tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918925236416248012024-03-14T17:22:28.551+10:00Mushingo - Trip to JapanErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-69874171704100839972018-12-18T11:56:00.000+10:002018-12-18T12:09:06.048+10:00Day 9: Hiroshima Mazda<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UGpB1VnoRnQ/XBcsS34WMxI/AAAAAAAAHWM/e36Eav7_bD0am5IpgUDKems4G8E045N7ACLcBGAs/s1600/_2017-04-17%2B10.30.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UGpB1VnoRnQ/XBcsS34WMxI/AAAAAAAAHWM/e36Eav7_bD0am5IpgUDKems4G8E045N7ACLcBGAs/s320/_2017-04-17%2B10.30.23.jpg" width="240" /></a><b>Monday 17 April 2017</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2018/05/day-8-mt-ibuki.html">Continues from: Day 8: Mt Ibuki</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
During our first visit to Hiroshima in 2012 we stayed for two days and saw the A-Bomb dome, Peace Park, Museum and Shukkeien Garden on one and then spent a day at Miyajima on the other.</div>
</div>
<br />
What we didn't have time for was a tour of the Mazda Car Factory, which is Hiroshima's other major attraction. Neither Kate or I are particularily interested in cars, but we do like to see engineering and industrial attractions as well. So today will be a tour of the car factory!<br />
<br />
After the factory tour we were planning to go to Ōkunoshima, which is more commonly known as 'Rabbit Island' as it is home to thousands to bunnies. Unfortunetly though it was extreamly rainy and we decided to give wet rabbits a miss.<br />
<br />
We will have to try again another time!<br />
<br />
Mazda was founded in Hiroshima in 1920 and they first hit major success in the 1930's when they started making three wheeled tiny trucks, which look more like bikes. Now they are one of the world's major car manufacturers. Although Mazda have a few factories located around the world, I think around 9, the one at Hiroshima is one of the major plants. All of the cars I have seen in Australia at least say 'Made in Hiroshima' or something like that.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6priptLdAx0/XBcsH3Zw14I/AAAAAAAAHVc/YrHCYaOeQ0IKqvbnGn1Y7ZsuD96TsCX5wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B10.33.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6priptLdAx0/XBcsH3Zw14I/AAAAAAAAHVc/YrHCYaOeQ0IKqvbnGn1Y7ZsuD96TsCX5wCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B10.33.11.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qNVuskNy1Rs/XBcsHjMs3UI/AAAAAAAAHVY/TAUtFrJjm70b9J-Tr4c7xPIfC6YuFNqDACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B10.32.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qNVuskNy1Rs/XBcsHjMs3UI/AAAAAAAAHVY/TAUtFrJjm70b9J-Tr4c7xPIfC6YuFNqDACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B10.32.46.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Along with the Toyota factory in Nagoya, it is possible to book an free English language tour of the factory. Reservations can be made by phone or on <a href="http://www.mazda.com/en/about/museum/reservations/">their website</a>. We used the website and made our booking about two months in advance. Many websites in Japan only let you book three months in advance, but it looks like you can book this tour up to a year in advance.<br />
<br />
After booking on the website we also had to send an email with the names of the people who will be participating.<br />
<br />
Our tour was for 10am - 11:30am so we didn't need to hurry too much in the morning. The nearest station is Mukainada which is only a six minute train ride from Hiroshima Station. We arrived 15 minutes early as advised.<br />
<br />
After arriving we registered and were told we could look around while we waited for the tour to start. There were a few cars on display in this area if I remember correctly.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_NFRS1nj-c/XBcsKYNF4HI/AAAAAAAAHVk/TE84bOpsSVUd9yUHmfXb91D3XJSu_fhPACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B10.34.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_NFRS1nj-c/XBcsKYNF4HI/AAAAAAAAHVk/TE84bOpsSVUd9yUHmfXb91D3XJSu_fhPACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B10.34.25.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-da5e3XAucR4/XBcsILRl7yI/AAAAAAAAHVg/BZbSV2OVkWAQ5VtgGM5pRq8j92fTqofSQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B10.33.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-da5e3XAucR4/XBcsILRl7yI/AAAAAAAAHVg/BZbSV2OVkWAQ5VtgGM5pRq8j92fTqofSQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B10.33.27.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Once it was time for the tour to start we all got name tags and then hopped on a bus. Mazda owns a large chunk of Hiroshima next to the ocean and even has their own port. We drove over to this area while the guide explained about a few things that we could see out the window. I think they said something about having the largest privately owned bridge in Japan.<br />
