SPRINGTIME IN HONSHU JAPAN (CONT'D)

Street in Takayama, model of an old Japanese town. Also referred to as the small Kyoto in Hida for its quaint atmosphere. Notice the traffic lights which are mounted vertically. It's done so as this region has high snowfall during winter and if the lights are mounted horizontally, they may crumble with the accumulation of snow. 

Two cyclists. Cycling is safe as traffic is very light.

The streets are spick and span and houses are reminiscent of a bygone era.

Like a scene from a Japanese Samurai movie?

Replica of a float used in Japanese festivals. May is the month when many festivals are held in Takayama and people flock here from Japan and other countries to partake in the festivities.

Taking a stroll to a local market where in addition to existing shops, farmers bring their produce to sell here. Unfortunately, as it was raining, only a few turned up.

Walking and enjoying Takayama beauty.

Vendor of a local delicacy made of egg white. It tasted like marshmallow and cost 100 Yen ($1.20) each.

Takayama Jinya is designated a National Historic Site. It served as the branch office of the Edo Bafuku (government) from 1692 to 1868. Although there were some 60 plus such offices in Japan during the Tokugawa era, it is the only one existing today. Functions included collection of taxes in the form of rice, law court and interrogation of accused persons, forest mgt, administration and also rice storage. High ranking guests were also housed here.

Garden within.

The kitchen where meals were prepared for all those working here.

During a visit to Iishii Miso Brewery, we also had lunch consisting of miso soup, salad with miso dressing, rice balls and ice cream made of miso.

Being received into Matsumoto Castle by a 'Samuri' and a 'princess'. This raincoat brought back memories of a show called "Impressions of Liu San Jie" in Yangshou, China.

Armaments used in Matsumoto Castle, a precursor to fighting with rifles and pistols after the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Body armour adorned by the Samurais and officials of higher ranks.

Matsumoto City from the castle.