Location: Kamikōchi 上高地, Nagano Prefecture Size: 8.5 x 10 x 2cm
Kamikōchi is a pristine mountainous highland valley within the Chūbu-Sangaku National Park. Kamikōchi is one of Japan’s most celebrated hiking destinations, known for its dramatic alpine scenery, crystal-clear rivers, and sacred mountains. The illustrated map of the Kamikōchi mountain trail, including notable landmarks and surrounding peaks such as Mt. Hotaka and Mt. Yake.
It has a cross knot with it, the symmetrical structure of the cross knot symbolizes harmony and balance also meanings of “connection” and “protection.” The cross knot, as a decorative knot, may represent tightly tying together good wishes and prayers. Under the influence of Shintoism, tied ropes (shimenawa) and decorative knots are often seen as symbols of protection and warding off evil.
Tsuko-Tegata is a kind of wooden passport that was used in the Edo Period as an identity card for travelers when passing from region to region. They had been sold a lot in Showa period as mingei type souvenirs all over Japan. It's also a protector for safety and peace for family.
