Your journey to Rome would be incomplete without experiencing the trifecta⭐⭐of Terrazza del Pincio, Piazza del Popolo, and Villa Borghese Park. These three gems, each offering a unique perspective of the Eternal City, can be effortlessly combined into a single, fulfilling excursion.
A Bird's Eye View of Rome from the Pincian Hill (YouTube link)
Photo Gallery
On both October 25th and 26th, 2023, we made two visits to Terrazza del Pincio, drawn by its sweeping panoramic views of Rome.
Piazza del Popolo
Upon reaching the Piazza del Popolo, visitors are greeted by a vibrant square brimming with life. The majestic Flaminio obelisk, a towering Egyptian monument that has stood sentinel since the 10th century BC, proudly stands at the center of the square, its hieroglyphics whispering tales of ancient civilizations. On either side of the obelisk, the twin churches of Santa Maria in Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli gracefully adorn the square, their Baroque facades adding a touch of elegance and grandeur to the surroundings.
The terrace was designed by the architect Giuseppe Valadier in the 19th century. It is made of stone and has a balustrade decorated with statues and vases. The terrace is a popular spot for tourists and Romans, who come here to admire the view of the city. It is particularly beautiful at sunset, when the city is illuminated by the rays of the sun.
A Quiet Day in a Berlin Park, 1933 In the early 1930s, Takehisa Yumeji's studio became a hub for artists, inspiring ventures like the Mt. Haruna Art Research Institute. In 1931, Yumeji began a journey to the United States and Europe, supported by exhibitions of his work. While in the U.S. for 16 months, he continued to paint, creating pieces like Nude on the West Coast. Afterward, Yumeji taught in Berlin until the school was closed by the Nazis. He returned to Japan in 1933, his overseas experiences shaping his final works. His last exhibition was held in Taipei that year. Yumeji passed away from tuberculosis in 1934, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and cultural exchange. Read more: Prints in Collection—Takehisa Yumeji (1884-1934) Kuronosuke 黒の助: a Legacy Little Black Cat (YouTube link ) Photo Gallery The Yumeji Art Museum in Okayama exhibits many black cat paintings because the artist, Yumeji Takehisa , frequently featured them in his work, particularly in his bij...
Hagi City , Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its maritime and historical significance, particularly from the Edo period and Meiji Restoration . This coastal town captivates with its well-preserved samurai districts, pine-lined roads, clear waterways, and serene ambiance, evoking a nostalgic journey back in time. Historical figures like Yoshida Shoin and Shinsaku Takasugi shaped its legacy. Cycling, boat trips, temple visits, and local specialties like summer tangerines and Hagi ware highlight Hagi’s charm. Hidden gems like Tokoji Temple make it a must-visit for an authentic, enriching experience. Japan’s Timeless Beauty – 2 Days in Hagi, a World Heritage Town (YouTube link ) Things to Do Boat Trip: A 40-minute sightseeing boat tour provides a unique perspective of Hagi, with reflections on the town’s historical significance during the ride. Bicycle Rental: You can rent a bike at the station, which is a recommended way to explore Hagi. C...
This is a passageway leading to Nankai-Namba Station. Be aware that underground passages in Japan can be quite complex for visitors. When you arrive at Kansai International Airport (symbol: KIX) and try to reach your destinations via trains, sometimes you need to make connections at Namba Station (see Fig. 2). Namba Station is one of the main connection points (the other two are Umeda and Tennoji Stations). But, Namba Station actually means 4 different stations on Google map (see Fig. 3&4) : Namba Station (Subway): This station provides access to the Osaka Metro lines: Midosuji (see Fig. 4), Sennichimae , and Yotsubashi . These lines can take you to popular destinations like Osaka Station, Koreatown, Honmachi, and Nippombashi. JR-Namba Station: This smaller station has only four tracks and two platforms. It's located within the Osaka City Air Terminal (OCAT) building, and the entrance can be easy to miss. Thankfully, it's connected to the ...