The tale of King Midas' touch that turned everything to gold can be compared to the wealth and luxury of the Mughals of India's Taj Mahal period. This article explains how this was so.
The wealthy Mughals who built the Taj Mahal and ruled India from 1526-1707 surrounded themselves with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and pearls which became an integral and dazzling part of their lives. Discerning and culture rulers, they supported many and varied artists, enabling them to produce jewelry, paintings, and household items in conditions that allowed them not only
financial freedom but the time to create their masterpieces.
The abundance of gems in India was so great the skill of these men raised everyday objects into works of art. Wherever a Mughal looked, beauty abounded. Even a lowly crutch top would be carved of jade and inset with gold and gems. In a village it would be made of wood. A Mughal backscratcher was made from jade with silver and gilded bronze fittings rather than formed from a base metal.
Mughals moved enameled game pieces around boards even as villagers used simpler pieces of more natural ingredients. A bowl? It could be rock crystal with gilded silver mounts in a palace and a tinned alloy in humble huts. Rich and poor alike smoked the water pipe (huqqa), but the bulbous water storage of the villager’s huqqa might be brass, while in a palace it was beaten gold or inlaid nephrite jade. Cups, pots, spittoons and oil lamps were also carved from jade for the wealthy Mughals. Commonly used items were adorned with gems and shaped with graceful curves, scallops and flutes.
Indian artisans developed an exclusive process allowing them to set stones in a wide variation of patterns. They mounted diamonds, rubies, and emeralds into imaginative designs and catapulted this art form to a level previously unseen.
Jewelry was a natural display for gems. Wealthy women wore not only wrist bracelets, ankle bracelets and necklaces, but also arm bands, hair ornaments and forehead ornaments. Rings graced their ears, fingers and toes. The men wore arm bands, turban ornaments, pendants, amulets, and highly decorative daggers tucked into their cummerbunds.
Flamboyant as Mughal jewelry was, the unseen side was frequently finished handsomely enough to be displayed. One such example is a pendant set with rubies and diamonds to resemble a bird with the reverse side fully engraved in a more realistic representation of the same feathered creature.
One particular technique most definitely linked to the Mughals and their jewelry making is enameling. The finest of its kind in the world was created in the Royal Art Schools by talented and expressive artists. Europeans who brought the rudimentary version of enameling to India were soon outdistanced by Mughal-era Indians who took the process to undeniably higher levels. Imperial workshops created a constant stream of cups, rings, armbands, gaming pieces, pendants, daggers, boxes, swords, bracelets, toe rings, mouthpieces for a water pipe hoses, etc., from enamel of breathtaking quality.
Ivory, jade and rock crystal were frequently inlaid with scrolled gold which was in turn inlaid with high quality precious stones. It was not unusual for items to exhibit a combination of materials and techniques.
Gold and silver were hammered together into intricate designs that then gave a rich sheen to huqqas, jewelry, daggers, necklaces, pendants and battle items including axes, shields, and gun barrel rests.
Items both inside and outside the palace were transformed by the artists’ hand and eye. The jewelers of the Mughals most certainly created the Midas Touch for their sovereigns.
Read More..
Friday, December 31, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Varanasi India
Varanasi, the land of ancient temples, is a popular pilgrimage destination for the Hindu pilgrims. The pious city boasts numerous majestic temples and ghats, where the people conduct the prayers. The stunning architecture of historical monuments is worth praising.
Travel to the city of Varanasi and you will travel back in time. No other city in India will impact you more than ancient Varanasi.
Varanasi
One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi is located in the upper east area of India and is not far from the border with Nepal. Sitting on the Ganges River, the city is an overwhelming display of crowds, colors and ancient Indian architecture. Roads are packed with people, cars, cows and the pavement is more or less dirt and mud depending upon when you are there.
