MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Traveling two hours northwest from the front gates of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, you will find a quiet town that is still untouched by western civilization. It is an old town hidden between the majesties of perpetual, evergreen hills and mountains.
The historic town Tsuwano, in the Shimane Prefecture, is a tourist attraction for all sorts of visitors, both Japanese and international. It accommodates the diverse visitors with shops, restaurants, ancient landmarks, and incredible sceneries.
This old castle town has a 700-year-old history. "It flows over with an ambience of the way it was hundreds of years ago in the Edo era, said Shizuo Yamatsuka, chief of International Affairs Division of the Iwakuni city hall.
"There are black and white plastered walls of the old samurai residences and a moat that travels through the town full of playful carp. These images summon in our minds a Japan that represents everyone's nostalgic hometown," said Yamatsuka.
Tsuwano has been designated by the National Land Agency as a "Protected Traditional Town of Culture."
"Time passes slow in Tsuwano. Bicycles are superior over cars. Steam locomotives are more appropriate than super express trains. The locals will tend to say 'after you!' Tsuwano is a place where you can do things at your own pace, while being mesmerized by the breathtaking views," said Yamatsuka.
The atmosphere that the historical town brings, appeals to all sorts of visitors, said Yamatsuka.
"My first impression of the town was that it was a nice, clean and little. As soon as I got there I was excited to explore the many historical sights," said Lynne S. Hammonds, American Red Cross Station manager.
There are many sites to see in Tsuwano; the ruins of 700-year-old Tsuwano castle, shrines, Buddhist temples, Catholic churches, museums and festivals all year round.
In Tsuwano, autumn is a season that awakens the senses. Walking down the tree-lined avenue of the old castle, one can imagine the splendor of the magnificent building that once stood here among the blazing colors of autumn, Yamatsuka said.
"It was an awesome experience to view all these wonderful things especially being in the Taikodani Inari Shrine," said Sgt. Otazeria Odibo, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 hazardous materials coordinator.
The view from the Taikodani Inari Shrine looks down upon the entire historical town. The shrine is perched atop one of the mountains that surround the town. The climb to the shrine takes visitors through canopied stairs that zigzag along the green mountain.
On Nov. 15-16 the Taikodani Inari Shrine Fall Festival takes place. It is a festival to thank the gods and wish for prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.
A day in Tsuwano is a memorable experience and it is a great place to spend a day, said Odibo.
"It's not only fun to see the sights but also very educational. You get to mix and know about the history of Japan. I'll definitely be back," said Odibo.