0fr-dIvrKGxSW897ee99gyaMX0Jrtue2bQ/s4000/20230506_085226.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9AINvpwQ-cCS-uSCFYlKRQheUfqKMB0Hm8avzLwOSPUmfDus0GFKlKid8KArcdJIArApy7tURL1zaPtQDtpfeck8hSEGfeFyHKlxSWT2R6NNRHSNHxVcorfL_vlIYiZ6Aaz0jmpGTTCneoiz2avOnoPQ3P0fr-dIvrKGxSW897ee99gyaMX0Jrtue2bQ/w480-h640/20230506_085226.jpg" width="420" /></a></div></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-42737538509423529442024-02-09T20:01:00.000-08:002024-02-09T20:01:44.323-08:00The Uffizi Gallery: A Renaissance Masterpiece and its Treasures<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hoZBEFmJTZM?si=H6QA1CQCiq-iGFHk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Exploring the Collections of the Uffizi: From Medieval to Modern (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hoZBEFmJTZM" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Rising across the first and second floors of Vasari's 16th-century masterpiece, the <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/the-uffizi" target="_blank">Uffizi Gallery</a> ⭐⭐⭐offers a captivating journey through artistic ages. From medieval beginnings to modern expressions, its walls whisper stories through ancient sculptures and paintings. <br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBolhEim854NhMKnrhpQxtq_My5DhvhHb_rB3uwM50r8lYQErVLF2IJrma1aBFk6yp91eG4LdZJCxyEzVUClG22PcFFqBwiFjlJdOqy43cNsOTqgbMm0M8VwnlRSGxgmD3rLUr4mCF49txOyonyEfiNHQpitokHu0Kxlwdb21x7JQs7O-F9OFx7aEvPsc/s2560/The%20Birth%20of%20Venus.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1608" data-original-width="2560" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBolhEim854NhMKnrhpQxtq_My5DhvhHb_rB3uwM50r8lYQErVLF2IJrma1aBFk6yp91eG4LdZJCxyEzVUClG22PcFFqBwiFjlJdOqy43cNsOTqgbMm0M8VwnlRSGxgmD3rLUr4mCF49txOyonyEfiNHQpitokHu0Kxlwdb21x7JQs7O-F9OFx7aEvPsc/w640-h402/The%20Birth%20of%20Venus.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The Birth of Venus(Sandro Botticelli, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Botticelli-primavera.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Sandro Botticelli
, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Botticelli-primavera" height="367" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3c/Botticelli-primavera.jpg/512px-Botticelli-primavera.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Primavera_(Botticelli)" target="_blank">La Primavera</a> (Sandro Botticelli, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Qj7Fcpw6xKsrSnSwHLhdTONdrBH8GqtHcE0hLzAYflqXDFxZsqwhWAgj833GsYwrKfms5HxDSu0etbGfuHrWZwsOsjMH53zSF9DvLKlQGZsm8K33OqObzuG5sIqgrRWxcEl0AW-oipFt-bIUv7I79f9XNO-KXaz4jaFdjv7EelvW0Gqf2hq49jeDQ90O/s5250/Annunciation.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2545" data-original-width="5250" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Qj7Fcpw6xKsrSnSwHLhdTONdrBH8GqtHcE0hLzAYflqXDFxZsqwhWAgj833GsYwrKfms5HxDSu0etbGfuHrWZwsOsjMH53zSF9DvLKlQGZsm8K33OqObzuG5sIqgrRWxcEl0AW-oipFt-bIUv7I79f9XNO-KXaz4jaFdjv7EelvW0Gqf2hq49jeDQ90O/w640-h310/Annunciation.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Annunciation (Leonardo da Vinci, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> , via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Madona_del_gran_duque,_por_Rafael.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Raphael
, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Madona del gran duque, por Rafael" height="560" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/48/Madona_del_gran_duque%2C_por_Rafael.jpg/256px-Madona_del_gran_duque%2C_por_Rafael.jpg" width="380" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/madonna-del-granduca" target="_blank">Madonna del Granduca</a> (Raphael, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Highlights of the Collection</h3><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Renaissance masterpieces</b>: The <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/the-uffizi" target="_blank">Uffizi Gallery</a> is particularly famous for its collection of Renaissance paintings, including works by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandro_Botticelli" target="_blank">Botticelli</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonardo_da_Vinci" target="_blank">Leonardo da Vinci</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raphael" target="_blank">Raphael</a>, and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michelangelo" target="_blank">Michelangelo</a>. Some of the most iconic pieces include Botticelli's <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Birth_of_Venus" target="_blank">Birth of Venus</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Primavera_(Botticelli)" target="_blank">Primavera</a>, Leonardo's <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annunciation_(Leonardo)" target="_blank">Annunciation</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adoration_of_the_Magi_(Leonardo)" target="_blank">Adoration of the Magi</a>, Raphael's <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/madonna-del-granduca" target="_blank">Madonna del Granduca</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portrait_of_Pope_Julius_II" target="_blank">Portrait of Pope Julius II</a>, and Michelangelo's <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doni_Tondo" target="_blank">Doni Tondo</a>.</li><li><b>Early Italian art</b>: The gallery also boasts a significant collection of early Italian art, including works by <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/search?query=Giotto" target="_blank">Giotto</a>, <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/search?query=Cimabue" target="_blank">Cimabue</a>, and <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/search?query=Duccio%20di%20Buoninsegna" target="_blank">Duccio di Buoninsegna</a>.</li><li><b>Sculptures</b>: The Uffizi Gallery also houses a collection of ancient Roman and Greek sculptures, as well as Renaissance sculptures by <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/news/coco-imagines4-en" target="_blank">Donatello</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrea_del_Verrocchio" target="_blank">Verrocchio</a>.</li></ul><span style="scrollbar-color: rgb(218, 220, 224) transparent;"></span></div><div><span face=""Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 16px; scrollbar-color: rgb(218, 220, 224) transparent;"><span style="scrollbar-color: rgb(218, 220, 224) transparent;"><br /></span></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><span face=""Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 16px; scrollbar-color: rgb(218, 220, 224) transparent;"><span style="scrollbar-color: rgb(218, 220, 224) transparent;"><br /></span></span></div>This amazing art museum is packed with masterpieces! We visited the Uffizi Gallery during our 3-day trip to Florence in October 2023. Here are some photos of the beauty we saw during our visit.<div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSmFBtcr_Tz9JvKeYLatOzMjARDWR6SHnMfM-wrA8X09pc4AIg48Z4hWwWmSX3f9td_tSsshOxH7phVEoepsA6DuGbtqKhjbr6dHKeCEogtEbP8EhLmuLXUXajQ_UsTq4aQ6eu8jtXfdu4FR5OgGzBDa96GjUMdZvDnYGBJPtILxoRiAoFpQctIi3oEkM/s4000/20231015_102130.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSmFBtcr_Tz9JvKeYLatOzMjARDWR6SHnMfM-wrA8X09pc4AIg48Z4hWwWmSX3f9td_tSsshOxH7phVEoepsA6DuGbtqKhjbr6dHKeCEogtEbP8EhLmuLXUXajQ_UsTq4aQ6eu8jtXfdu4FR5OgGzBDa96GjUMdZvDnYGBJPtILxoRiAoFpQctIi3oEkM/w360-h640/20231015_102130.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Testa di Medusa (Oil on canvas-covered panel; c. 1597)</span></b><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Classical myths on which Caravaggio had trained in his youth is reinterpreted here in a naturalistic vein, the eye open wide in horror, the mouth frozen in a cry of revulsion, the writhing tangle of serpents seemingly at odds with the drastically severed neck.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBsXq8YA13EA_uNkGzngpdf9KVDU3XfDOr9UwBNWq4clsJxLmx2ZPPygHvZMxfHxipHCKl8moyQUsCzzf-gjWLVWKCMh1GpgGtaZ7xpYdV7c-eKn-Pg0EQzlJanqLIlBf4SdIx3tvXBYK1le_gnkB1cLMi3d2MwyzAHYkk8sokaGjnCkwIYuXbfNvieqI/s2767/20231015_100827.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2767" data-original-width="2142" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBsXq8YA13EA_uNkGzngpdf9KVDU3XfDOr9UwBNWq4clsJxLmx2ZPPygHvZMxfHxipHCKl8moyQUsCzzf-gjWLVWKCMh1GpgGtaZ7xpYdV7c-eKn-Pg0EQzlJanqLIlBf4SdIx3tvXBYK1le_gnkB1cLMi3d2MwyzAHYkk8sokaGjnCkwIYuXbfNvieqI/w496-h640/20231015_100827.jpg" width="434" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/self-portrait-bacci" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Afternoon in Fiesole</a><b> (Self portrait by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baccio_Maria_Bacci" target="_blank">Baccio Maria Bacci</a></b></span><b style="font-size: small;">)</b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxbCCLUtEn0FFckyJi-F0q0cpVbsIWVBKdrp685IYkOuFl50RftBsPfQLAadZ9305xdpE641KgrH5UWc3OeO2AvFaSY_rHtdgJQnsaQDa1UxWsEArBgQQWtnvx1CWiSzSh7y-EFPkNheZApsTD4LzUFuRp1Gd6af_QcFJy-y6CSlH37V_e6ewhfgqi_HO/s2529/20231015_100449.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1860" data-original-width="2529" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxbCCLUtEn0FFckyJi-F0q0cpVbsIWVBKdrp685IYkOuFl50RftBsPfQLAadZ9305xdpE641KgrH5UWc3OeO2AvFaSY_rHtdgJQnsaQDa1UxWsEArBgQQWtnvx1CWiSzSh7y-EFPkNheZApsTD4LzUFuRp1Gd6af_QcFJy-y6CSlH37V_e6ewhfgqi_HO/w640-h470/20231015_100449.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Rubens' study (1635-1640; by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cornelis_de_Baellieur" target="_blank">Cornelis De Baellieur</a>)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPSAavpfiO9wCmO4gGCIp877tIBneOxWvs1gko9F6ETH7nwl8wQpSHdlVtRUWvo5K5fBt4EdShq1WOwjUCiBS8x1dsDyUjPh3Dt2LCIPfCfZyoNMtwSXWByYwdi9LB1As3BC8kn_1X2_2D6eONYCwYBi4NxiupgcrTSLeRDOAPxi4fEH0zDc7rAuLM4h4/s4000/20231015_092937.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPSAavpfiO9wCmO4gGCIp877tIBneOxWvs1gko9F6ETH7nwl8wQpSHdlVtRUWvo5K5fBt4EdShq1WOwjUCiBS8x1dsDyUjPh3Dt2LCIPfCfZyoNMtwSXWByYwdi9LB1As3BC8kn_1X2_2D6eONYCwYBi4NxiupgcrTSLeRDOAPxi4fEH0zDc7rAuLM4h4/w360-h640/20231015_092937.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laoco%C3%B6n_and_His_Sons" target="_blank">Laocoön and His Sons</a> by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baccio_Bandinelli" target="_blank">Baccio Bandinelli</a></b><br />The Florentine sculptor Baccio Bandinelli was commissioned to make a copy by the Medici <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_Leo_X" target="_blank">Pope Leo X</a>. Bandinelli's version, which was often copied and distributed in small bronzes, is in the Uffizi Gallery, Florence, the Pope having decided it was too good to send to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fran%C3%A7ois_I_of_France" target="_blank">François I of France</a> as originally intended.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1a5WPFCq6TQ31tm4cmWuREOl2J2MrUO1-5cNuc7R8mImGBcBcFOXpI8Dix1sUPIRkscMT1a7i_crGBpWUZWOlJ_Ra4VclFKudvPjWaDp9lrbe8z2DoT4fh60IQaEFG4SHNpAhWAQxpCa0YPE-sZGB2dh_h2PtxgDBzj8EdL2V4z_gcVwgasiaWNtgXhAj/s4000/20231015_092044.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1a5WPFCq6TQ31tm4cmWuREOl2J2MrUO1-5cNuc7R8mImGBcBcFOXpI8Dix1sUPIRkscMT1a7i_crGBpWUZWOlJ_Ra4VclFKudvPjWaDp9lrbe8z2DoT4fh60IQaEFG4SHNpAhWAQxpCa0YPE-sZGB2dh_h2PtxgDBzj8EdL2V4z_gcVwgasiaWNtgXhAj/w360-h640/20231015_092044.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/so-called-dying-alexander" target="_blank">Dying Alexander</a></b><br />It came to Florence in c. 1580 and was restored by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Battista_Caccini" target="_blank">Giovanni Caccini</a>. The head, traditionally thought to portray the dying Alexander the Great, may be more properly interpreted as a triton.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfRhVZ_g4eCTE1EK3IVqjr5o9Myd-M1VBiRFAPeVVqvgZ_pxZd0kGpaPNIpae99CT8MKNG1NIYgLsonSXZdJC_SclVUk32MDjAhpnE-3w-Fj12xP7AXadeRTAxo__296rDcZWbN7cyej7q3bAm_98mDlhmr6Vv7C9BmqEHwC1ztYUdvnSMcxUYNQZGvf6/s2109/20231015_091824.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2041" data-original-width="2109" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfRhVZ_g4eCTE1EK3IVqjr5o9Myd-M1VBiRFAPeVVqvgZ_pxZd0kGpaPNIpae99CT8MKNG1NIYgLsonSXZdJC_SclVUk32MDjAhpnE-3w-Fj12xP7AXadeRTAxo__296rDcZWbN7cyej7q3bAm_98mDlhmr6Vv7C9BmqEHwC1ztYUdvnSMcxUYNQZGvf6/w640-h620/20231015_091824.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Adoration of the Magi (oil on wood)</b><br /><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonardo_da_Vinci" target="_blank">Leonardo</a> never finished this large altarpiece, leaving for Milan shortly after making a start on it. Some figures are barely sketched, as though he were seeking to capture an idea, while others are more complete, those around the Virgin appearing to be in the grip of intense emotion. Formerly in the home of Florentine merchant Amerigo Benci, the altarpiece entered the Uffizi in 1670.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlC7xYrTHVpoJQuUU3Mcek2gCJjbR6bffAuLUaZD0sftz9m-ZJss0O4C0eQOsBCcD1bAU3Po2yJQayDkuCPWLSQVENcsnVOv24YvkMJRWdrVyLBc2WZxos0V-ZPTGCLRBLr1RLbL1-j93zljOKRmq3PRsvPLCz8zoTbjK1-e4uLGKcik_p0zwiVistHl61/s2684/20231015_091403.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2684" data-original-width="1997" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlC7xYrTHVpoJQuUU3Mcek2gCJjbR6bffAuLUaZD0sftz9m-ZJss0O4C0eQOsBCcD1bAU3Po2yJQayDkuCPWLSQVENcsnVOv24YvkMJRWdrVyLBc2WZxos0V-ZPTGCLRBLr1RLbL1-j93zljOKRmq3PRsvPLCz8zoTbjK1-e4uLGKcik_p0zwiVistHl61/w476-h640/20231015_091403.jpg" width="416" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Portrait of an Old Man (Last quarter of the 15th century)</b><br />The fresco's plaster backing is applied directly onto an <a href="https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/embrice" target="_blank">embrice</a>, or terracotta roof tile, a technique known from several examples dating back to the 16th century.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppNkxHtff6M3JBScMjOZcsUwkBqltUutD2znKEoXs82LE5O2xoY8SbWJqsJYgkdpc4tpVYnUiLEx6gGwDdO0julJrLITvFA8tMUhVq3cWeDS06lcLAShKI5LpXDxPODznHBlcXU8LJEar9rP-T97SC_BPKnhprR349wVqXeUl3ILzI61Z6za_CdIMdSsz/s2805/20231015_091222.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2079" data-original-width="2805" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppNkxHtff6M3JBScMjOZcsUwkBqltUutD2znKEoXs82LE5O2xoY8SbWJqsJYgkdpc4tpVYnUiLEx6gGwDdO0julJrLITvFA8tMUhVq3cWeDS06lcLAShKI5LpXDxPODznHBlcXU8LJEar9rP-T97SC_BPKnhprR349wVqXeUl3ILzI61Z6za_CdIMdSsz/w640-h474/20231015_091222.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The way to Calvary (1599 by Pieter Brueghel; Oil on panel)</b><br />The story of Christ carrying the cross is portrayed as a many-figured procession leading from Jerusalem to Calvary. The holy woman Veronica took pity on Christ and wiped his face with her veil, which became miraculously imprinted with is features. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUz9o0tZ88_i6amtW6SzYHm54C8VE8wAeEodsh2RpVZQlLO118vrCG5n8Sx_b6hftc-PCfWFzRcO4teO_UvACpzUhVVwnYr8LfcGkGEosYtEawwHSsP78ed-dStRQAGNWzyshKg7-wMBpFvZ1I2jc72D4Gp5Aqt5Nm3NDntwxqBZD313W0kVK8I-hXXuDh/s2592/20231015_091017.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="2592" height="556" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUz9o0tZ88_i6amtW6SzYHm54C8VE8wAeEodsh2RpVZQlLO118vrCG5n8Sx_b6hftc-PCfWFzRcO4teO_UvACpzUhVVwnYr8LfcGkGEosYtEawwHSsP78ed-dStRQAGNWzyshKg7-wMBpFvZ1I2jc72D4Gp5Aqt5Nm3NDntwxqBZD313W0kVK8I-hXXuDh/w640-h556/20231015_091017.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Adoration of the Magi (1487)</b><br />This picturte may have been painted to celebrate the birth of the first son of Lorenzo Tomabuoni and Giovanna degli Albizzi, who were married the year before. Variety in the rending of pose, physical feature, decoration and classicizing architecture is a characteristic of the art of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domenico_Ghirlandaio" target="_blank">Domenico Ghirlandaio</a>, a painter much appreciated by his contemporaries. </span> </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WzASZcOUoRYAUZnvS5VrLG7crZ7z11PZZKmeMZqAo8FzSxP2kDKAqG_NvIjVZbq31SBixo4ERwmI1Mxfias2tsuMtt48S-zZ3C-M7oMpcgJRi5dRGGrunbilo0FYUejmVUJHIKFtnCykUgBHgc3KDiuoBNd27pZQ1dG4DZB1hniC225qWRTUJ29nIose/s4000/20231015_085843.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WzASZcOUoRYAUZnvS5VrLG7crZ7z11PZZKmeMZqAo8FzSxP2kDKAqG_NvIjVZbq31SBixo4ERwmI1Mxfias2tsuMtt48S-zZ3C-M7oMpcgJRi5dRGGrunbilo0FYUejmVUJHIKFtnCykUgBHgc3KDiuoBNd27pZQ1dG4DZB1hniC225qWRTUJ29nIose/w360-h640/20231015_085843.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Doryphoros (<a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/Pentelic-marble" target="_blank">Pentelic marble</a>)</b><br />Possibly from Rome, this work is a replica of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polykleitos" target="_blank">Polycletus</a>' Doryphoros, the sculpture most frequently copied in the Roman era. The original, carved in c. 450 BCE, has been altered in part by the Roman artist though the addition of a cloak wrapped around the left arm, a feature totally missing from the protype.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRnErElYivN1Fv6ZcI4FvbolHEIqQKvNyrzwTmjduNlg9Bdkn0G5QS6MBEytCUFTC0iqeQUIWYB2R3ZanIOKdqpH1E3kPm_YQU7_oYjbFK43f593k78eadN8XPmJQldtyNZgGC1qt1PJiVZKiM2xKv3LuTFzmYlFr9AGIjF34eb4yrtgSTNCOBA8LUsiOZ/s4000/20231015_085559.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRnErElYivN1Fv6ZcI4FvbolHEIqQKvNyrzwTmjduNlg9Bdkn0G5QS6MBEytCUFTC0iqeQUIWYB2R3ZanIOKdqpH1E3kPm_YQU7_oYjbFK43f593k78eadN8XPmJQldtyNZgGC1qt1PJiVZKiM2xKv3LuTFzmYlFr9AGIjF34eb4yrtgSTNCOBA8LUsiOZ/w360-h640/20231015_085559.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Statue of Venus with Cupid holding a torch (Luni marble)</b><br />Acquired from Cardinal Colonna in 1584 and restored that same year by Silla Giacomo Longhi. The sculpture depicting Venus using her hands to cover her nakedness is a variant of the type known as the "<a href="https://www.nga.gov/content/dam/ngaweb/exhibitions/pdfs/venus.pdf" target="_blank">Capitoline Venus</a>" with, in this instance, a small Cupid by her side. The upended torch in the child's hand, a metaphor of death, tells us that the sculpture served a funeral purpose.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRqAjl9r-km1MPYWwMzWp12MvI5cFfRDkt7mpftks_7qdvm_u7pyuThtwYDRlVM1zClyaLwsM-1SIkMHYI8HPP-freNqTiNA7n6AP8uN2bqVYp1pb-EABAmqZLguZH7dsSvJaKmaMjtx_3PJdKoHiT4DKhV6bo1aXLyHZwiVQ8jS69RnTUs6bs5w8WYT1/s4000/20231015_085207.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2024" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRqAjl9r-km1MPYWwMzWp12MvI5cFfRDkt7mpftks_7qdvm_u7pyuThtwYDRlVM1zClyaLwsM-1SIkMHYI8HPP-freNqTiNA7n6AP8uN2bqVYp1pb-EABAmqZLguZH7dsSvJaKmaMjtx_3PJdKoHiT4DKhV6bo1aXLyHZwiVQ8jS69RnTUs6bs5w8WYT1/w324-h640/20231015_085207.jpg" width="283" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Young <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satyr" target="_blank">Satyr</a>, so-called Mercury</b><br />The head is Classical and germane to the rest of the statue, but the winged hat (petasos) defining the figure as Mercury is in fact a Renaissance addition. The original Classical statue did not depict the messenger of the gods but a Satyr leaning on a tree trunk, a prototype carved by the sculptor <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Praxiteles" target="_blank">Praxiteles </a>in the mid-4th century BCE. This work was first recorded in Rome in 1536.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIn2YX5_Mf3q6CnaZ7TssW3zfmyaISKI2s7oyoGq6P5gstdVgsctRqgj6VaJauBlyu4QoQ_4JZdPJ3-OQGvPyCKTyU5MOh5TKO1bxVekUbKLw8NK6EF7uWVjg9ezcKjHx9hBeG-Dbw_8qWvHkFz6h5yHuxdv4rV0G-TYzikF8FzvEjAXKt0LbJXi_42ZGv/s4000/20231015_084839.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIn2YX5_Mf3q6CnaZ7TssW3zfmyaISKI2s7oyoGq6P5gstdVgsctRqgj6VaJauBlyu4QoQ_4JZdPJ3-OQGvPyCKTyU5MOh5TKO1bxVekUbKLw8NK6EF7uWVjg9ezcKjHx9hBeG-Dbw_8qWvHkFz6h5yHuxdv4rV0G-TYzikF8FzvEjAXKt0LbJXi_42ZGv/w360-h640/20231015_084839.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Apollo of Omphalos (Pentelic marble)</b><br />The use of prized <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Pentelicus#Pentelic_marble" target="_blank">Pentelic marble</a> testifies to the quality and importance of this sculpture based on prototypes of the Severe style in Attica, particularly "Apollo of Omphalos" probably carved by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calamis_(5th_century_BC)" target="_blank">Calamis</a> (active from 480 to 440 BCE). The god leans on the trunk of a palm tree, his left arm (a Renaissance addition) holding a shield on which a Gorgon's head is carved in low relief.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigV9pt4pRF2yF-1NN07eQbD1w7iewdJflxu5SnoexWxhla-gFJp3GOJ81WOS386dvREmk5g14zIFRRrekckPPZ2JDJalo8nai93YA8yCIqILALitUKBPGy9dpiEfa9qrPsL9HKfi-d_7se5T8ysRG8GW-wPngm8_bMl0ylGLEbxsu5n_pndJwXy3_wHREA/s4000/20231015_084642.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigV9pt4pRF2yF-1NN07eQbD1w7iewdJflxu5SnoexWxhla-gFJp3GOJ81WOS386dvREmk5g14zIFRRrekckPPZ2JDJalo8nai93YA8yCIqILALitUKBPGy9dpiEfa9qrPsL9HKfi-d_7se5T8ysRG8GW-wPngm8_bMl0ylGLEbxsu5n_pndJwXy3_wHREA/w360-h640/20231015_084642.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Statue of Apollo resting (Greek marble)</b><br />The statue depicts the "<a href="https://www.rct.uk/collection/41015/apollo-resting" target="_blank">Apollo resting</a>" type, although this identification was clearly determined only in the 17th century when the sculpture was restored and integrated. In fact, the long locks of hair falling on his shoulders and the bulky anatomy of his body adhere to a late Classical prototype (4th century BCE) and are rather referable to the bust of a statue of Dionysus. Classical parts are the bust, portion of the left arm and right thigh. All the rest is likely to be the result of restoration works from the Baroque period.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6o6qC1Sj3jZdPdkYKuBRP5yv_b5FjedciFUxA49pVsf_DEP0xZBhxf8q7YlbVjCB0w3n7xL9UOJnjAJuCmHhVn5xhvYOPQibGlntQoPRK-_bKGyzswfhV8ohSTG9jQpkZv-K7fm5FJY0zlsKSEbySPzOElmRKvSfmK_ON3ejQTgsKPvJaIXthbm9o6h5c/s2252/20231015_084316.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="1917" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6o6qC1Sj3jZdPdkYKuBRP5yv_b5FjedciFUxA49pVsf_DEP0xZBhxf8q7YlbVjCB0w3n7xL9UOJnjAJuCmHhVn5xhvYOPQibGlntQoPRK-_bKGyzswfhV8ohSTG9jQpkZv-K7fm5FJY0zlsKSEbySPzOElmRKvSfmK_ON3ejQTgsKPvJaIXthbm9o6h5c/w544-h640/20231015_084316.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Bust of Francesco I de' Medici (c1585)</b><br />This bust is a portrait of Grand Duke Francesco I of Tuscany, the son of Cosimo I de' Medici who commissioned Giorgio Vasari to build the Uffizi. The drapery in the bust is simply a sash setting off the armour, which in this instance is contemporary rather than in the more usual classical style. Another innovation is the twisting head setting the figure naturally in the surrounding space and heralding the style of the followin century. The wide-eyed look and sloping mouth add to the sitter's expressiveness.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjSoCFR2-egt4iqHfHi6fIXrOliRkHTtM_8xYfXFIxLzBhv60YiLd67Xm6Ug9nG4bQIYOn4TGvMh2BINJxGYyiSBRE1wXcB8c0GrJ4XWt_eLX8U-PfyPz7j3D14izIPDJQ5uS444x2Hrj5ULLPXpHRb5rAG5dwKyMLFPxTU10lwaJPZDiI6uuE6JcKHgUH/s2508/20231015_083943.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2189" data-original-width="2508" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjSoCFR2-egt4iqHfHi6fIXrOliRkHTtM_8xYfXFIxLzBhv60YiLd67Xm6Ug9nG4bQIYOn4TGvMh2BINJxGYyiSBRE1wXcB8c0GrJ4XWt_eLX8U-PfyPz7j3D14izIPDJQ5uS444x2Hrj5ULLPXpHRb5rAG5dwKyMLFPxTU10lwaJPZDiI6uuE6JcKHgUH/w640-h558/20231015_083943.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Solaria at the Giubbe Rosse (1940)</b><br />The inscription "Solaria alle Giubbe Rosse | ricordo e fantasia | 1940" tells us that the painting is a tribute to the magazine and to its protagonists Franchi, Montale, Loria, Vittorini, Carocci and Bonsanti, all together at the table in the middle. The choice of a Futurist style alien to that tendency is unusual, yet it is reminiscent of the years in which the historic Florentine cafe was a focal point for the Avant-garde.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpedzghhvOFJRG7-knVCHnEkv2RXNOblbNg2twxw7DX4CueyvCRsq1cXb7Tz1oX8wh0XCWEMViZgOQrIZdqTKW9-h3aNcxoZj4v2YJU6-UEq3fD2pRvRRWA0-ATY2L29IoX5ZjEHqMY86lwhBiK-N5XteYoop2fnZZWA8Fv7aQI5Be2FyptgMz1aleag5/s3195/20231015_083857.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1923" data-original-width="3195" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpedzghhvOFJRG7-knVCHnEkv2RXNOblbNg2twxw7DX4CueyvCRsq1cXb7Tz1oX8wh0XCWEMViZgOQrIZdqTKW9-h3aNcxoZj4v2YJU6-UEq3fD2pRvRRWA0-ATY2L29IoX5ZjEHqMY86lwhBiK-N5XteYoop2fnZZWA8Fv7aQI5Be2FyptgMz1aleag5/w640-h386/20231015_083857.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Friends at the cafe (1929-1930)</b><br />This painting portrays the intellectuals and artists who met at the Cafe Aragno.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv633Zo5vy8GS8MYBv3D6ExEbifnHuI7M9tUVuDJfNdmoBhHagMEyzr7Yeqdex5CuNtHX0_rjSRMqX109-keRpBry_UQKUm7F-8qKMaSJNY5DPOA1xGNa-66DwhYq0YyIIIivSc2FruKi_ls2aZwuEq-LtJw76KY3iqTQ7Mwz5bQk2zGnOGURcwNBIcti0/s4000/20231015_083147.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv633Zo5vy8GS8MYBv3D6ExEbifnHuI7M9tUVuDJfNdmoBhHagMEyzr7Yeqdex5CuNtHX0_rjSRMqX109-keRpBry_UQKUm7F-8qKMaSJNY5DPOA1xGNa-66DwhYq0YyIIIivSc2FruKi_ls2aZwuEq-LtJw76KY3iqTQ7Mwz5bQk2zGnOGURcwNBIcti0/w640-h360/20231015_083147.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoA3ben5EGZUTWcO-dzkdBon5tzLLHtWMDnJz4yt4tTxAvDiLbIFxVTUoJospi_vXIMGuS8DqrNyPjitP082NqHXbKn37VVy7cwsLVpZWN5RGa87h48HC3jJvTTzDvWnS8pC4Hq9YcX1yA5bUmiKN3fedYo5bCuY0NSLI_799nww3STYYk-25O_3E5hKD/s4000/20231015_084152.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoA3ben5EGZUTWcO-dzkdBon5tzLLHtWMDnJz4yt4tTxAvDiLbIFxVTUoJospi_vXIMGuS8DqrNyPjitP082NqHXbKn37VVy7cwsLVpZWN5RGa87h48HC3jJvTTzDvWnS8pC4Hq9YcX1yA5bUmiKN3fedYo5bCuY0NSLI_799nww3STYYk-25O_3E5hKD/w640-h360/20231015_084152.