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to the West. This latter mountain, even in summer, is not exempt from snow, and furnishes ice which is cried about the streets of Wakamatsu.
At a distance of one ri from the the town there is a very celebrated place of resort, named Shigashiyama. It is a collection of tea-houses in a deep ravine formed by a stream of considerable volume. From the clefts in the rocks which form the right bank, streams of hot water flow; and many resort to the spot to enjoy the cool air and take the benefit of the warm springs, which are of a temperature of about 50-55° C; but they have neither taste nor smell, and do not appear to contain any salt.
On leaving Wakamatsu for Niigata, the western route must be taken, which is a metalled road running through rice fields, and in as detestable a condition as can be imagined.
From Wakamatsu to Bangé—a considerable commercial town—is 3 ri 10 cho.
From Bangé to Funato, 1 ri, 20 cho. At the latter place a bridge of boats must be passed, constructed similarly to those used in Europe. The aspect of the river is picturesque. On leaving it the neck of the mountain called Tabanematsutogé has to be attacked by a very steep ascent of from 5 to 7 kilometres. From the summit, on which there are two tea-houses, a fine view may be enjoyed. The descent is by an abrupt and picturesque path towards Nozawa, a large town which must formerly have been much frequented. The road, which preserves a generally western direction, passes over the remarkable shoulder called Karumatogé.
In all these mountains the lacquer tree (urushi-no-ki) is found, which is tapped by horizontal incisions in the trunk. It is almost useless to say that the aspect of the country from Wakametsu is picturesque in proportion to the badness of the roads, and the steepness of the slopes. These conditions are unfortunately universal throughout the whole of the interior, and if the eye is pleased the lower limbs are tortured. The tourist should therefore be well shod, and fortified with a patience which does
