Japan Navigator

Yesterday at the end of the afternoon, when the weather all of a sudden became bright after a rainy day (something which reminded me of Holland), we climbed up to Suwayama Park above Yamamotodori, on the flank of Mt Rokko. The park was not much as there was nothing in bloom yet - it is a place for sakura viewing - although there was a monument dedicated to a French astronomer who observed the passage of the planet Venus in front of the sun here in 1874. Apparently rare enough to honor him with a big memorial stone.

[View of central Kobe - Photo © Ad Blankestijn]

From the park we climbed up to the so-called Venus Bridge, a metal construction on top of the 160 m. high hill that afforded a marvelous view over central Kobe and the port at its back. It was quite a steep climb but worthwhile. I only regretted I didn’t bring a can of beer or something, as the restaurant on the top only served expensive dinners. There were many young people here, but they had all come by car. In summer, in the weekends, there is also a bus service.

[The winding Venus Bridge - Photo © Ad Blankestijn]

Perhaps because of the name Venus, on top of the hill stood a metal rack to which countless padlocks had been attached, bearing messages of eternal love. A way to lock yourself into your relation and convince your significant other of your everlasting affection - don’t forget to throw the key away!

[Locked in love - Photo © Ad Blankestijn]