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizHTROiXp0sb0IfhVsGod9NtD-WfNUpoZQE2FQQrBinPj_It-fqywDMG4mkLdTN7B-B-cEFC7VNWf_62yfdwzod3o6LRFgx8xNMO5KPlKtp9aQp9HVvPA3lrhK5QrfO1dVzBzpYFHXiWY1dmWWn_zH-s5ysOkgGWdajfos35FA0JBwPR16r2Chm8vlOJ17/s4000/20231015_085429.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizHTROiXp0sb0IfhVsGod9NtD-WfNUpoZQE2FQQrBinPj_It-fqywDMG4mkLdTN7B-B-cEFC7VNWf_62yfdwzod3o6LRFgx8xNMO5KPlKtp9aQp9HVvPA3lrhK5QrfO1dVzBzpYFHXiWY1dmWWn_zH-s5ysOkgGWdajfos35FA0JBwPR16r2Chm8vlOJ17/w640-h360/20231015_085429.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Florence Unveiled: A Renaissance Panorama from the Uffizi</h3></div></div><div><br /></div><div>From the lofty windows of the Uffizi, Florence unfolds like a breathtaking panorama. The majestic dome of Santa Maria del Fiore dominates the skyline, its intricate marble facade ablaze in the afternoon sun. Below, the lively Ponte Vecchio thrums with life, its golden shops and arched bridges reflected in the shimmering Arno River.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC1WB4BexitS4pLyF1_7BfrgBPsgJVcQfQbOve-CDwNtCRoqkCXfQnS9E9eCB8zrSCsbkhZYIQbxQPSFrDRZJbKP2tRd4wCtNKVanLNwfZJe6krME11rSmDTPV6SJnHJhZ3JUpl9SM83tuNlZwn-WpUymikbAqTyBYcoSj26bB36_4xiKdfR4vmrzkuwN7/s4000/20231015_091617.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC1WB4BexitS4pLyF1_7BfrgBPsgJVcQfQbOve-CDwNtCRoqkCXfQnS9E9eCB8zrSCsbkhZYIQbxQPSFrDRZJbKP2tRd4wCtNKVanLNwfZJe6krME11rSmDTPV6SJnHJhZ3JUpl9SM83tuNlZwn-WpUymikbAqTyBYcoSj26bB36_4xiKdfR4vmrzkuwN7/w640-h360/20231015_091617.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The iconic dome of Brunelleschi's masterpiece, the Duomo</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNa27nzQMTLDY_TC9s6c3iE9dByhc4Kz-NtYPGVsH33R4qt3rqDdxWxYFiT0UA92NP_ZSgLtfGx2FAVy8_FJeN12BKIOObd5VW5iU3m0pSxdrN_W3WsrUdtmP0KoHKSbzQqrPjKDbztBvUbtj83etlBmIjleTKC3cjerVYbmCpFJHw57X-CeHz7Lx_63G3/s4000/20231015_090227.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNa27nzQMTLDY_TC9s6c3iE9dByhc4Kz-NtYPGVsH33R4qt3rqDdxWxYFiT0UA92NP_ZSgLtfGx2FAVy8_FJeN12BKIOObd5VW5iU3m0pSxdrN_W3WsrUdtmP0KoHKSbzQqrPjKDbztBvUbtj83etlBmIjleTKC3cjerVYbmCpFJHw57X-CeHz7Lx_63G3/w640-h360/20231015_090227.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUGkKaZ_8mvgiLHSG9NJjJ7yEF5tpXBY-KllCcv2N4x4h8FJKjsl8A_KT__D-hSP6cGojSc4NdsxTUNBRKCA-3tVqvFxgZfdJSsDRJveoHYZrNwX8QyCbueAhXUH0Ed-yaA4daocm8ifJwWfjhwfHDDfVJbDADyGwjxrEWWaULcYoHQD_vAyCygF_ffiHo/s4000/20231015_090357.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUGkKaZ_8mvgiLHSG9NJjJ7yEF5tpXBY-KllCcv2N4x4h8FJKjsl8A_KT__D-hSP6cGojSc4NdsxTUNBRKCA-3tVqvFxgZfdJSsDRJveoHYZrNwX8QyCbueAhXUH0Ed-yaA4daocm8ifJwWfjhwfHDDfVJbDADyGwjxrEWWaULcYoHQD_vAyCygF_ffiHo/w640-h360/20231015_090357.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64EIZsQnRRr3vA00kbVSHHst1LT4fB8mThLhfw_Sseg5sL4idO0vs6mn5qTrwyxX66F_PG7WwMFUhR_7e28YmNNUiAAMF0XLbPlMfnFiWKRQVEic2gpQ-WyWVFhHHOimGLcL3i5qzol203fW4rVB_gAat69DgaCRMUCYwNXwQs-zIWaWbulAPjRtKzZzD/s4000/20231015_090729.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64EIZsQnRRr3vA00kbVSHHst1LT4fB8mThLhfw_Sseg5sL4idO0vs6mn5qTrwyxX66F_PG7WwMFUhR_7e28YmNNUiAAMF0XLbPlMfnFiWKRQVEic2gpQ-WyWVFhHHOimGLcL3i5qzol203fW4rVB_gAat69DgaCRMUCYwNXwQs-zIWaWbulAPjRtKzZzD/w360-h640/20231015_090729.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCWcIPnl5-9Hk2QGiwCp0kRpE9Ob8WBLleK4JCClT7REW9-LbPAHdrfRVTpBu64mIWxyBUGxDw9n9hk4nF7ZWsCMZg0Jne7LRZKuUZ7GZJQ84Q64eZ-c4KFe29GUGbQDGR1FnH5nNYLbn1cxS4bGTSHCUCfvIupt1ldL3QgnERWDc5Kzxe9lTu31il8uT4/s4000/20231015_090839.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCWcIPnl5-9Hk2QGiwCp0kRpE9Ob8WBLleK4JCClT7REW9-LbPAHdrfRVTpBu64mIWxyBUGxDw9n9hk4nF7ZWsCMZg0Jne7LRZKuUZ7GZJQ84Q64eZ-c4KFe29GUGbQDGR1FnH5nNYLbn1cxS4bGTSHCUCfvIupt1ldL3QgnERWDc5Kzxe9lTu31il8uT4/w640-h360/20231015_090839.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8gVrwAT1yQY47uCbNXQOhhWweCfxVqGUtW2aLzShtbHspK3jzJLXXq3-MzYPsFsVTMV5c3DCSjTzrLZ0dCmOYI3EWhWwW2FO7Ex5EA08BuHKw-ZJKrgM9zglrLEJ3MtREjpWbaHbl81cn696-WEjq3xp-MFIHeq5oYV6KpVwXbbJZ5Huwar2GAak3M90/s4000/20231015_093735.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8gVrwAT1yQY47uCbNXQOhhWweCfxVqGUtW2aLzShtbHspK3jzJLXXq3-MzYPsFsVTMV5c3DCSjTzrLZ0dCmOYI3EWhWwW2FO7Ex5EA08BuHKw-ZJKrgM9zglrLEJ3MtREjpWbaHbl81cn696-WEjq3xp-MFIHeq5oYV6KpVwXbbJZ5Huwar2GAak3M90/w360-h640/20231015_093735.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Palazzo Vecchio (Town hall in Florence)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-10544405303620339752024-02-03T17:47:00.000-08:002024-02-03T17:47:35.200-08:00Chasing Audrey's Dream: Gelato and Glamour on the Spanish Steps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTFvlW8pJn2zCz0OEgQIz-DYxXB07EpxkZmKXvfTeJXOarNx9NhRH1AXuXcysAd1N6oGfuxkgNbpotfx1VQrIhFbxHCIMPVcA4wqU_09WTi3NBjYPkSBrZMjCfzbIsrZEvbJ6-oH_FpEDwfGYZH18mwn819w-5ML4FfIUUGgRGnw1Blwp0wVACyl0HHzQ/s4000/20231025_122253.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTFvlW8pJn2zCz0OEgQIz-DYxXB07EpxkZmKXvfTeJXOarNx9NhRH1AXuXcysAd1N6oGfuxkgNbpotfx1VQrIhFbxHCIMPVcA4wqU_09WTi3NBjYPkSBrZMjCfzbIsrZEvbJ6-oH_FpEDwfGYZH18mwn819w-5ML4FfIUUGgRGnw1Blwp0wVACyl0HHzQ/w640-h360/20231025_122253.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br />Located in Rome, Italy, the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Spanish+Steps/@41.9059866,12.4814669,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132f60541678ae75:0x7fc0d4978aae690f!8m2!3d41.90599!4d12.482775!16zL20vMDFfamxz?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Spanish Steps</a> ⭐⭐are a monumental staircase which was popularized by the movie <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Holiday" target="_blank">Roman Holiday</a>. Now it becomes a must-see destination for tourists visiting Rome.<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLiUcI5VpgckYRY23bsctXaZuUbpamFA2qJFZVeBIHL7YDWtn9CT672H4HEgkeb3vXjwQrruNnNyFPxsIZS7LATMpql-bgNQ4Qml4t_GmcUmi41xUtNtm3vepxgW_1uzuDmYqZydBrcdtTt9uXjxNod9jIqaVfPiYEchyphenhyphen23tGlFxDerRSuJtu83YpYikaR/s627/Audrey%20Hepburn2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="500" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLiUcI5VpgckYRY23bsctXaZuUbpamFA2qJFZVeBIHL7YDWtn9CT672H4HEgkeb3vXjwQrruNnNyFPxsIZS7LATMpql-bgNQ4Qml4t_GmcUmi41xUtNtm3vepxgW_1uzuDmYqZydBrcdtTt9uXjxNod9jIqaVfPiYEchyphenhyphen23tGlFxDerRSuJtu83YpYikaR/w319-h400/Audrey%20Hepburn2.jpg" width="279" /></a></div><br /><h3>Roman Holiday</h3><div><br /></div><div>Released in 1953, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Holiday" target="_blank">Roman Holiday</a> is a romantic comedy starring <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audrey_Hepburn" target="_blank">Audrey Hepburn</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregory_Peck" target="_blank">Gregory Peck</a>. The film tells the story of Princess Ann, a bored and restricted royal, who escapes her guards during a visit to Rome and meets an American journalist, Joe Bradley. The scene where they eat gelato on the Spanish Steps is one of the most famous in cinematic history.<br /><br />The movie helped to popularize the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_Steps" target="_blank">Spanish Steps</a> and made them a must-see destination for tourists visiting Rome.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:ROMAN_HOLIDAY_%E2%80%93_Trailer_1953.webm?embedplayer=yes" width="null"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Rome Holiday – Trailer 1953 (William Wyler, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div>On October 25, 2023, we walked from <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Villa+Borghese/@41.9128913,12.4826336,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132f61021d3c538f:0xeb3d7c3dff838e44!8m2!3d41.9128873!4d12.4852085!16zL20vMDNnbmZu?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Villa Borghese</a> and approached the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Spanish+Steps/@41.9059886,12.4801794,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132f60541678ae75:0x7fc0d4978aae690f!8m2!3d41.90599!4d12.482775!16zL20vMDFfamxz?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Spanish Steps</a> via <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Via+Sistina,+00187+Roma+RM,+Italy/@41.9047008,12.4833079,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132f61ab19852481:0xff0eec12936983a7!8m2!3d41.9046968!4d12.4858828!16s%2Fg%2F1237_tzf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Via Sistina</a>. The first sight that greeted us was the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sallustiano+Obelisk/@41.9061841,12.4647566,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132f605531edb329:0x670ce4b945776c0!8m2!3d41.9061696!4d12.4832106!16s%2Fg%2F120vbrl7?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Sallustiano Obelisk</a>. Next, we arrived at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Trinit%C3%A0+dei+Monti/@41.9062455,12.4808126,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132f60552fd2eaab:0xacf089fdab060de8!8m2!3d41.9062415!4d12.4833875!16zL20vMDhzaGxm?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Trinità dei Monti</a> church, where the breathtaking panoramic view of Florence suddenly unfolded before us. Finally, we strolled down the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Spanish+Steps/@41.9059886,12.4801794,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132f60541678ae75:0x7fc0d4978aae690f!8m2!3d41.90599!4d12.482775!16zL20vMDFfamxz?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Spanish Steps</a>, retracing <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audrey_Hepburn" target="_blank">Audrey Hepburn's</a> steps and reliving her excitement from the movie scene.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMW_JLrvcW5zJOXk5FeG2tBqJq3XyDYS3VEaH6Ec4vHGc6VeOAEFpP8QWZC7T818NbSFZ0ILh1ZUkwHUSQLp96NXiwSrttLh0shOtX8wmmupQoAurkzuGpakiFPlXeJry3PDh4l1dz5RbjabgA5iZhKOgMy1mn2ekADgQ-Bz_IdCuS329KBMU1qUXfk8S0/s4000/20231025_120608.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMW_JLrvcW5zJOXk5FeG2tBqJq3XyDYS3VEaH6Ec4vHGc6VeOAEFpP8QWZC7T818NbSFZ0ILh1ZUkwHUSQLp96NXiwSrttLh0shOtX8wmmupQoAurkzuGpakiFPlXeJry3PDh4l1dz5RbjabgA5iZhKOgMy1mn2ekADgQ-Bz_IdCuS329KBMU1qUXfk8S0/w640-h360/20231025_120608.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sallustiano+Obelisk/@41.9061851,12.4729108,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132f605531edb329:0x670ce4b945776c0!8m2!3d41.9061696!4d12.4832106!16s%2Fg%2F120vbrl7?entry=ttu" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sallustiano Obelisk</span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4eCn4HhQYx4Vhk-7vSGUdEq2sAZXYfdlXS-h_5Sll5_1C-Fw5sxrSisVOi7QoLwDKJfFTAjXuDhhDLqKhupX8FydI-Em25hRdHLi9EpZfcJvndwPK2C-4kzTSAFjxP2oAmI7OYBdlg2-vmHTj8aFRDg65D8660KdXiKwB63dP12POs-Tjqe16fKN7j89/s4000/20231025_121223.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4eCn4HhQYx4Vhk-7vSGUdEq2sAZXYfdlXS-h_5Sll5_1C-Fw5sxrSisVOi7QoLwDKJfFTAjXuDhhDLqKhupX8FydI-Em25hRdHLi9EpZfcJvndwPK2C-4kzTSAFjxP2oAmI7OYBdlg2-vmHTj8aFRDg65D8660KdXiKwB63dP12POs-Tjqe16fKN7j89/w640-h360/20231025_121223.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaf7XlaFiikF0YnCLuPdfDCxNScjpLi4p397IGbL7uwNkQfTylacxr4zY02ex-zrjjdUNpDL9fTQtmwTHarVxe1irFS4jYXrYiP_pUNCLMVrrFh_648y916n5dyPmi49k5xyTv1eYR0SUB_KB8UMXpMaafv84gi5coY1rx_zy9znZWG0vT4UQdVAzfDSu/s4000/20231025_121458.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaf7XlaFiikF0YnCLuPdfDCxNScjpLi4p397IGbL7uwNkQfTylacxr4zY02ex-zrjjdUNpDL9fTQtmwTHarVxe1irFS4jYXrYiP_pUNCLMVrrFh_648y916n5dyPmi49k5xyTv1eYR0SUB_KB8UMXpMaafv84gi5coY1rx_zy9znZWG0vT4UQdVAzfDSu/w640-h360/20231025_121458.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FNjFyTqsU9wwfdbNRU8xpaAH9iReuvQXcDijljkq7BxR5Mv5gtacW1fv2kaW-y3_b7BeELyj_JSvzYaV5U6EIgIJhFVmpaDL8ZljD1QAWz5230tVNBQVUvGxYL7iqISkonrNJbQLFPnxkcy1_uSAeZR7be98hjbeGuybh70OVKu04LGrZTzIr9rmRfIn/s4000/20231025_121745.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FNjFyTqsU9wwfdbNRU8xpaAH9iReuvQXcDijljkq7BxR5Mv5gtacW1fv2kaW-y3_b7BeELyj_JSvzYaV5U6EIgIJhFVmpaDL8ZljD1QAWz5230tVNBQVUvGxYL7iqISkonrNJbQLFPnxkcy1_uSAeZR7be98hjbeGuybh70OVKu04LGrZTzIr9rmRfIn/w640-h360/20231025_121745.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0qIMy41iy0fRJnkEknPPdiyarFS2J0V_snssZVt_eBu1ME2o-Adw9l_PLxK8cxiiOY0FK8e5mHXyZfxaYkGLl7wCDunhzW3Nu5VCkBi-_ZLiwoOB39Zydp6PvoBxPyAKr0azXC9lZqmDdVOqqJDrXSi1_6H9lBG27eudbTMrQsPzrxrS4K7CKyuFMAzf/s4000/20231025_121957.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0qIMy41iy0fRJnkEknPPdiyarFS2J0V_snssZVt_eBu1ME2o-Adw9l_PLxK8cxiiOY0FK8e5mHXyZfxaYkGLl7wCDunhzW3Nu5VCkBi-_ZLiwoOB39Zydp6PvoBxPyAKr0azXC9lZqmDdVOqqJDrXSi1_6H9lBG27eudbTMrQsPzrxrS4K7CKyuFMAzf/w640-h360/20231025_121957.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Trinit%C3%A0+dei+Monti/@41.9061848,12.4819231,18z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x132f605531edb329:0x670ce4b945776c0!2sSallustiano+Obelisk!8m2!3d41.9061696!4d12.4832106!16s%2Fg%2F120vbrl7!3m5!1s0x132f60552fd2eaab:0xacf089fdab060de8!8m2!3d41.9062415!4d12.4833875!16zL20vMDhzaGxm?entry=ttu" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Trinità dei Monti church</b></span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnxrXod-dIkI_MMwLbQV-vqN3XtkEsb4caa3XZ45vrfwsPI91tok1DmuEQruSU7cI9JXSUt7qhE9RLp1UfBpzgJnzhjK4x4VOnfiXNEGpJkBKAMNWYIlM0yMlbRh5QNoOufL86cOCLeEGCvuE2BcSwSfApDUuLjg8rGNC8vsapLCJ2BZmZIkOVSd5RQTC/s4000/20231025_122505.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnxrXod-dIkI_MMwLbQV-vqN3XtkEsb4caa3XZ45vrfwsPI91tok1DmuEQruSU7cI9JXSUt7qhE9RLp1UfBpzgJnzhjK4x4VOnfiXNEGpJkBKAMNWYIlM0yMlbRh5QNoOufL86cOCLeEGCvuE2BcSwSfApDUuLjg8rGNC8vsapLCJ2BZmZIkOVSd5RQTC/w640-h360/20231025_122505.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdGQPmX_Xi3aZES6-ZZAYRnVrYBw6h9A7dY2mNX5AGzI137LVZanUeuFEOBW1wU7yL5xgmfE4vwbvRdUp8pe1zTh4qORrc70qa9nq_yV2_lcV711Hr6LU1RPSCB7tkOIu8voqOL4hmtLxWgEHj9BYGrfx7086nDQ2WFeeoPg_DYa77keIQYa3HtVI3qQV/s4000/20231025_122747.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjps2uLQkf97hm_cftoy70hYC_f09QyaM0T644-NUWn7EyMakPXz-gEaC05-mY7KpYypUDla0YMu-gFSZINnt9eLnrZwKMiqWrrcYs82lAdkd9XEtoQHFmxMbF98bXigqdn3COm_-CQCXu1QhqLIHKH2RkXrVWXOVGHb3L7soveYlT1qDfYvlnR5b9Z6MNt/w360-h640/20231025_123229.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhTTD4S4pQTy6dFVgIe6a3NU4HFGeMXY3pIM-ajqYbOcj4kgb_nTtVJVqbncBhGk9hyphenhyphenUxwv5dCMTirubDDg4IL35VyzdboDEs1FX7zLQ_MqUyF8lNsoEN3A7_kRd0AsI9_Cs2NxttAUnZXwdon3sYJRIadoDR-irwXO4cSUyzj3n5oUYK9b5sUTBUvrS9/s4000/20231025_123424.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhTTD4S4pQTy6dFVgIe6a3NU4HFGeMXY3pIM-ajqYbOcj4kgb_nTtVJVqbncBhGk9hyphenhyphenUxwv5dCMTirubDDg4IL35VyzdboDEs1FX7zLQ_MqUyF8lNsoEN3A7_kRd0AsI9_Cs2NxttAUnZXwdon3sYJRIadoDR-irwXO4cSUyzj3n5oUYK9b5sUTBUvrS9/w640-h360/20231025_123424.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjogJZa4y74bsTwuJ6CUzseHismy3kRajjMrS3oizRl6qPjER2iqiFTPxYoH6MfRvkBxNhAucMZVjZg-4qjw6hQDEba-vtRf4QtERqcP8vRzih7a9lCOMovxGvWA4gx4f7WXUQGZosPuYaLBNLb7y7uV5FTP2ujfyyITGgkOrV6DrCYTtTDZHNWemTDvdr/s4000/20231025_123219.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjogJZa4y74bsTwuJ6CUzseHismy3kRajjMrS3oizRl6qPjER2iqiFTPxYoH6MfRvkBxNhAucMZVjZg-4qjw6hQDEba-vtRf4QtERqcP8vRzih7a9lCOMovxGvWA4gx4f7WXUQGZosPuYaLBNLb7y7uV5FTP2ujfyyITGgkOrV6DrCYTtTDZHNWemTDvdr/w360-h640/20231025_123219.jpg" width="315" /></a></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-63613485213951962042024-02-03T13:13:00.000-08:002024-02-07T17:56:39.777-08:00Secret Passages & River Views: Unveiling the Hidden Depths of Ponte Vecchio<p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_Vecchio" target="_blank"></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45K1df6ld5gF47JJZHHp8Ug0HJMK8p_ywdGd1xZ25vbjf0fYK5t4Q7EbDm90aJJsk42o_KeaNCBrKfaVVj-GlaXfrAkpLCg-wP7K9AREkTrnYEffcnDe3RYSaf2fEoeWk0_kt7qgjv6QLN8gEv33xdtp-GSnugJA6775XelgrP2CGYkt8P8fzsemUTQg7/s4000/20231015_082056.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45K1df6ld5gF47JJZHHp8Ug0HJMK8p_ywdGd1xZ25vbjf0fYK5t4Q7EbDm90aJJsk42o_KeaNCBrKfaVVj-GlaXfrAkpLCg-wP7K9AREkTrnYEffcnDe3RYSaf2fEoeWk0_kt7qgjv6QLN8gEv33xdtp-GSnugJA6775XelgrP2CGYkt8P8fzsemUTQg7/w640-h360/20231015_082056.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Ponte Vecchio's ⭐fame stems from its unique confluence of historical significance, architectural peculiarities, and modern allure. As a survivor of time and war, it holds immense historical significance. Its architecture, characterized by shops and the <a href="https://www.visituffizi.org/the-vasari-corridor/" target="_blank">Vasari Corridor</a>, offers a unique experience.<p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Where Medieval Meets Modern</h3><p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><b>Historical Significance</b><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Oldest bridge in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Florence,+Metropolitan+City+of+Florence,+Italy/@43.7800525,11.158566,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a56a680d2d6ad:0x93d57917efc72a03!8m2!3d43.7695604!4d11.2558136!16zL20vMDMxeTI?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Florence</a></b>: Despite its name, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_Vecchio" target="_blank">Ponte Vecchio</a> wasn't actually the first bridge in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Florence,+Metropolitan+City+of+Florence,+Italy/@43.7800525,11.158566,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a56a680d2d6ad:0x93d57917efc72a03!8m2!3d43.7695604!4d11.2558136!16zL20vMDMxeTI?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Florence</a>, but it became the oldest surviving bridge after others were destroyed throughout history.</li><li><b>Medieval engineering marvel</b>: Built in 1345, the bridge showcases innovative design using segmental arches, a rarity in Europe at the time.</li><li><b>Survived World War II</b>: While all other Florentine bridges were destroyed by retreating German forces, <a href="https://www.visituffizi.org/the-vasari-corridor/" target="_blank">Ponte Vecchio</a> remarkably remained intact.</li></ul><b>Unique Architectural Features</b><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Shops built on the bridge</b>: Unlike most modern bridges, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_Vecchio" target="_blank">Ponte Vecchio</a> has shops built directly onto its structure. This tradition dates back to the Middle Ages and initially housed butchers, tanners, and farmers. Today, these shops are mainly occupied by luxury jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers, creating a unique shopping experience.</li><li><a href="https://www.visituffizi.org/the-vasari-corridor/" target="_blank"><b>Vasari Corridor</b></a>: A <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">secret passageway</span> built on top of the shops connects Palazzo Vecchio and Pitti Palace, offering stunning views of the bridge and river. The Vasari Corridor is not a road, but a closed, elevated passageway that connects the Uffizi Gallery to the Palazzo Pitti, passing over the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_Vecchio" target="_blank">Ponte Vecchio</a> bridge. It formerly housed a collection of self-portraits, which are currently being removed during a renovation project. (As of February 3, 2024, the <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">reopening date is unknown</span>.) </li></ul><b>Modern Appeal</b><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Romantic setting</b>: The bridge's picturesque architecture, charming shops, and beautiful <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arno" target="_blank">Arno River </a>views make it a popular spot for couples and tourists.</li><li><b>Luxury shopping</b>: The presence of renowned jewelers and art dealers attracts those seeking high-end goods and a touch of opulence.</li><li><b>Cultural icon</b>: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_Vecchio" target="_blank">Ponte Vecchio</a> has been featured in numerous films, books, and photographs, further solidifying its iconic status.</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hoZBEFmJTZM?si=OmAMw4o0t3dpVT_T" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Exploring the Collections of the Uffizi: From Medieval to Modern (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hoZBEFmJTZM" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_Vecchio" target="_blank">Ponte Vecchio's</a> modern appeal as a romantic destination and luxury shopping district attracts diverse visitors. This seamlessly blended bridge, connecting past and present, truly has something to offer everyone who graces <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Florence,+Metropolitan+City+of+Florence,+Italy/@43.7800525,11.158566,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a56a680d2d6ad:0x93d57917efc72a03!8m2!3d43.7695604!4d11.2558136!16zL20vMDMxeTI?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Florence</a> with their presence. </div><div><br /></div><div>During our 3-day stay in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Florence,+Metropolitan+City+of+Florence,+Italy/@43.7800525,11.158566,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a56a680d2d6ad:0x93d57917efc72a03!8m2!3d43.7695604!4d11.2558136!16zL20vMDMxeTI?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Florence</a> on October 14, 2023, we visited Ponte Vecchio several times. The following pictures capture its beauty during our 3-day stay in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Florence,+Metropolitan+City+of+Florence,+Italy/@43.7800525,11.158566,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a56a680d2d6ad:0x93d57917efc72a03!8m2!3d43.7695604!4d11.2558136!16zL20vMDMxeTI?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Florence</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnG2GgNj4IsPg4JU3w_eCZQzVDkE0DmmSfHQb45B27KpoBAEWDZQqQXK5Ct3gipB_0pcyY8yZUBkXujQXfyExYJJ-mIVFoBL_Q4Y6s5KMqnIfE5Pt0sdcz-eRq1Y17LqZq5O_qobJQyftK7vXHnTD7Fx1uV0loeG6_aPIYTqEXmaDdPyCzvnuqhaQxJmzu/s4000/20231014_170849.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnG2GgNj4IsPg4JU3w_eCZQzVDkE0DmmSfHQb45B27KpoBAEWDZQqQXK5Ct3gipB_0pcyY8yZUBkXujQXfyExYJJ-mIVFoBL_Q4Y6s5KMqnIfE5Pt0sdcz-eRq1Y17LqZq5O_qobJQyftK7vXHnTD7Fx1uV0loeG6_aPIYTqEXmaDdPyCzvnuqhaQxJmzu/w640-h360/20231014_170849.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzpenqD82mPdOpIJZnKx9C6ey1Cct_7VAplWjqKYwnFKCG7WTW7Ue-PTZssavRgvILGbNgkVzrGeX9gEMV1yeI61pOoe0DRyf1JaUmRUo8PgNQG8XJP52E9lI-WA5Zmo7fYmGVeFi_ufArDOaq6loi8NiX7YyylVXZUfaAUEuVT91D6NV8intokEaEZ_u/s4000/20231014_170436.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzpenqD82mPdOpIJZnKx9C6ey1Cct_7VAplWjqKYwnFKCG7WTW7Ue-PTZssavRgvILGbNgkVzrGeX9gEMV1yeI61pOoe0DRyf1JaUmRUo8PgNQG8XJP52E9lI-WA5Zmo7fYmGVeFi_ufArDOaq6loi8NiX7YyylVXZUfaAUEuVT91D6NV8intokEaEZ_u/w640-h360/20231014_170436.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2Foc5Xl1DbraTZV4uuJsSeEX1Rx21dLlPEbDP5vYcqM_SCCLvKufLc0q960QeMvwZURT3stlG6CZn6Vt96ixSgD8YzkW9S4CbQWckTY7gOpzL4_lwHwmqXl5D0-GUoN2ce2WJ9zFJzseiVdH_RzIcU92_Jaye12ntzg0WMgPzWtDEYs598EZHkaPpTLA/s4000/20231015_082116.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2Foc5Xl1DbraTZV4uuJsSeEX1Rx21dLlPEbDP5vYcqM_SCCLvKufLc0q960QeMvwZURT3stlG6CZn6Vt96ixSgD8YzkW9S4CbQWckTY7gOpzL4_lwHwmqXl5D0-GUoN2ce2WJ9zFJzseiVdH_RzIcU92_Jaye12ntzg0WMgPzWtDEYs598EZHkaPpTLA/w640-h360/20231015_082116.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Uffizi Gallery </h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stunning views of the bridge and river are available from above at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Uffizi+Gallery/@43.7677996,11.2368568,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a54008dc59081:0xcddeb7c89bf0c4cd!8m2!3d43.7677856!4d11.2553108!16zL20vMGNmanA?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Uffizi Gallery</a>.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBvw7Niszinv_fEGkQwnEoZOiN0PQgaFt6IcN5ahkbqNxtqUlB_q06jy4YvSomfSVOBYT-c85THDjlxljhQBotdsf-2HpkB1W4Cleft4UoiOdtqKOCVsv1TCk1Wg5QQ3sMJk12GM7650qIzoSNs13AoU5ljGDyzeziMaKeCa9f3EFbPdmU-QM3cpRtTeh/s4000/20231015_090227.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBvw7Niszinv_fEGkQwnEoZOiN0PQgaFt6IcN5ahkbqNxtqUlB_q06jy4YvSomfSVOBYT-c85THDjlxljhQBotdsf-2HpkB1W4Cleft4UoiOdtqKOCVsv1TCk1Wg5QQ3sMJk12GM7650qIzoSNs13AoU5ljGDyzeziMaKeCa9f3EFbPdmU-QM3cpRtTeh/w640-h360/20231015_090227.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLm04Z0vaYNSDAF6xnd2Ifbs6cROp70kOMbkGlVNfBiFc1Ad4nS6IVCMKNv10XzhpUuInQ4f8D0FQN67d8lHEKuDtsIrL5TS-2iYj-FyqNttQ79Coa31hteIvF_NWi1pFf35i64K_LTYWY2m6KNLU0kA2kRtLuZs8VGCO6rFAWe1qNlyRg59FkuENW58AO/s4000/20231015_090357.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9u7bhy2_DgnTZQO3viS_I02D6hxylfrek4_U9Ol9NMHfPWxaB5J1DSCurONKeleUECspmkptx64mH80ja0d7JUKltECty4t3YpuFt-kZNoLr_s6t7DyO-eN0tvFQb0Rry4Sbt2nGFcgHmacEWEbQhfZVVv22C-6guDKw7QY6bJt2Y8jacSUOID5za91Go/s4000/20231015_090731.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9u7bhy2_DgnTZQO3viS_I02D6hxylfrek4_U9Ol9NMHfPWxaB5J1DSCurONKeleUECspmkptx64mH80ja0d7JUKltECty4t3YpuFt-kZNoLr_s6t7DyO-eN0tvFQb0Rry4Sbt2nGFcgHmacEWEbQhfZVVv22C-6guDKw7QY6bJt2Y8jacSUOID5za91Go/w360-h640/20231015_090731.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu72_7cVOWSY8Hv4qJ_8WRFAPCK77n7L-powXr8J8ErpgGNEa940nuBZ86dLw3qRAbQtosLHNfcuDSx36LRJWN_JeRr-qVAHjhyV8s1XpgjeFHnk6Ip2RxJUL9KG5ykVVLYyPzxRsE3Q7J_hz5WCcoOm4QFGm6V2-pGCd5wVql8rP8pf5nrBKm44_5pX2s/s4000/20231015_090839.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu72_7cVOWSY8Hv4qJ_8WRFAPCK77n7L-powXr8J8ErpgGNEa940nuBZ86dLw3qRAbQtosLHNfcuDSx36LRJWN_JeRr-qVAHjhyV8s1XpgjeFHnk6Ip2RxJUL9KG5ykVVLYyPzxRsE3Q7J_hz5WCcoOm4QFGm6V2-pGCd5wVql8rP8pf5nrBKm44_5pX2s/w640-h360/20231015_090839.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-51336865148662344642024-02-02T11:44:00.000-08:002024-02-02T11:44:48.123-08:00A Photographer's Paradise: Capturing the Essence of Boboli Gardens<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQsK9IJjWCx0zutK95PjaTkHkNOTRKbrEq3b8NwEfyi2t9buHYoBMF1fqv2EUJmlzQ6aIUQ8Vf9dYKBxg-PlebyWVaOdLtrbxmIw4OA-i9IPBYSZ6wWO0iVxpmFU6xs-vvDdlBDi4eWBm-cWD3Kjy__Y3s5HRM3bJKAdWpOc5ZknTYebElQQvDJcGz364J/s4000/20231015_125032.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQsK9IJjWCx0zutK95PjaTkHkNOTRKbrEq3b8NwEfyi2t9buHYoBMF1fqv2EUJmlzQ6aIUQ8Vf9dYKBxg-PlebyWVaOdLtrbxmIw4OA-i9IPBYSZ6wWO0iVxpmFU6xs-vvDdlBDi4eWBm-cWD3Kjy__Y3s5HRM3bJKAdWpOc5ZknTYebElQQvDJcGz364J/w640-h360/20231015_125032.