<br />
Our first stop was a museum. Upon arriving we watched video on the history of Mazda, and then our guide gave us a brief explanation of each exibit. The exibits started out as examples of Mazda's first cars, then they had a few of their more iconic or influential vehicales. There were also some engines on display and the obligatory 'car of the future'.<br />
<br />
After the tour we were given some time to look around ourselves, before hopping back on the bus.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cYdzutsl1UU/XBcsLJpyVdI/AAAAAAAAHVo/5CeCI6LAe68Owxrx8ngkf5JKfCQZ7-f_QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B10.35.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cYdzutsl1UU/XBcsLJpyVdI/AAAAAAAAHVo/5CeCI6LAe68Owxrx8ngkf5JKfCQZ7-f_QCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B10.35.58.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LN345XafIPA/XBcsLQnKvxI/AAAAAAAAHVs/KqosQzulH_QCGOCIELpEe7KJwOs2_-cSwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B10.34.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LN345XafIPA/XBcsLQnKvxI/AAAAAAAAHVs/KqosQzulH_QCGOCIELpEe7KJwOs2_-cSwCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B10.34.43.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Next up was a tour of the actual factory building!<br />
<br />
Unfortunetly taking pictures is strictly prohibited in this area as . We got to see a lot of big factory robots attaching and detacching car parts, as well as moving everything around while humans worked inside the cars using drills and such to put things together.<br />
<br />
This was the most interesting part of the tour. Our guide explained some of what was happening below while we walked along an elevated walkway.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jy5fN9vJ0Wk/XBcsNBbRAOI/AAAAAAAAHVw/YFmqIPXafcUQxdTsPVNxeUPb2r4-Xrh9gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B10.38.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jy5fN9vJ0Wk/XBcsNBbRAOI/AAAAAAAAHVw/YFmqIPXafcUQxdTsPVNxeUPb2r4-Xrh9gCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B10.38.09.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-WpV_wGBbY/XBcsO3iN11I/AAAAAAAAHV0/uu01hXrrZg8BC5iFUKFrKaZSbs753tdfACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B10.42.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-WpV_wGBbY/XBcsO3iN11I/AAAAAAAAHV0/uu01hXrrZg8BC5iFUKFrKaZSbs753tdfACLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-17%2B10.42.03.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After the factory floor tour we hopped back on the bus and I think we returned to the main building.<br />
<br />
Or maybe we went to a different area? I can't quite remember but there was a shop where we could buy Mazda themed things.<br />
<br />
We also got a free toy. It was one of those rulers where it seems stiff but if you slap it against something it will curl around it.<br />
<br />
As mentioned the origional plan after the Mazda tour was to go to Bunny Island. However the rain was just as bad at lunch time as it was in the morning so we did't consider revising our plan.<br />
<br />
Instead we decided to have Okonomiyaki for lunch. Okonomiyaki is a type of pan fried food that contains batter, cabbage and things like meat and vegitables.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugw33B0EgRw/XBcsQ-lcqJI/AAAAAAAAHV8/zIZsi9YtzNw8kbLuensa5SVbSuKSC3rhACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B12.39.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugw33B0EgRw/XBcsQ-lcqJI/AAAAAAAAHV8/zIZsi9YtzNw8kbLuensa5SVbSuKSC3rhACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B12.39.18.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o9jw6UbPdSM/XBcsPHfF-YI/AAAAAAAAHV4/z-nLdEgZApEEvL3QTX1Z2cfsrEmzA2hOwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B12.34.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o9jw6UbPdSM/XBcsPHfF-YI/AAAAAAAAHV4/z-nLdEgZApEEvL3QTX1Z2cfsrEmzA2hOwCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B12.34.08.jpg" width="320" /></a>Osaka style okonomiyaki mixes up all the ingredients before frying, howver in Hiroshima they cook the ingredients seperately, including the batter which turns into something like a crepe. Everything is then put onto a pile of yakisoba noodles.<br />
