Japan: Nagano

Karuizawa,　軽井沢，a town situated in the mountainous prefecture of Nagano.
With several churches built in this area, the main train station has adopted a Western stained glass style in its design.

Situated at at altitude of more than 900m above the sea level, it is much cooler than the nearby city of Tokyo. During the summer months, many Tokyolites escape the summer heat by cooling off in places like Karuizawa. Of course, people who can afford such luxury are the rich and the elites. In any case, people living in Tokyo do have the option of taking a break, and escape away from the stress of the city, to put themselves in the serenity of the mountain ranges and get in touch with nature. Well, most city dwellers around the world do have this choice.


Karuizawa had played host to the Winter Olympic Games in 1998

and the Summer Olympics in 1964. Certainly a unique place to visit.

The influx of city dwellers might not miss any stress from their studies or work, but certainly they will miss consumerism. Spacious malls housing branded labels have been built just outside the train station so that the tourists will not be too homesick.

The rail tracks.

With land spaces to spare, wide shopping alleys were built with a view of the golf course and the forest area.

With shopping to do, with golf to swing, with nature close to heart, and stress faraway over the mountains, many have chosen Karuizawa as their second home. And many of them have spectacular gardens around their houses.

Mirror, flowers, trees, crossroad junction.

Mount Asama, the highest peak in this region.

The Shinano Rail serving the area. Although it might be more countryside than city-like, the fares can be a little daunting. It cost 210円 for a 2 minute ride.

Japan: Nara

Horyuji, a World Heritage Site, located in the province of Nara.

The garden walkway into the temple.

It is one of the oldest existing wood structure dating back into the 7th and 8th century, in the world and the first site to be declared as a World Heritage in Japan.

The wonderful scenery of the surroundings.


However, the entrance fees of 1000円 is quite forbidding.

Nara was the capital of Japan from 710 to 784. The old structures, temples, monuments and culture made Nara another World Heritage Site.

In Nara, there are many deers in the park.

Todai temple.


Kofuku Temple.

Yakushu Temple. All these 3 temples comes under the list of World Heritage Sites of ancient Nara.
Streams of students.

Lines of students on their class outing.

Tons of students.

Ever more students who are more interested in shopping than history lessons.


The park without any students.

Temples with hills as backdrop.


Nara

Japan: Food Culture and Osaka

Food, everyone loves food. The love of it is deep ingrained that it can be a large of a culture. The love of it is so great that it is often used as a tool to tempt visitors to a country for extra revenue.
The fact is, with every travel guide and travel shows, just have to introduce some food in some land with the host exclaiming that either he has tasted nothing this good ever before or that everyone must come and try like he does. Food on television is much akin to pornography on video; the watcher is dying to participate what is on screen but is hopelessly unable to.

This is of course without a doubt that the promotion of the Uniquely Singapore slogan cannot disconnect itself with the claim that Singapore is a food paradise. As with most places, Vietnam, Morocco, or the Carribean, everywhere on television is a food paradise. The thing is most people like to imagine the best food is the food they grow up with, the comfort food that accompany them through the years. So Singapore's uniqueness is just like everywhere else in the world, which makes it not very unique.

Osaka, as with many parts of Japan, boost its own special cuisine unique only in that region. But Osaka takes it up another level and has incalculate food deep into their culture. It goes, if 3 ladies from Kyoto, Tokyo and Osaka respectively were given a thousand dollars each and they have to spend on a thing, the lady from Kyoto would spend all on shoes, the lady from Tokyo would spend it on bags, and of course the lady from Osaka would spend it on food. Not only the love of food is so deep, it can even be deadly with the culture of kuidaore, which mean eat till one drops.


Combining bread and noodles, costing 150円，from a convenient store.

In Osaka, they even combine theme parks with food.

Indoor air-conditioned malls, emulating the old side streets selling food.

Takoyaki shop.

Takoyaki, the original version has to be from Osaka.

It has seeped ingrained in the local culture, that comicwriters write about not just food, but in specific, Takoyaki.

Even the humble gyoza find its special place in this food obsessive city, that they have to set up a place that specially caters to gyoza, and gyoza only, and nothing else.

The escalator up to gyoza land.


Without the packaged sauce in the picture, this gyoza has to be the best. In fact, sampling three different gyozas from different stores, they all prove to that it is possible to achieve temporary heaven entrance with the bite into it. Actually, no place in Singapore have been found to come close to the standard of this. And this is not a television show or a paid travelling guidebook, this is the truth.

