Dearest Rachel –
I think of Japan (and the main island of Honshu in particular) as being much like California in shape and climate, if clearly not in culture. If we think of ‘cruise ship speed’ as equivalent to 25 mph on land (at least, that’s what we always referred to it as we drove to the front entrance of our church’s Des Plaines campus, since you’ll recall the stretch from Wolf to the church having a reputation of being a notorious speed trap), it shouldn’t be surprising that, after three days, we’re still only halfway down from the northernmost tip at Aomori; approximately at Lake Tahoe levels, in comparison. Even more so, since Honshu is actually some 40 miles longer, north to south (and over 300 miles longer, east to west) than California, so the real surprise might be in that we’re already halfway down the west coast. Of course – as with California – the island begins to dogleg from this point, turning west rather than being a purely north-south journey.
We’ve quite a ways yet to go, is what I’m saying.
By the way, I meant to send this to you after dinner, in keeping with the family tradition while cruising. However, I forgot all about it, since I was thinking about some other work I needed to take care of when I got back to the cabin. By the time we returned, and I got that other business taken care of, Daniel had fallen asleep with his computer on his lap, and I was (and still am) getting rather sleepy myself. So you’ll forgive this for being relatively perfunctory tonight; it’s not like it isn’t already pre-written, for the most part.
Kanazawa is a city located in the Ishikawa Prefecture on the west coast of Honshu, Japan’s main island. The city’s name Kanazawa means “marsh of gold,” which is thought to refer to the wealth of the region’s natural resources, particularly gold.
Kanazawa has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century when the Maeda family established a powerful samurai clan in the area. The Maeda clan ruled the region for over 280 years, and their influence can still be seen today in the many historical sites and cultural treasures found throughout the city.
One of the most famous landmarks in Kanazawa is Kenrokuen Garden, which is considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. The garden features a central pond, winding paths, and a variety of trees and flowers that provide stunning views throughout the year, especially during the cherry blossom season in April.
Another must-visit site in Kanazawa is the Kanazawa Castle, which was first built in the late 16th century by Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Maeda clan. The castle was destroyed by fire several times, but was rebuilt and renovated over the centuries. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and learn about the history of the Maeda family.
In addition to these historical sites, Kanazawa is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, including the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum, dedicated to the renowned philosopher and Zen scholar.
Visitors to Kanazawa should also be sure to sample the city’s local cuisine, which includes a variety of fresh seafood dishes, as well as regional specialties like Kaga vegetables and gold leaf. Kanazawa is also famous for its traditional crafts, including lacquerware, pottery, and gold leaf products.
An interesting and unusual tidbit about Kanazawa is that it was spared from bombing during World War II, which means that many of its historical buildings and cultural treasures remain intact today. Additionally, the city has a unique geology, with hot springs bubbling up throughout the area. Some of these hot springs are open to the public, and visitors can relax and soak in the healing waters while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
And indeed, that’s what Daniel and I will be doing for the day that we’re here. Believe it or not, it was the only port that offered a hot springs experience as one of the available shore excursions, so we snapped it up – which was something of a pity, as Daniel had also expressed interest in the gold leaf candy-making experience as well. Either one was unique, to be honest, and it seemed a shame to set one aside for the other. Still, sometimes you have to pass things up due to conflicts like this; that’s how life works. Considering the hectic pace of one city after another, day after day – which, to be fair, is very much exactly what I like about cruising in the first place – it will be nice to spend the day in more relaxing circumstances, like the soothing waters of a natural hot spring. I just wish you could have been here to enjoy them as well.
Still, we’ll be sure to tell you what we can about it (I’m not sure that cameras will be allowed in the springs, for what should be obvious reasons). Until then, keep an eye on us, and wish us luck; we’re going to need it.
Letters to Rachel 