Japan U.S. Mail Box

I found this house during a walk around Otawara, Tochigi-ken. I liked all the green vegetation around the entrance but what really caught my eye was the mail box. Sorry you can't make it out in the photograph but the mail box says U.S. Mail. The front door and little parking spot are a mere few feet from the road. I like how homes in Japan are closer to the roads, especially the quieter, narrower roads. It gives it a more intimate feeling for me.

Patient Dog in Japan

Look at this patient dog waiting at the front door of a home in Otawara, Tochigi-ken.

Look closer at the dog. It is actually a statue. I had to take a second look when I walked by the first time. :)

Nice Japanese Gate

Another gate I found in Otawara, Tochigi-ken. I really like this one because of the natural cut wood on the front of the gate. The gate enters into a very small entry way garden which I also like. 

Another Old Japanese House

Here is another old Japanese house I found while walking around Otawara, Tochigi-ken. This appears to have doubled as a work house or farm house due to the size and shape. But there is no farm land in the immediate area anymore. Of course there used to be a lot of farm land around here 40 or 50 years ago.

Old Japanese House

This is an old Japanese house in Otawara. I like the weathered look of the wood siding and the tile roof.

Old Style Japanese Gate

I love Japanese gates. This is one of my favorite that came across while walking around Otawara in Tochigi-ken. I'm not sure if this is an old style but it looks like it.

I particularly like this gate because it is not solid, you can see through the slats into the beautiful inner garden. Also, the wall on each side is not high and imposing, further allowing visibility into the inner garden.