Dohtombori, a shopping district, with a great number of restaurants.

The sign of yet another food themepark.



Grilled and barbeque chicken over a counter,

With a oolong shochu to accompany, and with an entertaining lady trying to bridge the language barrier while serving food.

Okonomiyaki, with the odd mix of noodles, flour, lettuces, parsley, fish flakes, bean sprouts with a sweet and sour sauce, has to be odd since the taste can really be so unforgettable.

Japan 16: Osaka

Reaching Osaka takes less than one hour by express train from Kyoto. Although there is the option of taking the bullet train, the train arrives at Shin-Osaka Station where passengers need to transfer to the local train to reach Osaka Station, the main station in this city.

Osaka, the second largest city of Japan.

Visitors to Osaka can choose to purchase a 2000円 one day pass, where there is an unlimited rides on the metro system, free entry to some of the attractions and some others having a discount. It is probably a real good deal especially for visitors who have limited time and want to visit as many places as possible in a single day.

One important site in Osaka is the Osaka castle, which is a remodel of the previously destroyed castle. It probably makes some magnificent view during the sakura season in the Osaka Gardens surrounding the castle.

A view of the city from the top of the castle.

In order to make full use of the day pass, visitors can take a complementary shuttle service in the form of a carnival train to the nearby train station. Along the way, there was an expected groups of school children having their class excursion.

Japanese children are generally well-behaved, but could not resist the checking the passing train.

The kid on the left probably reminds one of the character in the famous comic series of Doraemon.

A sea cruise around the port of Osaka.


Initially, visitors might find it quite exciting, but after just viewing bridges, warehouses, buildings along the coast for more than one hour, it can be really exhausting. The ride cost more than 2000円， so visitors should only come to visit this cruise ferry only if they have the pass.

Several ferris wheel can be seen around the city. And unfortunately, the day pass does not cover this attraction.

Domtonburi, an extremely long shopping alley. It caters more to the local people rather than the bargain hunters from abroad.

One interesting visit with the pass will be the observatory tower of the Mori tower, the tallest building in this part of the world.

The view of the Osaka castle through the lens of the free binoculars. There is a coin slot for the binoculars, but probably no one utilises it; it will do good to mankind to make free for all the visitors. This is of course in contrast with the commercial image of Osaka.

The staggering amount of concrete jungle.

The urbanised landscape with hills as the background.

The sunset of Osaka.

The daily pass allows free access to the metro system of Osaka.
But certain restrictions do apply.
Even though the attractions are worth a visit.

Ottawa: Rideau Canal

Rideau Canal in winter.

Rideau Canal was named the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Rideau Canal, a 202km of waterways stretching from Rideau and Cataraqui rivers in Ottawa to Kingston Harbour on Lake Ontario. It was built mainly for military purpose when the Great Britain and United States was fighting for control over the region. It was the first canals designed to accomodate steam-powered ships. With most of the structures remaining intact from the days of its construction in early 19th century, it is one of the best preserved canals in North America and is still operational today.

Archiving

Archives:

Japan
Tokyo, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Kyoto

America
Buffalo, Niagara, New York

Canada
Toronto, Niagara, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec

Mexico
Mexico City, Xochimilco, Teotihuacan, Taxco, Acalpulco, Puebla

Japan 15: Kyoto 3, Gion district

For visitors who have the impression that Japan is a very expensive country, this might just be a great surprised. This is a little secret for people who have not been to Japan: The BigMac in Japan cost 280円 or about S$3.70 which is still cheaper than BigMac in Singapore, namely S$3.85. After years of deflation, while the rest of the world experience inflation, the prices in Japan has become much more affordable. Although exorbitant prices of the late bubble period still exist, Japan can be cheaper than in fact many major cities around the world, including the self-proclaimed paradise of Singapore.

In Japan, all bus schedules and trains schedules are clearly indicated. No matter in small towns or big cities, they really provide a great favour for commuters. And in this case, in Kyoto, they add a little touch of cuteness to their bus arrival times.

The streets of downtown Kyoto by night. It does not look, sadly, like an ancient city, but rather a modern city.

A beautiful modern building, with interesting rooms.

However, the district of Gion preserves the streets of the ancient city. Here is where a Kabuki theater stands along the street.

