HAKONE GLASS FOREST, JAPAN

While in the Hakone mountains south of Tokyo we happened across the Venetian Glass Museum (also called the above) after debating whether it was a worthwhile destination.

Really glad that we did, as it is one of the most beautiful places we have been to. Not the museum, but the grounds around the museum set to a mountain backdrop. There were glass flowers and sculptures everywhere.

Five shots from our day, via Canon 5D Mark III, 28-70mm.

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In the back of the property is a stairwell and a walkway that loops through the forest near the river.

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The glass hydrangeas were particularly beautiful.

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Actually, 6 shots .. the glass waterfall.

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If you can get out there, I would highly recommend a stop. A really nice cafe too although I wasn’t too fond of the Italian fellow belting out Volare (smile).

JOHNSTON CANYON BANFF

 

My blog entries on Banff are a bit scattered. One of the best hikes that we took while in Banff National Park was Johnston Canyon. It was an overcast day, but we were up for it. Judging by the parking lot, it is a popular hike.

You have a few choices on this hike, a 1.1 km hike to the lower falls, a 2.6 km hike to the upper falls or a rather rigorous 5.6 km hike to the Ink Pots. We chose to go all the way.

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It is a beautiful climb.

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The inkpots at the end of the climb are not really that magnificent, but interesting. Seven mineral springs that bubble and swirl non-stop in big pools.

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But the view of the valley at the top is spectacular.

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Of course, the water is cold and the purest you can get.

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After leaving the canyon we happened upon a herd of sheep trotting down the road, unperturbed by the cars all around them.

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A great day out.