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://travel4apurpose.blogspot.com/2024/01/treasures-of-renaissance-exploring.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Pitti Palace</b></span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boboli_Gardens" target="_blank">Boboli Gardens</a> ⭐⭐are a historical park located in Florence, Italy. Originally designed for the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/House_of_Medici" target="_blank">Medici family</a>, it represents one of the first and most important examples of the Italian garden, which later served as inspiration for many European courts.<br /><br />The vast green expanse of the gardens, with its regular layout, is a real open-air museum populated by ancient and Renaissance statues. It is also adorned with grottos, the most important of which is the famous <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/grotta-del-buontalenti" target="_blank">Buontalenti grotto</a>, as well as large fountains, such as the Fountain of Neptune and the <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Fountain_of_Oceanus_by_Giambologna" target="_blank">Fountain of the Ocean</a>.<div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RjwrFB6RexA?si=7giLmrbSIQp8yV5S" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Medici: The Infamous Royal Family of Florence (BBC; YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjwrFB6RexA" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Highlights of Boboli Gardens</h3><br />Here are some of the highlights of the Boboli Gardens:<p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>The Amphitheater</b>: This impressive structure was built in the 16th century and was used for theatrical performances and other events.</li><li><b>The <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/grotta-del-buontalenti" target="_blank">Buontalenti Grotto</a></b>: This artificial cave was created in the 16th century and is decorated with sculptures, fountains, and mosaics.</li><li><b>The Neptune Fountain</b>: This large fountain is decorated with sculptures of Neptune, the god of the sea, and other sea creatures.</li><li><b>The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porcelain_Museum_(Florence)" target="_blank">Porcelain Museum</a></b>: This museum houses a collection of porcelain from the 16th to the 19th centuries.</li></ul><p></p><p>The Boboli Gardens are a popular tourist destination and are open to the public year-round. If you are ever in Florence, I highly recommend visiting these beautiful gardens. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Boboli_isolotto_(165453369).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Thomas Roessler, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Boboli isolotto (165453369)" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/97/Boboli_isolotto_%28165453369%29.jpg/512px-Boboli_isolotto_%28165453369%29.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="text-align: left;">Fountain of Oceanus by Giambologna (Thomas Roessler, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons</span>)</b></span><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bathing_Venus_statue_in_Buontalenti_Grotto,_Boboli_Gardens,_Florence.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Yanko Malinov, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Bathing Venus statue in Buontalenti Grotto, Boboli Gardens, Florence" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/97/Bathing_Venus_statue_in_Buontalenti_Grotto%2C_Boboli_Gardens%2C_Florence.jpg/512px-Bathing_Venus_statue_in_Buontalenti_Grotto%2C_Boboli_Gardens%2C_Florence.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Bathing Venus statue in Buontalenti Grotto (Yanko Malinov, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jard%C3%ADn_de_B%C3%B3boli,_Florencia,_Italia,_2022-09-19,_DD_25.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="Jardín de Bóboli, Florencia, Italia, 2022-09-19, DD 25" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/76/Jard%C3%ADn_de_B%C3%B3boli%2C_Florencia%2C_Italia%2C_2022-09-19%2C_DD_25.jpg/512px-Jard%C3%ADn_de_B%C3%B3boli%2C_Florencia%2C_Italia%2C_2022-09-19%2C_DD_25.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="text-align: left;">The Neptune Fountain </span>(Diego Delso, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> , via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>For photographers, <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Boboli+Gardens/@43.762501,11.2458247,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Boboli Gardens</a> offer a paradise brimming with diverse subjects and captivating compositions. Architectural marvels like the Amphitheater and <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/grotta-del-buontalenti" target="_blank">Buontalenti grotto</a> beckon, inviting capture of their elegant forms. Statues and fountains, adorned with dramatic plays of light and shadow, present opportunities for stunning imagery. Manicured hedges and vibrant flower beds, boasting intricate symmetry and exquisite detail, further entice the photographic eye.<br /><br />On October 15th, 2023, we took a stroll through these captivating gardens on a cloudy day. Despite the overcast sky, the following pictures, captured during our visit, showcase the enduring beauty of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Boboli+Gardens/@43.762501,11.2458247,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Boboli Gardens</a>, even under a veil of clouds.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1zkLbgP76QrVRNk2TEL87sWluTmlQZqdzZETm2QVSCScbheZek0y5LxXhO-C9hwiDa77D0UWKAHk9oTVnhtWUolisloxfXdnA5MmHWir1fsSrThA3cPLg3mSi_DG-Opl0itZij8xuX-oel43TxkXMrk4kKIKa7GBJiOV2VAM6kWCbHJaanjSd351KLfR/s4000/20231015_122403.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1zkLbgP76QrVRNk2TEL87sWluTmlQZqdzZETm2QVSCScbheZek0y5LxXhO-C9hwiDa77D0UWKAHk9oTVnhtWUolisloxfXdnA5MmHWir1fsSrThA3cPLg3mSi_DG-Opl0itZij8xuX-oel43TxkXMrk4kKIKa7GBJiOV2VAM6kWCbHJaanjSd351KLfR/w640-h360/20231015_122403.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The main axis through the anfiteatro centered on <a href="https://travel4apurpose.blogspot.com/2024/01/treasures-of-renaissance-exploring.html" target="_blank">Palazzo Pitti</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7vML6Zy5c4RW8PgbBTtELe1sCpxk9uo4-8UpR1coKXDlS3ETRW_ACdzzId37GSI8UXmXYfAJ5KhJvJWleOi-eyGFZzkZEmpF264nNttDn9RRejkoxlHwW22UEud53QYd7rIDO79nl6ELwb_znden9ZU_o8gim17-7am_mnawWMTJo6vC1-Sf7UeyAFGoJ/s4000/20231015_125010.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7vML6Zy5c4RW8PgbBTtELe1sCpxk9uo4-8UpR1coKXDlS3ETRW_ACdzzId37GSI8UXmXYfAJ5KhJvJWleOi-eyGFZzkZEmpF264nNttDn9RRejkoxlHwW22UEud53QYd7rIDO79nl6ELwb_znden9ZU_o8gim17-7am_mnawWMTJo6vC1-Sf7UeyAFGoJ/w640-h360/20231015_125010.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKS4C4gy8qe9gB-P9aQMTM-AhtgXq33r6o_iyi80AvMqCI_AuaMJkl7OI6dL5RSCTl_g2Bfk-l46ItcblRDr1RFW7qdA39k0LxZQDzU6OyuFzBEfcscjlnrGN6qwXSeV9H1mv5AABpjXrdzyeFuKS31sUuxCcl-jNSlicHkNIKVABOLo2gWUS5hVEDg_4/s4000/20231015_125144.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKS4C4gy8qe9gB-P9aQMTM-AhtgXq33r6o_iyi80AvMqCI_AuaMJkl7OI6dL5RSCTl_g2Bfk-l46ItcblRDr1RFW7qdA39k0LxZQDzU6OyuFzBEfcscjlnrGN6qwXSeV9H1mv5AABpjXrdzyeFuKS31sUuxCcl-jNSlicHkNIKVABOLo2gWUS5hVEDg_4/w640-h360/20231015_125144.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1nI3VaRhpUsYPiJdXbi8Ycat8fao53hkhk2ApeFU7XUTG2WG83nvK6dLpwCr8ysh-YfCaHbWJdp2SbSXoSpq6YR11PsUyAIXRJKTI4z-EokL7_sEJATHD8zMSuti5fyF2mbzLUuR5ZghG9hDMLQpq0p4Eb_LpgV_YoAdBxS6soIdSOUPBKFlK87Y-lb0z/s4000/20231015_125705.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1nI3VaRhpUsYPiJdXbi8Ycat8fao53hkhk2ApeFU7XUTG2WG83nvK6dLpwCr8ysh-YfCaHbWJdp2SbSXoSpq6YR11PsUyAIXRJKTI4z-EokL7_sEJATHD8zMSuti5fyF2mbzLUuR5ZghG9hDMLQpq0p4Eb_LpgV_YoAdBxS6soIdSOUPBKFlK87Y-lb0z/w640-h360/20231015_125705.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porcelain_Museum_(Florence)" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Porcelain Museum</span></a></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfKxi2DwFdIHRuekIaY74uoKDBOiGkZjWNZNER7T_x1Z1U-8crP3pLnO59i24ENvk1NE0omwkDDfRVLxyGuwQLVXYHEwQB82nKU3djRVjxAiWgQxSBRjCcz5XT6bPkz6bjA66YoT6Ay9xkDGqP_GLVL4lKC6Jrn9L4gT-2EyCh2xtjeV2oElKTusbThizT/s4000/20231015_125908.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfKxi2DwFdIHRuekIaY74uoKDBOiGkZjWNZNER7T_x1Z1U-8crP3pLnO59i24ENvk1NE0omwkDDfRVLxyGuwQLVXYHEwQB82nKU3djRVjxAiWgQxSBRjCcz5XT6bPkz6bjA66YoT6Ay9xkDGqP_GLVL4lKC6Jrn9L4gT-2EyCh2xtjeV2oElKTusbThizT/w640-h360/20231015_125908.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSP78DqXIJbPTcwdCh2S287Yhyphenhyphent2Fm1dOhL6AiH490hrK_NjQWfLCRu2mr9TCYv3LoFUsvErQXY2VN5nPaK3LvrRnRHdQijPfphJrJRDPfEQt8YcGnubbRNnccF2pxQYzFgAEmk-S4AA58ITopV6GPrtkxb2eBiYBSO8HF4ufRF5PYlKs8X824XPmxe26L/s4000/20231015_130109.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSP78DqXIJbPTcwdCh2S287Yhyphenhyphent2Fm1dOhL6AiH490hrK_NjQWfLCRu2mr9TCYv3LoFUsvErQXY2VN5nPaK3LvrRnRHdQijPfphJrJRDPfEQt8YcGnubbRNnccF2pxQYzFgAEmk-S4AA58ITopV6GPrtkxb2eBiYBSO8HF4ufRF5PYlKs8X824XPmxe26L/w640-h360/20231015_130109.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrKyVEPRKMUShyR5VAgEYm2U_IUgellB6-0HJL802t8kb6WxO3Zq9IGmWmICbx_WxdwwzK-Xykb9NKwtSWgk5DshXytNyuBA5IDH4wzzorGNBl1KNfpB60J-1OKGd21Kr12ls554O9kSmY8HVCOHAhumdNulC_ABHnpUQD5dh3bdw0YDMD5Q3csGExVgF/s4000/20231015_130139.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrKyVEPRKMUShyR5VAgEYm2U_IUgellB6-0HJL802t8kb6WxO3Zq9IGmWmICbx_WxdwwzK-Xykb9NKwtSWgk5DshXytNyuBA5IDH4wzzorGNBl1KNfpB60J-1OKGd21Kr12ls554O9kSmY8HVCOHAhumdNulC_ABHnpUQD5dh3bdw0YDMD5Q3csGExVgF/w640-h360/20231015_130139.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzGmNdlBnWXfmbL79Z87qk-3qx6Zx_k0I4NQrhdRzD33Tx3a5uOjtELotFrDslw5O5WqP_BxYmvDmw9FfVNFRI1igMijQTI5v89xNZqx6NioWkR54qq2St_3NINJxMrlJfvVhFfN8CEnBSP2NvRSuWBxDRTIDUxG_VhjVis3dHSfpKrMqQMt3ia8azddc/s4000/20231015_130536.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzGmNdlBnWXfmbL79Z87qk-3qx6Zx_k0I4NQrhdRzD33Tx3a5uOjtELotFrDslw5O5WqP_BxYmvDmw9FfVNFRI1igMijQTI5v89xNZqx6NioWkR54qq2St_3NINJxMrlJfvVhFfN8CEnBSP2NvRSuWBxDRTIDUxG_VhjVis3dHSfpKrMqQMt3ia8azddc/w640-h360/20231015_130536.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/tindaro-screpolato" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Tindaro Screpolato</b></span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media;
gyroscope; picture-in-picture;
web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="560" src="https://youtube.com/embed/I3gQE4s6b00?feature=share" title="YouTube video player" width="315"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Boboli Gardens (YouTube <a href="https://youtube.com/shorts/I3gQE4s6b00" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-41070754169646451272024-01-29T15:07:00.000-08:002024-01-29T15:15:05.335-08:00Virginia's Premier Vineyard Wedding Venue: Create Memories at Stone Tower Winery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5f9a8HGabK4i5bhmKx6j_syQnB75XUUh9IrqBjngsIy0v5QTl88f6yOm7QWeXDmNcG46f9qzYnkl6Zhso6vJUfewuep2gPWanzrNYZ_EIdijw1qiWQTtvFnmglYYICiaxcBD9JzZ7iwigYOjSHsNRN9eoR9mzQzWU88nu44soNwd8CnkOUj7hAJIvDbb5/s4000/20221030_123529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5f9a8HGabK4i5bhmKx6j_syQnB75XUUh9IrqBjngsIy0v5QTl88f6yOm7QWeXDmNcG46f9qzYnkl6Zhso6vJUfewuep2gPWanzrNYZ_EIdijw1qiWQTtvFnmglYYICiaxcBD9JzZ7iwigYOjSHsNRN9eoR9mzQzWU88nu44soNwd8CnkOUj7hAJIvDbb5/w640-h480/20221030_123529.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virginia" target="_blank">Virginia</a> boasts the title of the first recorded wine-growing region in the US, with a rich history dating back to the Jamestown settlement in 1607. Despite facing numerous challenges like pests, wars, and prohibition, Virginia's wine industry has persevered and thrived. <p></p><p><a href="https://www.stonetowerwinery.com/" target="_blank">Stone Tower Winery</a> ⭐is among the tops of Virginia's wine industry, nestled in the foothills of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Ridge_Mountains" target="_blank">Blue Ridge Mountains</a>, just outside of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Leesburg,+VA/@39.1022278,-77.8847936,10z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b63d83d53b39bb:0xb1920f56e3f9bdf3!8m2!3d39.1154523!4d-77.5645323!16zL20vMDEwbjM0?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Leesburg</a>.<br /><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/636hJo48USw?si=xA35LkZ4GDl51_TK" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Virginia's Premier Vineyard Wedding Venue (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=636hJo48USw" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Create Unforgettable Memories at Stone Tower Winery</h3><p></p><br />Picture this: You exchange vows amidst rolling hills carpeted with lush vineyards, with the majestic <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Ridge_Mountains" target="_blank">Blue Ridge Mountains</a> as your awe-inspiring backdrop. Breathtaking natural beauty sets the stage for your ceremony and wedding photos, creating memories that will last a lifetime. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Stone+Tower+Winery/@39.0646157,-77.6393201,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b614173930132f:0x95ef2a8b52e0a68a!8m2!3d39.0646116!4d-77.6367452!16s%2Fg%2F12q4xvkwf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Stone Tower Winery</a> seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern sophistication, ensuring an unforgettable ambiance for your special day. Imagine getting ready in the historic Farmhouse, its timeless character adding a touch of warmth to your pre-wedding jitters. The Ballroom, adorned with exposed beams and stone accents, exudes a welcoming elegance that sets the perfect tone for your reception.<div><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery </h3><br /></div>In October 2022, we had the pleasure of attending a wedding at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Stone+Tower+Winery/@39.0646157,-77.6393201,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b614173930132f:0x95ef2a8b52e0a68a!8m2!3d39.0646116!4d-77.6367452!16s%2Fg%2F12q4xvkwf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Stone Tower Winery</a> to celebrate the joyous union of a lucky couple. The experience was truly unforgettable for everyone who was present. The photos captured below serve as testaments to that magical day.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoafPmfXfxYUvxm1A5yAZT58UOpEWude5WKBeFd8KM4S2W7ayKuN1kFofaBgzvXvyc0Mi_ZGW_HCsyM9DvCr4iPnhULK-a1A2bNqCRUtEfKLXzGWioBb8wVZqFwUlYLZZEUUyV9zhWCeujeWp_077-Oy_rQAZQBt-ZCICBGMA2dCWJR7B3bsnKKfPBEIpl/s4000/20221030_123200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoafPmfXfxYUvxm1A5yAZT58UOpEWude5WKBeFd8KM4S2W7ayKuN1kFofaBgzvXvyc0Mi_ZGW_HCsyM9DvCr4iPnhULK-a1A2bNqCRUtEfKLXzGWioBb8wVZqFwUlYLZZEUUyV9zhWCeujeWp_077-Oy_rQAZQBt-ZCICBGMA2dCWJR7B3bsnKKfPBEIpl/w480-h640/20221030_123200.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2VU_4JU-jPUQS-dZNFl1a5Vf5qSGaO1cZZvBBYnWyOlJjodrgu0pr_mOXwrI3AhjrCyZ4yX-XlGqWqj2J5GO5SEN9OMyejY2eD2bc0bzRtYIfFvrmUySkkr2a6Ae-Gvn2nMZ6SEs0NK6bY6qdEEw77wH8pFwAJEBPFbc6xZPCzdAQf2oI8wbGmpaMmnL/s4000/20221030_123614.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2VU_4JU-jPUQS-dZNFl1a5Vf5qSGaO1cZZvBBYnWyOlJjodrgu0pr_mOXwrI3AhjrCyZ4yX-XlGqWqj2J5GO5SEN9OMyejY2eD2bc0bzRtYIfFvrmUySkkr2a6Ae-Gvn2nMZ6SEs0NK6bY6qdEEw77wH8pFwAJEBPFbc6xZPCzdAQf2oI8wbGmpaMmnL/w640-h480/20221030_123614.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3RdAcxSvlid6ngcWDDADewgEouU-cgbSu2nXVi8LdXQY7Ll-DWlE85RwqaQEDTox5bsmteKV4OzIjlN4qsNGzvML1Mvcbi1rfCsVrYvp6CuvKL_viPyiZ2qYAD7zGjghxw52iRkwO1cCcHXtmpZAyisu3i2JJnCMi4mbD4sKO_I8ADzP35i5fa_Ov64Bg/s4000/20221030_123923.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3RdAcxSvlid6ngcWDDADewgEouU-cgbSu2nXVi8LdXQY7Ll-DWlE85RwqaQEDTox5bsmteKV4OzIjlN4qsNGzvML1Mvcbi1rfCsVrYvp6CuvKL_viPyiZ2qYAD7zGjghxw52iRkwO1cCcHXtmpZAyisu3i2JJnCMi4mbD4sKO_I8ADzP35i5fa_Ov64Bg/w640-h480/20221030_123923.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fXrJtS_DrWvjcSPrIxt3mhKaDZcrBx8P25F6ibhanG5yYNccDrmfloHdWwvu3yBQahtN5E4fPvHbml6UqpNEL2HcQePf6LwRSU_gElqlikm0PCpl8y50IMIKUXBK6gzuKktBD9b3NBKYuDL2m5lxsyqjd7IttcFT9zUabUE85pE1mhiCKzk95rWGPee7/s4000/20221030_132929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fXrJtS_DrWvjcSPrIxt3mhKaDZcrBx8P25F6ibhanG5yYNccDrmfloHdWwvu3yBQahtN5E4fPvHbml6UqpNEL2HcQePf6LwRSU_gElqlikm0PCpl8y50IMIKUXBK6gzuKktBD9b3NBKYuDL2m5lxsyqjd7IttcFT9zUabUE85pE1mhiCKzk95rWGPee7/w640-h480/20221030_132929.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Additional Details</h3><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Cost: Rental fees typically range from $10,000 to $15,000, depending on the day of the week and season. Additional costs include catering, bar services, staff, and any desired rentals.</li><li>Guest capacity: The venue can accommodate up to 230 guests comfortably.</li><li>Catering restrictions: You must purchase all alcoholic beverages from the venue, but outside catering is allowed for food.</li><li>Logistics: The venue is located outside of Washington D.C., so consider transportation options for your guests, especially if they're not familiar with the area.</li></ul><p data-sourcepos="22:1-22:236" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="white-space-collapse: collapse;"></span><span style="white-space-collapse: collapse;"></span><span style="white-space-collapse: collapse;"></span><span style="white-space-collapse: collapse;"></span><span style="white-space-collapse: collapse;"></span><span style="white-space-collapse: collapse;"></span><span style="white-space-collapse: collapse;"></span><span style="white-space-collapse: collapse;"></span></p>Overall, <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Stone+Tower+Winery/@39.0646157,-77.6393201,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b614173930132f:0x95ef2a8b52e0a68a!8m2!3d39.0646116!4d-77.6367452!16s%2Fg%2F12q4xvkwf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Stone Tower Winery</a> offers a beautiful and sophisticated setting for your wedding day, with breathtaking views, professional services, and various options to customize your celebration. However, it's important to carefully consider the cost, location, and restrictions before making your decision.</div></div><br />Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-42921773257362998602024-01-22T13:25:00.000-08:002024-01-22T13:25:27.222-08:00Treasures of the Renaissance: Exploring the Medicis' Collections at the Pitti Palace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZH-8mRM_cqmXyxbtpTBNVf5xIZzXD8TRnbxoor80PF51NRG4WsfPIHUzJ96By-Xr85Okb7cAY4k9YhHYc27V7Y5VZwDlemRyGhENVv3zI0QcLvO4pMCmZhjsyFm4iTHfOdbQ5u2btM5tNZZI5JPr0Bj6jtJtwwuBmwsETrkqoMnpSpUeT1GMmf9nxelGE/s4000/20231015_111315.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZH-8mRM_cqmXyxbtpTBNVf5xIZzXD8TRnbxoor80PF51NRG4WsfPIHUzJ96By-Xr85Okb7cAY4k9YhHYc27V7Y5VZwDlemRyGhENVv3zI0QcLvO4pMCmZhjsyFm4iTHfOdbQ5u2btM5tNZZI5JPr0Bj6jtJtwwuBmwsETrkqoMnpSpUeT1GMmf9nxelGE/w640-h360/20231015_111315.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br />The <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pitti+Palace/@43.7624662,11.2415761,15z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!2sThe+Boboli+Gardens!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq!3m5!1s0x132a515441db99f1:0x5cd0cce4e6f1502a!8m2!3d43.7651533!4d11.2500081!16zL20vMDQ0Ymg2?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Pitti Palace</a>⭐⭐, also known as <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palazzo_Pitti" target="_blank">Palazzo Pitti</a>, is a magnificent Renaissance palace in Florence, Italy. It's more than just an art museum; it's a sprawling complex housing several museums and offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Florentine royalty and nobility.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RTxr6pU9qdc?si=G4QuR4Hzz5uYIvlG" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Exploring the Medicis' Collections at the Pitti Palace (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTxr6pU9qdc" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">History and Architecture</h3><div><br /></div><div>Here's what you need to know about the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pitti+Palace/@43.7624662,11.2415761,15z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!2sThe+Boboli+Gardens!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq!3m5!1s0x132a515441db99f1:0x5cd0cce4e6f1502a!8m2!3d43.7651533!4d11.2500081!16zL20vMDQ0Ymg2?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Pitti Palace</a>:<br /><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Built in the late 15th century by the wealthy <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luca_Pitti" target="_blank">Pitti</a> family, but later acquired and expanded by the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/House_of_Medici" target="_blank">Medici</a> dynasty, Grand Dukes of Tuscany.</li><li>Renowned for its impressive Renaissance architecture, with grand courtyards, frescoed ceilings, and ornate decorations.</li><li>Connected to the stunning <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Boboli+Gardens/@43.762501,11.2458247,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Boboli Gardens</a>, a sprawling green oasis with sculptures, fountains, and manicured lawns.</li></ul><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p>On October 15, 2023, seeking refuge from the drizzle, we explored the Medicis' Collections within the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pitti+Palace/@43.7624662,11.2415761,15z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!2sThe+Boboli+Gardens!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq!3m5!1s0x132a515441db99f1:0x5cd0cce4e6f1502a!8m2!3d43.7651533!4d11.2500081!16zL20vMDQ0Ymg2?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Pitti Palace</a>. Once the weather turned cloudy and the rain subsided, we ventured outside to discover the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Boboli+Gardens/@43.762501,11.2458247,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Boboli Gardens</a>. Here are some of the pictures we captured inside the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pitti+Palace/@43.7624662,11.2415761,15z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!2sThe+Boboli+Gardens!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq!3m5!1s0x132a515441db99f1:0x5cd0cce4e6f1502a!8m2!3d43.7651533!4d11.2500081!16zL20vMDQ0Ymg2?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Pitti Palace</a> on that day.<br /></p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxMNF85TXqacbubsVDlygcXnp6WWWFqUsgBuSPYUsWdHVH_vDqI4CI3MkPC0AFhJRH4Q15zU6LybOxwLUsTJulinpALSo-T7yY4hzPwJYd6W5XpDOun6HU-Jjt1A2qFU22E0xCR9pKAKRThFsa__OxkvDp4fXG5q3HX2mcO11fLfn5qZM_ylE7OjGCLIJm/s4000/20231015_121446.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxMNF85TXqacbubsVDlygcXnp6WWWFqUsgBuSPYUsWdHVH_vDqI4CI3MkPC0AFhJRH4Q15zU6LybOxwLUsTJulinpALSo-T7yY4hzPwJYd6W5XpDOun6HU-Jjt1A2qFU22E0xCR9pKAKRThFsa__OxkvDp4fXG5q3HX2mcO11fLfn5qZM_ylE7OjGCLIJm/w640-h360/20231015_121446.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Fountain+of+the+Artichoke/@43.7646687,11.2320114,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a5155b88f0421:0xe7e4a4b4450016b6!8m2!3d43.7646547!4d11.2504654!16s%2Fg%2F122h6c2z?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Fountain of Artichoke</a> from a vantage point within Boboli Gardens</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3crf9Ri6cswh7OszhBu6rOHf32UDGioPZ-APkag8_PP2Tmh9MLceALovcsg2PqpIweIMwx7puP05Jrq2-7D52_ltvcgHf8r4X7yK5hY5XQi_Wo7nfNeea-r1vbSWpPhHyO1E6Bc6iN1GuCkFaZfirBhRG2XhWnPhOHJvaQ6P31nxMN350xSaHRTuS7u7R/s4000/20231015_113419.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3crf9Ri6cswh7OszhBu6rOHf32UDGioPZ-APkag8_PP2Tmh9MLceALovcsg2PqpIweIMwx7puP05Jrq2-7D52_ltvcgHf8r4X7yK5hY5XQi_Wo7nfNeea-r1vbSWpPhHyO1E6Bc6iN1GuCkFaZfirBhRG2XhWnPhOHJvaQ6P31nxMN350xSaHRTuS7u7R/w360-h640/20231015_113419.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWSV1q92s8S3f_4YqkT_tXJmrevtRNHB7KAEiY7XU4HUzZrGJlQmG-TQF_fZWFolYx3pW2Cwpk7tK3_lTulY25tn7s3ktMt4m5KxF_yjfNlAh0R6iCIsb7sI1oj9VHoNVYhmigJY9ww2qEYbr-vDjZDhovaOGVvWuYVdk9thThNtWpi40yQwK0rdGutIiM/s4000/20231015_113149.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWSV1q92s8S3f_4YqkT_tXJmrevtRNHB7KAEiY7XU4HUzZrGJlQmG-TQF_fZWFolYx3pW2Cwpk7tK3_lTulY25tn7s3ktMt4m5KxF_yjfNlAh0R6iCIsb7sI1oj9VHoNVYhmigJY9ww2qEYbr-vDjZDhovaOGVvWuYVdk9thThNtWpi40yQwK0rdGutIiM/w360-h640/20231015_113149.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9_JK11fZyuim_CMefSwrvSTdYTW2FM37lotNvH1S9HmCR3YhbB3qo3acRGAYRF5GJGmWnMBsimOdwWYlXWF9DFm_MH5P6-jiaoWQ839W2oCGUwo2dsnOBdDbOWUzzMKUEPXwBWSyds-2aeJhCZOlyNIcZUIwXo2S0_qQqvtS0TCogm3xH8wQeQP89iUi/s4000/20231015_112805.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9_JK11fZyuim_CMefSwrvSTdYTW2FM37lotNvH1S9HmCR3YhbB3qo3acRGAYRF5GJGmWnMBsimOdwWYlXWF9DFm_MH5P6-jiaoWQ839W2oCGUwo2dsnOBdDbOWUzzMKUEPXwBWSyds-2aeJhCZOlyNIcZUIwXo2S0_qQqvtS0TCogm3xH8wQeQP89iUi/w360-h640/20231015_112805.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2761" data-original-width="2202" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja05wRCoq1HGMs8W2hK9JqNUxvWXUasyasGtGsbIsReWAPErtpTT1HXfEgMI_JbNEYkb8VLwloWIfLqBddPVQ2bEgQaa_ekwSazwKTd6rjkK9ntJEXBlx7NNkGvoahNh-EKJb60tozpOs0SqJedqFBAwt-646VGIzv4LhNw792wpc6T6OGCKVr4M2Iae-f/w510-h640/20231015_112454.jpg" width="446" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPovIG-NWKNm5Y7F3dJLsH1uZx3TTXhEbCCLHeEnCDoua5ihScCW0KzUHuJaVX8uBxOJO7XEUO7bOo_y6_4KLhLp7YyX62a2ySDcsJq9FTADHWLHu9gx03TgFB1c0Y8ui__Q_uqmXrjIUHnmcHoW8yz-jaiIGbfEKiNZ-QVNEMAKhxsDLTz8fYWW2cGo-y/s4000/20231015_112218.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPovIG-NWKNm5Y7F3dJLsH1uZx3TTXhEbCCLHeEnCDoua5ihScCW0KzUHuJaVX8uBxOJO7XEUO7bOo_y6_4KLhLp7YyX62a2ySDcsJq9FTADHWLHu9gx03TgFB1c0Y8ui__Q_uqmXrjIUHnmcHoW8yz-jaiIGbfEKiNZ-QVNEMAKhxsDLTz8fYWW2cGo-y/w360-h640/20231015_112218.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUnDng3jKZk0Aa6i-IZp-gGccE5d2KowydIobliI4IVxS1TdAZ7xyW-ZBUQp7Odsz2kR3lMaehgtGK97HpI3N0T3bZp-wU_HRHnF6sQD_A24U1BruirfqNqLfbdbxqGINZdg3Ynu92S6i8B7oeu375i-XWGjmqr47oU03LLlwngTylJyvnwQxhA1tsth3/s4000/20231015_111701.