The narrow streets of Gion that snake around. Losing one's direction in the dark streets, of endless rows of houses and shops, can be easy.

But soon, the subtle beauty of the architecture is realised.

Although, at a first glance, all the buildings and structures seem to be uniformly the same, but on a closer look, each shop displays an individualistic characteristic of Japanese design, with heavy use of wood and paper, in simple, refined and symmetric design.

Most of the shops that are opened are mostly restaurants.

And looking from the exterior of these restaurants, of fine design, refined taste, one can be sure that the food served in these restaurants are of similar caliber. Of course, not forgetting to mention the prices, at least around 3000 per person or even more.

A very interesting menu indeed.
Honestly, if these are the prices to be paid for an authentic Japanese traditional meal right in the heart of the cultural centre of Japan, especially the famous Kaiseki of Kyoto, then it could be fairly reasonable, given the fact that similar establishments in Singapore charge around the same price, only the location is totally different.

In the Gion district, there is a theater catered for tourists to experience several Japanese traditional performing arts all in a short span of 1 hour, at a price of 2800.

With only foreigners present in the audience seat, one might wonder how authentic these almost factory manufactured performances are. A quick fix for Japanese cultural performances just for the mass foreigners.

Geishas can be seen from time to time in this part of the city. Probably serving to entertain very wealthy customers; this Geisha for example, just alighted from a posh vehicle. And they all seemed to be in a rush where they quickly disappeared around the corner; either catching up on their next performance, or just shunning away from the irritating visitors.


One very interesting notice located in the streets of Gion.

Japan 14: Kyoto 2, Ancient temples

Kyoto is the ancient capital city of Japan. And in this ancient capital, lies many historical monuments of which consists famous temples and shrines located in numerous locations around the city. Modeling after Chinese capitals, Kyoto has been the cultural centre of Japan for over 1000 thousand years, such that it has been named one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. 17 sites in Kyoto are categorised under this World Heritage Site title, where they represent different eras of construction and architecture.

For visitors with a lack of time, the greatest concentration of temples is located at the northern part of Kyoto city, where a stretch of 3 temples can be accessed continuously on foot.

Amongst them is Ninna-ji 仁和寺. Located about 20 minutes walk from the nearest railway station, it is however, not one of the easiest sites to navigate around.

This temples is one of the few temples that allows free entry to all visitors.

It consists of not just one temple, but a complex of buildings in quite a huge area and all of them comes under one name, Ninna-ji 仁和寺.

About 10 minutes walk through hilly region, the next stop is Ryoan-ji 龍安寺. The walk through the temple area is free but entry into the main temple cost around 500円. One might think that the free entry is sufficient enough to experience this temple, as it has beautiful lush greenery, but the entry into the main building is really the main draw of this visit to this temple.

This temple is famous for its Rock Garden which consists of 15 rocks arefully laid in groups of five. It is meant for visitors to gaze upon to imagine what they represent.



It must really amazing how a rock garden can be so amazing. How the rocks blend in with the surrounding trees and the spectacular texture of the sand. And it must have four different looks in the four different seasons.

The simple yet stylistic of Japanese architecture. It simply relaxes one's mind.

Refinement at its best.

Just another short walk away, is the very famous temple Rokuonji, 鹿苑寺. One great artistic entrance ticket into Rokuonji, cost 400円.

Not only are the sights of the temples and the gardens wonderful, fellow visitors to the temples make a very interesting sight as well. The fashionable styles of Japanese school girls come to life in a temple.
This is likely one of the famous sites for postcard perfect photo in this part of Japan, the beautiful Kinkaku, 金閣, where it was painted with pure gold. Unfortunately, visitors can only get gaze at this amazing structure from afar; no entry is allowed.

This period of late spring is likely to be the school vacation period, where many students flock to different sites around Japan for their school trip.

A very rare sighting. Although Japan is a developed nation, it has quite a low obesity rate. People on the fat side are a real rarity in Japan.

Even then, one must agree that their school uniform is formal, neat and looks simply great. These students probably dress much much better than a great proportion of Singaporeans along the streets.

An amazing contrast of the old and the modern; the traditional and the fashionable; the refined and the outrageous; welcome to Japan.

Japan 13: Kyoto1, Lost in Kyoto

From Hiroshima to Kyoto.
From World War II to the cultural capital of ancient Kyoto.

