Visiting Japan #34 (Description Below)
Having visited the Todai-Ji Temple and its surrounds, I began a hike of Yamanobe-no-michi, also referred to as The Ancient Road. It dates back to the 7th century, and connects the towns of Nara and Mira. It is part of the lengthy Tokai Nature Trail, which many Japanese walk, often alone, as a contemplative journey. The trail is paved in parts, but is mostly cobblestone or dirt as it winds through ancient villages. The practice of walking this trail, often in segments, a little at a time, is emblematic of the Japanese devotion to what is aged.
Along the Trail, signs such as the one pictured here are commonly seen. Some are rough-hewn in their construction, and others quite sophisticated. Upon these signs are inscribed Haiku, traditional Japanese poems written according to strict rules. Haikus express genuine feelings (about love, for example) and are intended to be egoless.
Visiting Japan #34 (Description Below)
Having visited the Todai-Ji Temple and its surrounds, I began a hike of Yamanobe-no-michi, also referred to as The Ancient Road. It dates back to the 7th century, and connects the towns of Nara and Mira. It is part of the lengthy Tokai Nature Trail, which many Japanese walk, often alone, as a contemplative journey. The trail is paved in parts, but is mostly cobblestone or dirt as it winds through ancient villages. The practice of walking this trail, often in segments, a little at a time, is emblematic of the Japanese devotion to what is aged.
Along the Trail, signs such as the one pictured here are commonly seen. Some are rough-hewn in their construction, and others quite sophisticated. Upon these signs are inscribed Haiku, traditional Japanese poems written according to strict rules. Haikus express genuine feelings (about love, for example) and are intended to be egoless.