Izak J Pretorius
Well traveled (27 countries). Love "adventure" travel. Age: 53. Married: 30 years. CEO of physical security barrier manufacturing company. Sakkie
Travel Blog Posts
April 12th 2006
Japan has 122 Railway companies, 13 Subways, 11 Monorails, 21 Tram systems, 1 Trolleybus and 12 new transport systems coming on line. The Tsukuba Express Railway Company is the newest subway train company. Everything about this company and it's infrastructure is technically advanced and modern. The Sumida river and a number of water canals still form an important part of Tokyo's industrial life. Witnesses are the same all over the world!... read more
April 8th 2006
This morning we spent visiting the Kenroku-en garden, one of the top 3 traditional gardens in Japan. We were stunned by the trouble the people go too to keep trees from falling over or branches from breaking off. The area has heavy snow falls in winter and no doubt this takes it's toll on the trees, the weight of the snow on the branches. Nevetheless, one would think nature must take it's course. We then went to the Nagamachi Samurai House district with it's walled streets (a strange thing in Japan). Some of these houses are known for their quality woodwork, costly windowpanes (paper) and serene gardens.... read more
April 7th 2006
Shirakawago, also in the remote mountain region, is known for Gassho-zukuri ("praying hands") Houses. They say the roof shape is that of praying hands. It is shaped like this to withstand heavy snow and shed water quickly so that the straw does not rot.... read more
April 6th 2006
Takayama is surrounded by mountains. Many unspoiled historical buildings in narrow streets. It's pure water is ideal for sake brewing. (Eight saki brewers). One of the most popular Japanese fesitvals take place here, the Takayama Matsuri. ... read more
April 4th 2006
Photos unclear because of misty weather and food shots taken through glass... read more
April 1st 2006
These trains travel at 270KPH! They transport 300,000 people between the main cities per day!... read more
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