However, upon arriving at Kyoto, what welcomes passengers is neither old temples or shrines, but modern buildings and shops.

This very modern cake shop in Kyoto sells tempting cakes that made anyone stop their steps and feast with their eyes.


After arriving, visitors can start to explore the numerous temples around the city. However, finding the temples may not be that easy, especially when they are located seemingly near the metro stations on the map, but in fact, visitors have to navigate through mazes of houses and never-ending roads.



Being lost in a maze of some local residential area while searching for temples. However, it did made some interesting discovery. There was a map showing the houses in the vicinity, including the household surnames. Do the Japanese really know their neighbours or at least their names? Quite a contrast with Singapore, if that is so.

The Japanese houses in this area features the beautiful Japanese architecture and landscape.

While searching the way around, asking the locals is a good idea for visitors. who are lost. Although they might speak very limited English, they are more than willing to help. Very often, they would mutter for a few minutes in Japanese probably in great details with sign languages, assuming that visitors can understand. Never mind not understanding most of the message, but knowing that helpfulness do exist in this part of the world is more than enough.

The architecture, seemingly simple while giving a sense of tranquility. Even the plants blend in well with the structure of the houses. They even have their surnames display at the front of their doors.
A very interesting shop.

This is probably an expensive restaurant. And yes, in the middle of a residential district.

This is probably unlike many houses in Singapore that are of the same conforming structure with each other, the houses here are all individualistic and probably reflects the taste of the owners.

Sights that one never expect to see, people that one will never otherwise get to meet, and when it all exceed the expectation, it is all worthwhile. So ditch the tour group for an interesting adventure off the tracks and off the guidebooks; lost in ancient city of Kyoto.

Japan 12: Hakata's Ramen Shop

One of the small restaurant in Fukuoka. There are many restaurants in the city centre. However, the streets seem a little quiet after office hours, for a large city. Perhaps, this area is only crowded during the working hours, and when nightfalls, another part of the city livens up. In other words, the visit to this restaurant is totally at random.

Upon entering the restaurant or rather a small eatery, there was only one other customer around. And on deciding on what to order, the menu had limited items, and with limited understanding of Japanese, it makes the choice for dinner even more limited. The kitchen and the whole restaurant was managed a single middle-aged lady and she was quite busy entertaining her, probably a regular customer. From the counter seat, the kitchen was in quite a unglamarous sight, with items in random places, dirt and dust in many places and around the seating area, probably not a sight expected from a place in Japan. So the dinner really lies in an unknown territory.

It took quite a while for dinner to be served. So while waiting, there was the television, the wondering of what the dinner might turned out to be, the staring at the middle-aged lady was doing to serve up the dinner.

塩ラーメンとバタ, ramen with seasoned soup and butter. The butter was perhaps a little too rich and overwhelming, but otherwise, this is a hearty and light bowl of noodles with good textured noodles and fresh ingredients. It was perhaps a little too little in quantity but the taste was wonderful. At 620円, it was a really good price.


The specially made miso broth was second main character for the dinner. Noodles and the ingredients matched each other well. Only one word can described it, 'heavenly'.

The shoyu flavored is the shops's specialty. One taste of this, will bring wonder how much effort did this middle-aged lady put into making this tremendous bowl of ramen. There was an indescribable depth in the broth, full of flavor, aroma, almost a blessing. At 720円, it was really worth it. It was cheaper than any proper ramen served in Singapore, but many times better. All the initial fear, worries, discrimination against this old, quiet, unkempt ramen shop were totally dismissed. An absolute true food's paradise dream coming to life.

Japan 11: Of Yamaguchi and Fukuoka experience

A day trip to visit some places around 山口県, Yamaguchi Prefecture. It was filled with factories and industries along the way on the Shinkansen, bullet train. Definitely not the prettiest of sights.

After about slightly more than an hour's ride, the bullet arrived at 厚狭, Asa, where it was initially planned to visit 長門市, Nagatoshi, at the coast of Sea of Japan. However, the train schedule indicate that the next train will arrive in more than an hour's time. And yes, all train and bus timings and schedules are on public display, even in most crowded cities like Osaka or Tokyo, timings of trains of intervals of 3 or 4 minutes are indicated. Next stop will be　下関, Shimonoseki instead, then followed by Nagatoshi.

Probably, a very interesting place to visit.


The streets of Shimonoseki.

