Posts

20251217 Shirakawa-go's, Japan

Image
17-12-25 We all piled into the car for a 45-minute drive to visit the historic town of Shirakawa-go. Its history centres on a unique, isolated mountain way of life that led to the development of the distinctive gasshō-zukuri style of architecture—meaning “constructed like praying hands.” This building style first appeared in historical records around 1176, with evidence of human life in the region dating back between 7000 BC and 2300 BC. What an incredible village, one that has held onto its traditions along with its communal living and farming practices, which led to its World Heritage status in 1995. Since then, the village has been protected under a strict “no sell, no rent, no destroy” policy to preserve its centuries-old character and communal spirit. Shirakawa-go is surrounded by the Hida Mountains to the east and southeast, and the Ryōhaku Mountains to the west and southwest—a volcanic mountain range that includes Mount Hakusan, one of Japan’s Three Sacred Mountains. Mount Hakus...
Post a Comment
Read more

20251217a Takayama, Japan Retro Museum

Image
20251217 We arrive home from Shirakawa-go’s and head up the street to check out a Retro Museum, just a few minutes walk from the old town and a popular spot for children. As for the adults it’s like taking a step back in time and reliving your youth, and for a couple of hours, and that’s exactly what we did, the kids ravelled in the the different machines like the: Space Invaders: Released in 1978.  Asteroids:  A vector graphics space-themed shooter from 1979 where players must destroy incoming asteroids and flying saucers. Galaga:  From 1981, fixed shooter features waves of insect-like aliens Donkey Kong: Released by Nintendo in 1981, this platformer introduced the world to both Mario, originally "Jumpman". And the ever popular PAC-Man, released in 1981, featuring new maze designs and slightly different gameplay mechanics. Not to mention the many retro toys, games and even the lollies for the sweet tooth. The sign politely asked us to take our shoes off on the mat. I pol...
Post a Comment
Location: Takayama, Gifu, Japan
Read more

20251216 Takayama, Japan

Image
20251215 We settled into Mina’s Samurai House with 4 Bedrooms, 9 Beds and 1 car Parking in one of the Ancient Towns in Japan. Phil and Sharyn take a short walk for supplies and much needed wine after a long trip with three boys, as we settling in for a movie before a good night’s sleep. The history of Takayama is rooted in its success during Japan Edo, a period (1603–1868), a time when Japan was ruled by the shoguns (military leaders). It thrived as a timber-rich strategic town governed directly by the Shogunate. The government established the  Takayama (magistrate’s office) and designed the town’s orderly, grid-like streets, leading to its nickname, “Little Kyoto.” The town was originally developed in the late 1500s by Kanamori Nagachika, who constructed Takayama Castle and its surrounding castle town. Supported by abundant high-quality wood, skilled carpenters, and rich natural resources, Takayama grew into an important center for administration, tra...
Post a Comment
Location: Takayama, Gifu, Japan
Read more