Having walked the Nakasendo in spring, summer, and fall, how could I leave out winter? So I returned on a snowy winter day.
Perhaps because of the cold weather, I hardly saw anyone along the way. The higher I climbed, the deeper the snow became. As I walked through the dreamlike silver landscape, large clumps of snow would occasionally fall from the trees, adding a little thrill to the silent world. Along the route, bamboo poles of various lengths had been placed in several spots, probably a thoughtful gesture by the villagers to keep travelers from slipping!
In just a few short hours, my body, mind, and spirit felt completely cleansed! When spring arrives, I’ll definitely walk it again.
Magome Inn | Review by 蘇自強
Other Reviews by 蘇自強
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Aomori Nebuta Festival
The Aomori Nebuta Festival is held in central Aomori City between August 2 and 7 every year and attracts as many as 1 million visitors every year. With records dating back to the late Edo period (around 1842), this historic festival is one of the Three Great Festivals of Tohoku and is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.
The Aomori Nebuta Festival is a huge festival that practically everyone knows. As the Shinkansen was about to arrive at Shin-Aomori Station, the child sitting behind me could hardly wait to get off and even showed me his Nebuta mask!
Although I’ve visited Aomori many times, unfortunately I still haven’t had the chance to see the festival in person. However, the Nebuta Museum WA RASSE next to the station also offers a very immersive experience. The colorful, vibrant Nebuta floats in all kinds of designs are truly impressive!
I sincerely hope that someday I can attend and see this fascinating festival in person! -
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Shirogane Blue Pond
The Shirogane Blue Pond in Biei is famous as the top tourist attraction in the area, captivating visitors with its vivid blue. This man-made pond unexpectedly formed when water accumulated behind a dam that was constructed to prevent volcanic mudflows from Mt. Tokachi. The surreal blue of the pond, combined with the surrounding lush nature and dead larch trees, creates an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of a fairy tale.
After traveling across that endless expanse of land, the moment I entered the “Blue Pond,” I was truly amazed! I got up early and arrived at the “Blue Pond” before the crowds appeared. The air was fresh, the water was deep blue, and the dead trees were reflected in the pond... Although it isn't very large, standing here and admiring the unusual scenery made me reluctant to leave for a long time!
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Hachimanzaka Slope
Hachimanzaka, named after the Hakodate Hachiman Shrine that once stood at the top of the hill. The beautiful cobblestone street stretches straight out to sea, lined on both sides by neatly maintained roadside trees, and offers a view of Hakodate Bay and the Mashu Maru, the memorial to the Seikan-Hakodate Liaison Ship, both of which are moored and on display.
No matter what season I visit Hakodate, I always head to Hachimanzaka Slope first and climb straight up the hill. As I walk uphill, I keep looking back at the harbor. Once I reach the top, I slowly make my way along the street, admiring the many distinctive buildings. At dusk, it’s time to head up the mountain for the night view! Looking at the beautiful nightscape makes me feel like I really am a millionaire! Hakodate is a city that never stops drawing me back!
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