Architecturally, Varanasi is a typical of India itself. You’ll find shanty towns and run down homes laying in contrast to stunning temples and homes of the Maharajas. If you want to be impressed, simply walk down to the Ganges River and look up and down the river. The structures lining the river will remind you of Venice, Italy, without the glitz. The towering structures are both beautiful and ancient.
Following this view, a visit to the Darbhanga Ghat is an eye opener. The massive structure is home to the Maharajas of Dharbhanga of Bihar. The Ghat reeks of power, mysticism and long ago ages. You’ll know what I mean when you see it.
Ganges
The Ganges is the hub of life in Varanasi. The holiest of cities, Varanasi is known as the city of light, but is really the city of death. Believed to have been founded by the Hindu goddess Shiva, the city is a mecca for those seeking religious enlightenment. Thousands of Indians seek to cleanse themselves in the waters each morning, which makes for an explosion of activity and colorful dresses. The rest of the day will amaze you even more.
As the holiest Hindu city, many of the Hindu faith believe dying in Varanasi brings enlightenment. Thousands upon thousands of Hindus travel to the city in their later years for this purpose. Charitable institutions and Hindu temples take in the multitude of elderly. Although not as prevalent as in the past, many of the deceased are cremated in the open on pyres overlooking the Ganges. It is truly a site to be seen.
In many ways, Varanasi is a microcosm of India. If you visit only one place in India, Varanasi should be the destination. Read More..
Travel to the city of Varanasi and you will travel back in time. No other city in India will impact you more than ancient Varanasi.
Varanasi
One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi is located in the upper east area of India and is not far from the border with Nepal. Sitting on the Ganges River, the city is an overwhelming display of crowds, colors and ancient Indian architecture. Roads are packed with people, cars, cows and the pavement is more or less dirt and mud depending upon when you are there.
Architecturally, Varanasi is a typical of India itself. You’ll find shanty towns and run down homes laying in contrast to stunning temples and homes of the Maharajas. If you want to be impressed, simply walk down to the Ganges River and look up and down the river. The structures lining the river will remind you of Venice, Italy, without the glitz. The towering structures are both beautiful and ancient.
Following this view, a visit to the Darbhanga Ghat is an eye opener. The massive structure is home to the Maharajas of Dharbhanga of Bihar. The Ghat reeks of power, mysticism and long ago ages. You’ll know what I mean when you see it.
Ganges
The Ganges is the hub of life in Varanasi. The holiest of cities, Varanasi is known as the city of light, but is really the city of death. Believed to have been founded by the Hindu goddess Shiva, the city is a mecca for those seeking religious enlightenment. Thousands of Indians seek to cleanse themselves in the waters each morning, which makes for an explosion of activity and colorful dresses. The rest of the day will amaze you even more.
As the holiest Hindu city, many of the Hindu faith believe dying in Varanasi brings enlightenment. Thousands upon thousands of Hindus travel to the city in their later years for this purpose. Charitable institutions and Hindu temples take in the multitude of elderly. Although not as prevalent as in the past, many of the deceased are cremated in the open on pyres overlooking the Ganges. It is truly a site to be seen.
In many ways, Varanasi is a microcosm of India. If you visit only one place in India, Varanasi should be the destination. Read More..
Monday, December 27, 2010
India Travel Tips
It is an intelligent step to choose India s your next holiday destination. The most famous Taj Mahal in India is really a delight for all the travelers and this amazing love-piece attracts plenty of tourists all across the globe.
One of the most exiting tourist destinations in the world is India. Situated in the perfect climatic zone, the country offers such diversity that no other country of the world can offer. The country has three major geographical features that make it an ideal country for habitation and travel. The great Himalayas of the north protect the country from the chilling winds of China. They also offer spectacular scenic places and one of the most challenging adventures outback. The great plains of central mainland is fed by some of world’s most prominent rivers. The Ganges runs across the country providing food to almost the whole country, as well as offering challenge to the rafters for white water excitement. Then there is the Deccan plateau of the South and the Indian Ocean. They complete the topographic scene of India.
