Travel for Life

Breathtaking Panorama: The Alps from Takayama Castle Ruins The Higashiyama Walking Course 東山遊歩道 invites you on a leisurely stroll through Takayama’s charming temple town, rural outskirts, and Shiroyama Park  城山公園, the former site of the city’s castle. As you traverse this 3.5-kilometer path , discover a delightful blend of historic temples and shrines, tranquil landscapes, and glimpses into everyday Japanese life. While not a destination for breathtaking sights, the  Higashiyama Walking Course  offers a peaceful escape and a unique opportunity to experience Takayama's quieter side. Higashiyama Walking Course 東山遊歩道 (click here to download the full map) Higashiyama Stroll On April 10, 2024, I took a serene walk through Takayama’s historic temple district and explored  Shiroyama Park , a lush wooded area where wildlife sightings are possible. This 2-hour journey provided breathtaking views and a wonderful opportunity to experience the tranquil side of Takayama. A Sere...

Chihiro Art Museum Azumino : A Green Haven Where Art and Nature Intertwine Golden Week Gridlock: How Hangzhou and Kyoto Are Unclogging Tourist Crowds Urban traffic in Hangzhou and Kyoto is feeling the strain of double the usual pressure. One unique solution these cities are exploring involves pedestrian direction. In Hangzhou, signs instruct walkers to stay to the right, contrasting with Japan's typical left-hand walking. Similarly, Kyoto's Nishiki Market Tourism Promotion Association encourages left-side walking during Golden Week to ease congestion. This approach highlights the challenge: while Japanese residents are accustomed to the left, tourists often default to the right. Suddenly changing direction can be confusing. However, during peak periods, it can be an effective measure to improve traffic flow. Ultimately, both Hangzhou and Kyoto grapple with managing the surge of visitors. Hangzhou West Lake Broken Bridge welcomes the May Day tourist peak, recreating the l...