Three Days in New York City

Today I'll share a bit about " Doi Inthanon National Park " The Gateway to the Himalayan Ranges. This place is situated in Chiang Rai,Thailand .

At the altitude of 2,565 meters height above sea level, Doi Inthanon is the highest peak of Thailand, contains an amazing variety of natural resources, including beautiful seas of clouds, evergreen-tree forests coated with ferns, mosses, and orchids – a living bounty of natural beauty. It was declared a national park in 1972. Nowadays, it covers an area of 301,500 rai (102,600 acres). Its geographical features consist of high mountain ranges, which are parts of the Thanon Thong Chai Range locating in the northwestern part of the country.

                                                                Doi Inthanon National Park 

Mea Ya Waterfall

The geological structure consists of rock formations aging from the Cambian period. The general climate is cooler than the areas lower. The local weather conditions are influenced by the southwestern monsoon, which brings humidity and rain, while the northeastern monsoon from China delivers cool and arid condition to the area. Importantly, Doi Inthanon is a source of the River Ping, which has generates the spectacular Mae Ya and Wachirathan waterfall. The beauty of Doi Inthanon National Park can be viewed in any season. There are three seasons: the hot season in March – April; the rainy season in May-October, the cool season in November – January. Temperatures in the cool season are usually at 0-4 degrees Celsius, which produce ice flakes on the grass fields.

           Mosses and Lichens (Doi Inthanon) 

There are various types of forest and plant communities in Doi Inthanon National Park consisting of 6 types of forest: dry dipterocarp, dry dipterocarp intermingled with pines, pines intermingled with oaks, hill evergreen, mixed deciduous, semi-evergreen and abandoned cultivated area. In Doi Inthanon National Park, there are up to 1274 plant species, 37 species of which are newly discovered in Thailand and only on Doi Inthanon. Of all the plant species found on Doi Inthanon,                                                                      

Living Together – Epiphytic ferns 

There are nine hundred kinds of Rhododendron all over the world, of which ten have been found in Thailand. Three of the species: Rhododendron arboretum subsp delavayi or Kham Daeng, Rhododendron ludwigianum or Kham Khao and Rhododendron lyi or Ka Yom are endemic to Doi Inthanon. Orchids are the other major typical aspect of the flora of Doi Inthanon and there are more than 90 species of orchid such as the remarkable Paphiopedilum villosum and Pleione praecox, a rare orchid found during the raining season only. Besides, there are three kinds of ferns almost extinct from Thailand, including Polypodium garretti,Plagiogyria and Cheilanthes delicatula were re-discovered by botanists and naturalists. For the orchid and fern lover this is indeed paradise.

Doi Inthanon National Park has over 466 species of wild animals. The most interesting one is Crocodile Salamander. This is the only species of salamander found in Thailand and is limited in its distribution. It is found only in a few localities in the North, such as Doi Chiangdao, Doi Angkang and Doi Inthanon.

 Elephant is one of the popularity animal in Doi Inthanon National Park

Highest water source in Thailand (Ang Ka, Chiang Mai)

The Ang Ka Nature Study Trail located at the summit is a good start for most of the visitors. This 360 m wooden trail stretches over a swamp forest which takes about 35 minutes to walk. Ang Ka, which means crow’s pond in Thai, could be considered the highest natural water catchment in Thailand and the source of River Ping. It is classified as temperate evergreen forest and has a peat bog and pond in the middle. The general feature along the trail is similar to the swamp forest in the warm climate area. Along the rim of the swamps are mossy. The distinct kind is Sphagnum spp. The major flora is the red rhododendron. According to the cool climate, the forest features the density of the amazingly large old trees. Every trees trunk are fully covered with parasitic plants especially mosses and ferns creating a unique character to the forest. Some people then called it a “Coat-wearing Forest”.

 A Beautiful Rain Forest, Doi Inthanon

All places in Doi Inthanon very interesting places and to anyone interested in a vacation and explore the beauty of nature may visit our neighboring countries ,Chiang Mai, Thailand. I guess that's all for writing our blog in this time. Thanks to readers and hope all of you enjoy it. Bye......

Written by,

Nong Chalida a/p Suwan

A13A0617

#Japan - Hot Springs Of Japan.

Assalamualaikum. 

