Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Walking Along the Ancient Tokaido Road: A Pilgrim’s Path: Adventures and Transformations, Vol. 1: Departure by Ichiro Asanuma begins in 2006 along Japan’s historic Tōkaidō route, stretching from Tokyo toward Kyoto. The narrative opens with the author setting out from Nihonbashi, motivated by recovery after a serious injury and a desire to complete a self-imposed goal. The journey unfolds across years and phases, moving from a narrowly focused, almost mechanical walk to a more reflective engagement with people, landscapes, and history. The early chapters trace Asanuma’s initial leg of the journey from Tokyo to Shizuoka, where the daily routines of walking, observing, and photographing become central. Along the way, various encounters shape the experience, including a chance meeting with a fellow traveler who helps him cross the difficult Hakone Pass. The book weaves the historical context of the Edo-period road with present-day observations.

Ichiro Asanuma writes in a reflective, almost meditative style that blends travel writing with personal essay. The pacing is deliberate, often slowing to focus on a single moment, a photograph, or a line of thought, which mirrors the rhythm of walking. The inclusion of beautiful photographs allows readers to see the environments that prompt the author’s reflections. The language is straightforward yet thoughtful, often turning ordinary details such as signage, buildings, or passing strangers into points of contemplation about communication and society. Historical references are woven in without overwhelming the personal voice, giving context while keeping the focus on the experience. Readers who enjoy travel narratives that prioritize observation and introspection will find much to love, especially if they are interested in cultural landscapes and the passage of time. Walking Along the Ancient Tokaido Road combines movement through places with inward reflections in an engaging and stimulating way.