A panoramic view of a mountain landscape with a volcanic crater emitting smoke, surrounded by rugged terrain and distant mountains under a cloudy sky.
Europe, Pilgrimage Anne Europe, Pilgrimage Anne

Camino Francés - Day 2: Saint Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles

Climbing into the Pyrenees from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the first stretch to Orisson was a humid, unrelenting ascent. But beyond the mist, sunlight broke through, revealing green pastures dotted with cows, horses, sheep, and even a few wandering pigs. Their quiet presence and the distant sound of bells made the climb feel almost timeless — a gentle reminder of the rhythm of mountain life.

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Asia, Hikes Anne Asia, Hikes Anne

Nakatsu Gorge - Kochi, Japan

Visit Nakatsu Gorge in Kochi to see the stunning “Niyodo Blue” waters of the Niyodo River. Easily reachable by bus, this quiet 2.3 km trail offers clear blue pools, a scenic waterfall, and a relaxing onsen nearby.

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Asia, Travel Anne Asia, Travel Anne

Ai Yoshinogawa Trolley Train - Tokushima to Awa-Ikeda

The Ai Yoshinogawa Trolley Train offers open-air views of Tokushima’s rivers, mountains, and countryside. With onboard commentary, a student welcome at Sadamitsu, and a delicious Awaodori chicken bento, this charming two-and-a-half-hour ride to Awa-Ikeda is a unique way to experience rural Shikoku.

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Asia, Travel Anne Asia, Travel Anne

Hiraizumi - Iwate, Japan

After a scenic train ride from Geibikei Gorge, I spent the day wandering through Hiraizumi’s timeless temples. From the golden glow of Chusonji’s Konjikidō Hall to the cliffside beauty of Takkoku-no-Iwaya and the tranquil pond at Motsuji Temple, it was a slow, peaceful journey through Japan’s ancient past.

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