Though I will forever be a foreigner here, Japan is where I am most at home. Come walk with me through the city and countryside and see the sights and events which fascinate me and meet the wonderful people who make this corner of the world so interesting. -Kurt Bell (softypapa)

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"G" Rated Channel
Walking in Japan is a place for both grown-ups and their kids to enjoy and learn about Japan. I only post videos which I would be happy to let my own kid watch.

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Walking in Japan is a video blog for Shinto-Religion.com and The Old Tokaido eBay store.

Please send any questions or comments to "kurt.bell@shinto-religion.com ". I'm always happy to hear from you.

When I was little my parents would often take my younger brother Lyle and I for walks. We lived in Southern California where the mountains, ocean and desert provide so many places to explore. Mom and dad always walked slowly, allowing time for my brother and I to examine every object of interest, and to joyfully chase every insect and splash in every puddle. I have never stopped walking, and when I came to Japan I discovered a walker's paradise. Every street, path and mountain trail in Japan tells a story; a story of the past and perhaps a story of the future. Walking amidst the rice and tea fields surrounding my home in Yada, I understand the sense of community and dedication to hard work which for centuries defined the lives of people here. Pausing to watch the Shinkansen Bullet Train race quickly below me as I walk on a bridge above, I think of Japan's economic success and dreams for the future.

While walking in Japan I meet people. I chat with old folks playing gateball, listen to farmers tell me about their work and the plants they care for. Police officers help me with directions and share stories of the communities they protect. And children pause in their play to smile and wave.

The mountains and rivers tell their story too. California is a dry, brown land and in contrast Japan's abundant rainfall creates a beautiful green landscape where water flows everywhere. The sound of rain is like a gentle song and the gurgle of a stream is mountain laughter.

So I continue walking. My body moving slowly while my mind races off to ponder the stories and lessons to be found while walking in my adopted home...Japan.