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Onsen in Noboribetsu

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November 6th 2013
Onsen Toil and trouble leaving Sapporo. Panic! Thought I left my phone at the train station. Sweaty palms. Diana, thank you for finding it for me under the seat of the train. Fell out of my pocket. Lifesaver. Checked in the Ryokan in Noboribetsu. Luggage brought to the room. Tatami mats. Tea set. Fresh coffee beans with a hand grinder. Sitting on the floor we drank coffee, ate mochi an ... read more

Asia » Japan » Hokkaido » Noboribetsu

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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