<br />
Inside Osaka station there is a floor that has heaps of Okonomiyaki restruants. We had a look at them all and decided upon one that looked good. We then ordered and then sat and watched while the Okonomiyaki was cooked in front of us.<br />
<br />
It was tasty! If I had to say I think I prefer Okonomiyaki from Hiroshima over the Osaka version.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fpQOUF6PIc4/XBcsRNQF56I/AAAAAAAAHWA/W06luVY9kCglpI4x8l155A6wtgtZQCO-wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B13.24.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fpQOUF6PIc4/XBcsRNQF56I/AAAAAAAAHWA/W06luVY9kCglpI4x8l155A6wtgtZQCO-wCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B13.24.37.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--B6mgdVcvfM/XBcsR2tD8CI/AAAAAAAAHWE/kgu9S7FGvj0GsH6ar6idJDszlY4qszm-ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-17%2B19.34.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--B6mgdVcvfM/XBcsR2tD8CI/AAAAAAAAHWE/kgu9S7FGvj0GsH6ar6idJDszlY4qszm-ACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-17%2B19.34.44.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Okonomiyaki are quite large and make you feel really full. However, this feeling doesn't last long as they include a lot of cabbage, which isn't very caloree dense.<br />
<br />
Once night fell we were hungry again. We decided to go to an Italian restuant.<br />
<br />
I got a pizza and Kate got some pasta. We also had some desserts at some point during the day. Ice cream and pudding.<br />
<br />
Tommorow we're heading back to Tokyo, with stops along the way for some Kobe beef and a visit to Himeji castle.<br />
<br />
<br />
.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-1218035356144605002018-10-12T14:52:00.000+10:002018-10-15T21:29:19.297+10:00100 Famous Mountains of JapanJapan has many lists.<br />
<br />
The 3 best night views, the 100 lanscapes of Japan, the 100 waterfalls of Japan. It isn't just limited to tourist locations either with the 100 famous waka poems and the 100 soundscapes of Japan.<br />
<br />
The “100 Famous Mountains of Japan” or 日本百名山 (Nihon Hyakumeizan) are a list of mountains compiled in 1964 by a mountaineer known as Kyuya Fukada. The list was then popularised by Crown Prince Naruhito. The mountains in the list were chosen for their grace, history and individuality and almost all of them are over 1500 meters tall.<br />
<br />
One of the activities we enjoy when travelling is hiking and if possible we have tried to include a couple of mountains or other walks each trip. Deciding what mountain is worth climbing is quite challenging so this list is very helpful!<br />
<br />
We decided that it would be a great long term goal to try and climb all of the 100 famous mountains (hyakumeizan).<br />
<br />
This page will be a list of the hyakumeizan we have climbed.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0qtnYvCc41k/W8R5WGWy_aI/AAAAAAAAHUo/gVzu7U-oKnA-6lNDGyJ-0ATuoyhj9jZZgCLcBGAs/s1600/kuju.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0qtnYvCc41k/W8R5WGWy_aI/AAAAAAAAHUo/gVzu7U-oKnA-6lNDGyJ-0ATuoyhj9jZZgCLcBGAs/s320/kuju.JPG" width="320" /></a><b>1. Kujū </b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">九重山</span> </span></span> </span> #95 1786m<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2013/12/day-13-yufuin-mt-kuju-and-tsuetate.html">Climbed on 23/5/2013</a><br />
<br />
I don't think we even knew about the 100 famous mountains when we climbed this. Apart from being our first of the hyakumeizan it was also the first proper mountain we climbed in Japan. It also happens to be the highest point of Kyushu. We climbed up the Mt Kuju peak, Naka-Dake is a few metres higher. The area is really nice with lots of peaks, ridges and volcanic lakes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oyP2ZhGOg4Y/W8R5WfReV2I/AAAAAAAAHUs/t4vJ7dNfJJgywlI6ex1WJw9veYY-FMVYgCLcBGAs/s1600/fuji.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oyP2ZhGOg4Y/W8R5WfReV2I/AAAAAAAAHUs/t4vJ7dNfJJgywlI6ex1WJw9veYY-FMVYgCLcBGAs/s320/fuji.JPG" width="320" /></a><b>2. Fuji</b> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">富士山</span> </span></span> </span> #72 3776m<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2014/08/day-3-mt-fuji.html">Climbed on 7/7/2014</a><br />
<br />