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="2252" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUnDng3jKZk0Aa6i-IZp-gGccE5d2KowydIobliI4IVxS1TdAZ7xyW-ZBUQp7Odsz2kR3lMaehgtGK97HpI3N0T3bZp-wU_HRHnF6sQD_A24U1BruirfqNqLfbdbxqGINZdg3Ynu92S6i8B7oeu375i-XWGjmqr47oU03LLlwngTylJyvnwQxhA1tsth3/w360-h640/20231015_111701.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd-XZdqk0JF_JMATN6tKr-loRp51Zxf8rpX_HeDCio_4FaquqIgvNOOJHioO0JqPVOCkbMzrCd1Wepp9WwDnro0rBYlu51bxxRO3gaB2c-9QKER-oOqidsAgBufZbUKWbtpkBIaMdiLOmZ9k40zz1u38P6f5nhpUp7X2qgZkRo-hphbdGTAUACaZShDjzr/s4000/20231015_111300.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd-XZdqk0JF_JMATN6tKr-loRp51Zxf8rpX_HeDCio_4FaquqIgvNOOJHioO0JqPVOCkbMzrCd1Wepp9WwDnro0rBYlu51bxxRO3gaB2c-9QKER-oOqidsAgBufZbUKWbtpkBIaMdiLOmZ9k40zz1u38P6f5nhpUp7X2qgZkRo-hphbdGTAUACaZShDjzr/w640-h360/20231015_111300.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The </b></span><b style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Fountain+of+the+Artichoke/@43.7646687,11.2320114,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a5155b88f0421:0xe7e4a4b4450016b6!8m2!3d43.7646547!4d11.2504654!16s%2Fg%2F122h6c2z?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Fountain of Artichoke</a></b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b> stands as a focal point from the Pitti Palace</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAYeJJSP6kARTV725GRXd40_rqjGESd-YZo15x9dAHES59lQEuvIiEXJe7ulMQGH3E8PdYm7L1qCXoPWDfp-s4aucRtgYDFtuTnJyU26GPT1kL97LVPzcMKLEkSy06st43XOQwCoPkb2_y_g5ZhXHZ9RUpr3aiw5LZAucWeJiELJAF0Hy1EcbMQKi5YYG/s4000/20231015_110905.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAYeJJSP6kARTV725GRXd40_rqjGESd-YZo15x9dAHES59lQEuvIiEXJe7ulMQGH3E8PdYm7L1qCXoPWDfp-s4aucRtgYDFtuTnJyU26GPT1kL97LVPzcMKLEkSy06st43XOQwCoPkb2_y_g5ZhXHZ9RUpr3aiw5LZAucWeJiELJAF0Hy1EcbMQKi5YYG/w640-h360/20231015_110905.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joana_Vasconcelos" target="_blank">Joana Vasconcelos's</a> "Giant Shoes," towering sculptures crafted from pots, pans, and lids</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXX8ylPW8HU0UV5CGZv3FbqfUad3alDybqu0C7Fl-JiCLV5sxUucSfcu-bdzdekVNEziPRzfYiBF9casffcs-oEosO6j7y1M8rfndUabakjyAKz8mLqpUOdOHjOMTY9D_mdzqFW3gwfO5pDVXLr7l38nRBZAlm7dzinGHu2OLx1x2D6LSitdMDfeQ7sH3/s4000/20231015_110709.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXX8ylPW8HU0UV5CGZv3FbqfUad3alDybqu0C7Fl-JiCLV5sxUucSfcu-bdzdekVNEziPRzfYiBF9casffcs-oEosO6j7y1M8rfndUabakjyAKz8mLqpUOdOHjOMTY9D_mdzqFW3gwfO5pDVXLr7l38nRBZAlm7dzinGHu2OLx1x2D6LSitdMDfeQ7sH3/w640-h360/20231015_110709.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h3>Additional Information</h3><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en" target="_blank">official website</a> of the Uffizi Galleries, which manages the Pitti Palace museums, provides detailed information about each museum, tickets, and opening hours: <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/pages/combined-ticket">https://www.uffizi.it/en/pages/combined-ticket</a></li><li>Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history, art, and architecture of the palace and its collections.</li><li>Combine your visit to the Pitti Palace with exploring the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Boboli+Gardens/@43.762501,11.2458247,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x132a515690734e97:0x40c02f73b03d9b2!8m2!3d43.7624972!4d11.2483996!16zL20vMDI1cGNq?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Boboli Gardens</a> for a full cultural experience.</li></ul><p></p></div></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-11202853407172461092024-01-06T11:08:00.000-08:002024-01-06T11:08:57.626-08:00Lake Lugano's Crown Jewel: Unveiling the Treasures of Scherrer Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrNal6qUkH8P3jid1txdDnMRNoFj-7EalSyLlsXWLlqWUWHeOqOEtgKlvguCVH8CihIEfKGVDiidEkW_H0x-l_U3-rZoNOH5UWLTJHWJq6iXXZRVnb0V8e_5SCBBN1XrFsDscrW_b1E7ek1NFRJwDJiHuSMFFm3HCVAY0-WFQ4F6rdOuQv4MemLETsnSy/s4000/20231010_100407.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrNal6qUkH8P3jid1txdDnMRNoFj-7EalSyLlsXWLlqWUWHeOqOEtgKlvguCVH8CihIEfKGVDiidEkW_H0x-l_U3-rZoNOH5UWLTJHWJq6iXXZRVnb0V8e_5SCBBN1XrFsDscrW_b1E7ek1NFRJwDJiHuSMFFm3HCVAY0-WFQ4F6rdOuQv4MemLETsnSy/w640-h480/20231010_100407.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br />The <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Parco+Scherrer/@45.9237453,8.9099816,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x47842b9e94123d23:0xa7357da5a4c1e92!8m2!3d45.9237444!4d8.9106253!16s%2Fg%2F1td3kg3f?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Scherrer Park</a> ⭐in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/6922+Morcote,+Switzerland/@45.9335187,8.8915338,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x47842b7f597a17bd:0x9aa574fe913504e4!8m2!3d45.9278156!4d8.9078997!16zL20vMDRydGNs?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Morcote</a>, Switzerland, is a truly enchanting place. It's more than just a botanical garden; it's a whimsical wonderland where botanical beauty blends with artistic elements and architectural inspiration from around the world.<br /><br />Nestled on a hillside overlooking <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lake+Lugano/@45.9698062,8.8271305,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x47842e8a9ab83885:0x86d13125d560eb81!8m2!3d45.9862544!4d8.9699889!16zL20vMDFyZjc4?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lake Lugano</a>, the park was the creation of <a href="https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parco_Scherrer" target="_blank">Hermann Arthur Scherrer</a>, a passionate traveler and art lover. Over several decades, he poured his love for different cultures and artistic styles into the park, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media;
gyroscope; picture-in-picture;
web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="560" src="https://youtube.com/embed/6sI1rw8qZd4?feature=share" title="YouTube video player" width="315"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Scherrer Park (YouTube <a href="https://youtube.com/shorts/6sI1rw8qZd4" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div><div>On October 10, 2023, we arrived in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/6922+Morcote,+Switzerland/@45.9335187,8.8915338,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x47842b7f597a17bd:0x9aa574fe913504e4!8m2!3d45.9278156!4d8.9078997!16zL20vMDRydGNs?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Morcote</a> by bus. (Taking the ferry is another option.) Here are the sights we witnessed there.</div><div><br />The park is divided into two distinct sections, each with its own unique character:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Mediterranean Section</b></li><li><b>Asian Section</b></li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Nt2D022AC9l-T6SczgPASFHBBSRrX7uKU-k8sjXdyK2cNGpRr4pPbhA21UevgZTxtz-zu6CsuZAl14KYSMOKeX7iaFrAYCS1uMQnvDcyW0XlKKy3cm8lpE8KqViTIrk99_wGnZnyhQhv4SdEEAmspjG_nXHisJgW7P8_5L3RqLWAv90gWz-j57TmE_ye/s4000/20231010_131441.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Nt2D022AC9l-T6SczgPASFHBBSRrX7uKU-k8sjXdyK2cNGpRr4pPbhA21UevgZTxtz-zu6CsuZAl14KYSMOKeX7iaFrAYCS1uMQnvDcyW0XlKKy3cm8lpE8KqViTIrk99_wGnZnyhQhv4SdEEAmspjG_nXHisJgW7P8_5L3RqLWAv90gWz-j57TmE_ye/w300-h400/20231010_131441.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3 style="text-align: center;">Mediterranean Section</h3></div><div><br /></div><div>The Mediterranean section features lush terraces adorned with Renaissance and Baroque statues, fountains, and pergolas. Mediterranean species like olive trees, cypresses, and bougainvillea mingle with tropical palms, ferns, and exotic flowers. Fragrant scents fill the air, and vibrant colors paint the landscape throughout the year.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhQ8muKHJfm4HYCCDiq8YmRHpEjcvZ5vtTZQGpecbkMMu2KjuBz3CX0G2Li4O_wP4btPz2cltrZ6eM5ljlt6GuaZ5wGu5_r-eL75E1P98fhP0S8083x-8af1pvSVV8EvG0l-TKEnp7K7QySau2ed_sh4TLdh7qSiUT7eQ8M-sTMfkSUbEj3iFFCMtu1yx/s4000/20231010_094759.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhQ8muKHJfm4HYCCDiq8YmRHpEjcvZ5vtTZQGpecbkMMu2KjuBz3CX0G2Li4O_wP4btPz2cltrZ6eM5ljlt6GuaZ5wGu5_r-eL75E1P98fhP0S8083x-8af1pvSVV8EvG0l-TKEnp7K7QySau2ed_sh4TLdh7qSiUT7eQ8M-sTMfkSUbEj3iFFCMtu1yx/w640-h480/20231010_094759.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMrO3taa0he26kf03nSYYMnEuO4u7rCNq5tD5cifeabUPrnwRnZPNu9D8oQQuDItlZxp9DJjzr1D8p_o5MM23qoD35eL39CgdiR32gEPgPbsFDyoXaGzxU0LAz7bzn-meKePsoRJfJitC4Aemf0yjCObPO5AQ6mMV7LbJyZgqbH0jwRtLQO5hqJYaY3fw/s4000/20231010_094826.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMrO3taa0he26kf03nSYYMnEuO4u7rCNq5tD5cifeabUPrnwRnZPNu9D8oQQuDItlZxp9DJjzr1D8p_o5MM23qoD35eL39CgdiR32gEPgPbsFDyoXaGzxU0LAz7bzn-meKePsoRJfJitC4Aemf0yjCObPO5AQ6mMV7LbJyZgqbH0jwRtLQO5hqJYaY3fw/w640-h480/20231010_094826.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7RjHeMnR9Vl24Jm6RHpLk7WeW4cmHm09EpxhkGmXyUz0G5vTiSTn5uCjdiVSa_Zm8L0Dyw0QKxF4rkdcmroRFa4U2cXnZpybqFd47gJwx8aru5dg74s2WuU3drqPT5MzcHhWlRq_4euRB662IUyVz1JUEUtmn9sN1PJlHhiU8U2C7e_Ny_WtfXp5VCzhw/s4000/20231010_095040.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7RjHeMnR9Vl24Jm6RHpLk7WeW4cmHm09EpxhkGmXyUz0G5vTiSTn5uCjdiVSa_Zm8L0Dyw0QKxF4rkdcmroRFa4U2cXnZpybqFd47gJwx8aru5dg74s2WuU3drqPT5MzcHhWlRq_4euRB662IUyVz1JUEUtmn9sN1PJlHhiU8U2C7e_Ny_WtfXp5VCzhw/w640-h480/20231010_095040.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_PRLPIXP1uPRJU6dr45Ywz5R8WPmOHfWDSeWbSPeADo0NgLgPZiTVbT2y6Qh0MqioArTy1_agiqsVksklUkHYJekrjPJ-omAjWEU3bf0WBbIOVU13YxqAJKT5_gzaXRdMoUugKk57ggJjh22qVbGNEf5rflx_qQFoNm_vWQPb4h2KY9vxHaZGnag9QbV4/w640-h480/20231010_095556.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAKfE0p3kfc1SztnAoclTgoLXo5qz7yllbDDv74zrp3z5QXJghyphenhyphenQucW3dmjQvxPuTDz8mm75wfd0xKaE7YqQpymsiyoU4DI2n8t6al52rKTSb0hAH6u639QX2Y0JBc9e0mK9RgU9gKwPTEgLGISqk3Y6jTJEQvf8HjkQIiD1AR8CtzExG1iuhAI_ibyxA/s4000/20231010_100302.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAKfE0p3kfc1SztnAoclTgoLXo5qz7yllbDDv74zrp3z5QXJghyphenhyphenQucW3dmjQvxPuTDz8mm75wfd0xKaE7YqQpymsiyoU4DI2n8t6al52rKTSb0hAH6u639QX2Y0JBc9e0mK9RgU9gKwPTEgLGISqk3Y6jTJEQvf8HjkQIiD1AR8CtzExG1iuhAI_ibyxA/w640-h480/20231010_100302.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18IM6KfXkYdYiNaRLpsO3cSGQ_tSJtz0Tvn7HhsDaUvXQfp-QNQmG681rZ-TXq4fLxbMhSVPbg84RDu-W_HJCfmPpJIfslM6NyFkq8uELjkH5FAGrzfp-X2LK6I7bUH4stUC73vp3Td3fTiAv0C5DfIhy2LlXHPzKMBf37IZ9dvkZ39cGVizf9eQLbUZO/s4000/20231010_131743.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18IM6KfXkYdYiNaRLpsO3cSGQ_tSJtz0Tvn7HhsDaUvXQfp-QNQmG681rZ-TXq4fLxbMhSVPbg84RDu-W_HJCfmPpJIfslM6NyFkq8uELjkH5FAGrzfp-X2LK6I7bUH4stUC73vp3Td3fTiAv0C5DfIhy2LlXHPzKMBf37IZ9dvkZ39cGVizf9eQLbUZO/w640-h480/20231010_131743.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwr0lDlLLD0BCpk17rVY1VVQIVF4JKqeGpYCMaUld0RF0ql8dKUVpHki2toaXLd2ttBvapDFn9Z9BR3QwuB_ahW4TvdvQyfLVnCamtX4z8GuVZzXWMv4r-Lvo9Sju4ZtGUMcdTJgOEOw_K21tREHC6AtqPC2yux7R5kk1dxuh1aOSWizTT1x4I7JtQFVo/s3159/20231010_100850.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2485" data-original-width="3159" height="441" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwr0lDlLLD0BCpk17rVY1VVQIVF4JKqeGpYCMaUld0RF0ql8dKUVpHki2toaXLd2ttBvapDFn9Z9BR3QwuB_ahW4TvdvQyfLVnCamtX4z8GuVZzXWMv4r-Lvo9Sju4ZtGUMcdTJgOEOw_K21tREHC6AtqPC2yux7R5kk1dxuh1aOSWizTT1x4I7JtQFVo/w640-h504/20231010_100850.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Asian Section</h3></div><div><br /></div><div>The Asian section transports you to a more exotic world, with bamboo groves, Siamese teahouses, and miniature temples inspired by Thailand and India.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnMql5Rzx71meXQmyrLNnfs7GNL49l3GQCoxnbb_jotQryA4u6NvhN6D87ZMllAkAAdLMTA-uyLsuTCY7WLpTNOXidUKMNJsDG2H8nOb4psUY09pXWP4LghewhGK7jhQY6HyOR1pe86u_V0AVStG-t8955yLeGUYuDmMZe7sgo1a0_tgB4ME96xR1RIAIM/s4000/20231010_102505.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnMql5Rzx71meXQmyrLNnfs7GNL49l3GQCoxnbb_jotQryA4u6NvhN6D87ZMllAkAAdLMTA-uyLsuTCY7WLpTNOXidUKMNJsDG2H8nOb4psUY09pXWP4LghewhGK7jhQY6HyOR1pe86u_V0AVStG-t8955yLeGUYuDmMZe7sgo1a0_tgB4ME96xR1RIAIM/w640-h480/20231010_102505.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4rnhRGwPvyY5sEu67lMoof-q3PPep2uR4qgfemmEJQIw-MZLY1ie6zSSXncizJj9ha7nANm6eLhgKBlwQ5CeabllN8HN2riK7q6rfVtufLwtzYuXlnqoZoCjzAjM5prsYYCC6mtJKimEKDqHA0DunK8afEBnsPmfqH26jw5bpETSLaRgVgeecMZSI-T0/s4000/20231010_102642.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4rnhRGwPvyY5sEu67lMoof-q3PPep2uR4qgfemmEJQIw-MZLY1ie6zSSXncizJj9ha7nANm6eLhgKBlwQ5CeabllN8HN2riK7q6rfVtufLwtzYuXlnqoZoCjzAjM5prsYYCC6mtJKimEKDqHA0DunK8afEBnsPmfqH26jw5bpETSLaRgVgeecMZSI-T0/w640-h480/20231010_102642.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZLCd6wN_eikyVt5IDwWy7zrbHKvySmGLXXZpbdg6AJrrG6pX-swXDfzY0F75y3DmVBcyfCvu-yYRp7P7WlLNpfeEpUGcB-Hg2hHJxI9uNvKJfSJq3DYfU1eYMMC7S2nCYoBcolBk6jhI4xooigtdKrsYh7e4ky4v5Mu3DJqb5YFe5eH5HuiucUYUG1sAd/s4000/20231010_102717.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZLCd6wN_eikyVt5IDwWy7zrbHKvySmGLXXZpbdg6AJrrG6pX-swXDfzY0F75y3DmVBcyfCvu-yYRp7P7WlLNpfeEpUGcB-Hg2hHJxI9uNvKJfSJq3DYfU1eYMMC7S2nCYoBcolBk6jhI4xooigtdKrsYh7e4ky4v5Mu3DJqb5YFe5eH5HuiucUYUG1sAd/w640-h480/20231010_102717.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFbw-qsznHJ33qm4LMocIfv0tyhCLskMMSOSNw1sBidh77SEpkFpzeiixSHeKflgJq6X03Hi1K0oT5ge8kP1T_GbA8HRYq2OxM1htF4FYsmF8O_hTnqILb5pZU64x-9OC9RH13qVhbcVqj7RfooAWj5rHJh5b7G935S01gf8qupCXzRhMnhdq3kRkLOan/s4000/20231010_102839.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFbw-qsznHJ33qm4LMocIfv0tyhCLskMMSOSNw1sBidh77SEpkFpzeiixSHeKflgJq6X03Hi1K0oT5ge8kP1T_GbA8HRYq2OxM1htF4FYsmF8O_hTnqILb5pZU64x-9OC9RH13qVhbcVqj7RfooAWj5rHJh5b7G935S01gf8qupCXzRhMnhdq3kRkLOan/w640-h480/20231010_102839.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIk9NH59LNqXJJzdeLbwx_lr2aChMCcgNFIr4fa5YgudQdhGOAzUYCeUlT21FiP5gOw_BHj6_Ta8UL8D-M8GDoW7Zt6S79c5YQ-xrUepe3aFB-FMZz3eOfO8Bx278sH9_Tdi-9ZvVSbAauuRwT1eoOfHs1uu46qYXODarnlbUCpUKl5jKI1VRH-niRkE5q/s4000/20231010_132020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIk9NH59LNqXJJzdeLbwx_lr2aChMCcgNFIr4fa5YgudQdhGOAzUYCeUlT21FiP5gOw_BHj6_Ta8UL8D-M8GDoW7Zt6S79c5YQ-xrUepe3aFB-FMZz3eOfO8Bx278sH9_Tdi-9ZvVSbAauuRwT1eoOfHs1uu46qYXODarnlbUCpUKl5jKI1VRH-niRkE5q/w640-h480/20231010_132020.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Panoramas of the Lake and Surrounding Mountains</h3><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12xBxVECeJ9uvEvj1ac03d2xQWfLyjZ_O9ZwZM8jk4K8RyN8VXrNeuYzp-_JDHRBGnYZBTxDg1L6uVWVGi3-h52ZSgsKWkOxpuPACldGP5usjm6bUrOyhiROg3XK6l6m9cvCqDf7fO1p2ASlldRk-2nfVJF3d3OuV1Gy6jtS3-Q6nBUhr_pFQbxCgHk43/s4000/20231010_100156.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12xBxVECeJ9uvEvj1ac03d2xQWfLyjZ_O9ZwZM8jk4K8RyN8VXrNeuYzp-_JDHRBGnYZBTxDg1L6uVWVGi3-h52ZSgsKWkOxpuPACldGP5usjm6bUrOyhiROg3XK6l6m9cvCqDf7fO1p2ASlldRk-2nfVJF3d3OuV1Gy6jtS3-Q6nBUhr_pFQbxCgHk43/w640-h480/20231010_100156.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1-0tmUJTuFWP4HjqyDIKJuhpUFYnh2PY5tzxb4KxCL9umJP9YmNOXBbg0ZxSALx0_yowUXtgpb6Epg5fHsA75o9VkbD7-Df1lTH_eTe1mzWh3yf7fFPtLL8bt1nLNk12nrIq60YVF8FYM28telXRMnCXD88afwJNpCt4CYTbSnm-rCTDoisfkgEEaoSg/s4000/20231010_094722.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1-0tmUJTuFWP4HjqyDIKJuhpUFYnh2PY5tzxb4KxCL9umJP9YmNOXBbg0ZxSALx0_yowUXtgpb6Epg5fHsA75o9VkbD7-Df1lTH_eTe1mzWh3yf7fFPtLL8bt1nLNk12nrIq60YVF8FYM28telXRMnCXD88afwJNpCt4CYTbSnm-rCTDoisfkgEEaoSg/w640-h480/20231010_094722.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-20274362245415975292024-01-02T16:45:00.000-08:002024-01-04T14:38:31.411-08:00Whispers of the Lauterbrunnen Valley: A Staubbachfall Interlude<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLmuXm6m6aAQb0wm6wmBojjM-L92AKnYyeWjysmGp42MnXbw-rOBXBNvQsWOXAg2lDgBcdGdx1xo7JtAk2I_rCDyTEYTpyEJJhuzUffwAMd4Y_Gjhqj_x-5_E_L1vfHPucnVDJ7hLHGSy79yRMDvB7cv0mhnS10UIru5KCLgfUjwaBXYoNAYluKPuy9jM/s4000/20231006_140554.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLmuXm6m6aAQb0wm6wmBojjM-L92AKnYyeWjysmGp42MnXbw-rOBXBNvQsWOXAg2lDgBcdGdx1xo7JtAk2I_rCDyTEYTpyEJJhuzUffwAMd4Y_Gjhqj_x-5_E_L1vfHPucnVDJ7hLHGSy79yRMDvB7cv0mhnS10UIru5KCLgfUjwaBXYoNAYluKPuy9jM/w640-h480/20231006_140554.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Staubbach_Falls" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Staubbachfall</b></span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div>The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Staubbach_Falls" target="_blank">Staubbachfall</a> ⭐itself is a masterpiece of nature, a cascade of glacial water plummeting 300 meters from a sheer cliff face. It dissolves into a fine mist that dances in the air like a thousand shimmering diamonds, catching the sunlight in fleeting rainbows.<br /><br />Imagine the verdant embrace of the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lauterbrunnen,+Switzerland/@46.5534437,7.7418726,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x478fa0073b1165c7:0x5392dbb55902c31!8m2!3d46.5935058!4d7.9090981!16zL20vMDFxamwz?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lauterbrunnen Valley</a>, cradling the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Staubbach+Falls/@46.5896589,7.8846936,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x478fa04b16ad435f:0x12a1415bd82e8786!8m2!3d46.5896318!4d7.9052932!16zL20vMDNzOTYx?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Staubbachfall</a> like a precious gem. Lush meadows dotted with wildflowers like alpine daisies and purple gentians carpet the valley floor, while quaint wooden chalets with red-tiled roofs and carved balconies cling to the hillside. The <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/L%C3%BCtschine/@46.6120612,7.9785012,13z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x478f9c14c56c6e83:0xc40b83a42800b015!8m2!3d46.6076723!4d8.0514796!16zL20vMDMxMjc0?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lütschine</a> River, a ribbon of crystal-clear water, snakes its way through the valley, its gurgling melody blending with the gentle roar of the waterfall.<div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div>We journeyed to the heart of the Swiss Alps on <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">Oct. 6, 2023</span>, to witness the magic of the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Staubbach+Falls/@46.5896589,7.8846936,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x478fa04b16ad435f:0x12a1415bd82e8786!8m2!3d46.5896318!4d7.9052932!16zL20vMDNzOTYx?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Staubbachfall</a>. Verdant meadows, quaint chalets, and the winding <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/L%C3%BCtschine/@46.6120612,7.9785012,13z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x478f9c14c56c6e83:0xc40b83a42800b015!8m2!3d46.6076723!4d8.0514796!16zL20vMDMxMjc0?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lütschine</a> River greeted us below, where the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lauterbrunnen,+Switzerland/@46.5534437,7.7418726,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x478fa0073b1165c7:0x5392dbb55902c31!8m2!3d46.5935058!4d7.9090981!16zL20vMDFxamwz?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lauterbrunnen Valley</a> unveiled itself like a tapestry woven from nature's finest threads.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicayyjUz0U2pkg1pw3-ZOMrxXGi8XK0y2Nl_EpG9GdVzBu-HYzs1wTXg-S8zCd8pYrN-xjkH0bc4RukE7GB9K8r591Fq3J7Dw1Ha1G21ICZkJzDfY_JPSqB_pBYPRwYlFXj_vpvULxSME6WRWup5-7VshdAN6AsBiMapu3iQBchcfe6kmXLh_FUpxg9vDU/s4000/20231006_141047.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicayyjUz0U2pkg1pw3-ZOMrxXGi8XK0y2Nl_EpG9GdVzBu-HYzs1wTXg-S8zCd8pYrN-xjkH0bc4RukE7GB9K8r591Fq3J7Dw1Ha1G21ICZkJzDfY_JPSqB_pBYPRwYlFXj_vpvULxSME6WRWup5-7VshdAN6AsBiMapu3iQBchcfe6kmXLh_FUpxg9vDU/w640-h480/20231006_141047.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKjcl1fka1qbmQoN7CRnkhp-qnzO8F08dxlXAJTqHdQOhpP5HA4K1l3IxBxGQVEs0t0M7OEp9spuFvfmvOyqtIYywLV0mZFmVvhPe8YbZKtjEvLYxSh5CmGO8AiXUPvqT48BBucDlMmY7AuVF16k6AkOaDEk6sFGbw1FtLeeYeHDjT5ojx2nr7awgibhYL/s4000/20231006_141458.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKjcl1fka1qbmQoN7CRnkhp-qnzO8F08dxlXAJTqHdQOhpP5HA4K1l3IxBxGQVEs0t0M7OEp9spuFvfmvOyqtIYywLV0mZFmVvhPe8YbZKtjEvLYxSh5CmGO8AiXUPvqT48BBucDlMmY7AuVF16k6AkOaDEk6sFGbw1FtLeeYeHDjT5ojx2nr7awgibhYL/w640-h480/20231006_141458.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kirche+Lauterbrunnen/@46.5926608,7.9085241,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sAF1QipN4AhND6ZiUT1VI4AimfqebPz4rNlTQnPlpJTsd!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipN4AhND6ZiUT1VI4AimfqebPz4rNlTQnPlpJTsd%3Dw203-h270-k-no!7i3000!8i4000!4m11!1m2!2m1!1schurch!3m7!1s0x478fa1b572bf7581:0xee021fe6d7faa6b5!8m2!3d46.5926608!4d7.9085241!10e5!15sCgZjaHVyY2iSAQZjaHVyY2jgAQA!16s%2Fg%2F11gdgkn5yf?entry=ttu" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Kirche Lauterbrunnen</b></span></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDE4ZVlQusAi35hCGIf56I9BSmW78M2xoRnL0msj4FBm9ksA-vSyddiqarxIdnvDuKQMTGZJp9SlvZN9XWbxP9pKUXwKndp-J7N0SbHjS3u3Rk2HKfO5OteUBqZNDt4DAm3m3q0ndHUI-Gm_UDkjk4yH5Itsvohwk2vTUQi9WPc5YmqC_MwxTUtpYHxZFm/s4000/20231006_141754.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDE4ZVlQusAi35hCGIf56I9BSmW78M2xoRnL0msj4FBm9ksA-vSyddiqarxIdnvDuKQMTGZJp9SlvZN9XWbxP9pKUXwKndp-J7N0SbHjS3u3Rk2HKfO5OteUBqZNDt4DAm3m3q0ndHUI-Gm_UDkjk4yH5Itsvohwk2vTUQi9WPc5YmqC_MwxTUtpYHxZFm/w480-h640/20231006_141754.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi96NQg4eXqQ4MwhMzzSw_-vG9jYNhMCiROi3nDvsKyrjzoESALBdU1TJIuv-PCqRRrlhIL9vccTzCDdfC6UqB1j3SKZKqNeMo6Av2clyOFlPwIdDDag5wXpl75y_HOJKHzE3VfiejpTsVlMYwIyh6Vs-NtJ-UZQwXTlVXAFTZaGMz5b9-bhxAFfmQW21Hb/s4000/20231006_141937.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi96NQg4eXqQ4MwhMzzSw_-vG9jYNhMCiROi3nDvsKyrjzoESALBdU1TJIuv-PCqRRrlhIL9vccTzCDdfC6UqB1j3SKZKqNeMo6Av2clyOFlPwIdDDag5wXpl75y_HOJKHzE3VfiejpTsVlMYwIyh6Vs-NtJ-UZQwXTlVXAFTZaGMz5b9-bhxAFfmQW21Hb/w640-h480/20231006_141937.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aPHEEzUBvUeMzKFwNph3fYBELufUPWCCHAO4vOMVNfJIYgFSPeMORLGmhnwd9dWpoX6N36YeSnvF_LAqZzPVnZZQpBkIoyg_l4OWaT-XaN3udiBLP96aTy6lCL160OmMJBV2Cni_gfd8L2cw6OxWqvLu75xnMcAuRUm64-FeekWO-vZ2YRmVntUVldpD/s4000/20231006_142135.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aPHEEzUBvUeMzKFwNph3fYBELufUPWCCHAO4vOMVNfJIYgFSPeMORLGmhnwd9dWpoX6N36YeSnvF_LAqZzPVnZZQpBkIoyg_l4OWaT-XaN3udiBLP96aTy6lCL160OmMJBV2Cni_gfd8L2cw6OxWqvLu75xnMcAuRUm64-FeekWO-vZ2YRmVntUVldpD/w640-h480/20231006_142135.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihrmoIa9DCidrKuoDFMtDf8S84sY97hKFZPkE4y5KWF2KFQs8vb4gXM_7tKEpi0-VTtP094Nsv8EDQ9fG0_yUpax3vSh3WJop9x-pUob6LpCCqBibhmvM8a4RHqpPbdCfRDFuH1udyF-U90BBTM6o9-XmVlacWChPu7Nq5kBUYDehcUeDf8oSq_xHjDEAr/s4000/20231006_142339.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihrmoIa9DCidrKuoDFMtDf8S84sY97hKFZPkE4y5KWF2KFQs8vb4gXM_7tKEpi0-VTtP094Nsv8EDQ9fG0_yUpax3vSh3WJop9x-pUob6LpCCqBibhmvM8a4RHqpPbdCfRDFuH1udyF-U90BBTM6o9-XmVlacWChPu7Nq5kBUYDehcUeDf8oSq_xHjDEAr/w480-h640/20231006_142339.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Lauterbrunnen Valley</h3><div><br /></div><a href="https://travel4apurpose.blogspot.com/2019/08/switzerland-travelusing-wengen-as-home.html" target="_blank">Wengen</a>, perched on a sunny plateau in the heart of the Jungfrau region, offers stunning panoramas of the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lauterbrunnen,+Switzerland/@46.5534437,7.7418726,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x478fa0073b1165c7:0x5392dbb55902c31!8m2!3d46.5935058!4d7.9090981!16zL20vMDFxamwz?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lauterbrunnen Valley</a>.</div><div><br /><div><span face=""Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtJpY6GC8HCdUpL16BqQhVdI2UCKffrAkl_ou56wP6BoXL9QY2UpWx6QuWV5ubUxPu3yC1RdN-Q9NlwuaPTq7vpoI-8U9_3jLV0KwR-85CurMB-qygGjE77y_1C-ySM7sudDGMkhQi-0IAtXFaCy0W_wkRan-gffRkvLgSqPym94FZjTVBs8E1wsVQfHGz/w640-h480/20231006_102014.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8hyphenhyphenvHrS1XRskW2xJNP4q1deyKI8ZH0u8M7is2tfmRs-9m4siWmkziS48I2bZv0B9mfGC6h_HIPvrLp-Ly-Rynd-EObKWLklvUcgS0IVopvhLpPLnhDFD-36Qv7XucfCx-fan5pkoJD158JQ-W8Xiy4NGPuNHSSjbkREmw2P9FtspUJxG0PgW9kHRrBugA/s4000/20231006_103052.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8hyphenhyphenvHrS1XRskW2xJNP4q1deyKI8ZH0u8M7is2tfmRs-9m4siWmkziS48I2bZv0B9mfGC6h_HIPvrLp-Ly-Rynd-EObKWLklvUcgS0IVopvhLpPLnhDFD-36Qv7XucfCx-fan5pkoJD158JQ-W8Xiy4NGPuNHSSjbkREmw2P9FtspUJxG0PgW9kHRrBugA/w640-h480/20231006_103052.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBMdgKmrh5BiaAE2RwVipiR5zGM6n1KSWRoTbnXlvxvOCEQll6_ISvKS-cSYIpjfh-9tc8AB0JnPGmezh0Twhav7Xsh7rQsuD639A8BC6hWDClmaFycYB-S5419SSEcRBFJJpDGDcgZVASnQ3BK6Y1mhOqCRqaPKXwSF6VgEn-XOcU_Z89NesW2DHHGqbe/s4000/20231006_131438.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBMdgKmrh5BiaAE2RwVipiR5zGM6n1KSWRoTbnXlvxvOCEQll6_ISvKS-cSYIpjfh-9tc8AB0JnPGmezh0Twhav7Xsh7rQsuD639A8BC6hWDClmaFycYB-S5419SSEcRBFJJpDGDcgZVASnQ3BK6Y1mhOqCRqaPKXwSF6VgEn-XOcU_Z89NesW2DHHGqbe/w640-h480/20231006_131438.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;">Bleats and Bids</h3></div><div><br /></div><div>The Thrill of the Goat Auction in Switzerland's Majestic Valley:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKn1s5Edfcpgv7oyAotIfzBCAVyVf1Moo5ANhetGCt_P7UveF5J_ko5MURES73I2fbwXHcDbwG6XTWfZU04d7kYroeYJNp8EdrYUlEp8SV3uJ0ATVKbRMj3kBrj7r7_N0Q8C3u1z5tUcJhl2cBJxsoZkESwYZInpsnUt-GsYWDjdyz4qtnZZrDXQ8cRzHh/s4000/20231006_135223.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKn1s5Edfcpgv7oyAotIfzBCAVyVf1Moo5ANhetGCt_P7UveF5J_ko5MURES73I2fbwXHcDbwG6XTWfZU04d7kYroeYJNp8EdrYUlEp8SV3uJ0ATVKbRMj3kBrj7r7_N0Q8C3u1z5tUcJhl2cBJxsoZkESwYZInpsnUt-GsYWDjdyz4qtnZZrDXQ8cRzHh/w640-h480/20231006_135223.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JmUMf-7pJF0Qt-Bz9ylDdndPqf6rvjD02Ivv7JPnp1nn97xW3NUO4jHv89TI6kci-juRmVYb4LcLvk2ZYFb0sp1rymT8Rpdvj9FuER1QBILbB5UDWscdY0t9Snt_D0ayIs0lXGYJ2NdI47Dmyf7eFNroohseNktFnz579dYjqR8UuDpo31mAZvE5_O9S/s4000/20231006_135250.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JmUMf-7pJF0Qt-Bz9ylDdndPqf6rvjD02Ivv7JPnp1nn97xW3NUO4jHv89TI6kci-juRmVYb4LcLvk2ZYFb0sp1rymT8Rpdvj9FuER1QBILbB5UDWscdY0t9Snt_D0ayIs0lXGYJ2NdI47Dmyf7eFNroohseNktFnz579dYjqR8UuDpo31mAZvE5_O9S/w640-h480/20231006_135250.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-11146449064783956412024-01-01T19:08:00.000-08:002024-01-01T19:08:22.261-08:00Bells, Bows, and Blessings: A Ritual Experience at Yasaka Shrine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2e9nC3UzzfS1gIT7F-5D5MdwNC-dJZ0l2ro-5RhLAt8EIcyzMMdMNIZy884M92IPFko2ddnAbqnax0cliV7OIwONmBHTQfSUc40yNs57LLx0_b5o5SZwWU_GzpcHKTglIezHHHRgu-IbsmYfQ91SGTMyw996Ap9IKkq3egOpqzedDTohJXw8RlYzv92Kt/s3573/20230514_102944.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2501" data-original-width="3573" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2e9nC3UzzfS1gIT7F-5D5MdwNC-dJZ0l2ro-5RhLAt8EIcyzMMdMNIZy884M92IPFko2ddnAbqnax0cliV7OIwONmBHTQfSUc40yNs57LLx0_b5o5SZwWU_GzpcHKTglIezHHHRgu-IbsmYfQ91SGTMyw996Ap9IKkq3egOpqzedDTohJXw8RlYzv92Kt/w640-h448/20230514_102944.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Shinto shrines are a big part of everyday life in Japan. While religious practice in Japan can vary greatly, a beautiful blend of Buddhist and Shinto customs has woven itself into the tapestry of daily life. <div><br /></div><div>One such practice is visiting a Shinto shrine to pray to the kami, the spirits that embody natural forces and deities revered in the Shinto religion. These visits, often accompanied by rituals like bowing, clapping, and offering prayers, offer a sense of peace and connection to the divine, seeking blessings and guidance for daily life.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media;
