Having walked through natural bamboo forests on Shikoku, the cultivated Bamboo Garden was too orderly. Gone were all the small plants that thrive in a bamboo habitat.
Three excellent musicians played traditional Japanese music with the American spiritual Amazing Grace and the classic Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme by Simon and Garfunkel added to the mix.
Worthy photographs…
Today’s clearer skies reveal Kumano Kodo’s mountains. I thought I was finally getting stronger walking legs until I discovered the mileage, ascent, and time were a fraction of the past days. Wishful thinking has thoughts of lower mountains, stronger legs.
The walk started with a two hour brutal 1,000’ ascent in less than a mile. I am reminded of a quote by George Ticknor, “The ascent of this steep, savage, hill was as pensive and slow as Satin’s ascent to paradise.”
A short drive from Namiyo’s home is an exceptioned field of wildflowers in bloom. The cooler weather persists. No surprise there’s a frost advisory forecast.
Worthies…
A strenuous but spectacular walk. Well worth the effort.
Climbing with fantastic views.
Catherine and Denis are exceptional hosts who generate stimulating conversations and serve an excellent dinner for their guests. Formally a barn , their home is exquisite. Denis and his dog gave me a proper send off by walking the first few km with me.
Linda Scandore 