Talk Japan: The Tokaido Wayfarer with John McBride - Walk Japan

Описание: John McBride, a Walk Japan Tour leader, will lead us on a virtual tour along one of Japan’s two greatest highways, the Tokaido, of the Edo Period (1603-1868). Together with the Nakasendo, these were the principal thoroughfares that connected the Shogun’s power base in Edo (today's Tokyo) with the Kyoto, the home of the imperial family.

Nihonbashi and Sanjo Ohashi, both famed bridges to this day in Japan, marked, respectively the eastern end and western end of the highways. Thereafter they diverged from one another with the Tokaido skirting the Pacific Ocean coast, while the Nakasendo threaded its way inland through mountains.

Both roads were much more than just conduits for travel. They became strategically, culturally and socially important arteries that brought forth guide books, comedic novels, and Japan’s iconic woodblock prints by the likes of Hiroshige.

The Tokaido, in particular has a great hold on the Japanese public imagination, so much so that the first ever Shinkansen bullet train line, which also connects Tokyo with Kyoto, was named after it. However, by far and away its most famous motif is Mt. Fuji, which dominates the view for a large part of its central section.

John McBride has travelled extensively on foot along Japan’s old highways including the Tokaido. He intermingles these first-hand experiences with reference to The Illustrated Guide to the Tokaido (Tokaido Meisho-zue), which was first published in 1797, for an illuminating and enjoyable virtual exploration of the Tokaido.

Learn more about John here:
https://walkjapan.com/who-we-are/team...

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Walk Japan is pleased to introduce its Talk Japan series of online events providing in-depth and fascinating insights into a plethora of aspects of Japan, its history, culture and society drawn on the personal experience and expertise of Walk Japan's Tour Leaders and some of our friends, who also have deep knowledge about the nation. These talks, which are based on a series we have been running for our staff since the early days of the pandemic, provide an opportunity to enjoyably explore and connect with Japan from the comfort of your home. Whether you are looking forward to travelling with us in the future, or are simply interested in the Japan, all are welcome to join us.

Walk Japan is the pioneer of off-the-beaten-track walking tours in Japan. Authentic and enjoyable tours to discover Japan, its people, society and culture.

Find us at:
https://walkjapan.com/
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