gyroscope; picture-in-picture;
web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="560" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pbqH6TRp_aI?feature=share" title="YouTube video player" width="315"></iframe>
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>How to pray at a Japanese Shrine (YouTube <a href="https://youtube.com/shorts/pbqH6TRp_aI?feature=share" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><br />On May 14, 2023, as we traverse the shrine grounds of <a href="https://www.yasaka-jinja.or.jp/en/" target="_blank">Yasaka Shrine</a> (八坂神社⭐), a profound sense of peace and connection washes over us. We depart not only with blessings bestowed, but also with a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and spirituality.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJAcGhmWYAsCHru9QbdTx0HPIN_bVbUwW4TdisE5WhKbUox-L7PNn857iW4ib3FkBlLWi4hP1TCBGnDKKjTsLux7TuYYkR0xOEtTb7ovhi3bqzTs-wgSouISHVgEABc6RCLoD-Il1eEA37f_cQP0lT8EdZvKza6KMhLomlmoC4yyBndbb23Y1yINKVtkK/s4000/20230514_102017.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJAcGhmWYAsCHru9QbdTx0HPIN_bVbUwW4TdisE5WhKbUox-L7PNn857iW4ib3FkBlLWi4hP1TCBGnDKKjTsLux7TuYYkR0xOEtTb7ovhi3bqzTs-wgSouISHVgEABc6RCLoD-Il1eEA37f_cQP0lT8EdZvKza6KMhLomlmoC4yyBndbb23Y1yINKVtkK/w640-h480/20230514_102017.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3k3M8sN_ccp7jGEDcyoKkkFmrkzerdRffg3tXUM5jbbQXDRvNErpAKsGKPiLnHZLX9VR3DIQpR3jAeo26OyEfWCtJuIjGbgDIGQi5qeFNkaxNXFe9GIugBce4LOiByE3VNvOqr_Kh5ONtFI7URBh3yKjQsPOUveQEMYTByZhtwbwStJ7mHVGTKmvCKq-/s4000/20230514_102129.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3k3M8sN_ccp7jGEDcyoKkkFmrkzerdRffg3tXUM5jbbQXDRvNErpAKsGKPiLnHZLX9VR3DIQpR3jAeo26OyEfWCtJuIjGbgDIGQi5qeFNkaxNXFe9GIugBce4LOiByE3VNvOqr_Kh5ONtFI7URBh3yKjQsPOUveQEMYTByZhtwbwStJ7mHVGTKmvCKq-/w640-h480/20230514_102129.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbCOiProEdc3gWaTOIqcs_cyN6bQPZaa0ZA5_LklJ2mg3zp-BIo_8CUf8aZGp7vykKZwS7ptc4n5a4S34muB9016uLRUqFHVbfgZjJsNRbs2haae7OU3jZLN2CaEhZOHNasGTB1hYbepEB0_cG4dvmDXloELJ2clA8gSt2MHA4sAaDoCsejf5q2r6syzw/s4000/20230514_102344.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbCOiProEdc3gWaTOIqcs_cyN6bQPZaa0ZA5_LklJ2mg3zp-BIo_8CUf8aZGp7vykKZwS7ptc4n5a4S34muB9016uLRUqFHVbfgZjJsNRbs2haae7OU3jZLN2CaEhZOHNasGTB1hYbepEB0_cG4dvmDXloELJ2clA8gSt2MHA4sAaDoCsejf5q2r6syzw/w480-h640/20230514_102344.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs7x82rqrHzjsKL2qWWlWX9oh1vRvoT1Gm1yIG5B8jwZucGQQWGn0X0FR4DE92tJ03BsFkLZUNM5lKDHuzMwNGpIYg8UOtUcy7D-O12nQavinsJE8pCJ6PlrwkrLQhhoquG1Tb1PwyZaksff0MKIwV2yWSUKvu_pPbCvaGCwZ9n1tux456ivPW7R85C_rb/s4000/20230514_102811.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs7x82rqrHzjsKL2qWWlWX9oh1vRvoT1Gm1yIG5B8jwZucGQQWGn0X0FR4DE92tJ03BsFkLZUNM5lKDHuzMwNGpIYg8UOtUcy7D-O12nQavinsJE8pCJ6PlrwkrLQhhoquG1Tb1PwyZaksff0MKIwV2yWSUKvu_pPbCvaGCwZ9n1tux456ivPW7R85C_rb/w640-h480/20230514_102811.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The Traditional Shinto Prayer Ritual: <a href="https://theculturetrip.com/asia/japan/articles/how-to-pray-at-a-japanese-shinto-shrine" target="_blank">Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpJteH_NGavhIBne_vY-BK_o4wwbsFfpp1npcX2kmLlBzEJYkOlZH8Dl8VfpE1cLh4KZC1_MxgogOKGijgSE2CM3CSJQLLabhq1A_-uh-W1zCyyI0d_LiFfG-LJUFn3LJyIAFJIxTVpnR0Jl_MoKicmC_MF2LxUBEbsepWVwAsPO0i_0GVT9z1JZz4xza/s1218/%E9%95%B7%E6%B4%A5%E5%B1%8B.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1218" height="497" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpJteH_NGavhIBne_vY-BK_o4wwbsFfpp1npcX2kmLlBzEJYkOlZH8Dl8VfpE1cLh4KZC1_MxgogOKGijgSE2CM3CSJQLLabhq1A_-uh-W1zCyyI0d_LiFfG-LJUFn3LJyIAFJIxTVpnR0Jl_MoKicmC_MF2LxUBEbsepWVwAsPO0i_0GVT9z1JZz4xza/w640-h568/%E9%95%B7%E6%B4%A5%E5%B1%8B.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C5%8Dzuya" target="_blank">Chōzuya</a> (長津屋)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;">Maruyama Park</h3><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcjHUvFqHyHf5SWsRcmMjQqZXiWc5jWX18wYbK8H55Qljzm7Q9Lug-zOh_qGfBd_zYugJAGF0Mx16X2Vs__JIzi5MqTmUJ1hx1pZ5vj1qCj8QXxBdRxvGdj7ucHexD4cmh7nq5zJR7GXYKzfh6LBNRZyUfGWT2Rgz6TbpwLMcdnxkYgOz6chEBgOyPmFr/s4000/20230514_103457.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcjHUvFqHyHf5SWsRcmMjQqZXiWc5jWX18wYbK8H55Qljzm7Q9Lug-zOh_qGfBd_zYugJAGF0Mx16X2Vs__JIzi5MqTmUJ1hx1pZ5vj1qCj8QXxBdRxvGdj7ucHexD4cmh7nq5zJR7GXYKzfh6LBNRZyUfGWT2Rgz6TbpwLMcdnxkYgOz6chEBgOyPmFr/w640-h480/20230514_103457.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjna7xhXypvnp9zbre3m3uIBUzJRjCuSiWHrJiukmGCf8e3YJC1MsBwMa947s6sCI_vjVlzw0y4k7zhAYim3-E8q31xrKZWG38-y4R3q9qvbLrgl_zmoRinisurgK2_NoEnKthQ5FdasdVcnZV-zd7qQvvnWlMmDtOAtv6Us3fYDxnZsNZL4yzOwxTE2To1/s4000/20230514_103636.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjna7xhXypvnp9zbre3m3uIBUzJRjCuSiWHrJiukmGCf8e3YJC1MsBwMa947s6sCI_vjVlzw0y4k7zhAYim3-E8q31xrKZWG38-y4R3q9qvbLrgl_zmoRinisurgK2_NoEnKthQ5FdasdVcnZV-zd7qQvvnWlMmDtOAtv6Us3fYDxnZsNZL4yzOwxTE2To1/w640-h480/20230514_103636.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-92053151233169770732024-01-01T12:42:00.000-08:002024-01-01T13:07:20.745-08:00Anping Old Fort: A Window into Taiwan's Colonial Past<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZE9_n8udOR0Nt4bkIEiWhaZ0prgkiBYVAKfa3dlgMCdwUz_DLK39lkr1cZioH2cCGW9ctrwA_8HEJ7B9mONMPlkwgT_3paYbqsqbE5wM_DYO73YWJ6CC-bjQ5VCaxYRW2NnM7NhksW3htJBfpx6msWBjypyPGWrvA1y-hXBmkvlPl6APtEJAxZlCqwKUm/s4000/20230430_114051.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZE9_n8udOR0Nt4bkIEiWhaZ0prgkiBYVAKfa3dlgMCdwUz_DLK39lkr1cZioH2cCGW9ctrwA_8HEJ7B9mONMPlkwgT_3paYbqsqbE5wM_DYO73YWJ6CC-bjQ5VCaxYRW2NnM7NhksW3htJBfpx6msWBjypyPGWrvA1y-hXBmkvlPl6APtEJAxZlCqwKUm/w640-h480/20230430_114051.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Towering over Tainan's skyline, the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Zeelandia_(Taiwan)" target="_blank">Anping Old Fort</a>⭐, once known as Fort Zeelandia, whispers tales of a bygone era. Built in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company, its sturdy walls served as a defensive stronghold and administrative center, witnessing the ebb and flow of history. <div><blockquote>From the handover of Taiwan to the Qing Dynasty to the siege by the legendary <a href="https://www.britannica.com/summary/Zheng-Chenggong" target="_blank">Zheng Chenggong</a> (Koxinga), these red bricks hold the echoes of empires and battles. </blockquote></div><div>Though scarred by time and war, the Anping Old Fort stands tall, a testament to resilience and a beacon inviting us to delve into the rich tapestry of Taiwan's past.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div><div>On April 30, 2023, stepping back in time at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Anping+Old+Fort/@23.0015142,120.1580495,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x346e767378e3e467:0x9b1e15dd6ac9adf1!8m2!3d23.0015093!4d120.1606244!16zL20vMDMyZHg5?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Anping Old Fort</a>, we delved into museum exhibits, ascended the observation tower, and wandered through the surrounding park. This immersive experience yielded a deeper understanding and a renewed appreciation for this remarkable landmark.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmPHKomjywLRjAocHn0awHLqGiHKEvcps-3kZaKvuu3qaoUZp5lUpVsZ8biFA2d3uFdv6GIseJF54LR817OloRP99ii-KjWduEqzcd76nqQm66Pyjjasf3lyiG6CboiadO3ZVptKS0AZvclqf5PVFW9lzke69E05ZvTJLxPzRbHltwfeU-zPbb_GiveWd/s4000/20230430_110649.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmPHKomjywLRjAocHn0awHLqGiHKEvcps-3kZaKvuu3qaoUZp5lUpVsZ8biFA2d3uFdv6GIseJF54LR817OloRP99ii-KjWduEqzcd76nqQm66Pyjjasf3lyiG6CboiadO3ZVptKS0AZvclqf5PVFW9lzke69E05ZvTJLxPzRbHltwfeU-zPbb_GiveWd/w480-h640/20230430_110649.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtMwCekTKDnzEPAWbwNeCFgfGNgAhwE_YVlKEpGjRrMVdNOyUnmdZjj5n62PqpFYi7CKDjBZwkuAevENMTMAC2Adj6-6cIJ7dAdCygH33JcNKya9dlb4fKjnraUyy1rnmZHOxSS-TEtLRty_8H8P6hvJNj3zZLvZrD1uvnancOaBmevXJ-aB2sEq68nySU/s4000/20230430_110814.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtMwCekTKDnzEPAWbwNeCFgfGNgAhwE_YVlKEpGjRrMVdNOyUnmdZjj5n62PqpFYi7CKDjBZwkuAevENMTMAC2Adj6-6cIJ7dAdCygH33JcNKya9dlb4fKjnraUyy1rnmZHOxSS-TEtLRty_8H8P6hvJNj3zZLvZrD1uvnancOaBmevXJ-aB2sEq68nySU/w640-h480/20230430_110814.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Observation tower</b></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtgctAKyPpC73OIu_7VN4wT1nw5TbzxKKBenpatfiyU1gBntcdjcOtWBq4bBTfFVEotdsI-exVEVzyhM_6dN6wTpT0er-FAsSuQg5sGAx_pdszealM_wBPywZIjt86NUMvVb5gCnTeA2ytOJ917uFWzaQ9cdrbSwAaOIt34eFpQRhFOPKNhHx99BxBI8j/s4000/20230430_110847.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtgctAKyPpC73OIu_7VN4wT1nw5TbzxKKBenpatfiyU1gBntcdjcOtWBq4bBTfFVEotdsI-exVEVzyhM_6dN6wTpT0er-FAsSuQg5sGAx_pdszealM_wBPywZIjt86NUMvVb5gCnTeA2ytOJ917uFWzaQ9cdrbSwAaOIt34eFpQRhFOPKNhHx99BxBI8j/w640-h480/20230430_110847.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3NSdZt8eX2a6ChUSDHXGSs46Ao8QcvdL0US2xRcWZvGFdaXvwYnek5ZvQ1Y_RwAcdmgOYt67DtygSgAqlx7CBD0mQb2IYVHJpjjM7_xU7UU41GSJt1qjmyY1jiSHpY56TxUrrIFHS1CHoN9sQY6qVWuS42h7ZWX9a7x_qlPa9rSuyeMMeAGrQUrZ4zi5/s4000/20230430_111015.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3NSdZt8eX2a6ChUSDHXGSs46Ao8QcvdL0US2xRcWZvGFdaXvwYnek5ZvQ1Y_RwAcdmgOYt67DtygSgAqlx7CBD0mQb2IYVHJpjjM7_xU7UU41GSJt1qjmyY1jiSHpY56TxUrrIFHS1CHoN9sQY6qVWuS42h7ZWX9a7x_qlPa9rSuyeMMeAGrQUrZ4zi5/w480-h640/20230430_111015.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">Observation tower and cannon</b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJekA8asNKnxm1RNBoYO45OH-AaURoxq2ck9HoAHpdpfBd2vmRfDt0XeCUPBvnCv8Ahm_OhjZx8mhQ_xnr5WK85LdbhtRQhju6DYYgDoHgtDklzo_iXc-kYraqbNwzNDSU0g-ad6pW54v46XHTHn7pM2_2MWq00BYx5YokGxdHjzrcdfIYeInCJAdy5bbW/s4000/20230430_112352.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJekA8asNKnxm1RNBoYO45OH-AaURoxq2ck9HoAHpdpfBd2vmRfDt0XeCUPBvnCv8Ahm_OhjZx8mhQ_xnr5WK85LdbhtRQhju6DYYgDoHgtDklzo_iXc-kYraqbNwzNDSU0g-ad6pW54v46XHTHn7pM2_2MWq00BYx5YokGxdHjzrcdfIYeInCJAdy5bbW/w640-h480/20230430_112352.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqpw7geoyf3p806zYXoXKrBfoPSg3QS2MKL3gk_HtjUVl7rnMOAebC3aKo9NeMoaDH_g2XA4ayBE523EBBZ0uwE5Dxt6JvTJZVC1AUmuhIMSOu8D27ZNntxJvmKHWouA-ka0mIxMAA2MJfNv_8m0CkACweSg6D0HvAGyCdADNZXQRftLNPBiPA9tkG5jk9/s4000/20230430_112815.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqpw7geoyf3p806zYXoXKrBfoPSg3QS2MKL3gk_HtjUVl7rnMOAebC3aKo9NeMoaDH_g2XA4ayBE523EBBZ0uwE5Dxt6JvTJZVC1AUmuhIMSOu8D27ZNntxJvmKHWouA-ka0mIxMAA2MJfNv_8m0CkACweSg6D0HvAGyCdADNZXQRftLNPBiPA9tkG5jk9/w640-h480/20230430_112815.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Views from the </span><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Observation Tower</span></span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MJ2ZQv89ZRDD1NbZp1PX-kFHsfV5RcZqRKbsfde-sCMylJ7qWjvzUtpbf7HuaWM4eaMd7GqIhYvtSGA-vKSZYZTjx-pJZpV26EffBknTJtZIZHrkyL_6r36IdYeMF7OGYLYjqQzZ-JO0Rz8JXOHEcalBhkBhRjDn6UiBHrZTTkjwtEQtqJ9hymLPnYBp/s4000/20230430_112906.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MJ2ZQv89ZRDD1NbZp1PX-kFHsfV5RcZqRKbsfde-sCMylJ7qWjvzUtpbf7HuaWM4eaMd7GqIhYvtSGA-vKSZYZTjx-pJZpV26EffBknTJtZIZHrkyL_6r36IdYeMF7OGYLYjqQzZ-JO0Rz8JXOHEcalBhkBhRjDn6UiBHrZTTkjwtEQtqJ9hymLPnYBp/w480-h640/20230430_112906.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span>Views from the </span><span style="text-align: left;">Observation Tower</span></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KtK5Q60UJU-DurqKh4KPQnGppZFBtr0unKnvZPg6vSQOhsleLzl4O8Wd5mjbIPLwbQlZJtkDwsUeJbtHuJNMVc5PzqzrIXjrCFhIiMwmCWprEYag8r25rdICdZgU7LxTEUkJcHPYUO86psBbNQnHVyx5zICiPDaCMuZm7NpFM_F4gVOz_sv3wjG0_rFw/s4000/20230430_113241.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KtK5Q60UJU-DurqKh4KPQnGppZFBtr0unKnvZPg6vSQOhsleLzl4O8Wd5mjbIPLwbQlZJtkDwsUeJbtHuJNMVc5PzqzrIXjrCFhIiMwmCWprEYag8r25rdICdZgU7LxTEUkJcHPYUO86psBbNQnHVyx5zICiPDaCMuZm7NpFM_F4gVOz_sv3wjG0_rFw/w640-h480/20230430_113241.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW8P20ouSOqq20YQzAH0HZmQ82qC7LZAMBHXSuMPeLYCSh3Xe_ypoGzsh6-FehVsLE8LmFqUQPM3CrTPudWsPb-YasicxvH3OJ9kf8yZCj1qkOUMfThQeNQQoihwGzGtMZXqIRncy5yyOcRDmTWTfgIHq4Lkw9VAufiWgmVU20W60k_6enuE_5icKbaBf2/s4000/20230430_113448.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW8P20ouSOqq20YQzAH0HZmQ82qC7LZAMBHXSuMPeLYCSh3Xe_ypoGzsh6-FehVsLE8LmFqUQPM3CrTPudWsPb-YasicxvH3OJ9kf8yZCj1qkOUMfThQeNQQoihwGzGtMZXqIRncy5yyOcRDmTWTfgIHq4Lkw9VAufiWgmVU20W60k_6enuE_5icKbaBf2/w640-h480/20230430_113448.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5vqPz3zei6X6mOjabSW7pYyiWRrO0KiRdaIgVryQE9wBu4uugcSljO_uUI8YqRbDusf9zqh3_8BE4I20hvhKekv3G4rj1QwcKjn48_OR7gdL9810nCxRSQAplwo4vvVv3TETyFQPQoVqjteMpk2ArFIuHi2-hGLl3KTFKu7A-D8LP7gkcvai2hA4rcVM/s4000/20230430_113644.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5vqPz3zei6X6mOjabSW7pYyiWRrO0KiRdaIgVryQE9wBu4uugcSljO_uUI8YqRbDusf9zqh3_8BE4I20hvhKekv3G4rj1QwcKjn48_OR7gdL9810nCxRSQAplwo4vvVv3TETyFQPQoVqjteMpk2ArFIuHi2-hGLl3KTFKu7A-D8LP7gkcvai2hA4rcVM/w480-h640/20230430_113644.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMk7WgnryLqM48EePXX8PGMMVNvpo8KEcFQbAUvbPGp8AC4yv-6fKZiA0dnHh-tEEdRmUUhfBtCJjw5Ek7IlEkV-Gfa1HKZnJtpkn9C50me8bNqwEwmwlN7r32Kl-BNOb6P98S1q8Nr-DYtoURMatZnVLeLOg6HKhmVXSRKqM063kWjBMlSTaM8oXZeH67/s4000/20230430_114200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMk7WgnryLqM48EePXX8PGMMVNvpo8KEcFQbAUvbPGp8AC4yv-6fKZiA0dnHh-tEEdRmUUhfBtCJjw5Ek7IlEkV-Gfa1HKZnJtpkn9C50me8bNqwEwmwlN7r32Kl-BNOb6P98S1q8Nr-DYtoURMatZnVLeLOg6HKhmVXSRKqM063kWjBMlSTaM8oXZeH67/w640-h480/20230430_114200.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">References</h3><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Anping Old Fort (<a href="https://www.twtainan.net/en/attractions/detail/4493" target="_blank">Official website</a>)</li></ol></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-80738636784530675962023-12-30T10:13:00.000-08:002023-12-30T11:36:56.603-08:00Rediscovering History and Nature at "Great Falls"<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAlXO4-krSa5AqM1Jnj_afpqEMBzdJfjwi7rd5cH3uLSVutWZkkzYCE6ex-BU5q58S801ebHimdTAjB7INDvU9c6KuToG9bj_JstGPTb4vLzSTFKqAudM9PSARsYHsG8PIXAJVp8Fhsts8ut9SK88OcWx4PJdQvZ3H8R1UHLftPrcKzd-yCU-x_wC5hAT/s16184/IMG_4387.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3826" data-original-width="16184" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAlXO4-krSa5AqM1Jnj_afpqEMBzdJfjwi7rd5cH3uLSVutWZkkzYCE6ex-BU5q58S801ebHimdTAjB7INDvU9c6KuToG9bj_JstGPTb4vLzSTFKqAudM9PSARsYHsG8PIXAJVp8Fhsts8ut9SK88OcWx4PJdQvZ3H8R1UHLftPrcKzd-yCU-x_wC5hAT/w640-h152/IMG_4387.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Olmsted+Island+Overlook/@38.9968423,-77.2504168,16z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b6344e423a3329:0xb324b4863eebf9a5!2sGreat+Falls!8m2!3d38.9987208!4d-77.2538699!16zL20vMDkyX2cx!3m5!1s0x89b6345207590a73:0xcf77f617f3237d40!8m2!3d38.9967481!4d-77.2519939!16s%2Fg%2F124t3q4_y?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Olmsted Island Overlook</a><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlGsWuiOHixAjQqGWUwSCTxZtvl1psMYYLjkQI4y_v4m4vTHXechROoukc-GXP2XwWgUHPYDuMcDq6NGZ2-hWNtfZ68z5vasUc_wSMuWg9h9JF-p-0dRar2l4MtDc91uhxNkGS_6ioKLLZqYikAE_039hT1UtCVACNJ_gXySViOrwqHA9b8LHCq6KWqpsI/s4000/20231228_135208.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlGsWuiOHixAjQqGWUwSCTxZtvl1psMYYLjkQI4y_v4m4vTHXechROoukc-GXP2XwWgUHPYDuMcDq6NGZ2-hWNtfZ68z5vasUc_wSMuWg9h9JF-p-0dRar2l4MtDc91uhxNkGS_6ioKLLZqYikAE_039hT1UtCVACNJ_gXySViOrwqHA9b8LHCq6KWqpsI/w640-h360/20231228_135208.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, Great Falls Maryland</h3><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Falls_Park" target="_blank">Great Falls Park</a> ⭐is located within the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chesapeake_and_Ohio_Canal_National_Historical_Park" target="_blank">Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park</a> (C&O Canal NHP), which stretches 184.5 miles along the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Potomac+River/@39.1410905,-77.7621186,10z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b63ad5ae827813:0xbd6aa53140b9bed2!8m2!3d38.6537976!4d-77.2301856!16zL20vMGc1Mmc?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Potomac River</a> from Georgetown, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland. Great Falls itself lies about 14 miles upstream from Washington, D.C. within this larger <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chesapeake_and_Ohio_Canal_National_Historical_Park" target="_blank">C&O Canal NHP park</a>.<br /><br />The construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in the 19th century significantly impacted the Great Falls area. The canal’s route needed to circumvent the falls, leading to the building of impressive engineering feats like the C&O Canal Towpath and aqueduct across the river. This infrastructure became inextricably linked to the history of the falls.<br /><br />So, while "<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Great+Falls/@38.9987518,-77.2744696,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b6344e423a3329:0xb324b4863eebf9a5!8m2!3d38.9987208!4d-77.2538699!16zL20vMDkyX2cx?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Great Falls</a>" is the <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">official name of the park focusing on the waterfalls</span>, the close proximity and historical connection to the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chesapeake_and_Ohio_Canal_National_Historical_Park" target="_blank">C&O Canal NHP</a> makes it understandable why their names might be mentioned together or even used interchangeably in informal contexts.</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:C%26O_Canal_in_Georgetown_in_Spring_2019.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Sdkb, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons"><img alt="C&O Canal in Georgetown in Spring 2019" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/52/C%26O_Canal_in_Georgetown_in_Spring_2019.jpg/512px-C%26O_Canal_in_Georgetown_in_Spring_2019.jpg" width="448" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chesapeake_and_Ohio_Canal_National_Historical_Park" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">C&O Canal</a> in Georgetown (Sdkb, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Rediscovering History and Nature at Great Falls</h3></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Rediscovering History</h3><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>On <b>December 28th, 2023</b>, our hike at Great Falls became a journey through time and nature. Imagining ourselves on the towpath alongside mules pulling coal-laden barges, we conjured the scene of this once-bustling trade route. The Great Falls Tavern was a captivating window into the canal's past. The intricate architecture of the canal locks, marvels of hydraulic engineering still in operation, left us awestruck. We learned about the lives of the lock tenders, the invisible hands that kept the canal flowing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/usR2FvgyKNs?si=T5I4BrP_ezTPAPYN" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usR2FvgyKNs" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Immersing in Nature</h3><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span face=""Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 16px;"></span><div>On the journey, we found peace and quiet along the scenic towpath, a ribbon of green winding through winter-cloaked forests and meadows. Also witnessed the raw power and beauty of the Great Falls, where the Potomac River plunges 76 feet into a dramatic gorge. Hike to hidden overlooks for breathtaking panoramas.</div></div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0wVH2qyU4bA?si=8tjAVfgVLNnWjrGa" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Great Falls Park (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wVH2qyU4bA" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiCAovJWjY3LAMYxZ9jhm5s2INJKUT5md8IGTRcyjdDAYBVesN0l6NVrdEnhLDM5z_lpzldVnWmRf0hTFfB8OEU_mb5C-IqCPpb6K3AdyG-BErniwDreZjlc4JWiL-T8dVoIu3skKh7vq9XOY7kE0L9ZFbi_6q0UVICzhcvka0MMMJWSAAiuT5sA4x8Np1/s4000/20231228_140033.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHxCTD3bW9hA-OPwanN-VLt6wUCCJtyFAfaZPROGFr597MFGy4Zvg58C2dw3SVVDWf-N5fCOayw8-8hMgriwVdTzs1jK2YwPWu_pjWRnskXSHewW3HDKDKdGBLzaT96J_ANo2ynFvfIqhqMrSmHbL9D0BEzq3juWoYhIpvm5EKMt0m4zNtL7Ugfmgh1of/s4000/20230516_184908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHxCTD3bW9hA-OPwanN-VLt6wUCCJtyFAfaZPROGFr597MFGy4Zvg58C2dw3SVVDWf-N5fCOayw8-8hMgriwVdTzs1jK2YwPWu_pjWRnskXSHewW3HDKDKdGBLzaT96J_ANo2ynFvfIqhqMrSmHbL9D0BEzq3juWoYhIpvm5EKMt0m4zNtL7Ugfmgh1of/w640-h480/20230516_184908.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Five-Storied Pagoda and Hōzōmon Gate</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sens%C5%8D-ji/@35.7107074,139.7965461,15z/data=!3m1!5s0x60188ec6e881bfbf:0x1baeb8444779d7e6!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x60188ec1060d67af:0x7740294b7ef17d49!2sAsakusa+Culture+Tourist+Information+Center!8m2!3d35.7107074!4d139.7965461!16s%2Fg%2F11bzzwrwns!3m5!1s0x60188ec1a4463df1:0x6c0d289a8292810d!8m2!3d35.7147651!4d139.7966553!16zL20vMDNrOTg3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Senso-ji</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Asakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan/@35.7170812,139.7884501,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Asakusa</a> ⭐⭐are intimately linked. The two names are written using the same Chinese characters (浅草) but pronounced differently, "senso" being the Chinese pronunciation and "asakusa" the native Japanese. By delving deeper into the shared characters and their different pronunciations, we gain a richer understanding of the historical, cultural, and linguistic connections between <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sens%C5%8D-ji/@35.7107074,139.7965461,15z/data=!3m1!5s0x60188ec6e881bfbf:0x1baeb8444779d7e6!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x60188ec1060d67af:0x7740294b7ef17d49!2sAsakusa+Culture+Tourist+Information+Center!8m2!3d35.7107074!4d139.7965461!16s%2Fg%2F11bzzwrwns!3m5!1s0x60188ec1a4463df1:0x6c0d289a8292810d!8m2!3d35.7147651!4d139.7966553!16zL20vMDNrOTg3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Senso-ji</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Asakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan/@35.7170812,139.7884501,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Asakusa</a>:<p></p><div><ul><li><b>Historical context</b>: The Chinese pronunciation "senso" reflects the temple's early history and its connection to Buddhism, which was transmitted from China to Japan. "<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Asakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan/@35.7170812,139.7884501,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Asakusa</a>," on the other hand, represents the local Japanese name for the area where the temple was built.</li><li><b>Symbolic significance</b>: The dual names can be seen as symbolic of the merging of Chinese and Japanese influences in Japanese culture. Senso-ji represents the imported religion and tradition, while <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Asakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan/@35.7170812,139.7884501,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Asakusa</a> represents the local context and adaptation.</li></ul><div><br /></div><h3>Photo Gallery</h3><div><br /></div>This marks our second time embracing the magic of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Asakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan/@35.7170812,139.7884501,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Asakusa</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sens%C5%8D-ji/@35.7142937,139.7963305,18z/data=!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!2sAsakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan!3b1!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf!3m5!1s0x60188ec1a4463df1:0x6c0d289a8292810d!8m2!3d35.7147651!4d139.7966553!16zL20vMDNrOTg3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Sensō-ji</a>. On our first journey, we rode the Tokyo Water Bus from Odaiba, a scenic prelude to the sensory explosion awaiting. This time, the adventure began at Tsukiji Market, its vibrant energy preceding our arrival in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Asakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan/@35.7170812,139.7884501,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Asakusa</a> by train. Though familiar, the charm of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Asakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan/@35.7170812,139.7884501,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Asakusa</a> didn't fade; instead, it ignited with new excitement. Each visit unveils fresh layers of wonder, proving that its captivating spirit remains ever-present.