Historically India is perhaps the richest country in the world. It was home to the oldest civilization of the world the Indus Valley. The civilization dates back to almost 3000 BC. India has given birth to two of the worlds biggest religions. Every now and then the scientist and anthropologists discovers new evidences, which fortify India’s claim of being culturally most advanced in the ancient times.
The Taj Mahal is the embodiment of love built by the great Mughal ruler Shahjahan for his departed wife Mumtazmahal. It has found its place in the seven wonders of the modern world. India has many historical monuments aptly notified as world heritage sites. The country has a diverse culture and it is evident by the fact that the monuments of hinds and Muslims are in equal numbers.
The political scene of the country is controlled by the capital city of the country – Delhi. It has been a historic city, home to the red fort, which is the embodiment of the Moughal rule in India. Delhi is also famous for its bazaars and monuments. It is a must visit to the tourists as the embassies and high commissions are situated here. To day delhi is the hub of urbanization. From the multinational s to the domestic giants of the world all have their headquarters in Delhi. It is also highly urbanized and it homes many universities for higher education. The city is well connected to the whole country through rails and air and the domestic transportation is also very smooth as there is a well-laid network of metro trains.
If Delhi is the political capital then Bombay can be easily termed as the business capital of the country. The city is a mixture of various religions and nationalities. The life of Bombay, now called as Mumbai, is very fast and the schedules are always full. It has the most prized possession of the country the Bollywood (the Indian film industry). It also has the Wall Street’s Indian counter part the Dalal Street. It is the witness to the countries economic ups and downs.
India is definitely a place worth visiting and the best time to come to India is in the months of September to April when the country is booming with all kinds of activities and festivities. The colors of the country are surely goanna take you over. Read More..
One of the most exiting tourist destinations in the world is India. Situated in the perfect climatic zone, the country offers such diversity that no other country of the world can offer. The country has three major geographical features that make it an ideal country for habitation and travel. The great Himalayas of the north protect the country from the chilling winds of China. They also offer spectacular scenic places and one of the most challenging adventures outback. The great plains of central mainland is fed by some of world’s most prominent rivers. The Ganges runs across the country providing food to almost the whole country, as well as offering challenge to the rafters for white water excitement. Then there is the Deccan plateau of the South and the Indian Ocean. They complete the topographic scene of India.
Historically India is perhaps the richest country in the world. It was home to the oldest civilization of the world the Indus Valley. The civilization dates back to almost 3000 BC. India has given birth to two of the worlds biggest religions. Every now and then the scientist and anthropologists discovers new evidences, which fortify India’s claim of being culturally most advanced in the ancient times.
The Taj Mahal is the embodiment of love built by the great Mughal ruler Shahjahan for his departed wife Mumtazmahal. It has found its place in the seven wonders of the modern world. India has many historical monuments aptly notified as world heritage sites. The country has a diverse culture and it is evident by the fact that the monuments of hinds and Muslims are in equal numbers.
The political scene of the country is controlled by the capital city of the country – Delhi. It has been a historic city, home to the red fort, which is the embodiment of the Moughal rule in India. Delhi is also famous for its bazaars and monuments. It is a must visit to the tourists as the embassies and high commissions are situated here. To day delhi is the hub of urbanization. From the multinational s to the domestic giants of the world all have their headquarters in Delhi. It is also highly urbanized and it homes many universities for higher education. The city is well connected to the whole country through rails and air and the domestic transportation is also very smooth as there is a well-laid network of metro trains.
If Delhi is the political capital then Bombay can be easily termed as the business capital of the country. The city is a mixture of various religions and nationalities. The life of Bombay, now called as Mumbai, is very fast and the schedules are always full. It has the most prized possession of the country the Bollywood (the Indian film industry). It also has the Wall Street’s Indian counter part the Dalal Street. It is the witness to the countries economic ups and downs.
India is definitely a place worth visiting and the best time to come to India is in the months of September to April when the country is booming with all kinds of activities and festivities. The colors of the country are surely goanna take you over. Read More..