I am Siti Nor Hidayah, and this entry will brings you to Japan. happy reading :D

Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It is a unique blend of traditional and modern, with many temples and buildings from the past co-existing with modern achievements in architectures and technology. Visitors can be impressed in Japanese history and culture one day and get a glimpse of the future through technology developments the next. Almost all the historical sites are still used for their original purposes while remaining open for public. The natural beauty of Japan can be seen all year. In addition, Japan has one of the world's lowest crime rates which makes it ideal for travelers. This in an overview one of Japan natural beauty - Hot Springs of Japan. 

Hot springs of Japan. 

As a volcanically active country, Japan boasts some of the best natural hot springs in the world. Referred to as “onsen”, these geothermal heated springs are scattered all across the country in both indoor and outdoor facilities. These waters are considered to have restorative properties with natural minerals that are through to heal aches and pains, ease and prevent illnesses, and generally maintain a healthy body. To contribute to the Japanese appreciation for nature, hot springs are an integral part of maintaining a tranquil, Zen-like equilibrium. Many flock  to one of hundreds of hot spring destinations as a peaceful getaway, to cleanse the body and soul, and to simply relax. 

Below are description of few "Hot Springs of Japan". Lets check it out.. 

Hakone Seventeen Spas, Kanagawa

Situated in the southwestern part of the Kanagawa Prefecture and easily accessible from Tokyo, Hakone's active volcanoes have given birth to some of Japan's best hot springs. Said to contain 20 different natural qualities, Hakone is a top destination for anyone looking for peace and tranquility. 

Miyanoshita is one of seven hot spring towns in Hakone. A resort hotel targeting foreign visitors opened in 1878, and made the town well known. Numerous celebrities, including John Lennon, have stayed at this hotel. The streets, with their exotic and somewhat retro atmosphere, attract many individuals.

Around Kowakidani Station, there is a hot spring theme park named Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, a Mediterranean-style public bath. It is divided into two sections, in one you bathe with your bathing suit on and the other you bathe without. You can choose the one you like. In the former section, you can enjoy various unique baths, such as a coffee bath or a wine bath. In the latter section, you will relax in the cypress bath, in the magnificent nature of Hakone. 

Nyuto Onsen, Akita 

Nyuto, located in the Akita Prefecture, is known for its seven rustic yet luxurious ryokan that surround the beautiful and exclusive hot springs. The onsen's milky, cloudy waters serve as a wonderful cleansing and relaxing experience, especially during the wintertime when visitors may indulge in an outdoor hot spring surrounded by beautiful white snow. 

Nyuto Onsen-kyo Hot Spring Village spreads over a large area, blessed with natural hot spring waters that flow out from deep underneath the virgin beech forest over the valley. Even today, you will find inns that were visited by feudal lords seeking hot-spring cures more than 350 years ago, making it seem as though you have slipped back in time.

Each of these seven hot spring inns has its own spring sources. They are secluded from one another and have open-air baths. Located deep in the mountains, it feels as though you are far removed from the rest of the world.

Ibusuki Hot Springs, Kagoshima 

Located on Kyushu Island, Ibusuki is a beautiful resort known for its hot sand bath. Visitors clad in kimono are covered up to their neck with warm, geothermally heated sand, which is widely believed to stimulate blood circulation while providing a unique, relaxing atmosphere. 

The city itself lies on the Kirishima Volcanic zone. That is why you can enjoy the sand steam baths, which are very rare in the world, and also many types of hot springs. Tosenkyo area which gets one hundred thousand tons of clear ground water daily has been elected as one of the best 100 water front areas by the Japanese government. It is also famous for Somennagasi- which is very unique way of eating cold noodles. Ibusuki city is also known as a historical place where many important archeological remains have been found, like Hashimure and Mizusako remains. The average temperature throughout the year is about 19Cー because of a warm current in the ocean. You can enjoy calm and tropical weather, that is why you can see sotetsu all over the city, and tsumabenichou which is believed to be a lucky tropical butterfly which you can only see as far north as Ibusuki. 

people might not aspect that Japan, a develop country who expert in technology and live in modern life but has a beautiful naturals attractions, its hots springs. 

until meet in the next entry. thank for readings, and good luck for finals. 

