2 October 2025
Takayama used to be the castle town which General Nagachika Kanamori built on behalf of his master at the end of the Sengoku era when Hideyosi Toyotomi ruled Japan. In 1692, however, Hida district came under the direct control of the Tokugawa government, and almost all samurai left Takayama. So l’m told.
1 October 2025
A short drive takes us southerly over the 2,628-foot Magome Pass. The pass is the highest elevation along the Nakasendō Way. Surrounding mountains and the cedar and bamboo forests are outstanding. It is difficult to consider these undulating hills as mountains when I regularly drive over passes at 4,000’. However, unlike the more northern peaks in Japan that can receive up to 50 feet of snow, the Tsumago-Magome area is more temperate and snowfall is not as heavy or burdensome.
(more…)30 September 2025
After a delightful evening in Narai followed by a Western breakfast, I enjoy time to wander Narai’s streets. The village seems a good place to buy lacquerware and woodcrafts. Not being a shopper, I stroll main street to enjoy the wonderful architecture. Perhaps I’ll spot a keychain with a Godzilla on it.
29 September 2025
This morning, we begin our days of train travel. For someone from the U.S., I am always impressed by the development and efficiency of public transportation around the world. In most of my country, without a car, you’re screwed. There exist few reliable public transportation options. Therefore, while the Japanese may apologize and fret about a train being a minute late, I am just happy it shows up and gets me where I want to go.
(more…)28 September 2025
Today, we again travel by coach: direction northeast 190 miles to Yudanaka. Distance doesn’t amount to much but the slow, busy roads take most of our day.
Once we arrive, we will visit a hot spring village far less famous for its hot baths than for the monkeys who have usurped them.
(more…)27 September 2025
I depart the massive, bustling megatropolis of Tokyo. I won’t complain, as my destination for the day includes another icon of Japan: Mt. Fuji. I’ve jetted past the mountain in the past, enjoying spectacular views of snow-capped peaks. Hopefully, the view will be as clear from the ground.
After a breakfast, we board a comfortable bus. Our destination, some 50 miles southwest, is the city of Hakone.
(more…)26 September 2025
Om Mani Padme Hum
Buddha give me serenity and patience
Carrying my backpack, I walk to a new hotel, bracing myself to join a tour group. It feels a bit like handing over my freedom at the front desk. For two glorious days, I’ve wandered at will— strolling gardens, decoding menus and train signs, and chasing Godzilla.
Now, I’ll swap independence for a local guide arranging logistics and doing headcounts. Don’t get me wrong, I’m ready for the fun, but I can’t help wondering if I’ll be the lone Godzilla nerd in a sea of temple and teacup enthusiasts
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