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Aishwarya Sathe and her husband spent 13 days crisscrossing Japan and adored every minute of it, from the highs of Tokyo to the country's most serene spots, which are the silent places of the world.
Day 1 to Day 5: Tokyo, A World of Endless Marvels
When we arrived in Tokyo, the city of boundless energy, we were instantly captivated by its vibrant atmosphere.
The first few days were spent immersed in the bustling streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya, where towering skyscrapers, busy shopping districts, and neon lights painted a picture of ultra modernity.
We indulged in authentic Japanese cuisine at the local izakayas or pubs and explored the quiet gardens of the Imperial Palace.
Tokyo's diverse neighborhoods offered a varied tapestry of experiences, from the historic Asakusa district and its awe-inspiring, ancient Buddhist Senso-ji Temple to the trendy neighborhoods of Harajuku and Akihabara, where pop culture and technology seamlessly merged.
Leaving Tokyo behind on a Shinkansen or bullet train, we ventured to Kyoto, a city steeped in history and renowned for its preserved traditions.
Kyoto's iconic sights left us breathless at every turn.
The Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, with its vermilion torii gates, created an ethereal path leading to moments of serenity and reflection.
Arashiyama's Bamboo Grove transported me to a world of tranquility as we walked through the towering bamboo stalks swaying gently in the wind.
The magnificence of the exquisite Kinkaku-ji temple, covered in gold leaf, was reflected in the calm surrounding pond.
Exploring the geisha district of Gion was delving into a touch of mystique, as we strolled through narrow streets lined with quaint teahouses and wooden machiya or townhouses.
Day 6 to Day 8: Hiroshima Was About Remembrance and Resilience
From Kyoto, we embarked for Hiroshima, a city that owns a profound history and carries a powerful message of peace.
Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, we paid tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing.
The Atomic Bomb Dome, standing as a sombre reminder of the past, held an aura of both hope and resilience.
The Peace Memorial Museum provided a comprehensive, emotional account of the city's tragic history and the enduring spirit of its people.
A visit to the picturesque Miyajima Island allowed me to marvel at the iconic floating torii gate and get bewitched by the beauty of Itsukushima Shrine.
Osaka was a city renowned for its vibrant street food culture and modern architecture.
I explored the bustling Dotonbori district, where the aroma of sizzling takoyaki (savoury ball snack, often filled with octopus) and the dazzling lights of billboards filled the air.
Osaka Castle, a magnificent fortress surrounded by lush gardens, offered a glimpse into Japan's feudal history.
I headed to the lively district of Shinsekai, where we tasted mouthwatering kushikatsu (skewers of deep fried vegetables and meat) and enjoyed panoramic views from the Tsutenkaku Tower.
A day trip to Nara allowed us to encounter friendly deer at Nara Park and take in the grandeur of Todai-ji Temple, home to a glorious bronze statue, largest in the world, of the Great Buddha.
As my time in Japan drew to a close, we couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the cultural treasures we viewed and the rich experiences that unfolded before our eyes.
From the dynamic streets of Tokyo to the immortal beauty Kyoto, the tenacity of Hiroshima, and the culinary wonders of Osaka, Japan had left an indelible mark on our soul.
With a heart full of cherished memories, we bade a fond farewell to this enchanting country, knowing that a bit of Japan would forever live within us.
Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com