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Phuket island thailand
I spent a holiday island of Phuket with a friend. Phuket and 'known as a place full of very lively discos, clubs and people who come here to have fun.
Of course it 's nice to go out one night having a drink or go shopping at the market but Noturno Phuket has another side to that in May of tourists forget.
Phuket Thailand Photos 6680
At least I certainly did not until I came to Thailand to spend my vacation in the disco or a headache to bed until lunchtime.
I think you can easily do this in Mallorca or any other place to swim in the Mediterranean sea.
Thailand and 'superior for its culture, its pure nature, its temples, its beaches still untouched (maybe not in Phuket but more to the south to Ko Lanta, Krabi and Ko Lipe) and its people so helpful and modest .
I spent a relaxing holiday island of Phuket and I learned many new things and tried so many emotions. One of the most beautiful experience to be the way to the Big Buddha of Phuket, a statue of 45 meters from where you get what I think is' the best views of Phuket, the unforgettable! Read More..
Of course it 's nice to go out one night having a drink or go shopping at the market but Noturno Phuket has another side to that in May of tourists forget.
Phuket Thailand Photos 6680
At least I certainly did not until I came to Thailand to spend my vacation in the disco or a headache to bed until lunchtime.
I think you can easily do this in Mallorca or any other place to swim in the Mediterranean sea.
Thailand and 'superior for its culture, its pure nature, its temples, its beaches still untouched (maybe not in Phuket but more to the south to Ko Lanta, Krabi and Ko Lipe) and its people so helpful and modest .
I spent a relaxing holiday island of Phuket and I learned many new things and tried so many emotions. One of the most beautiful experience to be the way to the Big Buddha of Phuket, a statue of 45 meters from where you get what I think is' the best views of Phuket, the unforgettable! Read More..
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Hotel Spas In Asia
Escape the pressures of modern life at a luxury retreat in Asia without leaving behind the comfort of cutting-edge design and amenities. Here are the very best Hotel Spas that offer a tranquil and intimate getaway in Asia.
A Hotel Spa can offer you a luxurious, relaxing experience even if you are staying in a hotel for business purposes. There are many quality, top-notch hotels in Asia that have Hotel Spas that are world class and open long hours for the convenience of their guests. This means that if you are on a family holiday and wish to visit the health and beauty spa later in the evening when the children are in bed, you can or even after a long day of business meetings.
The Peninsula Spa By Espa At The Peninsula is located in Hong Kong and won the 2006 Crystal Award for the best Hotel Spa in Asia. The Espa is a world leader in Health spa companies and when combined with the high service levels of The Peninsula Hotel, they have proved themselves to be second to none. Espa themselves conclude that this health spa is their new premium facility, being the most spacious and lavish in design.
At the Peninsula Spa by Espa you can choose from a broad range of treatments that have been formulated by combining traditional, natural therapies and products. This means that their effects are lasting, unlike some more chemically based, short fix alternatives. The Peninsula Spa by Espa upholds the highest standards in hiring their therapists, insisting on representatives having the best training, talents and abilities. Therapists must be qualified and experienced before working for any Espa Beauty spa and they are also required to partake in expert, intense company training prior to commencement. This is why they can have a company vision statement that claims “perfection is their passion”.
Another fantastic hotel beauty spa in Asia is at The Oriental in Bangkok and they have also won various awards over the last eight years for being the best city hotel spa. The Oriental has designed their beauty spa as a reflection of Nirvana, with their aim being to refresh the body and sooth the soul. They have fairly recently spent well over a million dollars refurbishing and upgrading what was already seen by many as the top health spa in the world. Open until 10pm every day, every guest can find an opportunity to spoil themselves.
Other top Hotel Spas to watch for include The Spa At Four Seasons Hotel in Hong Kong, Grand Hyatt Erawan in Thailand and the Rafflesamarita Spa at Raffles The Plaza in Singapore. Asia is home to many quality hotel health spas, so do your research and ask others who have visited them before so you can make an informed decision. The Peninsula Spa By Espa At The Peninsula in Hong Kong and the Oriental in Bangkok are two hotel spas in Asia where you are guaranteed to have the experience of a lifetime. Read More..
