Japan

Japan

The Majestic Kurobe Dam in Japan: A Symbol of Engineering Marvel. Some hiking
Chubu

The Highest Dam of Japan: Kurobe

Kurobe Dam is considered a big success in Japan. It is by far the tallest dam in Japan, with a very impressively beautiful artificial lake.

Busy
Half day to full day (full day if you include the Alpine Route transit and lake cruise/photo stops)
Red arch bridge reflecting on calm forest lake in Gunma, Japan Nostalgic
Gunma

The Usui Pass and the Meganebashi

The contrast of the red and the green surrounding created a perfect balance, peaceful and romantic. In my vision, some girl from the countryside is likely to appear on the bridge on a old fashioned bike...

Difficulty
Risk
Overgrown Shiraishi Mine ruins in Kansai, Japan, the abandoned White Labyrinth industrial site. Off the map
Japan

Shiraishi Mine: An Endless Discovery

The gigantic wooden shelves could not stand against the strong wind, nor did the limestone powder stored on those shelves which was mostly washed away with the rain.

Difficulty
Risk
Solar eclipse with suns corona against dark, cloudy sky in Japan 2012. Ethereal
Japan

Eclipse 2012 seen from Tokyo

The full eclipse of 2012, in Tokyo.

Solar Eclipse
JFMAMJJASOND
Impressive RX-78-2 Gundam statue in urban setting with bustling crowd and modern buildings. Easy walk
Japan

Gundam Odaiba 2012

I have persuaded Gundam to come back to Tokyo, landing in Odaiba once more.

Busy
1–2 hours (allow extra time if you want to wait for the animation/show cycle and take lots of photos)
Tranquil white cherry blossoms in bloom at Shinjuku Garden, Tokyo, against red foliage backdrop. Vibrant
Japan

Yet Another Spring Comes in Japan

Last year when I first arrived in Japan, I was really looking forward to my first Hanami. But unfortunately the earthquake happened just before the warm south wind came, and everyone was told to constrain themselves and feel sad for the people who died and suffered, instead of enjoy cherry blossoms.

Cherry Blossom Peak
JFMAMJJASOND
Evolution of Japans historic Negishi Grandstand: witness to horse racings cultural impact and legacy. Haunting
Kanagawa

Negishi Racecourse: Story & Blood (2/2)

I go first. I move slowly under the surveillance camera, I approach the barbed wire... My god, it will not be easy! I try to pull myself up, but I could only get close the damn barbed wire that is ready to slide me open any minute.

Difficulty
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Negishi Grandstands: Abandoned Equestrian Relic in Yokohama - Decay and history intertwined. Haunting
Japan

The Abandoned Negishi Grandstand (1/2)

In Yokohama, near Tokyo, is one of the most famous ruins of Japan: the Negishi Grandstand. This is a favorite spot among Japanese urban explorers but despite its outside, I have never dared to explore it.

Difficulty
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Explore the decaying antenna in Fuchu, a forgotten relic in natures embrace. Off the map
Japan

Fuchu Abandoned US Air Force Base

But then I was still hesitating, weighing my judgments. Jing took the initiative and jumped on the fence like a cat on the run! Surprised, I followed without taking a second look behind. After a short dash, we are safe hidden in the branches. Catching our breath, now it is time to check in our location on Facebook.

Difficulty
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