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25th-26th May 1996: A Journey to Mt. Nishihotaka – Thrill, Beauty, and Fulfillment in the Northern Japan Alps

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Climbing Mt. Nishihotaka is one of the most thrilling and scenic experiences in the Northern Japan Alps. This route is beloved by mountaineers for its dramatic ridgelines and breathtaking views. The trail from Nishihotaka Mountain Lodge to the summit covers a vertical gain of approximately 600 meters and a distance of just 3 kilometers. However, it features a series of rugged rocky ridges that demand both technical skill and focused attention. Especially beyond the peak known as Doppyo (2,701m), the trail becomes a true alpine challenge, requiring climbers to use both hands and feet to navigate steep terrain—offering a quintessential Japan Alps experience. What makes this route truly special is the spectacular panoramic view. On clear days, you can see iconic peaks such as Mt. Yari, Mt. Okuhotaka, the dramatic Jandarm, Mt. Norikura, and Mt. Yake. Occasionally, even Mt. Fuji appears in the distance. The view from the summit of Mt. Nishihotaka is simply breathtaking, with a 360-degree p...

18th Feb 1993: the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in Sydney

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Australia’s largest city, Sydney, is home to world-renowned architecture and breathtaking scenery, with the  Harbour Bridge and  Opera House  standing as its most famous symbols.   The Harbour Bridge, completed in 1932, is a massive steel arch that spans Sydney Harbour, linking the central business district with North Sydney. Rising 134 meters high and stretching 49 meters wide, its distinctive shape has earned it the affectionate nickname “the Coathanger.” Visitors can walk across the bridge, and those who join the famous “BridgeClimb” tour are rewarded with panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House from its summit. By contrast, the Opera House, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, is distinguished by its sail-like white roofs. In 2007, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list as a “masterpiece of the 20th century.” Inside, there are six theatres that host more than 1,600 performances annually, captivating audiences from around the globe as...