A Hotel Spa can offer you a luxurious, relaxing experience even if you are staying in a hotel for business purposes. There are many quality, top-notch hotels in Asia that have Hotel Spas that are world class and open long hours for the convenience of their guests. This means that if you are on a family holiday and wish to visit the health and beauty spa later in the evening when the children are in bed, you can or even after a long day of business meetings.
The Peninsula Spa By Espa At The Peninsula is located in Hong Kong and won the 2006 Crystal Award for the best Hotel Spa in Asia. The Espa is a world leader in Health spa companies and when combined with the high service levels of The Peninsula Hotel, they have proved themselves to be second to none. Espa themselves conclude that this health spa is their new premium facility, being the most spacious and lavish in design.
At the Peninsula Spa by Espa you can choose from a broad range of treatments that have been formulated by combining traditional, natural therapies and products. This means that their effects are lasting, unlike some more chemically based, short fix alternatives. The Peninsula Spa by Espa upholds the highest standards in hiring their therapists, insisting on representatives having the best training, talents and abilities. Therapists must be qualified and experienced before working for any Espa Beauty spa and they are also required to partake in expert, intense company training prior to commencement. This is why they can have a company vision statement that claims “perfection is their passion”.
Another fantastic hotel beauty spa in Asia is at The Oriental in Bangkok and they have also won various awards over the last eight years for being the best city hotel spa. The Oriental has designed their beauty spa as a reflection of Nirvana, with their aim being to refresh the body and sooth the soul. They have fairly recently spent well over a million dollars refurbishing and upgrading what was already seen by many as the top health spa in the world. Open until 10pm every day, every guest can find an opportunity to spoil themselves.
Other top Hotel Spas to watch for include The Spa At Four Seasons Hotel in Hong Kong, Grand Hyatt Erawan in Thailand and the Rafflesamarita Spa at Raffles The Plaza in Singapore. Asia is home to many quality hotel health spas, so do your research and ask others who have visited them before so you can make an informed decision. The Peninsula Spa By Espa At The Peninsula in Hong Kong and the Oriental in Bangkok are two hotel spas in Asia where you are guaranteed to have the experience of a lifetime. Read More..
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Guide To Thailand Travel
Thailand Travel Guide combines useful information about Thailand in many aspects in order for travelers who wish to experience this country to have a brief view of the nation. The Guide will first explain about the country in general before describing what it has in each region so that travelers can decide where they want to go to make the most out of their trips.
Thailand is possibly the most-visited country in south-east Asia. The irresistible combination of fine beaches, ancient monuments and civilisations and renowned cuisine makes a holiday here an absolute must.
Where is it?
Thailand is in south-east Asia, bordering Malaysia to the south, Myanmar (Burma) to the north, and Cambodia and Laos to the east. It benefits from coastal stretches both in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Thailand.
Where can I stay?
Thailand is a popular country to visit – Bangkok is a 24-hour city with hotels to match whilst smaller cities and coastal resorts have also made the most of the constant tourist trade. Travellers are becoming more sophisticated, however, which has resulted in a number of boutique hotels opening to cater for the discerning guest. For those who love the beach, try the luxury of Aleenta; a small, private beach hotel which houses just 17 suites and 2 private villas. With unspoilt beach on your doorstep, an infinity pool and romantic breakfast and dinner settings, beach-life rarely gets better. Alternatively, go for the lights and sounds of Bangkok, where you could stay at the Ibrik City; a very chic hotel right in the middle of the business district and next to the famous “Blue Elephant” cooking school. With just three rooms, this is a modern yet homely hotel and great transport connections mean that this boutique hotel is the ideal base for days and nights in Bangkok.
What can I see?