</div><div><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;">Asakusa</h3><div><br /></div><b>Cacophony of life</b>: Asakusa hums with a unique melody. Hear the rhythmic clatter of chopsticks on bowls, the energetic chants of vendors hawking their wares, and the tinkling of bells from the temple grounds.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0VTf9ixjfcHI_VTXP7M_J6QEQqlEPyFMgUn7VDrYC2WBMR999wl7h-RRaEiKDnw7HIy2ndfGIjToBKbk4dYPQghHOiMgjvXAGoiu8A1C67nweDiCzoCKsq6X_343Qvqj-mip2qIFi0exdeeMNTITaMUz4-AveeQ_EDsWlzZOBozxRV7HW2AcVLvUkzJZi/s4000/20230516_132401.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0VTf9ixjfcHI_VTXP7M_J6QEQqlEPyFMgUn7VDrYC2WBMR999wl7h-RRaEiKDnw7HIy2ndfGIjToBKbk4dYPQghHOiMgjvXAGoiu8A1C67nweDiCzoCKsq6X_343Qvqj-mip2qIFi0exdeeMNTITaMUz4-AveeQ_EDsWlzZOBozxRV7HW2AcVLvUkzJZi/w480-h640/20230516_132401.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghSoELZEUYUOGriKU5pOqw2LYqJZEM1BWImFxuhDoGnbOI82Zj82epheiyaShzx91srVpy6Ev07CaDORBsHi5_r9yAdoQ_HloUbZt1b4SbG2m0pX-3fwpXE66Ud2zu9dAnnP6g4edVcGVRAkq6iA3AyZFpJsH8gA67ydUQK62LuvTpSPDw_-OvOpGnB9G8/s4000/20230516_132631.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghSoELZEUYUOGriKU5pOqw2LYqJZEM1BWImFxuhDoGnbOI82Zj82epheiyaShzx91srVpy6Ev07CaDORBsHi5_r9yAdoQ_HloUbZt1b4SbG2m0pX-3fwpXE66Ud2zu9dAnnP6g4edVcGVRAkq6iA3AyZFpJsH8gA67ydUQK62LuvTpSPDw_-OvOpGnB9G8/w640-h480/20230516_132631.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieObKZRIRQRJLw-CMe3uN7I1noAglN4JB0RtW2ch_U5qPLsHXvKtuwlH8w3fSPYtYM6f5Q6HINDJDkvCVJyqa5xBBSM90L6yD3X0Kr9OR4ke-RgCPT8CFBH8nF0ZNg2fZg3koWB_fMao02_OkXxVF7NCJra8u2RbnRkZf6ZgPnbb7ZLKnQjuTt2Qg-bBdh/s4000/20230516_143801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieObKZRIRQRJLw-CMe3uN7I1noAglN4JB0RtW2ch_U5qPLsHXvKtuwlH8w3fSPYtYM6f5Q6HINDJDkvCVJyqa5xBBSM90L6yD3X0Kr9OR4ke-RgCPT8CFBH8nF0ZNg2fZg3koWB_fMao02_OkXxVF7NCJra8u2RbnRkZf6ZgPnbb7ZLKnQjuTt2Qg-bBdh/w640-h480/20230516_143801.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhb6q8QjrxZBhO5qPx4RPV6ttt0E4EpHKvIN0lDoo8-dRNegRrsl8zWVfkeaaKxoRRhAxO_fvFAFAZhB9-m5Xr3nNtwGnJfhM4XYxLu1EQjKBS0Q-QITgDi-VJCmtPng_BalUt2sHIpdmnF2WrjmD1dLv4Nt4qNyY45wDoJok3OQe1CFfwFe7TAMlKBdx/s4000/20230516_184650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhb6q8QjrxZBhO5qPx4RPV6ttt0E4EpHKvIN0lDoo8-dRNegRrsl8zWVfkeaaKxoRRhAxO_fvFAFAZhB9-m5Xr3nNtwGnJfhM4XYxLu1EQjKBS0Q-QITgDi-VJCmtPng_BalUt2sHIpdmnF2WrjmD1dLv4Nt4qNyY45wDoJok3OQe1CFfwFe7TAMlKBdx/w640-h480/20230516_184650.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;">Sensō-ji & Surrounding Gardens</h3><div><br /></div><b>Tranquility amidst chaos</b>: Within <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sens%C5%8D-ji/@35.7142937,139.7963305,18z/data=!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!2sAsakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan!3b1!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf!3m5!1s0x60188ec1a4463df1:0x6c0d289a8292810d!8m2!3d35.7147651!4d139.7966553!16zL20vMDNrOTg3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Sensō-ji</a> and its surrounding gardens, peace reigns. Imagine the soft murmur of prayers echoing through the halls, the gentle trickle of water from the cleansing fountain, and the calming rustle of prayer beads.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8ryvhMCi7W2bEn_ZkGJXT0B-ZjakUJH3q1jf-Yn2WBryRYmcWt5eDpyiMauvyK53Rf8YVBYm8s_C2_KWKsVr3Xf62n9-ScjWFC_s0X6QLUVHNXn3uasKeCGZjS5vAPNGI0IDbAhVlTNykLhzYo_OUnY1WJshRZKWX2HoywIDsg32Cf-omLXmYbrS1WGz/s4000/20230516_144653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8ryvhMCi7W2bEn_ZkGJXT0B-ZjakUJH3q1jf-Yn2WBryRYmcWt5eDpyiMauvyK53Rf8YVBYm8s_C2_KWKsVr3Xf62n9-ScjWFC_s0X6QLUVHNXn3uasKeCGZjS5vAPNGI0IDbAhVlTNykLhzYo_OUnY1WJshRZKWX2HoywIDsg32Cf-omLXmYbrS1WGz/w480-h640/20230516_144653.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1gRXHEKZG7_MXzjiP17fACZKqZf2OzYS6SO9uYh4GgBrCI4yJSfhGbD5dRTWXn4bxnorYilDNcHBMf7nCdj1iXzBC4OVHP-jnbXVoDflGO5RK03rAyQd-6UskLKpD3CKZ4kst9QGIkR8Z3hC4VehONhGuw__b-LwbWpYXcULVvKF1BSUCxrM3kFlrViHD/s4000/20230516_144843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1gRXHEKZG7_MXzjiP17fACZKqZf2OzYS6SO9uYh4GgBrCI4yJSfhGbD5dRTWXn4bxnorYilDNcHBMf7nCdj1iXzBC4OVHP-jnbXVoDflGO5RK03rAyQd-6UskLKpD3CKZ4kst9QGIkR8Z3hC4VehONhGuw__b-LwbWpYXcULVvKF1BSUCxrM3kFlrViHD/w480-h640/20230516_144843.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj867eVFxdZ9aT_1mxxnOsq21lFde4oqSHy3Z94MOBlgxO6kpQGoF6ewXcq8rfYuH5pvI6IorklA3pQzqMlpiTvLBpSxCZK0FLGgzJv8bn0eiqrxIAZodgSkrF_YFIE3n2KhXYAKCdfkBjASSv5V31CfmsKqRG63259khMBkE5jhQq5CqAsgi5ZndB8gTVc/s4000/20230516_145259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj867eVFxdZ9aT_1mxxnOsq21lFde4oqSHy3Z94MOBlgxO6kpQGoF6ewXcq8rfYuH5pvI6IorklA3pQzqMlpiTvLBpSxCZK0FLGgzJv8bn0eiqrxIAZodgSkrF_YFIE3n2KhXYAKCdfkBjASSv5V31CfmsKqRG63259khMBkE5jhQq5CqAsgi5ZndB8gTVc/w640-h480/20230516_145259.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPlhVUukoJe6VeS2FkRtp-iT8On7meD4cH7txPKeEAn92vjyx5ijw_LhE0g5i2BkTQ_FpdUecmHpbwNsg6dxX_zT_iG1D1zxitepmYpk_8ukpDbuAq7crP8poq675O_RPWE2HXCLJMWI8CypcRVun5FvmAlsdtJscvnTiiojzhyphenhyphen2tMeUEJ6SCdYsaOBMS/s4000/20230516_185421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPlhVUukoJe6VeS2FkRtp-iT8On7meD4cH7txPKeEAn92vjyx5ijw_LhE0g5i2BkTQ_FpdUecmHpbwNsg6dxX_zT_iG1D1zxitepmYpk_8ukpDbuAq7crP8poq675O_RPWE2HXCLJMWI8CypcRVun5FvmAlsdtJscvnTiiojzhyphenhyphen2tMeUEJ6SCdYsaOBMS/w640-h480/20230516_185421.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJpTMtQ4T8WrTta9iRF-2tjsTHIrvZLazTVICKWeX2u2VQlkB4J9Ci1YZw6awk4I4kMDmEAMhUIobjF11dWeJlSMy8qYo-a-v2E-nHrFH2yZbLttYpzvCA6NX3mekVRnHUBQJjOUU0NwHV5Vizbs0LN39378yW5xgQR-v1p8PzNVO3cSJ_GJAD7jTTK7x/s4000/20230516_185356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJpTMtQ4T8WrTta9iRF-2tjsTHIrvZLazTVICKWeX2u2VQlkB4J9Ci1YZw6awk4I4kMDmEAMhUIobjF11dWeJlSMy8qYo-a-v2E-nHrFH2yZbLttYpzvCA6NX3mekVRnHUBQJjOUU0NwHV5Vizbs0LN39378yW5xgQR-v1p8PzNVO3cSJ_GJAD7jTTK7x/w480-h640/20230516_185356.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi069wDUOzjEDOGJcMuXaiNbFi3ulbXH6LIZK6i6tp8ft__OCQ5gIge5wwGdZM4v5knzYOOhRCIooj3v82RWoCyu_HRYD9aN5u_CrF0ic6xGqjNGDZTP-V7P2LJfs2lQGY06irdVpYGRn5PHutKoCjEsOSqKzN8n7F0uA2p6S9IGwEsoLXv3LdhQ_K5Tm2d/s4000/20230516_190643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi069wDUOzjEDOGJcMuXaiNbFi3ulbXH6LIZK6i6tp8ft__OCQ5gIge5wwGdZM4v5knzYOOhRCIooj3v82RWoCyu_HRYD9aN5u_CrF0ic6xGqjNGDZTP-V7P2LJfs2lQGY06irdVpYGRn5PHutKoCjEsOSqKzN8n7F0uA2p6S9IGwEsoLXv3LdhQ_K5Tm2d/w640-h480/20230516_190643.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Japanese omikuji</h3></div><div><br /></div><div>Are you ready to navigate your destiny and glimpse your future? Immerse yourself in the timeless tradition of Japanese <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/O-mikuji" target="_blank">omikuji</a>, unlocking a whisper of direction from the divine.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyVDrPG1l_qXue96IupC-pMhwyX7ziUWq3ZdWKErqME5G2GIHCJwR0riib9UVxWQxHR5BHL8WjWgdxx7sn1ixo8S_ovg5F8ldK0SAWQM97YHq6lH2bhtmEG1Anf6J9LgaporF3lf-C0fxOCR0TJ609XdBdRGwxiR3jUIqKkLYsNQZGqbruX_P_t2DHS41/s4000/20230516_142035.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyVDrPG1l_qXue96IupC-pMhwyX7ziUWq3ZdWKErqME5G2GIHCJwR0riib9UVxWQxHR5BHL8WjWgdxx7sn1ixo8S_ovg5F8ldK0SAWQM97YHq6lH2bhtmEG1Anf6J9LgaporF3lf-C0fxOCR0TJ609XdBdRGwxiR3jUIqKkLYsNQZGqbruX_P_t2DHS41/w640-h480/20230516_142035.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUmOytZbxWUZOwOZAi9oDRGBqq4Du4UFuQ3cMjTAZMSfKyfmd7ZQR0qx9l_T9n6u6MS7LOCwt8l1BElXSa2M8Rk74hkYmd5A8t0QgNoBf0OD1c_nnTAQiREXZRcRfJyFia3rXBRCN5yGa5WqB4NXT17v6l_sbs-Gz9_mTs4cNdWBIGHub2EptP4QOkJbn/s4000/20230516_142330.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUmOytZbxWUZOwOZAi9oDRGBqq4Du4UFuQ3cMjTAZMSfKyfmd7ZQR0qx9l_T9n6u6MS7LOCwt8l1BElXSa2M8Rk74hkYmd5A8t0QgNoBf0OD1c_nnTAQiREXZRcRfJyFia3rXBRCN5yGa5WqB4NXT17v6l_sbs-Gz9_mTs4cNdWBIGHub2EptP4QOkJbn/w480-h640/20230516_142330.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>At <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sens%C5%8D-ji/@35.7142937,139.7963305,18z/data=!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x60188ec2047f5333:0x7c84fd3881c74067!2sAsakusa,+Taito+City,+Tokyo+111-0032,+Japan!3b1!8m2!3d35.7185858!4d139.7958849!16zL20vMDFrNHJf!3m5!1s0x60188ec1a4463df1:0x6c0d289a8292810d!8m2!3d35.7147651!4d139.7966553!16zL20vMDNrOTg3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Senso-ji</a>, or any shrine, embrace the ancient ritual. Shake a box filled with numbered sticks, a simple action sparking the oracle's response. Draw one stick, its number guiding you to a corresponding drawer overflowing with paper fortunes. Unfold yours, a personal message waiting to be read.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="275" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-LgJ8_XSmzw?si=bjP13Xhg_t6zNiRC" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Japanese omikuji (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LgJ8_XSmzw" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div></div><div><br /></div>Unfavorable fortunes? Tie them to the designated rack, letting their hold be released. Favorable ones? Bring them home, their blessings woven into your days.<div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7Z1x-GpEbyONmkTPKOVsUd3gTRs5QR3jqKX1ljwX-NZnmUppB3pMKLgG_D8fMWbDg1u5ibci_bNDYuUoDWQe3WYsZbG1-8IcituJt5ezl_zZGC0RHno-rKHBIY-QNo1WekzZEvFTyTN4FBx12IQ6Ue5cOLAS0YivxOg9b-TmiyPeXn3VS7-oXQtpasZR/s4000/20230516_142758.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7Z1x-GpEbyONmkTPKOVsUd3gTRs5QR3jqKX1ljwX-NZnmUppB3pMKLgG_D8fMWbDg1u5ibci_bNDYuUoDWQe3WYsZbG1-8IcituJt5ezl_zZGC0RHno-rKHBIY-QNo1WekzZEvFTyTN4FBx12IQ6Ue5cOLAS0YivxOg9b-TmiyPeXn3VS7-oXQtpasZR/w640-h480/20230516_142758.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Unfavorable fortunes? Tie them to the designated rack, letting their hold be released</b></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The paper reveals your fortune's level: a radiant smile signifying the highest grace, followed by good fortune, gentle blessings, and the whispers of potential challenges. Don't fear the shadows, for even hardship holds valuable lessons.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRyLq9276VYIx5Nfp2pXRFEeqaigDXKO7XYlmLQPkqaUGNfyWDzujJOlVYE8G2bXfb1JvOWImlafLTkDccuUtcbhQyn6GKCSIMxsXfVkhyphenhyphen-3_RVATJfQEMI2vwc_OW75v_iuKM6t5QyhsEdMhUJnFH5CkUUHVuMT6BtE5OLgLNorgx_Thh_anrDMWliJx/s3032/20230517_083933.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3032" data-original-width="2171" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRyLq9276VYIx5Nfp2pXRFEeqaigDXKO7XYlmLQPkqaUGNfyWDzujJOlVYE8G2bXfb1JvOWImlafLTkDccuUtcbhQyn6GKCSIMxsXfVkhyphenhyphen-3_RVATJfQEMI2vwc_OW75v_iuKM6t5QyhsEdMhUJnFH5CkUUHVuMT6BtE5OLgLNorgx_Thh_anrDMWliJx/w458-h640/20230517_083933.jpg" width="458" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9r-_I6RtPvVVgkiHDo49eYsXTaUnijH9V6tgbAVwpRGdkaWS4-mGEehLDzIghoVhMti6g7WEKFrx0ahN8i3_kJrLy2qMAxRmfWkdJvyfcAzOtiymmV5l87mZmmJk15DPngXdl6F6iozifxZB0eAdJJ-nlCSxQkgN4KNU2qwRJsXh3RAHeuYVIATlKUZT/s3562/20230517_090055.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3562" data-original-width="2455" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9r-_I6RtPvVVgkiHDo49eYsXTaUnijH9V6tgbAVwpRGdkaWS4-mGEehLDzIghoVhMti6g7WEKFrx0ahN8i3_kJrLy2qMAxRmfWkdJvyfcAzOtiymmV5l87mZmmJk15DPngXdl6F6iozifxZB0eAdJJ-nlCSxQkgN4KNU2qwRJsXh3RAHeuYVIATlKUZT/w442-h640/20230517_090055.jpg" width="386" /></a></div><div><br />Remember, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/O-mikuji" target="_blank">omikuji</a> are not edicts, but gentle nudges. Embrace their guidance, but remember, your path is yours to forge. Take heart in good fortune, learn from the less favorable, and let each whisper, big or small, illuminate your unique journey.</div><div><br /><h3>References</h3><div><ol><li><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Asakusa+Culture+Tourist+Information+Center/@35.7107074,139.7965461,15z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x60188ec1060d67af:0x7740294b7ef17d49!2sAsakusa+Culture+Tourist+Information+Center!8m2!3d35.7107074!4d139.7965461!16s%2Fg%2F11bzzwrwns!3m5!1s0x60188ec1060d67af:0x7740294b7ef17d49!8m2!3d35.7107074!4d139.7965461!16s%2Fg%2F11bzzwrwns?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center</a></li><ul><li>You can <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">see Asakusa from the observation room</span>.</li></ul><li><a href="https://travel4apurpose.blogspot.com/2018/11/tokyo-travelvisiting-asakusa-or-odaiba.html" target="_blank">Tokyo Water Bus: A Scenic Way to Visit Asakusa and Odaiba</a></li><li><a href="https://travel4apurpose.blogspot.com/2018/11/tokyo-travelvisiting-asakusa-to.html" target="_blank">Tokyo Travel—Visiting Asakusa to Experience Tokyo's Past</a></li></ol></div></div></div></div>
Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-9534781106959412132023-12-26T16:58:00.000-08:002023-12-26T19:18:49.920-08:00Yokohama from Above: Soaring to New Heights at the Sky Garden<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyitT3OHayZS6e549nDsD3QTIrj_6vHTu2qd_on8tPdJub2NgpN80nLt9YKTGyCDpmL8nBE-02YaXyfIxBotPEjTDWrTEgQA2-fuxqrZoTYdQXI0cJswQ7M32BZB_rCmsHcrzN3SjgG6t3J2hBHedUyXCYnXu3ZV28vEwNpQBwl_Uz020mms4RXBa_VfS/s4000/20230517_131453.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyitT3OHayZS6e549nDsD3QTIrj_6vHTu2qd_on8tPdJub2NgpN80nLt9YKTGyCDpmL8nBE-02YaXyfIxBotPEjTDWrTEgQA2-fuxqrZoTYdQXI0cJswQ7M32BZB_rCmsHcrzN3SjgG6t3J2hBHedUyXCYnXu3ZV28vEwNpQBwl_Uz020mms4RXBa_VfS/w640-h480/20230517_131453.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/InterContinental+Yokohama+Grand,+an+IHG+Hotel/@35.4565391,139.6331314,16z/data=!3m1!5s0x60185c5b05e5bfd1:0x486cece40e14d120!4m17!1m7!3m6!1s0x60185ce4c51177fb:0xd105abf2480b406!2sCable+Car!8m2!3d35.4432907!4d139.6432169!16s%2Fg%2F1tf5q5wm!3m8!1s0x60185c5b4e3efea5:0xb7c1f5ec6f98580d!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d35.4575951!4d139.6372159!16s%2Fg%2F121dc74x?entry=ttu" target="_blank">InterContinental Yokohama Grand</a> (left) and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Yokohama+Cosmo+World/@35.4565391,139.6331314,16z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x60185ce4c51177fb:0xd105abf2480b406!2sCable+Car!8m2!3d35.4432907!4d139.6432169!16s%2Fg%2F1tf5q5wm!3m5!1s0x60185c59a3cc539b:0x5496ce3fcda96c0b!8m2!3d35.4551474!4d139.6369763!16s%2Fm%2F0nbd2z_?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Yokohama Cosmo World</a> (right)</b></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Sky+Garden/@35.4545819,139.6289039,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x60185c5da74a781f:0x7a0e1c73f86b82ab!4m6!3m5!1s0x60185c5d7366a111:0x5bb2af249693d07d!8m2!3d35.4545776!4d139.6314788!16s%2Fg%2F11b7spltrj?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Sky Garden</a> ⭐in Yokohama, Japan, is an observation deck located on the 69th floor of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yokohama_Landmark_Tower" target="_blank">Yokohama Landmark Tower</a>, at a height of 273 meters. It offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the city, including <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Minatomirai,+Nishi+Ward,+Yokohama,+Kanagawa+220-0012,+Japan/@35.4582086,139.6215286,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x60185c42f971e1ff:0x702e95bea7adb044!8m2!3d35.4600798!4d139.6324577!16zL20vMDI5emM4?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Minatomirai</a>, the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/Yokohama+Bay+Bridge/@35.455516,139.6719657,17z/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Yokohama Bay Bridge</a>, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCrfvOOUf-pRYcImMipbrSjWTn7LMDANsHxpRFmwf_knI6qk25Dh4xVVRVbT5MN8L0e8Z4N8qnNypcEcmsn7P1e_3LrU-Ovz8RD5wKqSmW2Cj5H0LhZ6xImMTlTqbPTCgE9UbiM-Ve2MUc-S4RdczsLeDBfYtrVP-sb9lFQQaC7KgzFePp18eD5QT_2qRJ/s614/skyGardenTicket.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="614" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCrfvOOUf-pRYcImMipbrSjWTn7LMDANsHxpRFmwf_knI6qk25Dh4xVVRVbT5MN8L0e8Z4N8qnNypcEcmsn7P1e_3LrU-Ovz8RD5wKqSmW2Cj5H0LhZ6xImMTlTqbPTCgE9UbiM-Ve2MUc-S4RdczsLeDBfYtrVP-sb9lFQQaC7KgzFePp18eD5QT_2qRJ/w400-h176/skyGardenTicket.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><div><br /><br />Here are some details about the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Sky+Garden/@35.4545819,139.6289039,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x60185c5da74a781f:0x7a0e1c73f86b82ab!4m6!3m5!1s0x60185c5d7366a111:0x5bb2af249693d07d!8m2!3d35.4545776!4d139.6314788!16s%2Fg%2F11b7spltrj?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Sky Garden</a>:<div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Saturdays)</li><li>Admission fee: 1,000 yen for adults, 500 yen for children</li><li>Cafe and shops on the observation deck</li></ul></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Photo Gallery</h3><br />The <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Sky+Garden/@35.4545819,139.6289039,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x60185c5da74a781f:0x7a0e1c73f86b82ab!4m6!3m5!1s0x60185c5d7366a111:0x5bb2af249693d07d!8m2!3d35.4545776!4d139.6314788!16s%2Fg%2F11b7spltrj?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Sky Garden</a> is a popular tourist destination in Yokohama, offering stunning views of the city. It's also a favorite spot for photography and videography, thanks to its panoramic vistas. These photos capture the beauty of the Sky Garden when we visited on May 17, 2023:</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpohLyLY9FaCV0YmCZLfmj8C9ee4iSZpI8fietyLY-dzuvsstGqJH8WY4G23lQJaU8XK77Zat_rsFETaFIr9I80qeWAcAa7_8Dv1faOy2vpNEmqrg73ac6wlESJqswVdmQQNOEmx3-1voLHUh9lBeWFL72bP5vo5S5ojzB6s7fR510-VHdWYqMJOCUkwNT/s4000/20230517_131522.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpohLyLY9FaCV0YmCZLfmj8C9ee4iSZpI8fietyLY-dzuvsstGqJH8WY4G23lQJaU8XK77Zat_rsFETaFIr9I80qeWAcAa7_8Dv1faOy2vpNEmqrg73ac6wlESJqswVdmQQNOEmx3-1voLHUh9lBeWFL72bP5vo5S5ojzB6s7fR510-VHdWYqMJOCUkwNT/w640-h480/20230517_131522.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>A Playground by the Bay: Exploring <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Yokohama+Cosmo+World/@35.4565391,139.6331314,16z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x60185ce4c51177fb:0xd105abf2480b406!2sCable+Car!8m2!3d35.4432907!4d139.6432169!16s%2Fg%2F1tf5q5wm!3m5!1s0x60185c59a3cc539b:0x5496ce3fcda96c0b!8m2!3d35.4551474!4d139.6369763!16s%2Fm%2F0nbd2z_?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Yokohama Cosmo World</a> in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Shinko,+Naka+Ward,+Yokohama,+Kanagawa+231-0001,+Japan/@35.4549966,139.6310239,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x60185ce4c51177fb:0xd105abf2480b406!2sCable+Car!8m2!3d35.4432907!4d139.6432169!16s%2Fg%2F1tf5q5wm!3m5!1s0x60185c577e3c1b91:0xe0c3920cd110c28d!8m2!3d35.4538613!4d139.6405308!16s%2Fg%2F1236mxbl?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Shinko</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoTxDZgV0tqktFp-gxNeLF1HDx0LchsclChU8KXTFefZSol_nqwG3jLXcvf3RPZKa325HpxU-qTPn4txj4vtLOmp8X8F2GQfhtCatwOXWUGD5cOgg8etBdkPMZPgR3wg5aJNU2Lqt6DIO_aS_BThmQ7dpWxAyNKAmNH7RNQDkEIDWNjafHT6aH0ZX0u3IH/s4000/20230517_131502.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoTxDZgV0tqktFp-gxNeLF1HDx0LchsclChU8KXTFefZSol_nqwG3jLXcvf3RPZKa325HpxU-qTPn4txj4vtLOmp8X8F2GQfhtCatwOXWUGD5cOgg8etBdkPMZPgR3wg5aJNU2Lqt6DIO_aS_BThmQ7dpWxAyNKAmNH7RNQDkEIDWNjafHT6aH0ZX0u3IH/w480-h640/20230517_131502.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/Yokohama+Bay+Bridge/@35.455516,139.6719657,17z/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">Yokohama Bay Bridge</a> in the distance</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVu9KOamV9g4zLWUG4E1_fH7dgD9bWd83Qn_N7oKi1bkEg07ol2p71VkOYtxLxmZtbZAXP5h38XvRmrpfS6Lrh1Q4jWG5yJyw1xLc0EPfbvZPvsOSIykvJ15Gx7aOSLD8IrWEh0equMVas9oHy4y6UC9qmc8W8y12oufxVx02LJe1jxLFUTqhBArDDR-u/s4000/20230517_130440.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVu9KOamV9g4zLWUG4E1_fH7dgD9bWd83Qn_N7oKi1bkEg07ol2p71VkOYtxLxmZtbZAXP5h38XvRmrpfS6Lrh1Q4jWG5yJyw1xLc0EPfbvZPvsOSIykvJ15Gx7aOSLD8IrWEh0equMVas9oHy4y6UC9qmc8W8y12oufxVx02LJe1jxLFUTqhBArDDR-u/w640-h480/20230517_130440.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Soaring through Yokohama: A Glimpse of the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/YOKOHAMA+AIR+CABIN+Sakuragicho+Station/@35.4526762,139.6320156,16z/data=!3m1!5s0x6018607921c13e3f:0x2805b872141b3bd9!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x60185ce4c51177fb:0xd105abf2480b406!2sCable+Car!8m2!3d35.4432907!4d139.6432169!16s%2Fg%2F1tf5q5wm!3m5!1s0x60185d4416d9402f:0x8008be3ada5d4ee1!8m2!3d35.4514291!4d139.6314264!16s%2Fg%2F11n67x182y?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Sakuragicho-Shinko Ropeway</a></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzEzbASNo6dx4W9t7m-RijWv8gkTZmWXymBVSzihqNGqYlsst_GIXcrsBVK0-fLDIc5JJv4Nr4JUYPJ6i-Y88oezqL9-taS5aB6UmX6cvnSBj30eRWfart-mVjpX9rHdsYAkofBL447tGlIt1XY87hkAmngR5ZJWa06ShAMcGncyelRySZKJKtTQ_8Hy8p/s4000/20230517_125619.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzEzbASNo6dx4W9t7m-RijWv8gkTZmWXymBVSzihqNGqYlsst_GIXcrsBVK0-fLDIc5JJv4Nr4JUYPJ6i-Y88oezqL9-taS5aB6UmX6cvnSBj30eRWfart-mVjpX9rHdsYAkofBL447tGlIt1XY87hkAmngR5ZJWa06ShAMcGncyelRySZKJKtTQ_8Hy8p/w640-h480/20230517_125619.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Translucent Ballet with City Symphony: A Jellyfish Encounter at the Sky Garden</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSY2Qf9sduMaR9vMalPLE0GOuYd_5SWDAIuScmjBHVZPl0p5XNKTx5KbHoKNo5iJy6YilfqDgc7N_v5IHfMqH3HwrA4W17yW0uIRDyWxEfhSuAMCZNGdwp7QUhB4fay5po4W_Z83wBhVqGUKhfZ97PA6a_Lo7S6i0wqe60ViLcvEwPbHizsrze0zacxxRz/s4000/20230517_125519.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSY2Qf9sduMaR9vMalPLE0GOuYd_5SWDAIuScmjBHVZPl0p5XNKTx5KbHoKNo5iJy6YilfqDgc7N_v5IHfMqH3HwrA4W17yW0uIRDyWxEfhSuAMCZNGdwp7QUhB4fay5po4W_Z83wBhVqGUKhfZ97PA6a_Lo7S6i0wqe60ViLcvEwPbHizsrze0zacxxRz/w480-h640/20230517_125519.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Yokohama+Intl+Passenger+Terminal/@35.4510192,139.6453722,18z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x60185cfbfa5d4eb5:0x9a23934f9b85766b!8m2!3d35.4511766!4d139.6473228!16s%2Fg%2F1yfdryp0c?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Yokohama Intl Passenger Terminal</a> stretches like a bridge, its horizontal expanse dividing the cityscape into distinct halves</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6l3MllcH1VLw9-600GY7nUGb2PYnqpLhjeS860DjEYigFew_PwVwjb6CgwBPwza9-MS3Hw-V7_RXyzM7lnGlD7RGvlOJnweGDVFO5vz5Ngh8emFj6Y9IwWbG3ZKRpqEpe0-EKK60vcW0_d3U68WMx5hVsBWqjejtIKU0LGvP5LKgKAx9Oe0LLTgJQPpd/s4000/20230517_120342.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6l3MllcH1VLw9-600GY7nUGb2PYnqpLhjeS860DjEYigFew_PwVwjb6CgwBPwza9-MS3Hw-V7_RXyzM7lnGlD7RGvlOJnweGDVFO5vz5Ngh8emFj6Y9IwWbG3ZKRpqEpe0-EKK60vcW0_d3U68WMx5hVsBWqjejtIKU0LGvP5LKgKAx9Oe0LLTgJQPpd/w640-h480/20230517_120342.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Seating area near Sky Garden Cafe</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0WF0byQWceg7zPADIJdUZGP83fk5_oox8uPtL3xCvYQ4zoqivkzjASIyL90VKJHNvhQtJ37mniTFnZT29-b_iYoLLvwAJZUBCuNQS3Y-aUVXeXSFpIhxyj11W_K8Gey9LINnJCmYQOsKLpo5pkcyVozPAHTX07XkFn5Sev_009oLnyv3eSwDlCPiu_gU5/s4000/20230517_120325.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0WF0byQWceg7zPADIJdUZGP83fk5_oox8uPtL3xCvYQ4zoqivkzjASIyL90VKJHNvhQtJ37mniTFnZT29-b_iYoLLvwAJZUBCuNQS3Y-aUVXeXSFpIhxyj11W_K8Gey9LINnJCmYQOsKLpo5pkcyVozPAHTX07XkFn5Sev_009oLnyv3eSwDlCPiu_gU5/w640-h480/20230517_120325.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpOE6DjtVBpRTYNLEoH6pJ-EwCi1GA3cugGEW_fuMvGAf1qKZ2TeeSN_80At15ZdYDqTlLtKDaN_Ri59q2jOoDQWlOpQxVinVw8BMjoTU2Lneilrtkz-NaHoM69DC3-sMkgQdGaOBusA0dqDV5ZlhOWNuy1BR2O7kjush2mtkFKy3htBLChf_8dVaEyWM/s4000/20230517_114547.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpOE6DjtVBpRTYNLEoH6pJ-EwCi1GA3cugGEW_fuMvGAf1qKZ2TeeSN_80At15ZdYDqTlLtKDaN_Ri59q2jOoDQWlOpQxVinVw8BMjoTU2Lneilrtkz-NaHoM69DC3-sMkgQdGaOBusA0dqDV5ZlhOWNuy1BR2O7kjush2mtkFKy3htBLChf_8dVaEyWM/w640-h480/20230517_114547.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_z_RDNrBAzROlvYD2pZfmz6o9D26tMB8mH_ZpBODcsg2bo5593VOjuguLuZ_-kVbZfFU44QorVEHfqqnoON13tR4OoKiUCJDEthALLeWcDEQ0Vw8i7tD7tdbRxX6vhZjWQ5BwZ-0yViNqyiCF0UIKDSKxpJ89uBoQ23TLPUewtlNaLQTpTC1YAIsWkvIN/s4000/20230517_114443.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_z_RDNrBAzROlvYD2pZfmz6o9D26tMB8mH_ZpBODcsg2bo5593VOjuguLuZ_-kVbZfFU44QorVEHfqqnoON13tR4OoKiUCJDEthALLeWcDEQ0Vw8i7tD7tdbRxX6vhZjWQ5BwZ-0yViNqyiCF0UIKDSKxpJ89uBoQ23TLPUewtlNaLQTpTC1YAIsWkvIN/w640-h480/20230517_114443.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6oNoO1cGvF9o68v1BNBaRZhQ_xMIItjRSBj1EYT6SL3ZYe-70lDjULajtKSnoRQiFXTcfSpeCmfVYbanigNCMJZH-R3ePxDOV8KIWjinNAdPlTNvoLGItHM47xKYL0qNPyj8v7Z-BzcE-wQCeF2rpSpepsRgFCcpgptjbefwQ95P3NbcoKXMdS4ZZiIw/s4000/20230517_114400.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1392" data-original-width="4000" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6oNoO1cGvF9o68v1BNBaRZhQ_xMIItjRSBj1EYT6SL3ZYe-70lDjULajtKSnoRQiFXTcfSpeCmfVYbanigNCMJZH-R3ePxDOV8KIWjinNAdPlTNvoLGItHM47xKYL0qNPyj8v7Z-BzcE-wQCeF2rpSpepsRgFCcpgptjbefwQ95P3NbcoKXMdS4ZZiIw/w640-h222/20230517_114400.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Te8OzvFhvt6KzYnuZy2wQl8J4uZ2w5z3OiOT7-lzPUK2u8uluIECjUyvpK4uufBS29-lCa3PTMO_yEPjDyY06IrY3kifULxe75ST3gL1x7zf_tNemiS2c0428MX-c5xKkCobi0HU36r6Exz45MJOL-waaucg3kfHnqen2TxfA4vFzV_A6SbozW4iU-wU/s4000/20230517_114312.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Te8OzvFhvt6KzYnuZy2wQl8J4uZ2w5z3OiOT7-lzPUK2u8uluIECjUyvpK4uufBS29-lCa3PTMO_yEPjDyY06IrY3kifULxe75ST3gL1x7zf_tNemiS2c0428MX-c5xKkCobi0HU36r6Exz45MJOL-waaucg3kfHnqen2TxfA4vFzV_A6SbozW4iU-wU/w480-h640/20230517_114312.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhni1PwBHDdZAq3VdB5BXJlddHy_I0fp4_Upk7KtQXiScd3IqW3xG_6OEkunCNrPj4XGDISXfURRhdc490dsTjKUz6E6Fj-4wIXKYKTdPxQZiNj0DQ7aZvufnXIIJV-bECLONvlDvghBsCGna_ATOjYx2RhAHaTSiRELfHaSWV1wzm47mFmy2hXoutilR_z/s4000/20230517_114239.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhni1PwBHDdZAq3VdB5BXJlddHy_I0fp4_Upk7KtQXiScd3IqW3xG_6OEkunCNrPj4XGDISXfURRhdc490dsTjKUz6E6Fj-4wIXKYKTdPxQZiNj0DQ7aZvufnXIIJV-bECLONvlDvghBsCGna_ATOjYx2RhAHaTSiRELfHaSWV1wzm47mFmy2hXoutilR_z/w640-h480/20230517_114239.