Shimonoseki, the city that harvest the greatest amount of fugu or pufferfish or porcupinefish, is a paradise for pufferfish lovers. There are many restaurants in town that specialise in pufferfish cuisine, and many snacks and dried products and goods using pufferfish as the main ingredient.

Even the train entrance are dedicated to this deadly creature, but is turned into an amiable character here.

Tracking through the mountains in rural Japan.

Passing through valleys, into a totally different realm of Japan.

And through villages and rice fields.

At one station, all passengers have to alight to wait for another train to transfer. Most passengers were mostly above their sixties, probably an evidence of the exodus of the young from the rural areas to the cities.

During this waiting period, there was a chat with one of the locals, a man probably in his seventies in Japanese, with much difficulty over the language barrier. Still, it was interesting, a personal touch to experience life with the locals, something which is never ever found in those tour packages.

It might be quite a long wait, but it was the time where the mind was able to seek some peace and spend sometime to do nothing but stared at the train tracks.

But unfortunately, the next train took a long time and still never arrived. Then the station captain informed the passengers that the next train had encountered some problems and will not be arriving. It was about 1 hour of wait or so, the station captain called all passengers together and discussed plans about ferrying the passengers to their intended destinations on bus or taxi. One kind old lady told the station captain of the inability to comprehend Japanese. With sometime to spare, some touring of the area was done.


The beautiful Sea of Japan.

However, the trip to Nagatoshi was abandoned. Making full use of the JR rail pass, plans was made to get back to Shin-Shimonoseki to take the Shinkansen to the southernmost part of the Shinkansen line, at Hakata. But however, ended taking a local train instead although the direction seemed to be correct; into Kyushu.

Upon arriving at the first stop on Kyushu, transfered was made to the Shinkansen for the most southern point on the Shinkansen line, Hakata in Fukuoka.

After dinner, and some touring of the city, the day ended quickly. It took about 1 hour from Hakata to arrive at Hiroshima. This trip might seem to end up with no visit to any popular destination on the tourist map, but it was exciting, a great chance to see another part of Japan, and the experience of how much trouble together with fun, unexpected events while descending into the whealm of unknown territory. It is a wonderful experience that no amount of those packaged tours can ever bring.

Japan 10: Fugu at Shimonoseki

下関, Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Shimonoseki is famous for its great production of the famous but deadly fugu or puffer fish. There are numerous restaurants, small establishments, specialising in this unique creature in downtown Shimonoseki. For real quality restaurants, one meal involving the puffer fish can cost easily into 10 000円. For cheaper alternatives, this restaurant which located in a shopping mall and just a few minutes walk away from the train station is an option.


This is a set of fried puffer fish with breadcrumbs set. It tasted more of plain breadcrumbs than anything else.

Fried puffer fish set. It was a bit too oily and hardly any taste nor texture to it. The batter to it was too dry and made it hard to swallow let alone finish it. The frying technique was probably amateurish.

Puffer fish set, with raw puffer fish served in sashimi style.

Pure puffer fish flesh. It had a chewy texture, with just a hint of sweetness. It tasted like rubber with very little significant taste to it. The sauce that accompanies just gives it a salty effect to it, and that was basically what it was. There was not a numbing sensation on the tongue or any reason to risk one's life for the taste of it. But perhaps the choice of this economical restaurant very much explains why.


The set meal comes with decorative puffer fish dish.

In spite of the quality of the meal, it just cost less than 1000円 per person, way way below what one might expect for a quality puffer fish meal.
However, this restaurant's stuff probably provided one of the best service for their customer. As usual, there would be some language barriers in communicating, but the waitress would be quite patient and try her best to understand and be understood. In this case, it is likely that she knows no English at all. Probably because the location is Yamaguchi, a more rural area.

When the waitress comes over to the table to clear the table, or to fill up the tea, she would say　'失礼します', meaning excuse me for bothering. Upon leaving, she would say that polite phrase again, while facing us with a slight bow. This type of service and politeness is probably quite rare even in Japan, and so far the only restaurant experienced that provided this experience.

Japan 9: Iwakuni

岩国 or Iwakuni is a town situated in 山口県, Yamaguchi Prefecture, some 30 kilometres away from Hiroshima City. It is relatively a much less crowded place.

らいらい is a small eatery house just a few steps away from the train station. There was not any customer in the eatery and during the period there, only 2 other men patronised the eatery.

