Yokoso Japan
By Tan Gek Khim
I went to Japan in 2001 and at that time, it was a guided tour which covered Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo. I must say that I like Japan because of the culture and scenery. So since then, I had hoped to visit the country again. Finally, on 26 Sep 2008, my wish came true and I stepped onto Japanese ground again.
Our first stop was the Aomori Prefecture where my friends and I did the Oirase long-distance trail. It covered 7 km of beautiful scenery, lush greenery and waterfalls.
Oirase Trail |
Waterfall |
On the second day, we went for a 3.5-km Goshikinuma trail in the Bandai-kogen district. We were captivated by the colours of the lakes found along this trail. After the trail, we went to visit Tsurugajo Castle, constructed by one of the feudal lords, Naomori Ashira, in 1384.
Tsurugajo Castle |
Goshikinuma trail |
The next day, we travelled to see the Tounohetsuri cliffs and Ouchijuku Old Village which was built during the Edo period in the 1500s. The structure of the old houses was kept intact and has now been turned into a tourist attraction.
Buddha |
Ouchijuku Old Village |
Tounohetsuri cliffs
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After all the tracking and sightseeing in the North Eastern region, we went to Nikko, a town in the outskirts of Tokyo, where we visited shrines and temples. Like any overseas trip, it was not complete without any shopping and eating. We did some shopping and treated ourselves to yummy Japanese food.
