This is how humanity will be fooled by AI...
Bears Form Unprecedented Blockade at Yellowstone Entrance—Scientists Fear They Know Something We Don’t.
This is how humanity will be fooled by AI...
Bears Form Unprecedented Blockade at Yellowstone Entrance—Scientists Fear They Know Something We Don’t.
Kumano Kodo (熊野古道) is an ancient pilgrimage route in the Kii Peninsula, known for its scenic beauty, cultural significance, and connection to sacred shrines. Kumano Kodo in Japan and the Camino de Santiago in Spain are the only 2 UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes in the world.
It was a snowy and slippery evening for sure...
Notoya Ryokan, located in the charming hot spring town of Gero, is an exceptional ryokan that blends historical depth with a deep respect for tradition. It’s considered one of the oldest ryokan in Japan, and its legacy ties closely to the broader cultural history of Japanese hospitality, hot spring bathing, and local customs.
Notoya Ryokan was established during the Meiji period (1868–1912), a time when Japan was transitioning from the Edo period’s isolation to embracing modernization and Western influences. The ryokan’s history stretches back to this era, and it reflects a time of profound change, symbolizing the fusion of traditional Japanese culture with the new dynamics of modern Japan. Many historical ryokan, like Notoya, were built during this time to cater to the growing number of travelers who were discovering the allure of Japan’s onsen resorts.
What truly sets Notoya apart is its commitment to preserving traditional Japanese aesthetics. The ryokan’s architectural design and interior details offer a window into historical Japan, featuring classic elements such as sliding doors, mats, low wooden tables, and soft lighting, which embody simplicity and tranquility.
Our trip was full of drama - as always!!
One striking feature of Zaō's famous ski resorts are the "frost-covered trees" (树冰) that appear in mid-winter. Strong wind over the nearby lake fling water droplets which freeze against the trees and their branches, until near-horizontal icicles begin to form. Falling snow settles on the ice formations, and the end result is a grotesque figure of a tree. The effect of a full forest of such trees gives visitors a ghostly impression. Zaō is one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains.
What a day!! We literally traveled through the clouds all day to witness this otherworldly scenery.