On High-Technology Toilets
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, but “traditional” does not necessarily mean “primitive” or “austere.” Often they are equipped with all the latest modern conveniences. For example the toilet… Read more »
Category: Japanese Culture
Takayama: The Ryokan and a Fancy Meal
The Asunaro Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is similar to most such establishments. It has an old-fashioned look but provides most modern conveniences.
Takayama Festival Floats Exibition Hall
Takayama is noted for its spectacular Spring and Autumn Festivals which feature huge wooden floats: centuries old, brightly painted and intricately carved. Between festivals the floats can be seen in… Read more »
Takayama: Hida Folk Village
The Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato) is a collection of traditional village houses dating from the 18th through the early 20th centuries. Many of them were moved here to… Read more »
Takayama Jinya
In 1692 the region was placed under the direct rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The Jinya served as the official residence and headquarters of the Shogon’s governor, as well as… Read more »
Takayama: Sights and Shops
Takayama is an ancient city in the mountains of central Honshu. Its present form dates back to the 16th Century, but the area has been settled for much longer than… Read more »
Traveling from Tokyo to Takayama
Below, a shinkansen (bullet train) pulls into Tokyo Station.
Nikko: Taiyuinbyo
Iemitsu, the third Tokugawa Shogun, was not content with building the world’s most elaborately decorated shrine for his grandfather. He also build an elaborate mausoleum for himself, located a short… Read more »
Nikko: Toshogu Shrine
Before he died Ieyasu Tokugawa, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, requested that a simple shrine be built for him so that he could serve as a guardian kami for… Read more »
Nikko: Temples
Nikko is a small city located about 140 km from Tokyo. It is an easy day trip, and well worth it since it contains some of the most impressive temples… Read more »