Thailand is renowned for its ancient monuments, stupas and temples. From the sheer architectural delight of the Phimai Temple, a Hindu/Buddhist temple, to the ancient stupas in the Sukothai Historical Park, there’s much to learn about civilisations hundreds and thousands of years old and the way they affect the people of Thailand today. Don’t miss the busy and colourful markets either, and make sure that you spend time sampling the fabulous food for which Thailand is so well known. Venture away from the beaches to the rivers and mountains of Thailand’s interior to sample a simpler way of life, or take in the energy of Bangkok with a city visit.
How do I get around?
You can hire a car to get around Thailand, but it may be easier to take the train. Bangkok city is serviced by a Sky train and boat service, so there’s no need for any other transport to get you around. Outside Bangkok and closer to the coast, use the buses and trains to get about. The trains may be slower than you’re used to, but they’re comfortable. On the other hand, the buses are fast and furious, but they are cheap and air-conditioned. Read More..
Thailand is possibly the most-visited country in south-east Asia. The irresistible combination of fine beaches, ancient monuments and civilisations and renowned cuisine makes a holiday here an absolute must.
Where is it?
Thailand is in south-east Asia, bordering Malaysia to the south, Myanmar (Burma) to the north, and Cambodia and Laos to the east. It benefits from coastal stretches both in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Thailand.
Where can I stay?
Thailand is a popular country to visit – Bangkok is a 24-hour city with hotels to match whilst smaller cities and coastal resorts have also made the most of the constant tourist trade. Travellers are becoming more sophisticated, however, which has resulted in a number of boutique hotels opening to cater for the discerning guest. For those who love the beach, try the luxury of Aleenta; a small, private beach hotel which houses just 17 suites and 2 private villas. With unspoilt beach on your doorstep, an infinity pool and romantic breakfast and dinner settings, beach-life rarely gets better. Alternatively, go for the lights and sounds of Bangkok, where you could stay at the Ibrik City; a very chic hotel right in the middle of the business district and next to the famous “Blue Elephant” cooking school. With just three rooms, this is a modern yet homely hotel and great transport connections mean that this boutique hotel is the ideal base for days and nights in Bangkok.
What can I see?
Thailand is renowned for its ancient monuments, stupas and temples. From the sheer architectural delight of the Phimai Temple, a Hindu/Buddhist temple, to the ancient stupas in the Sukothai Historical Park, there’s much to learn about civilisations hundreds and thousands of years old and the way they affect the people of Thailand today. Don’t miss the busy and colourful markets either, and make sure that you spend time sampling the fabulous food for which Thailand is so well known. Venture away from the beaches to the rivers and mountains of Thailand’s interior to sample a simpler way of life, or take in the energy of Bangkok with a city visit.
How do I get around?
You can hire a car to get around Thailand, but it may be easier to take the train. Bangkok city is serviced by a Sky train and boat service, so there’s no need for any other transport to get you around. Outside Bangkok and closer to the coast, use the buses and trains to get about. The trains may be slower than you’re used to, but they’re comfortable. On the other hand, the buses are fast and furious, but they are cheap and air-conditioned. Read More..
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Plan a Vacation to Japan
Here is a shortcut to your perfect Tokyo vacation. Make sure you visit these top 10 places In Japan as rated by visitors like you.
Be sure to visit the Spectacle bridge near Nagasaki. This gorgeous ancient stone bridge resembles a pair of glasses when viewed with the reflection of water flowing under the bridge and is a popular tourist stop. Visiting the beautiful red and yellow shrine known as Confucius Shrine and Museum of Natural History near Nagasaki can provide you with glimpses of Chinese treasures on loan form Beijing. Chinatown dates back to the seventeenth century and can be a haven for food lovers visiting Japan. Dejima is an artificial island once used to confine Dutch workers and now houses a museum and many historical buildings.
