Hanabi festival in Beppu (Christmas Eve)

Kyūshū: volcanos and hot-springs.

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December 31st 2008
Oguni All I had was a name and a phone number given to me by Yukari in Hiroshima. I did not book the accommodation myself and I didn't give any credit card details, so the whole thing was being done on word. And I don't even know what they look like, but since I am likely to be the only Westerner with a backpack hanging around the bus station it should work out fine. I'd said I ... read more

Asia » Japan » Kumamoto

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In 1603, a Tokugawa shogunate (military dictatorship) ushered in a long period of isolation from foreign influence in order to secure its power. For 250 years this policy enabled Japan to enjoy stability and a flowering of its indigenous culture. Fol... ... read more