Travel for Life

Hearth and Heritage: The Kusakabe Kitchen The Kusakabe family, prosperous merchants under the Tokugawa shogunate, built their current residence in 1879. Constructed by renowned Hida artisan Jisuke Kawashiri , the house exemplifies traditional machiya architecture with its cypress wood, gable walls, and intricate details. Recognized as a significant cultural property, it now serves as a folk museum, preserving Takayama's history and inviting visitors to experience its charm. Kusakabe Traditional House (日下部民芸館): Edo Period Living ( YouTube  link ) Takayama's Transformation: From Village to Castle Town Hida Takayama , surrounded by Mt. Norikura, Mt. Ontake, Mt. Hakusan, and Mt. Tateyama, was once a small village called Yasukawa-mura. In the early Edo period, Nagachika Kanamori , a retainer of the Oda, Toyotomi, and Tokugawa clans, became the first ruler of Takayama after the Battle of Sekigahara. He modeled the city after Kyoto , creating a grid plan, gathering temples, and...

Panoramic Nishihotakadake  (西穂高岳)  from the Summit observation deck Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Northern Alps, including iconic peaks like Nishihotakadake (西穂高岳), Kasagatake (笠ヶ岳) and Yari-ga-take (槍ヶ岳). Enjoy nature's beauty year-round, from vibrant spring foliage to winter snowcapes. Conveniently located and offering unique amenities, the  Shinhotaka Ropeway  (新穂高ロープウェイ ⭐) is a highlight of any visit to the region. However, be prepared for crowds and weather changes. Ride to the Top: Shinhotaka Ropeway Experience ( YouTube  link ) Shinhotaka Ropeway’s 360-Degree Panoramic Views I had initially planned to visit Kamikochi (上高地), a well-known destination about an hour from Takayama city in the Okuhida region, but it was closed for the season. Instead, I chose to take the Shinhotaka Ropeway. On  April 7th, 2024 , a 40-minute bus ride on the Nohi Bus ( 濃飛バス ) brought me to the cable car station. Despite the early season and heavy s...

Interior of the Hôtel Tassel in Brussels (Credit: by Henry Townsend -  Self-photographed , Public Domain,  Link ) Art Nouveau , or "New Art" in French, was an international art style that flourished in Europe and the United States from the 1890s to World War I. It was a reaction against the historicism that dominated 19th century art and design, and was characterized by its  use of organic lines, asymmetry, and modern materials . Art Nouveau was  inspired by nature ,  with motifs such as plant and flower curves, tendrils, and swirling lines . It was often used in architecture, interior design, jewelry, glass, posters, and illustration. Discover Art Nouveau's Soul in an 1894 Home ( Fondation Frison Horta ; watch the video below) Key Features of Art Nouveau Design Here are some characteristics of Art Nouveau : Organic forms:  Art Nouveau  designs often incorporated flowing, natural forms that resembled plants. Linear contours: Linear contours were ...

Nagamachi Samurai District: A Journey Through History  (YouTube  link ) On April 15th, 2024, I explored the  Nagamachi Samurai District  in Kanazawa, Japan. My journey began with a delightful lunch at a charming Chinaware house called “ 九谷焼窯元 鏑木商舗 ”. Feeling satisfied, I wandered through the district’s narrow streets, captivated by the unique atmosphere. Mud walls lined the pathways, and the historic Onosho Canal Monument ( 大野庄用水碑 ) stood as a testament to the area’s rich past. Finally, I visited the Nomura-ke Samurai Residence to admire its beautiful garden. 九谷焼窯元 鏑木商舗 For nearly two centuries, Kutani Ware Kaburaki Shoten has been a cornerstone of Kutani ware's legacy in Kanazawa. Established in 1822 (文政五年) during the reign of the 11th Tokugawa Shogun, they hold the distinction of being Kanazawa's first Kutani ware merchant. Since then, they've proudly carried this torch, preserving the exquisite artistry and fostering a love for Kanazawa's cultural heritage, not j...

鎖樋 （くさりとい）: Decorative chain for guiding rainwater The Nomura-ke Samurai Residence  (武家屋敷跡 野村家⭐) is located in the Nagamachi Samurai District of Kanazawa, Japan.  Nomura-ke , a beautifully restored residence from the Edo period (1603-1868), is a must-visit for those interested in experiencing the life of a samurai family. This residence offers a glimpse into the lives of samurai families, showcasing their architecture and interior design. Middle-ranking samurai once lived in the neighborhood surrounding  Nomura-ke . The area itself is characterized by mud walls and flowing water, with meandering streams fed by the Onosho Irrigation Canal (大野庄用水). Samurai Secrets: Unveiling the Life of a Warrior   (YouTube  link ) Lunch and a Journey Through History On April 15th, 2024, I explored the  Nagamachi Samurai District  in Kanazawa, Japan. My journey began with a delightful lunch at a charming Chinaware house called “ 九谷焼窯元 鏑木商舗 ”. Feeling sat...

A traditional Gassho-zukuri House Nestled Beneath Mount Fuji (a photo exhibit at MOA) The Kawaguchiko Museum of Art , situated on Lake Kawaguchi, features a permanent collection of paintings, prints, and photographs showcasing Mount Fuji from various angles and seasons. The entire collection is easily explored in an hour or two, perfect for a quick visit. Unveiling Mount Fuji at the Kawaguchiko Museum of Art   (YouTube  link ) Exploring the Kawaguchiko Museum of Art During my visit on April 3, 2024, I stopped by the museum after walking from the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum . Originally, I had planned to visit the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum , but it was closed that day (Wednesday). The MOA offers a pleasant open field with views of Lake Kawaguchi, although I couldn’t spot Mount Fuji from its location. MOA's Cherry Trees: Beautiful Field, Just Needs a Little More Time to Blossom MOA Cafe: Relax and Take in Lake Kawaguchi's Beauty Through Large Windows Inviting Open Field for ...