Beef with rice and some wonderful pumpkin for appetiser.

Pork cutlet set.

Ramen.

All these cost around 700円 per set. Overall, the food was considered to be of above average standards, but what make this place impressionable is the homely feel of this eatery, something which probably represents what the normal Japanese have for their dinner at home.

Some night scenes in Iwakuni.

Japan 8: Hiroshima 3 @ Miyajima

宮島, Miyajima Island, in 広島県, Hiroshima Prefecture, about 10 minutes ferry ride from Miyajima Station. From Hiroshima Station, it takes about 20 minutes by a train to reach Miyajima Station.

As the ferry sails towards Miyajima, the famous torri gate appears. Probably one of the most powerful symbol, other than Mount Fuji, to represent Japan.

Deers considered to be sacred, roam freely on the island. They can be quite irritating to visitors, because they eat any paper products, which includes the yen bills. Their acute senses can detect food in bags and once detected, they hungrily chew their way through.

There are more than one good reason to visit this sacred island. Itsukushima shrine and Miyajima collectively have been named one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the present shrine dates back to the 13th century. The buildings has been harmoniously arranged to present great artistic and technical skills. In addition, the shrine provides a contrast in colour with the mountains and the sea. It illustrates the concept of Japanese beauty, which combines nature and human creativity harmoniously.

Miyajima is also hailed as the top 3 most scenic sites in Japan. The other two sites are situated in Kyoto and Miyagi Prefecture.


At low tide, the beach and the torri gate can be explored on foot. However, during high tides, which did not happen at this particular occasion, covers the gate partially and flood the foots of the Itsukushima shrine, providing a change scenery as the tide changes.

Many students wearing their school uniform can be seen. Apparently, it was their term break and many groups of them can be seen visiting many sites around Japan, including shrines, temples, and museums.

The entrance to the Itsukushima shrine costs 300円. The shrine looked like it had been gone through some renovations, however, the fresh red-orange paint made the shrine looked a little artificial.

The Itsukushima shrine during low tide.

There are other several places to visit on Miyajima. Besides the distracting shops selling gifts and food items that lure visitors to spend more money, there is also the maple leaf garden and a cable car ride to the island's mountain peak.

Even though, it was late spring, the forests and gardens represents an array of colours, in different shades of green, yellow and red. Gardens should not only beautiful and calming, but also have comfortable temperatures to walk around in, meaning not hot and humid.

The beautiful view of the island, the sea and the mainland of Hiroshima.

The calming effects of nature and human creations in harmony.

The coastline of Miyajima. Fishes can be seen jumping out of the water.

As the day draws near, the beautiful sun across the mountains and the sea sets. Miyajima, an island of true beauty.

Japan 7: Hiroshima 3: Okonomiyaki

だんだん, a restaurant located in the city of Hiroshima is a 5minutes walk from the J-hoppers hostel, which happens to be quite a popular hostel among budget tourists. This restaurant is specially recommended by a local who works at a hair salon. In the midst of limited English knowledge, and relating simplified Japanese, he had kindly show the direction with great patience and sincerity.

It was crowded in this small restaurant, with customers probably having their dinner after their work to enjoy some food and beer while engaging in loud conversations.

This local dish of Hiroshima origin, お好み焼き, okonomiyaki is an awkward mix of noodles, egg, seafood, homemade special sweet sauce and topped off with parsley and sesame. According to difference prices and taste, seafood or beef or pork can also be added in. While other parts of Japan (or world) have similar dish, this particular dish is unique to this region due to the specific sauce being used.

For the taste, it turn out to be surprising good for the messy looks it gets. It would be better if there was beer to accompany. Pricing at around 600円, it can be considered quite expensive. However, for the likes found in Takashimaya, Singapore, it can be concluded that the taste has been localised.

Japan 6: Hiroshima 2: World Peace

Hiroshima, the city devastated by the world's first atomic bomb on the 6th of August 1945,　昭和42年8月6日。

One of the few structures that was left standing after the explosion of the atomic bomb, and the only structure left standing today, the 原爆ドーム, Genbaku Dome has been named one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. There was much controversial whether they should tear down this building, as for one, it reminds the people of Hiroshima the pains of the tragedy. However, through much efforts, it has been preserved in almost the same state as immediately after the bombing. It is not only an outstanding example of the destructive forces of the war and humans, it also hopes for the elimination of nuclear weapons and for world peace.

