Feb. 25 - Nagasaki is a wonderful city for walking. Although pedestrians sometimes confront steep hills, after scaling their heights, they are often rewarded with a wonderful view. Along the way, these narrow paths can lead through interesting neighborhoods.
A statue of Ryoma Sakamoto's Western-style boots near "Kameyama Shachu," with the hills of Nagasaki in the background. (Wikipedia photo)
On a recent visit, I enjoyed walking through Teramachi visiting some temples that had been influenced by the city's long contact with China. I traversed some of the same lanes that Ryoma Sakamoto walked when he lived in Nagasaki in the 19th century. A steep path led up to the site where he founded the "Kameyama Shachu," one of the first private companies in Japan. While ascending this hill, I passed by many small temples and quiet cemeteries.
The Meganebashi Bridge looks like a pair of glasses. (Wikipedia photo)
Another wonderful walkway lies along the Nakajima River. I shared this shaded path with an elderly couple, who were chatting amiably, and a middle aged housewife walking her small dog.
Stopping near the 17th century Spectacles Bridge, I had to admit that its stone arches and their reflection in the water below resembled old-fashioned eye glasses.
These wonderful discoveries drove away the winter chill.
Until next time,
Jim
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