Assalamualaikum. 

by : Siti Nor Hidayah Binti Nor Mohamod (A13A1159)

Experiencing Beautifully Japanese Onsen & Ryokan

Dear readers, have you ever felt to relax your weary bodies as well as calming your minds also to have an enjoyable vacations? Have you ever wondered body soaking in hot springs is the solution to the puzzle you? Have you ever dreamed to have an enjoyable visit at Japan which is provided by the famous hot springs?

Well, hot spring is a spring of naturally hot water, typically heated by subterranean volcanic activity. The popular hot springs are located all over at rising sun country which is Japan. Here, let me introduce you to Onsen (hot springs) of Japan.

Japan is officially divided into the following eight regions:

Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto

Chubu Kinki/Kansai Chugoku

Shikoku Kyushu (including Okinawa)

             So, when we talk about hot springs, here I enclosed the details.

Onsen (hot spring)
 

Uniqueness of hot springs	Many types of hot springs, distinguished by the minerals dissolved in the water. Different minerals provide different health benefits, and all hot springs are supposed to have a relaxing effect on your body and mind.
Varieties of hot springs	Indoors and outdoors Gender separated and mixed Developed and undeveloped
Onsen (hot spring)	Every region of the country has its share of hot springs and resort towns.

  

Hot springs around Tokyo (Kanto) the capital of Japan



Hakone Onsen 



Minakami Onsen  

Ikaho Onsen

       

           Natural hot springs (Onsen) are numerous and highly popular across Japan. Many hot spring baths belong to a Ryokan, while others are public bath houses. An overnight stay at a hot spring Ryokan is a highly recommended experience traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality to any visitor of Japan.

 

Ryokan Japanese style inns

Ryokan	Ø  Japanese style inns Ø  Can be found all over Japan
Specialty of Ryokan	Ø  More than just a place to sleep, ryokan are an opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality. Ø  Typically includes dinner and breakfast and is recommended to all travelers to Japan as it gives you the opportunity to experience a traditional Japanese lifestyle.
Types of Ryokan	Ø  Varying greatly in terms of size, cost and style. Ø  Some ryokan are small, family run establishments with just a few rooms. Ø  Others are large, hotel-like facilities with hundreds of rooms. Ø  Ryokan also range from no-frills, budget varieties to costly establishments catering to the very wealthy.
Reservations	Ø  Happens at the reception desk or in the lobby, the staff will bow and offer Japanese tea (Ocha) when you arrived. Ø  They also help you put off your shoes, gives kimono+geta(slipper) and showing the room.
Average cost	Ø  Between 15,000 and 25,000 yen per person, per night.
Check-in	Ø  Usually from 15:00 (3:00pm) with dinner following around 18:00 or 19:00 (7.00pm).
Check-out	Ø  Usually before 10:00 am with acceptable payment by major credit cards.
Uniqueness of Ryokan (Available facilities)	Ø  It is well worth indulging on one special night during your travels. Ø  Incorporating elements such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine, making them popular with both Japanese and foreign tourists alike. Ø  Include an elaborate dinner in the evening, followed by breakfast the next morning. Ø  Emphasis on traditional style and atmosphere, ryokan may appear rigid and intimidating (Ryokan Rules) for the first timer unfamiliar with the procedures and etiquette.
Meal provided	Ø  Simply not equipped to quickly cater to any last minute meal or dining changes. Ø  Typically Kaiseki Ryori (Japanese haute cuisine) that feature local and seasonal specialties. Ø  6 to 15 course dinner beginning with appetizers.
Communicating with the Ryokan Staff	Ø  They do not speak English but they used hand gestures and other body language to try their best to communicate.

 

Ryokan

Ø  Japanese style inns

Ø  Can be found all over Japan

Specialty of Ryokan

Ø  More than just a place to sleep, ryokan are an opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality.

Ø  Typically includes dinner and breakfast and is recommended to all travelers to Japan as it gives you the opportunity to experience a traditional Japanese lifestyle.

Types of Ryokan

Ø  Varying greatly in terms of size, cost and style.

Ø  Some ryokan are small, family run establishments with just a few rooms.

Ø  Others are large, hotel-like facilities with hundreds of rooms.

Ø  Ryokan also range from no-frills, budget varieties to costly establishments catering to the very wealthy.