Japan's most famous and highest mountain. The most standard way to climb Mt Fuji is to stay overnight in one of the huts near the top and then see the sunrise. We didn't want to lose any sleep so we did it as a day trip from Tokyo. Unfortunately once we got to the top of the mountain we could not see anything as it was completely cloudy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9OM7uS8TP3I/W8R5WhQBcSI/AAAAAAAAHUw/NBBL1ptv3b0MHnbaDg8lD-qvx17cKQ2-wCLcBGAs/s1600/ishizuchi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9OM7uS8TP3I/W8R5WhQBcSI/AAAAAAAAHUw/NBBL1ptv3b0MHnbaDg8lD-qvx17cKQ2-wCLcBGAs/s320/ishizuchi.JPG" width="320" /></a><b>3. Ishizuchi </b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">石鎚山</span> </span></span><b>#</b>94 1982m<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2015/07/day-15-mt-ishizuchi-matsuyama.html">Climbed on 20/7/2014</a><br />
<br />
This is the tallest mountain in Shikoku and indeed all of western Japan. It is also one of the 7 most holy mountains with a large shrine at the bottom and lots of pilgrims. The name in Japanese means iron hammer and it is very pointy, with some steep sections where you can pull yourself up 68m high cliffs using iron chains (though you can also just walk around these sections too).<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jAEQ7Zrr7-c/W8R52VXCshI/AAAAAAAAHVA/kRZl_zil2U0pUtDSiDBMLt3oDAVfcrDVACLcBGAs/s1600/tsurugi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jAEQ7Zrr7-c/W8R52VXCshI/AAAAAAAAHVA/kRZl_zil2U0pUtDSiDBMLt3oDAVfcrDVACLcBGAs/s320/tsurugi.JPG" width="320" /></a><b>4. Tsurugi-san </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">剣山</span> #93 1955m</span><br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2015/07/day-19-oku-iya-valley-and-tokushima.html">Climbed on 24/7/2014</a><br />
<br />
There are actually three mountains called Mt Tsurugi in Japan. One is in Hokkaido and isn't very tall, but the other two are 100 famous mountains. Tsurugi-dake (剱岳) in the northern alps, and is known for being one of most difficult mountains to climb in Japan. The one we climbed this time is Tsurugi-san (<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">剣山)</span> and it's probably one of the easiest to climb. We actually got a chairlift up and only hiked for an hour or so! Even if we skipped the chairlift it wouldn't have been much more difficult so we have counted this one.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rjXCuZ_Vlvg/W8PQfz2U96I/AAAAAAAAHUc/2__wa4up7lEn6SOfrsPVi1qr8SmJtjp7wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-16%2B11.05.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rjXCuZ_Vlvg/W8PQfz2U96I/AAAAAAAAHUc/2__wa4up7lEn6SOfrsPVi1qr8SmJtjp7wCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-16%2B11.05.19.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>5. Ibuki <span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"></span></span></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">伊吹山</span> #89 1377m<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2018/05/day-8-mt-ibuki.html">Climbed on 16/4/2017</a><br />
<br />
This mountain is one of the shortest of the 100 famous mountains, but it is quite massive looking and can be seen from the Tokaido Shinkansen. This was the first mountain we climbed after deciding to focus on the 100 famous mountains. We picked this mountain as we were visiting Japan in April and it was one of the few that were already open for climbing. Even so we did encounter a little bit of snow.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0UsE-zO-kOk/W8PQNsIGWZI/AAAAAAAAHUU/KutfKE6AZcg75vubFI0IZbgt92caEbD-wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-23%2B11.45.38-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0UsE-zO-kOk/W8PQNsIGWZI/AAAAAAAAHUU/KutfKE6AZcg75vubFI0IZbgt92caEbD-wCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-23%2B11.45.38-1.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>6. Ryokami </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">両神山</span> #65 1723m<br />
Climbed on 23/4/2017<br />
<br />
Another mountain that we hiked during our April trip to Japan. Apparently it can be climbed year round, though it can get quite icy. I wouldn't attempt it though especially if there's lots of snowfall, which can happen sometimes. Some parts of the trail are pretty narrow. The top is a little rocky and there are some sections with chains. From the summit you can see the top two highest peaks of Japan. Mt Fuji and Mt Kita.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksggYLsEWwM/W8PPbzVOVpI/AAAAAAAAHUE/QRIBNaUkMSsh66XQdyYhsNa7NHS9d3iWwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-10-08%2B14.33.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksggYLsEWwM/W8PPbzVOVpI/AAAAAAAAHUE/QRIBNaUkMSsh66XQdyYhsNa7NHS9d3iWwCLcBGAs/s320/2017-10-08%2B14.33.12.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>7. Tanigawa </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">谷川岳 </span></span>#30 1977m<br />
