Surveying Inō Tadataka's House In Sawara, Japan

Inō Tadataka is famous for producing the first map of Japan using modern surveying techniques, at least modern for around 1821, the year the map was finished. Alas, Tadataka wasn't around to bask in the triumph. He died in 1817.

If you stroll the old Edo era area of Sawara, you can duck into his house. And a museum nearby, housing many of his tools and several map sections.

Front of the house, right next to the quaint central canal.

Inside, all classic tatami mat. Out back, a sculpture of the legend.

Another view of the sedate dwelling.

Details. Rice paper lantern, all simplicity and a surveying tool.

Another look at the exterior of the house.

The Fabulous Floats Of The Sawara Festival

The little town of Sawara knows how to throw a big party and does it twice a year, in the spring and fall. The centerpiece of the parties is a set of massive, traditional floats, pulled by hand. If you can't make it to Sawara for a festival, no worries, you can stop by the Float Museum to see some examples and learn a little about the events.

The museum, the main section a warehouse to hold a couple of the big, multi-story floats. Impressive.

A traditional head from a float. The parades have been held for more than 300 years. At the base of the floats, elaborate wood carving. These floats ain't no disposable, Rose Bowl Parade variety.

Big straw fish.

A detail from the top of a float. Curious. The float of the big nose.

What all the fuss looks like.

Sweet Sawara Town In Japan

If you're in Tokyo and have a sudden urge to see what life in the Edo period (1603-1867) looked like, just hop a train for Sawara town, only about an hour away. The fine folks of Sawara have restored and preserved a section of the city, creating a classic Ye Olde Edo Towne experience.

The historic section is centered on a meandering canal. Sawara prospered as a rice transport hub.

The Edo architecture.

Many structures are built in a horizontal wood siding pattern, left unfinished to darken with age.

Details. Absurdly intricate, embellished drain pipe work. A little pedestrian alley.

Another look at life along the canal.