Reservations

Ø  Happens at the reception desk or in the lobby, the staff will bow and offer Japanese tea (Ocha) when you arrived.

Ø  They also help you put off your shoes, gives kimono+geta(slipper) and showing the room.

Average cost

Ø  Between 15,000 and 25,000 yen per person, per night.

Check-in

Ø  Usually from 15:00 (3:00pm) with dinner following around 18:00 or 19:00 (7.00pm).

Check-out

Ø  Usually before 10:00 am with acceptable payment by major credit cards.

Uniqueness of Ryokan (Available facilities)

 

Ø  It is well worth indulging on one special night during your travels.

Ø  Incorporating elements such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine, making them popular with both Japanese and foreign tourists alike.

Ø  Include an elaborate dinner in the evening, followed by breakfast the next morning.

Ø  Emphasis on traditional style and atmosphere, ryokan may appear rigid and intimidating (Ryokan Rules) for the first timer unfamiliar with the procedures and etiquette.

Meal provided

Ø  Simply not equipped to quickly cater to any last minute meal or dining changes.

Ø  Typically Kaiseki Ryori (Japanese haute cuisine) that feature local and seasonal specialties.

Ø  6 to 15 course dinner beginning with appetizers.

Communicating with the Ryokan Staff

Ø  They do not speak English but they used hand gestures and other body language to try their best to communicate.

Ryokan entryway (genkan) and reception desk

 

Authentic Japanese style Ryokan with fully tatami floors

 

 

         

Authentic Japanese style Ryokan with fully tatami floors

 

 

 

Exquisite set of Kaiseki Ryori (Japanese haute cuisine)

 

 

Exquisite set of Kaiseki Ryori (Japanese haute cuisine)

 

 

 

Comfortable Futon beds with the filled-rice pillows at Ryokan room

 

 

Visitor can experience to wear beautifully kimono (yukata), sash, socks and slippers (geta) entirely at Ryokan

 

In reality, the hot springs and Japanese style inns are complementarity. Onsen and Ryokan are special things at Japan that can be exploited and preserved. A relaxing holiday, we can experience it in Japan. Why not we as visitor take this opportunity to visit and try Japanese culture. Learn by sharing and enjoying your vacation!

Prepared By : Siti Nur Hidayah Bt. Abdul Rahman

                        A13A1169

 

 

 

 

 

 

      

Ryokan

Ø  Japanese style inns

Ø  Can be found all over Japan

Specialty of Ryokan

Ø  More than just a place to sleep, ryokan are an opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality.

Ø  Typically includes dinner and breakfast and is recommended to all travelers to Japan as it gives you the opportunity to experience a traditional Japanese lifestyle.

Types of Ryokan

Ø  Varying greatly in terms of size, cost and style.

Ø  Some ryokan are small, family run establishments with just a few rooms.

Ø  Others are large, hotel-like facilities with hundreds of rooms.

Ø  Ryokan also range from no-frills, budget varieties to costly establishments catering to the very wealthy.

Reservations

Ø  Happens at the reception desk or in the lobby, the staff will bow and offer Japanese tea (Ocha) when you arrived.

Ø  They also help you put off your shoes, gives kimono+geta(slipper) and showing the room.

Average cost

Ø  Between 15,000 and 25,000 yen per person, per night.

Check-in

Ø  Usually from 15:00 (3:00pm) with dinner following around 18:00 or 19:00 (7.00pm).

Check-out

Ø  Usually before 10:00 am with acceptable payment by major credit cards.

Uniqueness of Ryokan (Available facilities)

 

Ø  It is well worth indulging on one special night during your travels.

Ø  Incorporating elements such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine, making them popular with both Japanese and foreign tourists alike.

Ø  Include an elaborate dinner in the evening, followed by breakfast the next morning.

Ø  Emphasis on traditional style and atmosphere, ryokan may appear rigid and intimidating (Ryokan Rules) for the first timer unfamiliar with the procedures and etiquette.

Meal provided

Ø  Simply not equipped to quickly cater to any last minute meal or dining changes.

Ø  Typically Kaiseki Ryori (Japanese haute cuisine) that feature local and seasonal specialties.

Ø  6 to 15 course dinner beginning with appetizers.

Communicating with the Ryokan Staff

Ø  They do not speak English but they used hand gestures and other body language to try their best to communicate.