Climbed on 8/10/2017<br />
<br />
Japan's deadliest mountain. Most deaths are due to people falling while rock climbing or hiking of route during winter. The main route is not too difficult and thousands of people do it every year. This was the first mountain we climbed after moving to Japan. When we went it was the autumn colour season and there were heaps of people. We did this as a day trip from Tokyo (using the JR Tokyo Wide Pass) so it was already a bit late in the day when we started which meant everyone else was climbing down. If this wasn't the case we probably would have not been able to do it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EQbcuVWiEHA/W8PO1xQyiPI/AAAAAAAAHT4/peycRdTMyh0Xn32zjTadW00xqtDkH8BdwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-10-09%2B14.18.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EQbcuVWiEHA/W8PO1xQyiPI/AAAAAAAAHT4/peycRdTMyh0Xn32zjTadW00xqtDkH8BdwCLcBGAs/s320/2017-10-09%2B14.18.21.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>8. </b><b>Asama</b> <span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">浅間山 </span></span>#43 2550m<br />
Climbed on 9/10/2017<br />
<br />
This is the most active volcano on the main island of Japan and is located 145km from Tokyo. Last time it erupted in 2009 the ash made it all the way to Tokyo. Due to this the path up to summit is closed as it is too dangerous. The nearby Maekake peak can be climbed sometimes but it is currently off limits too. We climbed up during a day trip from Tokyo using the JR Tokyo Wide Pass. We actually saw someone up at the peak, however it looked very unsafe as there was a lot of steam and poisonous gases billowing out the crater.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KKuxopkmd3U/W8PNxRFPelI/AAAAAAAAHTk/AMxSA9-pQqkU9L4SDxC7OquN99873o9QgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-11-05%2B13.07.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KKuxopkmd3U/W8PNxRFPelI/AAAAAAAAHTk/AMxSA9-pQqkU9L4SDxC7OquN99873o9QgCLcBGAs/s320/2017-11-05%2B13.07.03.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>9. Amagi </b> <span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">天城山 </span></span>#73 1406m<br />
Climbed on 5/11/2017<br />
<br />
This is the tallest peak of the Izu Peninsula and we went here on a day trip from Tokyo. It's not a super difficult mountain to climb and can be done pretty late or early in the season as it is not super high. I wouldn't do it Jan-March as it does get snow. We started at a golf course at the bottom and did a loop of a couple of the peaks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J2YeGBg0Yt8/W8PNig9M1zI/AAAAAAAAHTg/GHTqW9Pq9CQNh5OLW8mLm4BqhYlMm6x9wCLcBGAs/s1600/tanzawa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1002" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J2YeGBg0Yt8/W8PNig9M1zI/AAAAAAAAHTg/GHTqW9Pq9CQNh5OLW8mLm4BqhYlMm6x9wCLcBGAs/s320/tanzawa.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>10. Tanzawa </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">丹沢山 </span></span>#71 1567m<br />
Climbed on 25/11/2017<br />
<br />
This is the closest mountain to where we live in Tokyo and the easiest for us to access. We only had to get one train and then a really short bus! <br />
The hike up was quite a slog though with 1559m of vertical accent and a round trip distance of 18.15km. From the top we had excellent views of Mt Fuji and Tokyo.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MGljqBHaMxY/W8PMrki-CFI/AAAAAAAAHTM/NjiNuoasVzoRhdcOxYM9mSzXw76lOtdYgCLcBGAs/s1600/2018-01-02%2B13.30.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MGljqBHaMxY/W8PMrki-CFI/AAAAAAAAHTM/NjiNuoasVzoRhdcOxYM9mSzXw76lOtdYgCLcBGAs/s320/2018-01-02%2B13.30.03.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>11. Tsukuba </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">筑波山 </span></span>#44 877m<br />
Climbed on 2/1/2018<br />
<br />
