Higbee (DDR 806) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 40 text:

Kobe Harbor, the largest shipping center in Japan. Nowhere are the contrasts of spirit in lapan better illustrated than in its heartland cities: Kobe, Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto. Often referred to as the fountainhead of lapanese civilization-ancient and modern they are rich in history, religion, and industrial progress. In the center of this area is the complex international city of Kobe-a link between East and West as one of lapan's largest seaports since the 1Oth century. People and goods from all over the world pass through here, leaving their indelible stamp. Osaka is a cornerstone in lapan's economic life. Only 14 years ago the city was almost totally destroyed by air attacks. Today, it is the second largest city in lapan and the industrial giant of Asia. The city is mirrored by the countless rivers that cris-cross the country. Old culture, in the form of Bunraku puppet shows, Kabuki, and the world famous Takarazuka shows, still thrives within its boundaries. Ancient lapan is best symbolized in 1300 year old Nara-the spiritual home of the modern lC1lDC1' nese. In contrast to dynamic Kobe and Osaka, Nara possesses a tranquility, antiquity, and Comfort which few cities of the world can offer. Twenty-five miles from Nara lies lapan's leader in art and religion-Kyoto. 889 temples can be found in Kyoto as well as typical landmarks such as the l-limeji Castle and the Rocks of Connubial Happiness. Kyoto was the capital of lapan before Tokyo became the government seat in 1359- l-lere in lC11OCln's heartland, one can see the traditions of the past revered simultanecusly with the maturing of lapanese democracy.

Page 39 text:

2- A good place to see the old as well as the New Japan

Page 41 text:

js- s Cent-raf Japan S