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Private Notes
Shimane Prefecture along Japan's western coastline has spectacular views of mountains ranging from east to west. Our traveler's journey begins at Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's oldest and most famous shrines. At Lake Shinji, he meets a clam fisherman who uses a unique tool. Later he encounters a veteran blacksmith and learns about traditional ironmaking and enjoys Kagura, a spiritual dance performed by locals wearing masks. Join us on a 4-day trip to Shimane, where traditions are a vibrant part of daily life.
This time, we'll cycle through the mountains of Gunma and Tochigi Prefectures, meeting people living the traditional way. We'll visit 2 World Heritage Sites. The first is Tomioka Silk Mill, a landmark in the modernization of Japanese industry. Close by this monument to industrial history, we'll see silk making by hand, the traditional way. We'll visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, nestling deep in a mountain forest. Lovingly restored and repaired throughout the ages, the art of these incredible buildings shines as brightly as it did 400 years ago. We'll meet the people who work in these forests, people still in touch with the old ways of nature. Join us on a 260-kilometer cycle ride through Japan's autumn mountains.