This is the only one of the 100 famous mountains that is officially open all year round. So it's a great mountain to hike in the middle of winter. We went on the day after new year’s day. There was no snow however there were a lot of people thanks to the fact that there is a ropeway up the mountain. We were not slowed down too much though as almost everyone used the ropeway. Mt Tsukuba is by far the shortest of the hyakumeizan and was a relatively quick and easy climb.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GGj8Xhpd3_M/W8PMXNSAufI/AAAAAAAAHTE/VP9Rv3tiwoAXMNKz48x50LDf4LTzaNjAwCLcBGAs/s1600/2018-05-05%2B14.35.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GGj8Xhpd3_M/W8PMXNSAufI/AAAAAAAAHTE/VP9Rv3tiwoAXMNKz48x50LDf4LTzaNjAwCLcBGAs/s320/2018-05-05%2B14.35.21.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>12. Daibosatsu</b> <span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">大菩薩嶺 </span></span>#70 2057m<br />
Climbed on 05/05/2018<br />
<br />
Mt Daibosatsu, or Daibosatsu-rei is located on the Chuo line and like many other mountains can be done as a day trip from Tokyo. The cheapest method is to catch a train to Enzan station from which you can get to the start of the hike using a short and cheap bus. This is what we did. At the top we saw a fox! To get back to where we started we climbed down the other side then walked around the bottom to make a loop.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQULafpc-aY/W8PKlkWPJzI/AAAAAAAAHS4/zsQWa_-E24wdXi8cb3Jbu4vbuw1m9DoHACLcBGAs/s1600/2018-07-26%2B13.15.35-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQULafpc-aY/W8PKlkWPJzI/AAAAAAAAHS4/zsQWa_-E24wdXi8cb3Jbu4vbuw1m9DoHACLcBGAs/s320/2018-07-26%2B13.15.35-1.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>13. Kashimayari</b><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">鹿島槍ヶ岳 </span></span>#47 2889m<br />
Climbed on 26/07/2018<br />
<br />
We combined this with Mt Goryu and stayed in a mountain hut for the first time. After staying in Shinano-Omachi we got a bus to Ogizawa then started the massive slog up the mountain, got to the top, then descended down an extremely steep ridge to stay at the Kiretto mountain hut. The distance was 15.61km with a personal record vertical accent of 2,252m.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--TcgMtEU_tY/W8PGsRy4pKI/AAAAAAAAHSs/NFVi0CuzrAwgF4lcA1DbjdDGoyymKmZjACLcBGAs/s1600/goryu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--TcgMtEU_tY/W8PGsRy4pKI/AAAAAAAAHSs/NFVi0CuzrAwgF4lcA1DbjdDGoyymKmZjACLcBGAs/s320/goryu.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>14. Goryuu </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">五竜岳 </span></span>#46 2814m<br />
Climbed on 27/07/2018<br />
<br />
After climbing Kashimayari the previous day and spending a night in the Kiretto mountain hut we woke really early and continued along the ridge to Mt Goyruu. This path is known for being particularly steep and has been ranked as Japan's 3rd most difficult traverse (after the Daikiretto and Nishihotaka - Okuhotaka). Although it was only a few kilometres it took us hours to get to the peak. Once we reached the top we walked back down the other side and returned to Tokyo.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gZpCynYmz9A/W8M5fq9mSWI/AAAAAAAAHSg/mne183D1QNYJJMO_vpvpmDg-fv8ij13BwCLcBGAs/s1600/yari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1575" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gZpCynYmz9A/W8M5fq9mSWI/AAAAAAAAHSg/mne183D1QNYJJMO_vpvpmDg-fv8ij13BwCLcBGAs/s320/yari.jpg" width="315" /></a><b>15. Yari </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">槍ヶ岳 </span></span>#54 3180m<br />
Climbed on 07/08/2018<br />
<br />
Yari means spear and it's called this because the summit of the mountain is a 100-200m tall very pointy rocky outcrop that looks like a spear. It's one of the most well known mountains in Japan and one of the tallest.<br />
<br />
Due to it's location deep in the Northen alps we again stayed overnight in a mountain hut. Instead of staying at the top though we stayed closer to the bottom only a few hours from the start of the trail at Yarisawa lodge. The next day we climbed all the way to the top then back down the other side to stay in the Shin-Hotaka onsen village.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wU_6f15pVbo/W8M42afo6PI/AAAAAAAAHSY/zzcgJmOo3LAVjC_yG0-bVpEp6s9jfogDQCLcBGAs/s1600/2018-08-08%2B09.36.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wU_6f15pVbo/W8M42afo6PI/AAAAAAAAHSY/zzcgJmOo3LAVjC_yG0-bVpEp6s9jfogDQCLcBGAs/s320/2018-08-08%2B09.36.18.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>16. Yake </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">焼岳 </span></span>#58 2455m<br />
Climbed on 08/08/2018<br />
<br />
Mt Yake is the only currently active volcano in the Northern Japanese Alps and is responsible for creating Kamikochi about 14,000 years ago (by changing the course of the river). A more recent eruption in 1915 resulted in the creation of the Taisho pond at the start of Kamikochi. <br />