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/InterContinental+Yokohama+Grand,+an+IHG+Hotel/@35.4565391,139.6331314,16z/data=!3m1!5s0x60185c5b05e5bfd1:0x486cece40e14d120!4m17!1m7!3m6!1s0x60185ce4c51177fb:0xd105abf2480b406!2sCable+Car!8m2!3d35.4432907!4d139.6432169!16s%2Fg%2F1tf5q5wm!3m8!1s0x60185c5b4e3efea5:0xb7c1f5ec6f98580d!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d35.4575951!4d139.6372159!16s%2Fg%2F121dc74x?entry=ttu" target="_blank">InterContinental Yokohama Grand</a> (left) and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Yokohama+Cosmo+World/@35.4565391,139.6331314,16z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x60185ce4c51177fb:0xd105abf2480b406!2sCable+Car!8m2!3d35.4432907!4d139.6432169!16s%2Fg%2F1tf5q5wm!3m5!1s0x60185c59a3cc539b:0x5496ce3fcda96c0b!8m2!3d35.4551474!4d139.6369763!16s%2Fm%2F0nbd2z_?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Yokohama Cosmo World</a> (right)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOqVWhWRtzhZcGDIwGQ_GRZ57JUWde0fQMhYP-NguKnIcHQ3utHGUanK8WZ2YvmhMzxrEj3C_gL0ISXTrWPhSGg3TLgxpzXJHM7RmM14w2pTf88X5uFNegupxKTD7gmLQHu1kTO7UZMvSfosl5zZIaqciYobF1bY1DTrzZRJSRanU2IVeHSYqALsXf5OZ/s4000/20230517_114203.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOqVWhWRtzhZcGDIwGQ_GRZ57JUWde0fQMhYP-NguKnIcHQ3utHGUanK8WZ2YvmhMzxrEj3C_gL0ISXTrWPhSGg3TLgxpzXJHM7RmM14w2pTf88X5uFNegupxKTD7gmLQHu1kTO7UZMvSfosl5zZIaqciYobF1bY1DTrzZRJSRanU2IVeHSYqALsXf5OZ/w640-h480/20230517_114203.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnVtzCiFdJvTwConqxdwiW4C9ZSdJ9Z-GppD3VaziMgNiDqJg4_uMyVtdUyuJB-Ib5H9WCdGCMxCCzEsHrq3G9Jho2_6DQ3iJbZzaTmrMIlxuFXAASTlJOQtBdg821Uq8v3gGflmjMG4qTJjv-rV_Bq-Z0QIhFJMcT9D19Xc8o9xcIUzPBV6CderNTjpf/s4000/20230517_114150.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnVtzCiFdJvTwConqxdwiW4C9ZSdJ9Z-GppD3VaziMgNiDqJg4_uMyVtdUyuJB-Ib5H9WCdGCMxCCzEsHrq3G9Jho2_6DQ3iJbZzaTmrMIlxuFXAASTlJOQtBdg821Uq8v3gGflmjMG4qTJjv-rV_Bq-Z0QIhFJMcT9D19Xc8o9xcIUzPBV6CderNTjpf/w480-h640/20230517_114150.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHPLAGjAe8AcnWq3DEmSYSE1WFXNdBOtSzJbsB0swbkP7wz8QfWZenc7jM5274Dalv9sMSm41MfdDRVNdZyG8sum22kBFCss7POm8QsXn7xnhCSsPeq1KGorIs8gX2bWHaDaCDwxZ0YH7GsvIB4Mxs92oi8hDd0VpY9UByeNXrMlZly1BmbEbSILgmVsTD/s4000/20230517_113824.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHPLAGjAe8AcnWq3DEmSYSE1WFXNdBOtSzJbsB0swbkP7wz8QfWZenc7jM5274Dalv9sMSm41MfdDRVNdZyG8sum22kBFCss7POm8QsXn7xnhCSsPeq1KGorIs8gX2bWHaDaCDwxZ0YH7GsvIB4Mxs92oi8hDd0VpY9UByeNXrMlZly1BmbEbSILgmVsTD/w640-h480/20230517_113824.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><h3>References</h3><ol><li><a href="https://www.yokohama-landmark.jp/ticketoku/#page=2" target="_blank">Sky Garden</a> (Official Site)</li></ol></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-49962279204224091502023-12-24T19:59:00.000-08:002023-12-26T19:20:30.482-08:00A Hidden Gem in Tokyo: Discovering the Serenity of Ninomaru Garden<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Ninomaru+Garden/@35.6876106,139.7589623,17z/data=!4m23!1m12!3m11!1s0x60188bfbd89f700b:0x277c49ba34ed38!2sTokyo+Station!5m3!1s2024-01-15!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d35.6812362!4d139.7671248!10e5!16zL20vMDFfdnY3!3m9!1s0x60188c13425af13d:0xcddc54b9602f548d!5m3!1s2024-01-15!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d35.6876106!4d139.7589623!16s%2Fg%2F1tdyl5xg?entry=ttu" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Ninomaru+Garden/@35.6876106,139.7589623,17z/data=!4m23!1m12!3m11!1s0x60188bfbd89f700b:0x277c49ba34ed38!2sTokyo+Station!5m3!1s2024-01-15!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d35.6812362!4d139.7671248!10e5!16zL20vMDFfdnY3!3m9!1s0x60188c13425af13d:0xcddc54b9602f548d!5m3!1s2024-01-15!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d35.6876106!4d139.7589623!16s%2Fg%2F1tdyl5xg?entry=ttu" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yWGbYfdpfA51FqgToAZK8T7wqjNmji4Ifl4_Vh5BV4UEG4p-tzYK4w4GWX8vS6a932S1D-SeNWCxSzQTAh3voYKoRJEODDWwzb5AqLtw-CrxMHOYG51wwQWsiAXaEl0ptaAwtLoWmOyWGgFm5tj2G5O194Awzwg9k3CuTC2ddAQ020tJDOv0G6gvUQTq/s4000/20230518_114841.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yWGbYfdpfA51FqgToAZK8T7wqjNmji4Ifl4_Vh5BV4UEG4p-tzYK4w4GWX8vS6a932S1D-SeNWCxSzQTAh3voYKoRJEODDWwzb5AqLtw-CrxMHOYG51wwQWsiAXaEl0ptaAwtLoWmOyWGgFm5tj2G5O194Awzwg9k3CuTC2ddAQ020tJDOv0G6gvUQTq/w480-h640/20230518_114841.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imperial_Palace,_Tokyo#Ninomaru_Garden" target="_blank">Ninomaru Garden</a> (二の丸庭園⭐⭐) is more than just a beautiful space; it's a portal to Japan's rich heritage, a testament to the enduring power of nature, and a reminder of the peace that awaits in unexpected corners of the world. If you find yourself in Tokyo, don't miss the opportunity to step into this oasis of history and serenity. Let <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Ninomaru+Garden/@35.6876106,139.7589623,17z/data=!4m23!1m12!3m11!1s0x60188bfbd89f700b:0x277c49ba34ed38!2sTokyo+Station!5m3!1s2024-01-15!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d35.6812362!4d139.7671248!10e5!16zL20vMDFfdnY3!3m9!1s0x60188c13425af13d:0xcddc54b9602f548d!5m3!1s2024-01-15!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d35.6876106!4d139.7589623!16s%2Fg%2F1tdyl5xg?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Ninomaru Garden</a> weave its magic around you, transport you to a simpler time, and offer a glimpse into the soul of Japan.<div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AYrDOqRG9OI" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Ninomaru Garden (二の丸庭園; YouTube <a href="https://youtube.com/shorts/AYrDOqRG9OI" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">A Day Lost in Time: Unwinding at Ninomaru Garden</h3><div><br /></div><div>Stepping through its gates on May 18, 2023, was like stepping back in time. The air, thick with the whispers of Japan's rich history, settled around us like a warm embrace.<br /><br />As we meandered along the winding pathways, sunlight dappled through the leaves, casting dancing patterns on the perfectly raked gravel. We marveled at the meticulous landscaping from the cascading waterfalls to the carefully sculpted stones, speaking volumes about the dedication and skill of the garden's creators.<br /><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Ninomaru Garden</h3></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6KKDvxVbvFsL8Mwt8_fwtQsrMYR_yhkn_jRD5gpx_ZyfFB9U5Mm1e1OKudiqhcQTzaOSMEpNeCUuyjH3Y1pvAsuRd95hCQuRIuZHGX_bBKtXVcvDc4A8bwMmzlwicFgpIM_vsqPS7PsaMYI2IRmukXw7fcOzWOndGgdF827MhY1c4RLrrCInCW2Gn1KL/s4000/20230518_110438.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6KKDvxVbvFsL8Mwt8_fwtQsrMYR_yhkn_jRD5gpx_ZyfFB9U5Mm1e1OKudiqhcQTzaOSMEpNeCUuyjH3Y1pvAsuRd95hCQuRIuZHGX_bBKtXVcvDc4A8bwMmzlwicFgpIM_vsqPS7PsaMYI2IRmukXw7fcOzWOndGgdF827MhY1c4RLrrCInCW2Gn1KL/w640-h480/20230518_110438.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/%C5%8Cte-mon+Gate/@35.6861142,139.7602531,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sAF1QipPRePFBCLyFcH1u_YE9ggZyS2eFlkoSrjxQkjVI!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipPRePFBCLyFcH1u_YE9ggZyS2eFlkoSrjxQkjVI%3Dw203-h152-k-no!7i5712!8i4284!4m11!1m2!2m1!1sKitanomaru+Gate!3m7!1s0x60188c08ff09e7ef:0xeaea5e2756b206ff!8m2!3d35.6861142!4d139.7602531!10e5!15sCg9LaXRhbm9tYXJ1IEdhdGVaESIPa2l0YW5vbWFydSBnYXRlkgETaGlzdG9yaWNhbF9sYW5kbWFya5oBI0NoWkRTVWhOTUc5blMwVkpRMEZuU1VORExVd3plbFZCRUFF4AEA!16s%2Fg%2F11gdrp3_dz?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Ōte-mon Gate</a> of the Imperial Palace marks the entrance to the serene Ninomaru Garden</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4n86WqjKqRQT4pExjV7lp3VhEZqIpLiYuuN5oDdx3ncKOSuM9fmm0gGjMg7t6u5gdvXpwBHC9GxpUno0p-wO0qtHLxLL6DqF9YOIwjQIj4BOQDfENMyRwYqrT-kYQ0uqQVik9xuhvLVjf6rP4J2YDdoggcrJxWuoHM1FQfuQ74rnRjfiZ8_oY_F8Tj9vo/s4000/20230518_114721.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4n86WqjKqRQT4pExjV7lp3VhEZqIpLiYuuN5oDdx3ncKOSuM9fmm0gGjMg7t6u5gdvXpwBHC9GxpUno0p-wO0qtHLxLL6DqF9YOIwjQIj4BOQDfENMyRwYqrT-kYQ0uqQVik9xuhvLVjf6rP4J2YDdoggcrJxWuoHM1FQfuQ74rnRjfiZ8_oY_F8Tj9vo/w480-h640/20230518_114721.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fw3swBZBTRDnj5bNC2_zvjtE1DlkTXivBoEP4OWJzOBBymw8t4Bxhc_ke64eFnwg613hEr1UMGqtykhTauw6GCFt9q-4t4xiu_z7wTwNAWilYAkaBtTmfHWReY7o42geQnj2RxSlkCM60_8K2iZYuufGcpTHh_FHkAsR0rz9nXTV8ARw8cScHQ36DabK/s4000/20230518_112233.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fw3swBZBTRDnj5bNC2_zvjtE1DlkTXivBoEP4OWJzOBBymw8t4Bxhc_ke64eFnwg613hEr1UMGqtykhTauw6GCFt9q-4t4xiu_z7wTwNAWilYAkaBtTmfHWReY7o42geQnj2RxSlkCM60_8K2iZYuufGcpTHh_FHkAsR0rz9nXTV8ARw8cScHQ36DabK/w640-h480/20230518_112233.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPpIzXoHY0XH709RXBiCO_4D68z6Rj42LPaxEr6G4AiBSE4L8YxBddO2-btAK2qkluviLgdTHMIKb19aw_wUOWv9Uz27tCH63hi3dPCyRWOYf8HwlYHSMr4ycgu8pX2gZOyuqyC5uR5VrE1Te5UJ-eXzjthjwBI9Q0t25wKWj9yKdBYmhK_y9aVPTiMED/s4000/20230518_112243.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPpIzXoHY0XH709RXBiCO_4D68z6Rj42LPaxEr6G4AiBSE4L8YxBddO2-btAK2qkluviLgdTHMIKb19aw_wUOWv9Uz27tCH63hi3dPCyRWOYf8HwlYHSMr4ycgu8pX2gZOyuqyC5uR5VrE1Te5UJ-eXzjthjwBI9Q0t25wKWj9yKdBYmhK_y9aVPTiMED/w640-h480/20230518_112243.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuoB0QMHyJ0Fn-LfJyfYorR2UHxaeRzu8fp-ELqPgci-xaPn5MpwAa9eZR2c8OqjB6Nt9AmK6Cr68xbmXeRWGs-mFnz69C-KtRtr2Xj8-S0N1O2BiqRxeTquD8HJYi_-MYnOo-Md7VY9qrdACNZwv-VH1CCm9OsLiiJyJlxMQDGPk4Ep7WlY3VcaRiCaj/s4000/20230518_112255.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuoB0QMHyJ0Fn-LfJyfYorR2UHxaeRzu8fp-ELqPgci-xaPn5MpwAa9eZR2c8OqjB6Nt9AmK6Cr68xbmXeRWGs-mFnz69C-KtRtr2Xj8-S0N1O2BiqRxeTquD8HJYi_-MYnOo-Md7VY9qrdACNZwv-VH1CCm9OsLiiJyJlxMQDGPk4Ep7WlY3VcaRiCaj/w640-h480/20230518_112255.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBBtg1WGccCWPJjNqjceEeoNKfry0TXaaFnvospXo45CcuB35rXF5lJ3DQMorFv7xOicRlMvMkqClJpWo-mNrYD2YR-pwvk90a1hvJlZhV3eIrzz9clbEozsDtTtfOVMR68COayv4YwZ9YAPABEEKpN869rd2rw8sK7mTCJ_hss1sRRPc_AazRlv9Xevfq/s4000/20230518_112349.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBBtg1WGccCWPJjNqjceEeoNKfry0TXaaFnvospXo45CcuB35rXF5lJ3DQMorFv7xOicRlMvMkqClJpWo-mNrYD2YR-pwvk90a1hvJlZhV3eIrzz9clbEozsDtTtfOVMR68COayv4YwZ9YAPABEEKpN869rd2rw8sK7mTCJ_hss1sRRPc_AazRlv9Xevfq/w640-h480/20230518_112349.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNtuIRYgtR7fwLJnBVdIbXx-G4_VtoTtkCsVLOVs6vUcr6x5X0KJBzfdqYZaAINSzODrHYR7ZHj1hBLZXt8rwDkDwOyKfghahvp-gJZ7I-UXCv3DhTCa2EnM1ZJVG-by2SJa-NrEZTBNoaLs5H0y4zxZ4BmLQuRQOCSHSoJue4m3bFvVqp4prPPtskPYN/s4000/20230518_113756.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcNtuIRYgtR7fwLJnBVdIbXx-G4_VtoTtkCsVLOVs6vUcr6x5X0KJBzfdqYZaAINSzODrHYR7ZHj1hBLZXt8rwDkDwOyKfghahvp-gJZ7I-UXCv3DhTCa2EnM1ZJVG-by2SJa-NrEZTBNoaLs5H0y4zxZ4BmLQuRQOCSHSoJue4m3bFvVqp4prPPtskPYN/w640-h480/20230518_113756.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0TzJT9NLxOCggo8QwPwY17Ozscc5m_Bs_9HnIiivnS8nSXupRo7EHX-kJs5cgukd7uNQzKbh_JwzvGXXYLDuHaQBu3u99ax70TVJz5qC3OhXOFrpyPvFFJXSisCDBWHgPReCjxhPeeBuJOcGKxE9-iJlee0p4MS4j5zy4sX7SdFzd7Dz7BD4kxoKmwgl/s4000/20230518_113801.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0TzJT9NLxOCggo8QwPwY17Ozscc5m_Bs_9HnIiivnS8nSXupRo7EHX-kJs5cgukd7uNQzKbh_JwzvGXXYLDuHaQBu3u99ax70TVJz5qC3OhXOFrpyPvFFJXSisCDBWHgPReCjxhPeeBuJOcGKxE9-iJlee0p4MS4j5zy4sX7SdFzd7Dz7BD4kxoKmwgl/w640-h480/20230518_113801.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vdc9-XeZ7cgHyQZAMKYjstbkrKj7PIMWeBbvFsyL0osLRJMOu75x799BlhyDcLtHCIGlusC8BT50uPiCLbH2D-SDynS5rJtjD2yBT68O9nabx7ae0aFGFXuZUxMWJyC92u2ij55RacDVxDn7KzoTbbkQACaFutCQcPaMN5ppPi_DlPCd0a8dnPgnL1jf/s4000/20230518_113926.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vdc9-XeZ7cgHyQZAMKYjstbkrKj7PIMWeBbvFsyL0osLRJMOu75x799BlhyDcLtHCIGlusC8BT50uPiCLbH2D-SDynS5rJtjD2yBT68O9nabx7ae0aFGFXuZUxMWJyC92u2ij55RacDVxDn7KzoTbbkQACaFutCQcPaMN5ppPi_DlPCd0a8dnPgnL1jf/w640-h480/20230518_113926.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlshH9RybsmZWNfTuhBynlyij_1t3Ag2_jlEpFhKaF5rEZ55sGsjoS4MttphApGIbNvptPd7gs3B1AeeExzNIR_whOwhnU8gV9jYVYf8XazUnLqnKy5UbPMmE6O_C3iDPEQJ09PHZ4T5ODiciV71Hq80N0KArYfz3hNIeyDHubsKcc3JH0JGpayQzi78PB/s4000/20230518_114109.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlshH9RybsmZWNfTuhBynlyij_1t3Ag2_jlEpFhKaF5rEZ55sGsjoS4MttphApGIbNvptPd7gs3B1AeeExzNIR_whOwhnU8gV9jYVYf8XazUnLqnKy5UbPMmE6O_C3iDPEQJ09PHZ4T5ODiciV71Hq80N0KArYfz3hNIeyDHubsKcc3JH0JGpayQzi78PB/w640-h480/20230518_114109.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Tokyo Street View</h3><br />From the bustling Tokyo Street View, car horns blare and neon signs flicker, while just beyond the wall, Ninomaru Garden's koi glide silently through emerald water.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_sKir1bFAzsgnQO_KoCuQM4PkMdASjcccuy4utiUsxa_GxpAMiuhytO1shcARlV3f6PVnbmIDLXP846D7i67H8C7njYTgoXZ_5qkVXv5AyeJELU-CWR_q7xBTP_rQ4Y9Fgohw6sueR7cvEI1y5mAefg6BlNAOM8-H6IQEdp0srvZ27I5MNK8YU7EscOa/s4000/20230518_110542.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_sKir1bFAzsgnQO_KoCuQM4PkMdASjcccuy4utiUsxa_GxpAMiuhytO1shcARlV3f6PVnbmIDLXP846D7i67H8C7njYTgoXZ_5qkVXv5AyeJELU-CWR_q7xBTP_rQ4Y9Fgohw6sueR7cvEI1y5mAefg6BlNAOM8-H6IQEdp0srvZ27I5MNK8YU7EscOa/w640-h480/20230518_110542.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The imperial palace is surrounded by a wide wall</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqak-LQ__egwc0As0XCgvFOGo82oDndEYnCqF6nTY9KEvBa0_dkW5EBAwEMUuGFsfqCkY7gCe_EPkg7RDA1xb8n8boF42Mp5hLUNG6914lcM7L2tatTSfhym6vNGZ3IX8SUP_kVn2CbVbMxE7BQcKYKtHYgsM5_HtoOpG_u35Vn6C9TOlQPcwzVe76PCH2/s4000/20230518_110606.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqak-LQ__egwc0As0XCgvFOGo82oDndEYnCqF6nTY9KEvBa0_dkW5EBAwEMUuGFsfqCkY7gCe_EPkg7RDA1xb8n8boF42Mp5hLUNG6914lcM7L2tatTSfhym6vNGZ3IX8SUP_kVn2CbVbMxE7BQcKYKtHYgsM5_HtoOpG_u35Vn6C9TOlQPcwzVe76PCH2/w640-h480/20230518_110606.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHHsXam67I-_PhM91rL8VocX6rG6gMPNLGS799opA-t-PmsL411Sz0ILfMZR_lNX1gJIUuew1PGeTOVQ8LMky_7_W5kUeQ8Ug5pbZRBj2UhxKqJDNKzaQnn49JewPRSie29817us2r_OnT7XaARwn14r3tqbqowF6RIg1JlY9NfF9UYrdGf65mWnxLhUZ/s4000/20230518_103416.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHHsXam67I-_PhM91rL8VocX6rG6gMPNLGS799opA-t-PmsL411Sz0ILfMZR_lNX1gJIUuew1PGeTOVQ8LMky_7_W5kUeQ8Ug5pbZRBj2UhxKqJDNKzaQnn49JewPRSie29817us2r_OnT7XaARwn14r3tqbqowF6RIg1JlY9NfF9UYrdGf65mWnxLhUZ/w480-h640/20230518_103416.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Tokyo Station</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1D4Eyt2YehGj2b4gIdbRFhBtK037iKaJET8IQQJzDy931WfaoCmxKe753KQR7cs3oq5QHm6hYlJZ0fXupm1VxDAz7DUqN6m8pMKfAaM5p-UcNbHITBG5npA1fupN38yVURHm33t2SKGo6SiiRzfTxT8DhPGRkFYUgJhINOwJAwGuHt0ABIMEFJ9QpPxW7/s4000/20230518_104352.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1D4Eyt2YehGj2b4gIdbRFhBtK037iKaJET8IQQJzDy931WfaoCmxKe753KQR7cs3oq5QHm6hYlJZ0fXupm1VxDAz7DUqN6m8pMKfAaM5p-UcNbHITBG5npA1fupN38yVURHm33t2SKGo6SiiRzfTxT8DhPGRkFYUgJhINOwJAwGuHt0ABIMEFJ9QpPxW7/w640-h480/20230518_104352.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoPHIMlB6-TDTYCj44jt0o6G080BD1yo5HROD5Bw4uxraQGg_ruAG16pxrGPhmRjFZn-ud5LM9Sssoj5M0K4OL1_QhK95wOoMHwkcWi2rG16_M5I0i3yGLXeNM1V1EzXyI4UindD11oG8KZbS-K-YWJfQpJ0l8DlJZQxe7s9WaabDGnNU3mAROLEmXe6vE/s4000/20230518_125837.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoPHIMlB6-TDTYCj44jt0o6G080BD1yo5HROD5Bw4uxraQGg_ruAG16pxrGPhmRjFZn-ud5LM9Sssoj5M0K4OL1_QhK95wOoMHwkcWi2rG16_M5I0i3yGLXeNM1V1EzXyI4UindD11oG8KZbS-K-YWJfQpJ0l8DlJZQxe7s9WaabDGnNU3mAROLEmXe6vE/w480-h640/20230518_125837.jpg" width="420" /></a></div></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-48368075596634739132023-12-23T12:35:00.000-08:002024-03-18T08:28:50.078-07:00Valley of Mist and Majesty: Unveiling Noboribetsu's Geothermal Wonderland<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bZoxrwhbWaw?si=HwKRD32YjbtPUGTg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Japan's Famous Hot Spring/ Noboribetsu Onsen in Hokkaido (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZoxrwhbWaw" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></span></div><br /><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noboribetsu" target="_blank">Noboribetsu</a> is a unique and fascinating destination worth considering if you enjoy:<div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Natural beauty and volcanic landscapes</li><li>Relaxing hot springs and cultural experiences</li><li>Exploring charming towns and trying delicious local food</li></ul><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDX-tQLBCrOLx_EZeM2y2WLPvZ0d07EToQYRlRKkmj32x5T1MGl9HPhF_DBnw3DZKQya2LmgF-oGVwCI8kcZTNG1UVlN36k4orc4xBoTEAQEHA27V_K00iizXyjCTEPQTABKHkFceUj0yUw9anzx0XtMT5rsjuaEpbZfyalHvPlWBcHyQIw__H76-109Gs/s1520/NoboribetsuOnsen.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="1520" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDX-tQLBCrOLx_EZeM2y2WLPvZ0d07EToQYRlRKkmj32x5T1MGl9HPhF_DBnw3DZKQya2LmgF-oGVwCI8kcZTNG1UVlN36k4orc4xBoTEAQEHA27V_K00iizXyjCTEPQTABKHkFceUj0yUw9anzx0XtMT5rsjuaEpbZfyalHvPlWBcHyQIw__H76-109Gs/w640-h230/NoboribetsuOnsen.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Reaching <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Noboribetsu+Onsen,+Noboribetsuonsencho,+Noboribetsu,+Hokkaido+059-0551,+Japan/@42.4941298,141.1341918,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f7566c69162fc67:0x45ed3607ddc6a811!8m2!3d42.4924775!4d141.1430592!16s%2Fg%2F1229_rt7?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Noboribetsu Onsen (登別温泉)</a> and its Bear Park: Three Options Await</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eNQPPDhXIACAsOlgs7_cAJIbINeVTqgoUAHxC4AA7kCMCs0VWPSfiENf69cA9ClIDLmIaa0BtH2PETKdc5QqobNK6fXgph0iQVIKBtF3bVJOLYWfpfohPrf6JTH4P99Yh31lTwbXQVzFBCr3FuNexvCuteUtNwavknNQkE7km07XmVBAyFq1tDn2HF7C/s1224/DonanBus.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1224" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eNQPPDhXIACAsOlgs7_cAJIbINeVTqgoUAHxC4AA7kCMCs0VWPSfiENf69cA9ClIDLmIaa0BtH2PETKdc5QqobNK6fXgph0iQVIKBtF3bVJOLYWfpfohPrf6JTH4P99Yh31lTwbXQVzFBCr3FuNexvCuteUtNwavknNQkE7km07XmVBAyFq1tDn2HF7C/w640-h384/DonanBus.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Suburban route bus (<a href="https://www.donanbus.co.jp/kougai/" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">How to Access </h3><br />Upon landing at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/New+Chitose+Airport/@42.7804948,141.6859077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f7520459d5c1add:0x1aba607ce5f681f6!8m2!3d42.7804909!4d141.6884826!16zL20vMDIyMmgx?entry=ttu" target="_blank">CTS Airport</a> (New Chitose Airport), travelers have three diverse options to journey to Noboribetsu Onsen: the scenic train ride, the convenient express bus, or the self-paced exploration by car.<br /></div><div><br /></div><b><u>Announcement from JR Hokkaido</u></b><div><br />From Spring 2024, JR Hokkaido enhances travel comfort and eases boarding anxieties by <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">introducing <b>all-reserved seating</b> on select limited express trains. </span>This change applies to the <blockquote style="text-align: left;"><b>Hokuto</b> (Sapporo - Hakodate) <br /><b>Suzuran</b> (Sapporo - <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">Noboribetsu</span>/Higashi-Muroran/Muroran) <br /><b>Ozora</b> (Sapporo - Kushiro)<br /><b>Tokachi</b> (Sapporo - Obihiro) limited express trains</blockquote>along with an increase in the total number of reserved seats. More details can be read <a href="https://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/CM/Info/news_en/pdf/all_reserved_202311_en.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>For a guaranteed seat and a stress-free experience, advance reservations are highly recommended for travel to Noboribetsu Onsen by <a href="https://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/" target="_blank">express train</a> or <a href="https://www.donanbus.co.jp/map/newchitose_airport/?hp_lang=en" target="_blank">express bus</a> (reserved seat only; see <a href="https://www.donanbus.co.jp/map/newchitose_airport/?hp_lang=en" target="_blank">link</a>).<div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zW6KFLjiAeg?si=Ow6ts5Sssu35Y4lu" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Jigokudani/Bear Park, Japan Travel (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW6KFLjiAeg" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">Nearby Activities</h3></div><div><br /></div><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Jigokudani+(Hell+Valley)/@42.4976374,141.1302062,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f7566c28ae3ffff:0xc7b5b02adcffbecc!8m2!3d42.4976231!4d141.1486602!16s%2Fg%2F121f48wm?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Noboribetsu Jigokudani</a> (Hell valley)</b>: This enormous hole in the ground, left behind by a fiery Mount Kuttara eruption, is a whopping 450 meters wide and covers some 11 hectares. Every day, a mind-blowing 10,000 tons of hot spring goodness in all its forms shoots out of this place, keeping Onsen town's cozy lodgings nice and toasty. For some Japanese folks, watching all that boiling and bubbling is like looking into the bubbling pits of Hell – where, you know, the demons hang out.<div><br /></div><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Oyunuma+Pond/@42.5022219,141.142598,17z/data=!4m10!1m2!2m1!1sOyunuma+Lake!3m6!1s0x5f7566e6653f7ca9:0x7815d3d111576b54!8m2!3d42.5023601!4d141.1471995!15sCgxPeXVudW1hIExha2WSAQtzY2VuaWNfc3BvdOABAA!16s%2Fg%2F11bwfklf01?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Oyunuma</a></b>: a gourd-shaped crater lake created by an eruption of Mount Hiyori, boasts a circumference of approximately one kilometer. Its depths conceal a boiling sulfurous hot spring, erupting at a scorching 130°C. Even the lake's surface betrays its fiery heart, with grayish-black water maintaining a constant temperature between 40°C and 50°C. Historically, a local industry thrived upon the collection of sulfur that accumulated on the lakebed.<br /><br /><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/River+Oyunuma+Natural+Footbath/@42.5020798,141.1405715,17z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x5f7566c4040b7cdd:0xec368ce23a2a6a97!2sRiver+Oyunuma+Natural+Footbath!8m2!3d42.5020759!4d141.1431464!16s%2Fg%2F1hc1dh376!3m5!1s0x5f7566c4040b7cdd:0xec368ce23a2a6a97!8m2!3d42.5020759!4d141.1431464!16s%2Fg%2F1hc1dh376?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Oyunuma Brook Natural Footbath</a></b>: Along the Oyunuma Brook Scenic Trail, near Taisho Hell, a natural footbath invites weary travelers to soak in the soothing hot spring water cascading from Oyunuma. Immersed in nature, surrounded by the invigorating scent of the forest, you can melt away the fatigue of journey and exploration.<div><br /></div><b>Geyser in Sengen Park</b>: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sengen+Park+(geyser)/@42.4949791,141.1414191,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f7566c3ed1d1e19:0x18a67bc53add9e32!8m2!3d42.4949752!4d141.143994!16s%2Fg%2F11bwfk9yd3?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Sengen Park</a> boasts a geyser that erupts from alongside a stream of hot spring water flowing from Hell Valley. Every three hours, visitors witness the geyser's dramatic spectacle. Sights and sounds build anticipation: pressure mounts, culminating in a powerful eruption that sends a cloud of steam skyward.<br /><br /><b>The cherry blossom avenues</b>: In mid-May, Noboribetsu Onsen bursts into life with a vibrant welcome. Over 2,000 cherry blossom trees, lovingly nurtured by the local community, transform the roads leading to both Noboribetsu and Karurusu Onsen into enchanting flower tunnels. These blossoms offer a stunning spectacle, drawing eager visitors to experience the region's geothermal wonders amidst a breathtaking floral display.<div><br /></div><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lake+Kuttara/@42.5000111,141.1614598,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f75665c2dccc987:0x53b50311e1a9fc3a!8m2!3d42.501977!4d141.1836194!16s%2Fm%2F047syr4?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lake Kuttara</a></b>: Its mesmerizing waters tracing a near-perfect circle some eight kilometers in circumference, hides a fiery past within its volcanic caldera. This mystical beauty possesses some of the county's clearest waters, captivating visitors with its pristine depths. Adding to its allure, <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lake+Kuttara/@42.5000111,141.1614598,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f75665c2dccc987:0x53b50311e1a9fc3a!8m2!3d42.501977!4d141.1836194!16s%2Fm%2F047syr4?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lake Kuttara</a> stands unique in its closed-loop hydrology, with not a single river flowing in or out.