Japan: A “To-Do” List

Our time in Japan has come to an end. The past three years have absolutely flown by thanks to many adventures into the country’s far-reaching corners. As with any love affair, my fascination is sustained by the limited nature of the beloved object. After three years of immersive experience, Japan keeps me coming back for more. Here is my list of things as yet undone:

Fushimi Inari Taisha 伏見稲荷大社 
Located in southeast Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the foremost Inari shrine in Japan. I have visited Kyoto three times and each visit has included plans to see Fushimi Inari. However, as is common with travel, some plans never come to fruition so the Taisha remains on my “to do” list.

The shrine complex extends through the slopes of Inariyama via a network of torii-lined paths. These red torii gates are an important symbol of Shinto shrines in general. The tunnels of torii at Fushimi Inari Taisha are especially iconic and featured in the film Memoirs of a Geisha.

Shikoku 四国
The island of Shikoku lies to the south of Hiroshima and Okayama Prefectures on the main island of Honshu, with its northern coast forming the Inland Sea. The area is rich in agriculture and famous for its udon noodles, especially in Kagawa Prefecture. Some highlights of Shikoku’s cultural heritage include:

• Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture serves as the setting for Natsume Sōseki’s novel Botchan and boasts the oldest onsen bath house in Japan, Dōgo Onsen.
• Kōchi City, Kōchi Prefecture is the birthplace of Sakamoto Ryōma, who was catapulted into popularity from Japan’s feudal past after a highly successful t.v. drama aired about his life. Visitors to his monument in Kōchi can also enjoy beaches along the Pacific Coast.
• The 88 Temple Pilgrimage goes around the entire coast of the island – over 1600 kms. Traditionally, the pilgrimage is done on foot, but most modern day pilgrims take advantage of bus or car transportation.

Mt. Fuji 富士山
While living in Susono, I was privy to the most amazing views of Mt. Fuji just beyond my doorstep. I could see the climbers’ headlamps dotting the mountainside on clear nights during the summer. Despite such close proximity and the best of intentions, I never challenged the mountain.

There are four major climbing routes divided into 10 stations. Generally, climbers complete a circuit beginning at the 5th station up to the 10th station and back down again. If and when I make my climb, I plan to start at the foot of the mountain and complete all 10 stations. Bragging rights aside, the 1st to 5th stations offer much in the way of historical significance and natural beauty. Many ancient structures remain along the course and, prior to the 19th Century, women were not permitted to go any further. The marker for the “do not pass” point still stands today.