After staying in Shin-Hotaka onsen the night before (see above) we were really tired but somehow managed to climb Mt Yake. We climbed up the Shin-Hotaka and it probably the hardest I have done, partly due to the steepness, partly due to my fatigue. The crater at the top was shooting out lots of steam and gases. From the top we headed down to Naka-no-yu on the Kamikochi side and then got a bus to Matsumoto and returned to Tokyo.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cNGCYGyt_7k/W8M4YzXCLSI/AAAAAAAAHSQ/cnG8dU-NTdIXWTvRQD_zK2oF0YuX9aQ3gCLcBGAs/s1600/kumodori.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1534" data-original-width="1600" height="305" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cNGCYGyt_7k/W8M4YzXCLSI/AAAAAAAAHSQ/cnG8dU-NTdIXWTvRQD_zK2oF0YuX9aQ3gCLcBGAs/s320/kumodori.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>17. Kumotori<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">雲取山 </span></span>#66 2017m<br />
Climbed on 17/08/2018<br />
<br />
Kumotori is the only one of the 100 famous mountains located in Tokyo (just barely) and is the highest point of the prefecture. We left earlyish in the morning and caught the ome line to Okutama which is the last station.<br />
<br />
From okutama we then caught a bus another 15km to trailhead. The hike wasn't too difficult though it was fairly long at a distance of 25.6km and with a vertical accent of 1660m. We actually had to hurry a bit towards the end to make sure we got the last bus. From the top we had an excellent view of Mt Fuji.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HMVLiVvkE-w/W8M31uPZ0II/AAAAAAAAHSI/c3ALIfnHQwgx2gbwrVNmDfuorVOzXPdAwCLcBGAs/s1600/2018-10-04%2B14.16.17-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HMVLiVvkE-w/W8M31uPZ0II/AAAAAAAAHSI/c3ALIfnHQwgx2gbwrVNmDfuorVOzXPdAwCLcBGAs/s320/2018-10-04%2B14.16.17-1.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>18. Nantai </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">男体山 </span></span>#36 2486m<br />
Climbed on 4/10/2018<br />
<br />
Mt Nantai is a prominent mountain located in Nikko and can be seen from the ocean (over 100km away). Nikko is well known for it's shrines and temples but is also famous due to its natural scenery and onsen. Mt Nantai is located next to Lake Chuzenji at the top of the Irohazaka slope. Just as we did in October 2017 did day trips from Tokyo using the JR Tokyo Wide Pass to climb two mountains. Mt Nantai is a holy mountain and the trail starts at Futara Shrine. At the top there is a holy sword.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DvYFZZAAS3M/W8POdbkpGYI/AAAAAAAAHTs/RWhyNOTfBTUhxHUrI5pao_JzIJ8ZVlwaQCLcBGAs/s1600/nasu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="1600" height="191" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DvYFZZAAS3M/W8POdbkpGYI/AAAAAAAAHTs/RWhyNOTfBTUhxHUrI5pao_JzIJ8ZVlwaQCLcBGAs/s320/nasu.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>19. Nasu </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">那須岳 </span></span>#24 1917m<br />
Climbed on 6/10/2018<br />
<br />
Mt Nasu is the volcano that heats the geothermal waters that supply Nasu onsen. We went at a really good time because when we arrived we found that the autumn colours were at their peak and the mountain was covered in a lovely mix of red, orange and green. Mt Nasu has a (expensive) ropeway but walked up from the carpark near the bottom of the ropeway. It didn't take us long to reach the Chausu peak where we did a loop of the crater. We also walked down the other side of the mountain to checkout another autumn colour spot before walking back down to the carpark.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-50265579830180049262018-05-30T17:12:00.000+10:002018-12-18T11:57:33.307+10:00Day 8: Mt Ibuki<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CIRr3mMqX-A/Wwux2dW95wI/AAAAAAAAHRM/WiztKg4pwuQk1t7b8J-iZ3HXQhIGH1f1ACEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B12.19.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CIRr3mMqX-A/Wwux2dW95wI/AAAAAAAAHRM/WiztKg4pwuQk1t7b8J-iZ3HXQhIGH1f1ACEwYBhgL/s400/2017-04-16%2B12.19.26.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>Sunday 16 April 2017</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2018/05/day-7-hikone-castle.html"><i>Continues from: Day 7: Hikone Castle</i></a><br />
<br />
Today we will be climbing Mt Ibuki, which is one of the 100 famous mountains of Japan.<br />
<br />
The “100 Famous Mountains of Japan” are a list of mountains compiled in 1964 by a mountaineer known as Kyuya Fukada.<br />