On August 9, 1945, an atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki. Be sure to visit the museum dedicated to this tragedy when visiting Nagasaki as well as Nagasaki Peace Park. Glover Gardens is an open air museum featuring nine western style homes including Glover Mansion. Nishizaka Hill located in Nagasaki is the site of a religious monument to the twenty six martyrs who were crucified on this spot for practicing Christianity in the 1600's.
Tokyo
Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo is an interesting tourist stop and is a sushi lovers paradise. It is the largest wholesale market in Japan. Asakusa in Tokyo is a popular neighborhood filled with shops and restaurants along with the famous Senso Temple. The East Gardens are located near the outside of the Imperial Palace and are open to the public. Yasukun jinja is the site of a large, torii gate that stands at the entrance to this shrine built in memory of those who lost their lives defending Japan. Many officials still come and offer prayer annually on August 15, anniversary of Japan's defeat in World War.
The Kabuki Theater hosts traditional Japanese Kabuki performances and is located in the Ginza district. The Edo Tokyo Museum displays artifacts and architecture depicting Tokyo's history. Exhibits include replicas of an ancient Kabuki theater and the original Edo Castle. The Hama Rikyo park is located next to Tokyo Bay and is one of the most beautiful gardens in the city. The Tokyo National Museum is a must see with the largest collection of Japanese artifacts and artworks in the world. It features over 100,000 pieces and room to display only 4,000 so exhibits are rotated constantly. The Mori Art Museum is located in Roppong Hills, is one of Asia's, largest collections of contemporary art.
Hiroshima
While visiting Hiroshima, be sure to see the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This park commemorates the explosion of the first atomic bomb. It houses the Peace Memorial Museum. The Hiroshima Castle and the Atomic Dome are also must see sites when visiting Hiroshima. Read More..
Be sure to visit the Spectacle bridge near Nagasaki. This gorgeous ancient stone bridge resembles a pair of glasses when viewed with the reflection of water flowing under the bridge and is a popular tourist stop. Visiting the beautiful red and yellow shrine known as Confucius Shrine and Museum of Natural History near Nagasaki can provide you with glimpses of Chinese treasures on loan form Beijing. Chinatown dates back to the seventeenth century and can be a haven for food lovers visiting Japan. Dejima is an artificial island once used to confine Dutch workers and now houses a museum and many historical buildings.
On August 9, 1945, an atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki. Be sure to visit the museum dedicated to this tragedy when visiting Nagasaki as well as Nagasaki Peace Park. Glover Gardens is an open air museum featuring nine western style homes including Glover Mansion. Nishizaka Hill located in Nagasaki is the site of a religious monument to the twenty six martyrs who were crucified on this spot for practicing Christianity in the 1600's.
Tokyo
Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo is an interesting tourist stop and is a sushi lovers paradise. It is the largest wholesale market in Japan. Asakusa in Tokyo is a popular neighborhood filled with shops and restaurants along with the famous Senso Temple. The East Gardens are located near the outside of the Imperial Palace and are open to the public. Yasukun jinja is the site of a large, torii gate that stands at the entrance to this shrine built in memory of those who lost their lives defending Japan. Many officials still come and offer prayer annually on August 15, anniversary of Japan's defeat in World War.
The Kabuki Theater hosts traditional Japanese Kabuki performances and is located in the Ginza district. The Edo Tokyo Museum displays artifacts and architecture depicting Tokyo's history. Exhibits include replicas of an ancient Kabuki theater and the original Edo Castle. The Hama Rikyo park is located next to Tokyo Bay and is one of the most beautiful gardens in the city. The Tokyo National Museum is a must see with the largest collection of Japanese artifacts and artworks in the world. It features over 100,000 pieces and room to display only 4,000 so exhibits are rotated constantly. The Mori Art Museum is located in Roppong Hills, is one of Asia's, largest collections of contemporary art.
Hiroshima
While visiting Hiroshima, be sure to see the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This park commemorates the explosion of the first atomic bomb. It houses the Peace Memorial Museum. The Hiroshima Castle and the Atomic Dome are also must see sites when visiting Hiroshima. Read More..
