Japan 2012: Iwakuni
Kintai-Kyo Bridge
Iwakuni is about a 50 min train ride from Hiroshima. I met a lovely lady traveling from Okayama on the way here, and the time melted away as we talked about life back home and travelling. From the station, it is another 20-25 minute bus ride (depending on the bus) to the area of interest - the Kintai-Kyo bridge and the surrounding parks, as well as the ropeway to Iwaukuni castle.
I found the pace of life to be even slower here. I was here early in the morning, and there were hardly any tourists.
Iwakuni Jo
Iwakuni castle offers a strategic and superb view of Iwakuni.
I don't think the white snakes are worth the 'price of entry'. Well, its free, but the caretakers were a tad pushy and wanted 100Yen for the pamphlet. Oh well.
100 flavours of ice cream! Beat that Baskin Robbins! But honestly...crazy!
Iwakuni sushi is sweet to the taste and squared! Apparently it's made in a huge square block - enough for an entire village to eat!
Whilst wandering around the extensive park, I heard strains of a beautifully played Koto (Japanese zither). My ears naturally led me to this plaque and statue. I think it means beauty is natural or Nature is beautiful?
Something like that. The melody was lovely.