A time lapse video journey through Japan

I have fond memories of my visit to Japan two years ago. From the mind-boggling delights of Tokyo to the placid preserves of Kyoto and the no-holds-barred fun fest of Osaka, it’s a country that provided some of my greatest travel moments. That’s why the video above, created by Vimeo user Brad Kremer, is bringing back strong memories for me today. Brad has made use a photographic technique called time lapse, allowing every day events to happen at breakneck speed.

Watch as pedestrians scurry through the subway system like ants, clouds swirl over mountainsides and car headlights zip to and fro like tiny lasers. It’s a totally new perspective on one of my favorite places. Not only is Kremer’s cinematography beautiful, it’s shot in lush HD format. Have a busy day ahead of you this morning? Take ten minutes, click the play button and let the beauty of this strange wonderful world wash over you. You won’t regret it.

Illegitimate Englishman donated millions to U.S.: Which museum bears his name?

Here’s an unusual piece of American history that illustrates the power of philanthropy and what happens when money is used for the purpose it was intended. Imagine what James Smithson must think if he can view Smithsonian Castle and all the other buildings that line the Mall in Washington D.C.? Possibly, he’s pleased as punch.

Smithson, an illegitimate Englishman who died in 1829, left between $50 to $100 million dollars to the United States, a country he had never visited. His desire was for his money to be used “‘for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.'”

If the slew of buildings that includes the Air and Space Museum, the American History Museum, and the African Art Museum isn’t an indication of what can happen when one person’s generosity is put to good use, I don’t know what is. Of course, Smithson’s money wasn’t enough to create all of the Smithsonian’s building, but still, consider what what can happen when there’s a mighty good idea that has a healthy start.

In this article that first appeared in the Washington Post, Moira E. McLaughlin covers a bit of the history of Smithson’s gift that consisted of 105 bags of gold. She also points out the significance of Smithsonian Castle, the Smithsonian’s first building that is now used for the Smithsonian’s administrative offices and information center. According to McLaughlin, the information center is a perfect place to begin a visit to the Smithsonian. It can help you orient the rest of your time there.

I’ve been to the Smithsonian several times and have never visited The Castle. Next time I’m in D.C., this is my first stop. In case no one has thanked you properly James Smithson,THANKS a million times over. Your gift was truly splendid.

If the style of the building looks familiar, it’s because its architect, James Renwick, Jr. also designed St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.