On October 5, 2023, we set off on a captivating journey through Bern's Old Town⭐⭐. As we strolled along this enchanting medieval street Kramgasse, we were transported back in time, surrounded by architectural marvels that whispered tales of the city's rich history. The arcades, with their graceful arches and intricate details, provided a welcome respite from the sun's warm embrace, while the fountains, adorned with whimsical sculptures and playful water streams, offered a refreshing touch of tranquility amidst the bustling streets.
Visiting Bern Old City on Jul 31, 2019 (YouTube link)
Bear Pit
The BärenPark provides a haven for the bears, allowing them to engage in natural behaviors such as swimming, foraging, and climbing. The park features a variety of landscapes, including waterfalls, pools, and forests, creating a stimulating environment that promotes the bears' well-being.
Soaring above Bern's charming Old Town, the Bern Münster, or Bern Cathedral, stands as a majestic testament to Gothic architecture. Its towering spire, reaching a height of 100 meters (330 feet), is a defining feature of the city's skyline, while its intricate details and rich history make it a must-see destination for any visitor to Bern.
The Parliament Building
The Federal Palace of Switzerland, also known as the Parliament Building, is a magnificent landmark in Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. The building's grand architecture and historical significance make it a must-see destination for visitors to Bern.
Visiting Bern's Clock Tower on Jul 31, 2019 (YouTube link)
Zytglogge (Clock Tower)
As the clock prepares to strike the hour, large groups gather in front of the Clock Tower in Bern’s Old Town to watch the one-of-a-kind performance that always takes place at this moment. The mechanical figures, including a parade of bears, a jester, a golden rooster and Chronos, the god of time, enthrall visitors young and old from far and near.
Ascend the iconic Zytglogge, a 13th-century clock tower that chimes with animated figures, and be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Bern's UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 130 steps inside the structure lead to an observation deck that unveils a mesmerizing vista of the city's tiled roofs, terraced buildings, and intricate network of cobblestone lanes.
Ornate fountains adorn the enchanting medieval street Kramgasse
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 ...