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Japan

Japan travel destinations  as cherry blossoms light up, as a prism from which to refract the essence of this Buddhist country. Being there during Cherry Blossom (aka Sakura) Season opened my mind to the infinite possibilities of their pink splendor. It’s possible to ride the delicate wave of “Kaika” or full bloom for 3 months throughout this archipelago. Sakura Season begins in February on the tropical island, Okinawa. It lasts until May in the northernmost island, Hokkaido. I blissfully experienced many moments of pink glory, as an Acupuncturist-at-Sea from March to May in Japan, connecting me to the quintessence of this culture.

The ephemeral nature of Cherry Blossoms is a rich symbol, that associates with Japan’s Buddhist influence. They embody the concept mono no aware or the transience and impermanence in the blossom’s short-lived, graceful beauty. In Japan, cherry blossoms also symbolize clouds because they bloom en masse. The Sakura motif blooms throughout the culture in Art, Manga (graphic novels) and films. In the 2003 movie, The Last Samurai, Katsumto says in the first scene: “A perfect blossom’s a rare thing. You could spend your life looking for them and it would not be a wasted life.” Interestingly, I seemed to entangle with this attachment, as this character, following a path to his similar, final realization. (You need to read the entire blog or watch movie to find out.)

    Shirakawa Village Japan
    Japan

    Picturesque Shirakawa Village Highlights During Sakura Season

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025
    written by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac

    Nestled in the Japanese Alps, visiting Shirakawa Village is like stepping into a storybook. Approaching by road, I feel myself slipping into a dream. It no longer feels like the “Land of the Rising Sun.” Rather, it seems like somehow I mysteriously ended up in Switzerland. The snow-capped mountains overlap into the clear blue sky like a surreal painting to immerse my imagination in an alpine setting. Intrigued, I arrive to spend a day and discover the Shirakawa Japan highlights. Plus, I am there in April when the cherry blossoms are in bloom for Sakura Season.

    Shirakawa is surrounded by the Ryohaku Mountains in the Shogawa River valley. Moreover, it’s best known for its unique buildings called Gassho-zukuri. The design of these A-framed, thick-thatched roofs, manages snow, as this region is the snowiest area in Japan. Initially, I just inhale the fresh alpine air from the valley, surrounded by beautiful mountains. Then, calmly, I begin exploring this charming village, noticing pink cherry blossoms in full bloom, knowing this is going to be a splendid spring day.

    IMG_4122
    IMG_4002

    Firstly, from the Visitor’s Center, I cross the hanging bridge over the Shogawa River to the village. The main attraction here is the village itself and its harmonious setting, with the best way to explore being on foot, which is my favorite as an inquisitive peripatetic. Plus, the village is small and easy to explore, where I wander through the labyrinth of scenery, such as, unique buildings, gardens, colorful scarecrows, shops, shrines and cherry blossoms…

    Shirakawa Japan Highlights

    IMG_4051
    Gassho-zukuri

    Shirakawa-go is the largest concentration of Gassho-zukuri buildings in Japan used originally as farmhouses. There are over 110 houses with some being over 250 years old. Moreover, the A-framed thick straw roofs withstand the heavy snow of the region. Gassho-zukuri means ‘constructed like hands in prayer,’ as the farmhouses steep thatched roofs look like the hands of Buddhist monks in prayer. In addition, the A-framed roofs (made without nails) provided large attics used for cultivating silkworms.

    Even though most of the buildings have been converted to museums, I still enjoy the setting for its rich cultural experience to feel what it was like to live this unique lifestyle hundreds of years ago.

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    Panoramic Viewpoint

    I inquisitively wander without much of a plan, except to just take it all in. The cherry blossoms are a beautiful accent to the rustic charm. But, the unfortunate reality is the touristy crowds (cannot complain because I’m one too). However, it’s vast enough to not feel overwhelmed by the crowds. Then, I take the 15-minute walk to the hilltop’s panoramic view, where the Shiroyama Tenbodai Castle was at one time.

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    Overall Panoramic View

    From this vantage point, I see the cherry-blossom framed, snow-capped mountains and the picturesque village in the valley below, along the winding turquoise Shokawa River. Moreover, Mt Hakusan looms at the highest elevation of 2,172 meters, known as a sacred summit for centuries. Consequently, I easily imagine living here 200 years ago, as a farmer connected to the land and its surroundings living in harmony with Mother Earth.

    Then, I continue tirelessly wandering throughout this idyllic village with no agenda. Visitors rent the old farmhouses and offer extended stays to experience the essence of this valley, which is presumably more evident in the early morning and evenings with less tourist crowds. Finally, after 2 Matcha (green tea) ice cream cones and 4 hours of wandering, I meander back across the bridge leaving the village, feeling myself slowly transition out of this nostalgic dreamworld, back into the reality of modern Japan…taking with me a splendid memory of this unique Japanese heritage. Sayonara Shirakawa!