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Oo2FjTnaQV8?si=DRBRNRn7iLzTAzmo" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Staying at the BIGGEST Onsen Ryokan HOT SPRINGS in JAPAN (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oo2FjTnaQV8&t=12s" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">References</h3><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://bearpark.jp/en-access/" target="_blank">How to access Noboribetsu Bearpark</a></li><li><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6752.html" target="_blank">Hot Spring Baths - Noboribetsu</a></li><li><a href="https://donanbus.eexpress.jp/bus_search/hokkaido/all/hokkaido/all/" target="_blank">Donan Bus</a> (道南バス; <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">reservation required</span>)</li><ul><li>Intercity bus map (<a href="https://www.donanbus.co.jp/en/" target="_blank">link</a>)</li><li>To make reservation, it will be redirected to <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">Willer Travel</span> website (<a href="https://willerexpress.com/en/" target="_blank">link</a>)</li></ul><li>How to get reserved seat tickets by reserved seat ticket vending machine (<a href="https://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/pdf/e-railpass-machine.pdf" target="_blank">pdf</a>)</li><li><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5306.html" target="_blank">Sapporo: Getting there and around</a></li><li><a href="http://www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/niseko-united-annapurigrand-hirafuhanazononiseko-village/trail-map/">ski resort information</a></li><li><a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6745.html">定山渓温泉, Jōzankei Onsen</a></li><li><a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5306.html">How to travel between Sapporo and Tokyo</a></li><li><a href="http://www.shogetsugrand.com/english/jozankei/">Taking a stroll around Jozankei</a></li><li><a href="http://jozankei.jp/en/category/tourism-and-stroll">Jozankei Onsen Tourist Asso</a></li><li><a href="http://jozankei.jp/en/sapporo-kokusai-ski-resort/442">Jozankei Kogen Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort</a></li><li><a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6720.html">Niseko</a> (Japan-guide)</li><li><a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/14411687?checkin=03%2F31%2F2017&checkout=04%2F07%2F2017&guests=1&adults=1&children=0&infants=0&s=cmIWml_X">Airbnb</a></li><li><a href="http://www.sufentan.com/2016/06/hokkaido-8-days-7-nights-winter.html">Hokkaido 8 days 7 nights Winter Itinerary</a></li><li><a href="https://www.city.otaru.lg.jp/sisei_tokei/otaru/foreigner/otaru-map.data/omote-en.pdf">Otaru Tourism Access Guide</a> (pdf)</li><li><a href="http://www.powderhounds.com/Japan/Hokkaido/Furano.aspx">Furano Ski</a></li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYKsVGXzOYY&t=217s">Journeys in Japan: Niseko - Snowy Adventures</a></li><li><a href="http://www.iamili.com/">ili translator</a></li><li><a href="https://www.busytourist.com/things-to-do-in-hokkaido-japan/">Hokkaido Travel Guide: 54 Things To Do In Hokkaido (Japan)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqZA5-gCFyY">Biei, Hokkaido Layers of beauty in the Patchwork Hills</a></li></ol></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-39708673014239617002023-12-22T18:48:00.000-08:002024-03-12T19:26:01.804-07:00Hakodate: Where Mountains Meet the Sea, and History Whispers<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8yexhcI1P_U?si=N74-zCROBAxHx4ki" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">10 Things to do in Hakodate, Hokkaido (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yexhcI1P_U" target="_blank">link</a>)</span></b></div><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Must-Do's in Hakodate</h3><br />Here's a the top 10 things you must do when visiting <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hakodate" target="_blank">Hakodate</a>, Hokkaido:<br /><br />1. <b>A Morning Market Seafood Adventure</b>: Waking up in Hakodate, the invigorating sea air whispers promises of culinary delights. And where better to fulfill those promises than at the bustling <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hakodate+Morning+Market+Ekini+Market/@41.772337,140.7067441,15z/data=!3m1!5s0x5f9ef3a1f95e0fc3:0xffb8bcad59051447!4m10!1m2!2m1!1sMorning+Market+!3m6!1s0x5f9ef3a1f07738f5:0xe47eb57cda1a1f95!8m2!3d41.7724585!4d140.7256912!15sCg5Nb3JuaW5nIE1hcmtldFoQIg5tb3JuaW5nIG1hcmtldJIBDnNlYWZvb2RfbWFya2V0mgEjQ2haRFNVaE5NRzluUzBWSlEwRm5TVU5HYkdJemJFNUJFQUXgAQA!16s%2Fg%2F11cmtrmldl?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Hakodate Morning Market</a>, a treasure trove of fresh seafood practically leaping from the stalls?<br /><br />2. <b>Kanemori Red Brick Legacy</b>: Step back in time at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kanemori+Red+Brick+Warehouse/@41.7664967,140.7138028,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f9ef3a8785f50a3:0xe796ba2772ca1f8!8m2!3d41.7664927!4d140.7163777!16s%2Fg%2F1219h35q?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses</a>, charming remnants of Hakodate's trading past. Browse local crafts, savor gelato in an atmospheric setting, or enjoy a romantic harborside dinner.<br /><br />3. <b>Goryokaku's Starry Secrets</b>: Explore the unique star-shaped <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Gory%C5%8Dkaku/@41.7958012,140.752827,17z/data=!4m10!1m2!2m1!1sgoryokaku+fort!3m6!1s0x5f9ef46bcb8d5525:0xa9e4bd2d96c4d502!8m2!3d41.7969245!4d140.7567838!15sCg5nb3J5b2tha3UgZm9ydFoQIg5nb3J5b2tha3UgZm9ydJIBDWhpc3RvcmljX3NpdGWaASNDaFpEU1VoTk1HOW5TMFZKUTBGblNVTjRORGd5VTFwM0VBReABAA!16zL20vMDVoNzFz?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Goryokaku Fort</a>, a historical gem and scenic park. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Goryokaku+Park+Boat+Rental/@41.7951985,140.7532738,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f9ef4695443785f:0x29fcd107d1066063!8m2!3d41.7951945!4d140.7558487!16s%2Fg%2F11bycl5lb_?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Rent a boat</a> and navigate the moat, learn about samurai history from informative plaques, or enjoy a picnic amidst the <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">cherry blossoms in spring</span>. For breathtaking panoramic views, don't miss the chance to ascend the majestic <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Gory%C5%8Dkaku+Tower/@41.7946844,140.735566,15z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x5f9ef46c1ee53197:0xb7095d7dcd759014!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f9ef46bb53c0eb3:0x75f5f82028f1a89e!8m2!3d41.7946699!4d140.75402!16s%2Fg%2F120kngn6?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Goryokaku Tower</a>.<br /><br />4. <b>Slurp Up Savory Salt Ramen</b>: Refuel with Hakodate's signature "shio ramen", a local favorite, for its rich chicken broth, thin noodles, and melt-in-your-mouth pork belly. <br /><br />5. <b>Climb Hachimanzaka's Steep Charm</b>: Tackle the picturesque <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hachiman-Zaka+Slope/@41.7639052,140.7015046,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f9ef3aa2754fc4f:0x3626c1996788b95e!8m2!3d41.7639012!4d140.7118043!16s%2Fg%2F11gdybgpdp?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Hachiman-Zaka Slope</a> (八幡坂), lined with traditional wooden houses and offering postcard-perfect views of the harbor. Stop for a photo op at the iconic Shinto shrine at the top and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.<br /><br />6. <b>Escape to Green Island Paradise</b>: Take a ferry to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Midori+no+Shima/@41.7707188,140.7113102,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f9ef3a504c57ab3:0x840f608132ba1de5!8m2!3d41.7707148!4d140.7138851!16s%2Fg%2F1213jckb?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Midori no Shima</a> (緑の島), a tiny island covered in lush greenery. Explore peaceful hiking trails, or soak in the stunning panoramic views of the Hakodate skyline.<br /><br />7. <b>Bite into Lucky Pierrot's Quirky Goodness</b>: Hakodate's local fast-food chain, <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lucky+Pierrot+Hakodate+Ekimae+branch/@41.7720658,140.7255634,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sAF1QipMHtIcBwP4p2_tGSGkPNHldA9FNSS9mQq5cNH06!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipMHtIcBwP4p2_tGSGkPNHldA9FNSS9mQq5cNH06%3Dw203-h152-k-no!7i1479!8i1109!4m11!1m2!2m1!1sLucky+Pierrot!3m7!1s0x5f9ef39effffffff:0x6f1f53fab9096468!8m2!3d41.7717666!4d140.7255401!10e5!15sCg1MdWNreSBQaWVycm90IgOIAQFaDyINbHVja3kgcGllcnJvdJIBFGhhbWJ1cmdlcl9yZXN0YXVyYW504AEA!16s%2Fg%2F11fpgqfx3r?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Lucky Pierrot</a>, is more than just burgers and fries. Try their their "Chinese Chicken Burger," known as "Chai Chiki" by locals, is no joke. This monster burger, with its triple stack of juicy, crispy chicken, is a Hakodate must-try.<br /><br />8. <b>Catch Sunset Magic at Cape Tachimachi</b>: Witness breathtaking sunsets at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/cape+tachimachi/@41.7463512,140.6977109,14z/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Cape Tachimachi</a>, where the rugged cliffs meet the sea. Enjoy panoramic views of the Hakodate coastline, stroll along the scenic walking path, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of nature.<br /><br />9. <b>Immerse Yourself in the Natural Splendor of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Onuma+Quasi-National+Park/@41.9679015,140.7469212,11z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x5f9e454dd910b16d:0xf1c6f47c211f8c8d!2sOfune+Site+of+the+Jomon+Era!8m2!3d41.957686!4d140.925449!16s%2Fg%2F11c619ljw2!3m5!1s0x5f9e545a5884f355:0x7820534908f6af4d!8m2!3d41.9838473!4d140.6721442!16s%2Fm%2F03cm4y2?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Onuma Quasi-National Park</a></b>: Lace up your hiking boots or hop on a bike and explore the park's network of trails. Gaze up at the majestic silhouette of <a href="http://onumakouen.com/en/feature_mt_komagatake/" target="_blank">Mt. Komagatake</a>, a dormant volcano that dominates the park's landscape. Embark on a peaceful boat tour on one of the park's many lakes. Glide across the glassy waters, soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. <div><br />10. <b>Witness the City Sparkle from Mt. Hakodate</b>: Experience Hakodate's iconic night view from <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Mount+Hakodate/@41.7593238,140.6833173,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m10!3m9!1s0x5f9ef2558c0649a9:0x3aa277addb8f3ebe!5m3!1s2024-01-15!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d41.7592941!4d140.703917!16s%2Fm%2F0bwly51?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Mt. Hakodate</a>. Take the aerial ropeway for a magical ascent, then be mesmerized by the twinkling city lights spread out below like a diamond-studded ocean.<br /><br />Don't forget to factor in seasonal experiences! Witness the cherry blossoms in spring, the vibrant summer festivals, the stunning autumn foliage, or the enchanting winter wonderland.<br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwFRL4TreQxurETlnEZOlRQ73IexnZk6f68w8CSLq4wmAkGzkdbplhQE8lclWOa7icyyvZuwOroWnwS80xIa3oGDWaTOJv1Jq0-_GTD9eGMOXKytNfS1VohjKPWTKXBr6Ac7PswABdIUdXQbg6IUWmrw5lEu0SqM_37GHEPP0tegVH6fmR9sEtzFhNyol/s1045/JR%20Hokkaido%20Railway%20Map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1045" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwFRL4TreQxurETlnEZOlRQ73IexnZk6f68w8CSLq4wmAkGzkdbplhQE8lclWOa7icyyvZuwOroWnwS80xIa3oGDWaTOJv1Jq0-_GTD9eGMOXKytNfS1VohjKPWTKXBr6Ac7PswABdIUdXQbg6IUWmrw5lEu0SqM_37GHEPP0tegVH6fmR9sEtzFhNyol/w640-h464/JR%20Hokkaido%20Railway%20Map.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>JR Hokkaido Railway Train Index (</b><a href="https://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global/english/train/index.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">link</a><b>; use <a href="https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/Top/Index" target="_blank">JR-East Train Reservation</a> website to book a ticket)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><span style="font-size: 18.72px; font-weight: 700;">References</span><br /><div><ol><li><a href="https://www.hakodate.travel/en/top7/" target="_blank">Hakodate's Most Popular 7 Destinations</a></li><li><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5353.html" target="_blank">Morning Market</a> </li><li><a href="https://hakodate-kanemori.com/en" target="_blank">Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse</a></li><li><a href="http://onumakouen.com/en/feature_mt_komagatake/" target="_blank">Mt. Komagatake in Hokkaido</a></li><li><a href="https://www.hakodate.travel/en/sightseeing-spots/view/cape-tachimachi/" target="_blank">Cape Tachimachi</a></li><li><a href="https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/Top/Index" target="_blank">JR-East Train Reservation</a></li><ul><li><a href="https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/reserve/wb/RouteSearchConditionInputByLine/Index" target="_blank">Purchase ticket without pass</a></li><ul><li><a href="https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/reserve/wb/RouteSearchConditionInputByLine/Index" target="_blank">Search by route</a></li><li><a href="https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/reserve/wb/RouteSearchConditionInputByStation/Index" target="_blank">Search by station</a></li></ul></ul><li><a href="https://www.jrailpass.com/blog/vocabulary-train-travel-japan" target="_blank">Useful vocabulary for train travel in Japan</a></li><li><a href="https://jw-webmagazine.com/useful-japanese-phrases-at-train-stations/" target="_blank">Useful Japanese Phrases to use at Train Stations</a></li></ol></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4254924029495076983.post-27445156961665663242023-12-21T20:03:00.000-08:002024-02-18T10:43:12.278-08:00Get Lost in "Little Kyoto": A Kanazawa Adventure for the Wandering Soul<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NOfHCBA8Kss?si=fWyVMCga-xuSlBwo" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Top 5 Things to do in Kanazawa (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOfHCBA8Kss" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><p><br /></p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanazawa" target="_blank">Kanazawa</a> is often called "Little Kyoto" because it offers a similar experience with traditional Japanese culture, but with fewer crowds and a more laid-back atmosphere. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kanazawa,+Ishikawa,+Japan/@36.5716772,136.6567953,13z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x5ff83655468566c3:0x8df155c46fde6215!8m2!3d36.5610309!4d136.6566474!16zL20vMGdwNXFs?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kanazawa</a> is beautiful year-round, but the <b>best time to visit</b> is <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">during the spring or fall</span>.<div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUycPftFTJKaDQhMR-TBuVaakjsU25VF_7-CnPH6ZARWxe6WFGEcU4Q5w2KXikjzZGYOQFNX4Jq5pHiA4w17mrSeiLg3Y7HzhOQCbikNeiL3z9jzbOyabwDamgyXkAHCyrBXN8Xz319XAxj_AYZuUaf1XoN-TwRjCGu1R8iMIgNAsIO2FjqxhojslIa8V/s1257/Kanazawa.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="1257" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUycPftFTJKaDQhMR-TBuVaakjsU25VF_7-CnPH6ZARWxe6WFGEcU4Q5w2KXikjzZGYOQFNX4Jq5pHiA4w17mrSeiLg3Y7HzhOQCbikNeiL3z9jzbOyabwDamgyXkAHCyrBXN8Xz319XAxj_AYZuUaf1XoN-TwRjCGu1R8iMIgNAsIO2FjqxhojslIa8V/w640-h342/Kanazawa.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Click <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1i466jagLhMvxq_iHwfKztXCLi8uVWXo&usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a> for an interactive Takayama map on Google MyMaps</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Things to Do</h3><div><br /></div><div>Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kanazawa,+Ishikawa,+Japan/@36.5716772,136.6567953,13z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x5ff83655468566c3:0x8df155c46fde6215!8m2!3d36.5610309!4d136.6566474!16zL20vMGdwNXFs?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kanazawa</a>:<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stunning Scenery</span></h3><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kenroku-en/@36.5621321,136.6600766,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5ff83383f9b25905:0x970a7b3df003f2e4!8m2!3d36.5621278!4d136.6626515!16zL20vMDJsNnZ4?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kenroku-en Garden</a></b>: Considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan, <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kenroku-en/@36.5621321,136.6600766,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5ff83383f9b25905:0x970a7b3df003f2e4!8m2!3d36.5621278!4d136.6626515!16zL20vMDJsNnZ4?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kenroku-en</a> boasts incredible landscaping, ponds, and teahouses.</li><li><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Higashi+Chaya+District/@36.5724964,136.6644066,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5ff83374a1baf0b1:0xbb8c7a215e6a0d74!8m2!3d36.5724921!4d136.6669815!16s%2Fg%2F1z449xs7l?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Higashi Chaya District</a></b>: This well-preserved geisha district is lined with traditional wooden houses and offers a glimpse into the world of geisha.</li><li><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4204.html" target="_blank"><b>Nagamachi Samurai District</b></a></u></span>: Nagamachi Samurai District is a charming neighborhood in Kanazawa that offers a glimpse into the lives of samurai warriors and their families.</li><li><b>Myoryuji Temple</b>: This ninja temple is shrouded in mystery and intrigue, with hidden passages and secret rooms.</li><li><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/Kanazawa+Castle/@36.5657732,136.6566376,17z/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu" target="_blank">Kanazawa Castle</a></b>: This impressive castle was once the seat of the powerful Maeda clan.</li><li><b>Nomura Samurai House</b>: Step back in time and explore this well-preserved samurai residence.</li><li><b><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4207.html" target="_blank">Omicho Market</a></b>: This bustling market is a great place to experience local life and sample fresh seafood and other delicacies.</li><li><a href="https://kaname-inn.com/ideas/kimono-silk-kaga-yuzen/">Kaga Yuzen Kimono</a>: Learn about the traditional art of Kaga Yuzen kimono making, and even try on a kimono yourself.</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qE1iMiB0XeQ?si=e70qWmpMyhi-lxPH" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Ryotei (料亭refers to a traditional Japanese restaurant) -Peak Hospitality (YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qE1iMiB0XeQ" target="_blank">link</a>)</b></span></div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Delicious Food</span></h3><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Kanazawa seafood</b>: The city is known for its fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and tempura.</li><li><a href="https://experience-kanazawa.com/cuisine/kagaryori.html" target="_blank"><b>Kaga Ryori</b></a>: Jibuni (duck in broth), Hasu-mushi (steamed minced lotus root) and gori kara-age (deep fried tiny fresh water fish) are three popular Kaga-ryori dishes. These dishes are usually served on colorful Kutani porcelain, or lacquerware made in Ishikawa, and taste as excellent as they look!</li><li><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2312.html" target="_blank"><b>Wagashi</b></a> (Japanese confections) of Kanazawa: Admired for its ability to be sampled by the 5 senses of taste, smell, touch, sight and hearing.</li><li><a href="https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14816666" target="_blank"><b>Kaburazushi</b></a> - Made with turnips, rice, and fish like yellowtail or mackerel, Kabura-zushi undergoes a natural lactic acid fermentation process over several weeks, resulting in a complex and tangy flavor profile.</li><li><a href="http://gokan-gochisou-kanazawa.jp/en/culture/27.html#:~:text=Kanazawa%20is%20a%20mecca%20for,an%20indispencible%20ingredient%20for%20breweries." target="_blank"><b>Kanazawa Sake</b></a>: There are several reasons why high quality sake can be brewed in the area around Kanazawa. The first reason is the presence of an abundance of clean water, an indispensable ingredient for breweries.</li></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizYa5gn-GV0A5PwXvf9nAbTX-TJbmgLSWd8V5lYqpKMofOxgX7G8iiJ4GFyU7j5n0oM549V_PbkGTU93MuD_FYv5HqLMNQ0ox5z7bqqIx33pa2m1SQ0Dwu6KgJQTm_Pk6t8Krwl7I-Ylq45RJxLV0g5BHdW5XDqeDnt0YiG6_LaWXyfIEALvdAe_9-wFEK/s1863/CentralNipponHighwayTrafficInfo.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="879" data-original-width="1863" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizYa5gn-GV0A5PwXvf9nAbTX-TJbmgLSWd8V5lYqpKMofOxgX7G8iiJ4GFyU7j5n0oM549V_PbkGTU93MuD_FYv5HqLMNQ0ox5z7bqqIx33pa2m1SQ0Dwu6KgJQTm_Pk6t8Krwl7I-Ylq45RJxLV0g5BHdW5XDqeDnt0YiG6_LaWXyfIEALvdAe_9-wFEK/w640-h302/CentralNipponHighwayTrafficInfo.jpg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-size: x-small;">The <b>landmass </b>in the upper left, resembling a <b>finger</b>, is the <b>Noto Peninsula</b>. It was affected by the <b>7.6 earthquake</b> on January 1, 2024. However, as of February 18, 2024, all highways operated by NEXCO West Japan are functioning normally. For <b>real-time traffic information</b>, please click <a href="https://www.c-ihighway.jp/pcsite/mapen/" target="_blank">here</a><span style="text-align: left;">.</span></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">How to Access</h3><br /><div>There are several ways to travel from Tokyo to Kanazawa, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the main options:</div><div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. By Train:</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/news/hokuriku-shinkansen.html" target="_blank">Hokuriku Shinkansen</a></b>: It offers the fastest and most convenient travel option between Tokyo and Kanazawa, boasting a travel time of approximately 2.5 hours. This bullet train operates directly between the two cities, providing passengers with comfortable and spacious seating, high speeds, and reliable service. However, fares begin around ¥14,000, making it the most expensive option. Operated jointly by <a href="https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/Top/Index" target="_blank">JR-East</a> and <a href="https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/" target="_blank">JR-West</a>, you can check the train's status using this <a href="https://global.trafficinfo.westjr.co.jp/en/hokuriku/?_gl=1*1gpc5d6*_ga*MTM4NzM3MDcxNS4xNzA4Mjc5NTg0*_ga_52ZZ8YHLB4*MTcwODI3OTU4NC4xLjEuMTcwODI3OTcxNS42MC4wLjA.*_ga_YH07BXV65X*MTcwODI3OTU4NC4xLjEuMTcwODI3OTcxNS42MC4wLjA." target="_blank">link</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Notes that: <a href="https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/pass/one_way/thunderbird/" target="_blank">Thunderbird</a> limited express is operated by JR West, which connects <b>Osaka/Kyoto</b> and Kanazawa with a travel time of around 2-4 hours.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. By Bus:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Highway bus: This is a cheaper option than the train, with fares starting from around ¥5,000. However, it is also the slowest option, taking around 7-8 hours. Highway buses are comfortable and offer amenities like reclining seats and toilets, but they can be crowded and make several stops along the way.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. By Plane:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Flying: This is the fastest option, with a flight time of around 1 hour. However, it is also the most expensive option, with fares starting from around ¥20,000. You will also need to factor in the time and cost of getting to and from the airports in both cities.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>4. By Car:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Driving: This is a flexible option that allows you to stop and explore other places along the way. However, it is also the most time-consuming option, taking around 6-7 hours. You will also need to pay for tolls and gas.</div><div><br /></div><div>The best option for you will depend on your budget, your time constraints, and your preferences. If you are looking for the fastest and most convenient option, the <b><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/news/hokuriku-shinkansen.html" target="_blank">Hokuriku Shinkansen</a></b> is the best choice. If you are on a budget, the highway bus is a good option. If you want to see more of Japan along the way, driving is a good choice. And if you are short on time, flying is the best option.</div></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">References</h3><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2167.html" target="_blank">Top attractions in Kanazawa</a></li><li><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e623a.html" target="_blank">Top Destinations in Japan</a></li><li><a href="http://www.hokutetsu.co.jp/en/en_round" target="_blank">Kanazawa Loop Bus</a></li><ul><li>Kanazawa Loop Bus connects Kanazawa Station with most sights of interests. Buses travel the loop every 15 minutes in both directions and <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">cost 210 yen per ride</span>. A <b>1-day bus pass</b> for <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">800 yen allows for unlimited use of the loop buses as well as most other local buses in central Kanazawa</span>. In addition, the day pass also provides <b>discounted admission</b> to several designated local tourist attractions.</li></ul><li><a href="https://www.kanazawastation.com/kanazawa-tourist-bus-services/" target="_blank">Kanazawa Tourist Bus Services</a></li><ul><li>In Kanazawa all buses are <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">boarded from the rear and exited from the front</span>.</li><li>Payment is also made at the front, into a machine by the driver’s seat.</li><li>You should <b>pay the exact fare in cash</b>. <span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: #800180;">IC cards can be used only on the JR Machi-Bus</span>. If you don’t have the exact fare, there is a change machine beneath the payment slot that can break down coins and 1000 yen notes.</li></ul><li><a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/ad/cycling-in-toyama/#five" target="_blank">Five cycling routes in Toyama</a></li><li><a href="https://visitkanazawa.jp/en/travel-trade-media/topics/detail_321.html" target="_blank">Traffic Information in Kanazawa City due to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake</a></li><li><a href="https://www-pref-ishikawa-lg-jp.translate.goog/index.html?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja" target="_blank">Ishikawa Prefecture Emergency Top Page (Simplified version)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.komatsuairport.jp/flight/index_en.html" target="_blank">Komatsu Airport Flight Info</a></li><li><a href="https://www.c-ihighway.jp/pcsite/mapen/" target="_blank">Central Nippon Highway Traffic Information</a></li></ol></div></div></div></div>Travel for Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14903166424561297055noreply@blogger.com0