The Peace Memorial Park consists of many monuments and structures for the remembrance of the Hiroshima victims, for the hope of world peace.

The Cenotaph and flowers for the remembrance of the atomic bomb victims. The Genbaku Dome can be seen.

The Peace Memorial Museum is the most important sites in the Peace Memorial Park and for travellers, the most worthy movement of the trip to Hiroshima. At 50円　for the admission, the Peace Memorial Museum really proves that it is working towards achieving peace. Furthermore, a high percentage of the visitors of the museum are mostly likely to be foreigners. (It should be noted that the amount of tourist visiting Japan per year is actually quite low, most of the visitors are however, domestic tourists.)


This museum not only showcase the events of World War II, but most importantly, also artifacts, writings, accounts, reports, photographs, poems, of the horror and pains the atomic bomb had brought to the people of Hiroshima. Other than Nagasaki, this museum is most likely the only museum in the world displaying and explaining the effects of the atomic bomb. A great amount of translation in English has been done, to ensure that visitors from around the world could understand what was being written, which may be rare in many museums located in non-English speaking countries.

Photos of the victims.

The watch, one of the several found in the museum, displaying the time of the explosions. The memory is permanently engraved, not only in the hearts of the victims, but also in their watches.

The gruesome scenes of the actual scene after the bombing took place shows the terrors of living hell on earth.

Please read this, one of the most powerful writings found in the museum. This photograph taken here, just like the lens of the writer, is blurred.

Japan 5: Hiroshima

Visitors to Japan who plan to visit other cities and towns outside of Tokyo, should buy the all-Japan pass which cost 28 300円 per person for a period of one week. This pass allows the traveller to ride on almost all trains and buses and ferries under the management of the JR company. At this price, this is a real bargain, as locals can only dream of. JR is the largest bus and train company and they also operate the 新幹線 or the famous bullet trains of Japan. However, it must be noted that Japan has countless number of smaller bus and train operators, so visitors should be prepared to pay extra on transport from time to time.

After a long ride on the　新幹線, the train finally arrives at 広島 Hiroshima. Visitors using the JR pass, travelling from 東京　Tokyo, should take the ひかり　Hikari trains and change trains at 岡山　Okayama. The trip takes about 6 hours with the train speeds reaching more than 200km per hour.

Upon reaching 広島　station, visitors looking to stay at a budget hostel should travel to J-Hoppers. It takes about 20 minutes from there on the tram which cost 150円。

One attraction of 広島 would be the 広島城　Hiroshima castle which cost 360円. It is however a replica of the original castle as it was destroyed during the World War II. This castle houses ancient artifacts and give an introduction to the history of 広島. But photography of any kind are not allowed in the gallery. And on the top level, visitors will be able to view the city and photography is allowed. At the second level, visitors will be able to try out the uniform

The beautiful view of the Hiroshima castle.

One temple besides the Hiroshima castle.

While trying to preserve the past, Hiroshima is however still a modern industrial city.

Japan 4 Tokyo 4: Whale @ Asakusa

鯨　or whale, a cuisine that can only be found in very few parts of the world.

So for travellers who would wish to taste some very local food in Japan, whale cuisine could be one of the answer. Located in the small streets in the Asakusa 浅草 area, this restaurant may not be easy to locate. In front of the entrance of into the Asakusa temple, where there is a police post, turn left along the main streets, for 2 blocks, turn right, continue for 2 more blocks, the restaurant will be on the left.

Whale, the largest mammal featured in small cans.

Endangering this precious mammal? Controversial environmental issue?

Settle in the calm and relaxing ambience of this restaurant. There were words ensuring customers that the whale served here is safe for consumption. The menu features only whale cuisine, so customers who might be searching for the familiar chicken or beef, will only have to leave this restaurant.

After an anxious wait, the moment of truth finally arrives; the tasting part. The whale sashimi set. Whale sashimi has a deep red colour almost like raw game meat. The texture is soft and yet chewy, with the taste of good quality beef. There is no raw musty stench afterall, instead it taste almost like high quality beef, extinguishing all worries of this restaurant. At 1050円 a set, it is entirely worth it.

This was perhaps the best fried meat dish ever. The meat was perfectly fried, with the meat soft and tender while retaining its great flavour but not too oily. The technique of the chef in this restaurant was actually quite admirable. At price 1050円, real quality food in Tokyo does not have to cost a lot at all.

