KII PENINSULA

15/10/201414/09/2015NichigoPress

Above: See of clouds in Kumano

APILGRIMAGE INTOTHEPAST

The Kumano Kodo, an ancient and intricate network of six pilgrimage trails traversing Japan’s mountainous Kii Peninsula, spans three provinces and thousands of years in history. With its spectacular gorges and mysterious shrines and temples, the Kumano Kodo offers modern day pilgrims the opportunity to experience the physical and spiritual landscapes of Japan.

For thousands of years pilgrims ranging from members of the Imperial family to well-heeled commoners have journeyed along the Kumano Kodo to visit the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano.

Historically, the return journey from Kyoto took over a month and consisted of long days spent traversing the mountain paths, interspersed with relaxing baths in the purifying waters of the Kii Peninsula’s many hot springs. Travellers also marvelled at natural wonders such as the Nachi Waterfall and worshipped at the many shrines and temples found along the way.

Although pilgrims were undoubtedly glad to reach their destination, the journey along the weathered stone paths of the Kumano Kodo was an important part of their experience. Fittingly, the pilgrimage trail itself has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with the sacred temple precinct of Mount Koya and the Yoishino Omine area in Nara.

These days, the Kumano Kodo has been made accessible by modern transport and the availability of maps detailing well-defined trails which are suited to all
ages and levels of fitness.

The trail meanders through the three prefectures of the Kii Peninsula: Wakayama extending down the western side to the southern tip, Nara in the north and Mie in the north east, enabling travellers to sample the distinctive culture and cuisine of each region.

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World heritage sites Remnants of the Ryukyu Kingdom

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中城城跡

World Heritage Sites

Remnants of the Ryukyu Kingdom

Okinawa is the proud owner of nine buildings and other sites registered as world heritage in the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu. The word gusuku refers to the castle sites of the nobility during the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Visiting these buildings and sites is a chance to come into contact with Okinawa’s unique history and culture.

The main attraction is without a doubt Shuri Castle, a symbol of Ryukyu history and culture. This castle was the centre of all politics, foreign affairs and culture during the reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Its unique architectural design incorporates elements from both Japan and China. At its heart is the main temple – the largest wooden building in all Okinawa, whose colourful decorations are a testament to the kingdom’s prosperity.

Near the Shuri Castle site are the Tamaudun Mausoleum and the Sonohyan Utaki Stone Gate. Tamaudun is the stone mausoleum where the royal family that reigned over the Ryukyu Kingdom for 400 years is now interred. It has three main chambers that are surrounded with stone walls and carved into the natural rock surroundings in a spectacular facade.

The Sonohyan Utaki Stone Gate was used as a site to pray for safe travel on leaving the Ryukyu Kingdom. The gate is entirely made from stone with the exception of its great wooden doors. The fine detail of the carvings hints at the high level of skill of the artisans at that time.

To the south of Shuri Castle are the Shikinaen Gardens, also known as Nanen, a leisure house of the royal family of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Here, visitors can follow a winding path and enjoy the many changes in scenery amongst these stately surrounds. These gardens are said to have been used for recreation by the royal family and for entertaining guests from overseas.

Four other locations for Gusuku ruins are the Zakimi Castle Ruins, Nakijin Castle Ruins, Katsuren Castle Ruins and Nakagusuku Castle Ruins, each of which was built from the middle of the 14th century.

Only the walls and gates of these sites now remain, but the multi-faceted corallimestone used in their construction clearly displays architectural characteristics unique to the Ryukyu Kingdom.

The final ruin on the island is Sefa-Utaki, one of the Ryukyu’s most well-known and sacred spots, said to have been created by the godness Amamikiyo, the source of world creation myths for the Ryukyu.

Six homes of the gods are situated here, the oldest of which are Ufugui where the coronation of the highest ranked princess Kikoeokimi is said to have been held, and Sangui in which two large rocks come together to form a triangular cavern.

After cycling from Hiroshima, why not travel around Shikoku?

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Dogo Onsen, one of the most famous onsens in Japan.©Ehime Prefecture / ©JNTO

The shape of this island somewhat resembles Australia, and the word ‘Shikoku’ translates to 4 (shi) provinces (koku). Shikoku thrives with beautiful nature and culture that has been protected over generations, giving visitors a feeling of comfort and well being. If you’re travelling to Tokyo or Kyoto to sightsee from Hiroshima, how about visiting the four provinces, Ehime, Kochi, Tokushima and Kagawa, as you travel across the Shimanami sea road into Shikoku?

EHIME

Abundant with historic sentiment

Fresh Bream is used abundantly in Taimeshi ©Ehime Prefecture
©JNTO

Ehime, the birthplace of wellknown poet Shiki Masaoka, is filled with places that will bring out your sensitive side. Here you can see traditional houses lined up along the streets, experience the culture of atmospheric towns such as Uchiko, or visit Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s landmark hot springs. Dogo Onsen, which was first mentioned in an eighth century poetry anthology, is one of the oldest onsen in Japan.

Relax your mind and body as you feel the nostalgia of traditional Japan. Seafood is a big part of the cuisine in Ehime. You should try ‘Taimeshi’, the local cuisine made up of sea bream sashimi placed over sea bream infused rice. Mikan mandarins are also well known in Ehime, and there are even places where you can enjoy mikan picking.

TOKUSHIMA

Hidden beauties surrounded by nature

Awa Odori Festival is held every year around August ©TokushimaPrefecture
©JNTO

down-river

The magic of nature can be seen and enjoyed all throughout Tokushima, from the Naruto Whirlpool in the Seto Inland Sea to the secluded Oboke and Iya valleys, located deep within the mountains. If you have time to go sightseeing, staying a few nights in Oboke to soak up the forest atmosphere is highly recommended.

You can also experience river-rafting down the Yoshino River in the Oboke valley while admiring the surrounding mountains. During the summer month of August, you can also see the traditional Awa Odori Dance Festival that is held in the city.

Dancing together with the children will definitely become an everlasting memory. In the simple town of Iya, located deep within the mountain, you can learn how to make Iya Soba from the locals and taste the traditional flavour in the process.

KOCHI

Where nature and humans come together

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Kochi, which faces the Pacific Ocean, is where many leaders of Japan such as the Shishi political group and Ryoma Sakamoto (who was very influential from the end of
Edo period to the Meiji Restoration) were active in the development of Japan. Their lasting effects can still be sensed through the nature and people. Why not visit the Shimanto River, known as ‘the last clean river in Japan’. The reflection of the surrounding mountains and clear blue sky will take your breath away. For sightseeing, Kochi Castle and the Sunday Markets are highly recommended.

In summer, you can see many dancers partake in the Yosakoi festival. Sawachi cuisine, consisting of fresh sashimi and sushi, and lightly roasted bonito cooked in bundles of straw, is just one of the exquisite foods you can sample.

KAGAWA

Experience the art of this ancient province

Kagawa, located in the northeast of Shikoku, is known not only for being a prime location for filming domestic movies, but also for its artistic and romantic feeling. On the island of Naoshima, which can be accessed by ferry from the major city by Takamatsu, many art works by leading current artists, such as Yayoi Kusama,
can be seen around the island. Right now, the ‘Setouchi Triennale’ international
art festival is under way. It will run from spring through to autumn (4 November) across the Setouchi islands, starting with Naoshima. On Shodo Island, there is a sand island (Angel Road) that can only be seen twice a day in low tide, making it
popular among couples who see it as a sacred spot. In Kagawa, you can try the famous sanuki udon for just a few hundred yen. One taste and you will be hooked.

sanuki-udon

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Historic sites / Architecture