An ancient village comes alive in Sawara, Japan.

The article appeared in thestar of 9th February 2008.

Some highlights:

The scene is the little village of Sawara, preserved like a movie set on the willow-lined banks of the Ono River, a tributary of the majestic Toné River. Sawara is sometimes called “Little Edo”, with a historic precinct housing many old wooden houses and shops virtually unchanged from the Edo period.

Getting there

You can get to Sawara either from Tokyo, or direct from Narita International Airport. From Tokyo, take the JR Sobu Line from Tokyo station, a trip of 90 minutes to two hours. From Narita Airport, JR Narita Line runs to Sawara in about 60 minutes (with a transfer at Narita city). See www.hyperdia.com (clock on “English” at top left) for timetables.

WHERE TO STAY Ryokan Ichiranso, right on the Ono River, about 10 minutes walk from the railway station. Tel +81 478 52 2099. From ¥5,300 (RM160) inclusive of breakfast (mkm0029@yahoo.co.jp).

EVENT Sawara’s summer Matsuri Festival runs from July 11- July 13. The autumn festival is from Oct 10- Oct 12.