The grilled whale tasted like grilled tender beef. Quite a good choice, but perhaps not as good as the fried set. Cost is 1200円。

Whale cuisine in Japan, a wonderful, unforgettable experience.

Japan 3: Tokyo 3: Asakusa

17th May 2007: Asakusa, Tokyo.

Asakusa 浅草, the famous district of Tokyo. Walking along this busy street will bring travellers to the famous temple, Sensoji Temple　浅草寺. But before reaching the temple, travellers will be brought to the test. Temptation from the souvenir shops, selling numerous Japanese decorations and gifts, and shops selling rice crackers, Japanese snacks and sweets. It is not quite possible not to stop at any of these shops, all trying to earn the tourist dollar. It may be an area for temple visitors, but it has turned to more of a commercial area than a sacred one.

It might be a tourist attraction, but the amount of domestic tourists far exceed the number of foreign tourists. It is also very likely to see Japanese dressed in their traditional costume, the kimono, walking along the streets. A polite request is more than sufficient for a photo taking session; the Japanese are most likely to be very willing to for a photo shoot.

The old streets still surviving in this modern nation.

Summer is coming, and Asakusa is gearing for their sanja matsuri, one of the grandest festival in Tokyo.

The volunteers were mostly Japanese though a couple of foreigners can be seen participating. There were numerous group, probably representing different temples or clans, carrying the mikoshi or portable temple.

A tourist attraction? Maybe, but more likely a traditional festival that has been celebrated for many years, and despite Japan being a modern country, this tradition will probably continue. Japan, a country where the modern and the traditional blends together.

Japan 2: Tokyo 2: Soba @ Ueno

Tucked in the back alleys, away from the main streets, this restaurant, やぶそば, is indeed a hidden treasure of Ueno 上野。　It took quite a bit of effort, of reading the obscure map, from asking ordinary Japanese who pointed to a certain direction while mumbling something unknown, the search was almost called off. Luckily, this restaurant was finally found. From Ueno station, go across the road which is under a bridge, turn left and on the right, there will be a side walk. Go into the side walk and turn left till one reaches the side entrance of a shopping centre. Turn to the right for a couple more steps and the restaurant will be on the right.

Seated at the restaurant, a welcoming and elegant cup of tea was served promptly to customers once they arrived. No questions asked and no delay. Unlike many restaurants in Singapore, particularly Chinese, restaurants in Japan that serve tea or water to customers automatically does not have any hidden agenda, meaning these drinks served do not have a hidden additional cost; they are completely free. A very much respected social etiquette.


Most customers in this restaurants are middle aged salarymen or more elderly people. At first, the restaurant was quite empty, so there were doubts of the quality of this restaurant. But eventually, the restaurant gets filled up.

Comfortable setting and atmosphere can be experienced in this restaurant. The chef can be seen busy cooking through the translucent curtains.

This hearty warm bowl of noodles, filled with some unknown mushroom, seaweed and probably radish 大根 shoots. the broth light but wonderfully flavoured. It was a totally healthy dish, but the lack of any meat may not be entirely suitable for meat eaters. 878円。

The soba served in this restaurant was most likely kneaded by the chef of this restaurant, which means that customers can expect high standards from their dish. This set came with grated yam, seaweed and wasabi.　The yam gives the noodles a sticky texture. Please note that the wasabi served, was the real wasabi from the real wasabi root, not just simply the paste. The difference is that the real wasabi has a much lighter taste than the paste, it is also inconsistent in texture due to the presence of fibre and juice from the roots, and the taste is definitely more delicate and refined. At 750円, it is definitely much better than Shimbashi Soba in Singapore, both in terms of price and quality.

This kitsumen, most probably handmade by the chefs of this restaurant, is probably the best noodle dish experienced. The wonderful texture of these noodles was accompanied by grated daikon, daikon shoots, dashi flakes, and some unknown items, probably only to be found in this part of the world. At 878円, it is totally worth it.

For the cold noodles, the waitress will serve a small pot of warm liquid which was the water that was used to cook the noodle. It is used to pour together with the sauce for the noodles, and to be drank. The precious sauce from the chef's hard work cannot be left wasted. For foreigners, this practice may only be experienced in Japan. This tip is being shared here so as to save some embarrassment from curious stares or frowns from the salarymen while the waitress trying hard to explain in Japanese.

Grade: 8.5/10