    Read More!
    MY LIFE-CHANGING CHERRY BLOSSOM TOURS IN JAPAN AND CORRESPONDENCES TO BUDDHISM
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    April 13, 2025 0 comments
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  • Japan

    Top Attractions in Hokkaido, Japan’s Northernmost Island

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025
    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025

    Being the northernmost and least developed island of Japan, Hokkaido is a wonderful place to explore. During early spring, I visited Cape Kamui on Shakotan peninsula, Toya-Usu Global Geopark and the charming …

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    An Emotional Day at Nagasaki’s Historic Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025
    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025

    The Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum stand as an evocative beacon for world peace. Here visitors can learn about this horrific event and pray for all those that have suffered …

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  • JapanTravel Wellness Trips

    My Life-Changing Cherry Blossom Tours in Japan

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025
    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 13, 2025

    In spring Japan’s cherry blossoms light up, as a prism from which to refract the essence of this Buddhist country. Being there during Cherry Blossom (aka Sakura) Season opened my mind to …

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  • JapanTravel Wellness Trips

    A Healing Experience at Kagoshima’s Unique, Geothermal Sand Spas

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 10, 2025
    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac April 10, 2025

    One of the most unique experiences of my life was getting buried in the Kagoshima sand spas. And yes, thankfully my head was not included. It’s believed that the geothermal-heated sands provide …

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  • Japan

    A Wonderful Day Tour at Osaka Castle and Shitennoji

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac February 20, 2025
    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac February 20, 2025

    With only one day in Osaka, it can be overwhelming to choose what to do.  This is why planning a tour is essential to make the most of your experience.  Overall, my …

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  • Japan

    Fabulous Kyoto One Day Tour at Fushimi-Inari Shrine, Buddhist Temple and Nishiki Market

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac September 27, 2024
    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac September 27, 2024

    Kyoto is one of the most amazing cities in the world, so it can be quite a dilemma to only have one day as a tourist.  Overall, I enjoyed one Buddhist temple, …

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Hello, Hola, Namaste, Ni hao, Ciao and Bonjour! My name is Trudy and I have been traveling like everyday is my last, over the last 10 years. I've visited 105 countries and still counting! As an Acupuncturist and traveler, I love sharing my experiences and tips on travel and wellness. Feel free to join below my community for coupons and latest travel guides.

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Budapest is the crowning jewel of the Danube River Budapest is the crowning jewel of the Danube River. The city lights up the banks with historic treasures from its architecture, bridges and culture. Even more, Budapest is known as the “World’s Spa Capital,” offering 100 local thermal springs. The flow of the river takes you through time and the many layers of the Budapest Hungary top attractions.

During my 5-week tour in Central Europe and the Balkans, I experienced 5 days in Budapest. I visited all these 20 attractions in 5 days. All this time was needed to fully enjoy the sites. Budapest’s World Heritage Sites include the Buda Castle Quarter, Banks of Danube and Andrassy Avenue. I love sharing tips and recommendations. 

Pictures: Chain Bridge, Shoes on the Danube Monument, New York Cafe, Gellert Spa and Hotel, Central Market, Liberty Bridge, Matthias Fountain

Check out my blog on Budapest:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/budapest-hungary-top-attractions/

#budapest
The Langkawi archipelago is a pristine paradise wi The Langkawi archipelago is a pristine paradise with a biodiversity of beauty. Its mountains, rainforests, mangroves and beaches are a nice refuge for travelers. Even more the islands offer amenities with its restaurants, hotels, spas and tourist destinations. 

The duty-free island and archipelago, Langkawi, lies in the Strait of Malacca. Overall, it consists of about 104 islands about 30 km off the coast of Malaysia. Inhabits live on only 4 of the islands. The name Langkawi has many interpretations. One of the most popular being reddish-brown eagle as a symbol of the islands. Mountains and forest-covered hills cover almost two-thirds of the islands. 

Check out my blog/video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/langkawi-malaysia-day-tour/

#langkawi #langkawiisland #langkawiisland🌴 #malaysia #malaysiatravel #southeastasia #southeastasiatravel #southeastasiacruise #cruise #beaches
The historic Split, Croatia is a treasure trove of The historic Split, Croatia is a treasure trove of history all in a compact area that’s easy to see in a day. Just a block over from the beautiful waterfront, you can easily explore afoot the World Heritage Site created from the Roman Emperor Diocletian. 

The Let Me Pass Street is a narrow street located alongside the Baptistery of St. John. 

Check out my blog/full video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/split-croatia-highlights-tour/
It is claimed to be the narrowest street in the world. With a width of about a meter in some places, the street is just a few meters long.

#splitcroatia #croatiatravel #croatia #cruise #europetravel #streetlife #streetphotgraphy #narrowstreets #travelblog
Historic Dubrovnik is known as the “Pearl of the Historic Dubrovnik is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” It’s astounding scenery and architecture make for an incredible getaway to a cultural landmark in Croatia. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I spent 2 days in this port-of-call and enjoy sharing the highlights of Dubrovnik’s Walled City Tour and Lovrijenac Fortress.

Check out my blog/video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/dubrovniks-walled-city-tour/

#dubrovnik #dubrovnikoldtown #croatiatravel #croatia #cruise #balkans #europetravels
The Bodrum peninsula is a gem on the Turkish Rivie The Bodrum peninsula is a gem on the Turkish Riviera. Among the sparkling turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea are superyachts, ancient historic landmarks, bazaars and a delicious culinary scene. I enjoyed my time spent here and love sharing tips on Bodrum Turkey travel highlights. So, read on to discover why you should visit this incredible destination. 

Formerly the Greek city of Halicarnassus, Bodrum is filled with history and was home to the Carians, the Greeks, Knights of St. John and Ottomans before becoming part of modern Turkey. It lies between 2 sheltered bays on southernmost tip of the Aegean coast. 

Check out my blog/video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/bodrum-turkey-travel-highlights/

#bodrum #turkeytravel #turkeytravels #mediterraneanlife #cruise #travelblog #bodrumturkey
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