Page:TASJ-1-1-2.djvu/193



From Kusatsu to Nikkô you may pass directly over the mountains, but according to the information I have gathered this route is difficult. The paths are scarcely visible, and you are not sure of being able to procure coolies and beasts of burden.

The route which I followed and which I am now going to describe, is, on the contrary, easy and pleasant. It offers the advantage of taking the traveller to two warm water springs, the use of which is recommended after the use of the Kusatsu waters as mollifying the skin and putingputting [sic] an end to the often intolerable irritation provoked by the Kusatsu waters. Besides, in taking this route, you strike a high-road that enjoys a certain celebrity in Japan, and really is worthy of the traveller’s attention on account of the gigantic trees which adorn it. It is known under the name of Reiheishi Kaidô. The route is divided into two principal parts:

1st. From Kusatsu to Takasaki.

2nd. From Takasaki to Nikkô.

If you wish to travel pleasantly and without too great fatigue, it will be convenient to go

First day.—From Kusatsu to Sawatari, about 9 ri.

The road passes over hill and through dale and the scenery is very picturesque. Throughout you enjoy the sight of Asama yama, whose summit is crowned with white clouds and makes a splendid effect. Yon also see Shirami yama, but its effect is much less remarkable. Both these mountains have been climbed, Asama in August 1873 by an officer of the French Military Mission, who took some observations.

In Sawatari there is a good inn at the entrance of the village. Here, too, are several springs of warm water