<br />
The list was then popularised by Crown Prince Naruhito. The mountains in the list were chosen for their grace, history and individuality and almost all of them are over 1500 meters tall.<br />
<br />
One of the activities we enjoy when travelling is hiking and if possible we have tried to include a couple of mountains or other walks each trip. Deciding what mountain is worth climbing is quite challenging so this list is very helpful!<br />
<br />
We decided that it would be a great long term goal to try and climb all of the 100 famous mountains.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Mt Ibuki is actually not the first of the 100 famous mountains we have climbed. It turns out we have already climbed 4 before we made it a goal to climb them all. These are: Mt Kuju, Mt Fuji, Mt Ishizuchi and Mt Tsurugi.<br />
<br />
At the time of writing this article we have since climbed another 7, bringing the total to 12.</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ew4x4iXZQFE/Wwuxjwk09-I/AAAAAAAAHPc/jzTbFehHmGcy2vmaRaRQfLE6zMld_EaCQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-16%2B07.12.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="973" data-original-width="1600" height="193" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ew4x4iXZQFE/Wwuxjwk09-I/AAAAAAAAHPc/jzTbFehHmGcy2vmaRaRQfLE6zMld_EaCQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-16%2B07.12.22.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink car making police siren noises before 7am</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AkRxfYunTbk/WwuxkpfQ2CI/AAAAAAAAHPg/kd5ctDTzHcAFcY7SQVSuGWYvtEWo00GTgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B12.52.14-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AkRxfYunTbk/WwuxkpfQ2CI/AAAAAAAAHPg/kd5ctDTzHcAFcY7SQVSuGWYvtEWo00GTgCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B12.52.14-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt Ibuki as seen from the shinkansen (I think)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Mt Ibuki can be seen from the Tokaido Shinkansen and is quite an impressive looking mountain as it is fairly bulky or like massive looking. I guess that is one of the reasons it was included on the list as it is actually one of those few that is less than 1500 metres tall, at 1,377m in height. Mt Ibuki apparently holds a world record for the most snow fall, and in previous years was home to a ski resort. Thanks to climate change however, there is no longer enough snow in winter and the ski resort went out of buisness.<br />
<br />
In warmer months the summit is well known for its fantastic views and wild alpine flowers. It's not just hikers appreciating these things however, as there is a road that goes all the way to the top. This makes hiking up the mountain a little anticlimactic, but in order to count you surely have to climb up from the foothills rather then the carpark.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i6NNW26ReC0/WwuxlyJlUxI/AAAAAAAAHPk/-GW8Far9qHEFAI5HdleAiRaBej78u2jRACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-16%2B09.57.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i6NNW26ReC0/WwuxlyJlUxI/AAAAAAAAHPk/-GW8Far9qHEFAI5HdleAiRaBej78u2jRACLcBGAs/s640/2017-04-16%2B09.57.40.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As an aside, I'm actually not sure where to draw the line here. Driving up Mt Ibuki is a definite 'out', however few would argue you have to climb up from the first station of Mt Fuji (most people drive or bus to the 5th). Other mountains such as Ishizuchi and Tanigawa-dake include a cable car and then a significant climb- I think that would be in. We claim that we climbed up Mt Tsurugi in Shikoku, but we did get a chairlift up most of the way. I'm counting that as 'in' but I do feel a bit guilty.<br />
<br />
Anyway. We woke up around 6:30 in order to get an early start. The total length of the hike up and down Mt Ibuki is 12.5km with a vertical accent of 1325m. My hiking book said it would take us 8 hours. We usually hike much quicker than this, but we also had to travel all the way down to Hiroshima in the afternoon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MXY_PPgPHbA/Wwuxn17hBKI/AAAAAAAAHPs/gsU2DZsQPUUoWXvOYDuUZJcpmgCWqxt6ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-16%2B10.42.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MXY_PPgPHbA/Wwuxn17hBKI/AAAAAAAAHPs/gsU2DZsQPUUoWXvOYDuUZJcpmgCWqxt6ACLcBGAs/s640/2017-04-16%2B10.42.10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EBrJrKoxXV4/Wwux52Me77I/AAAAAAAAHQk/sfKjY0Mb0asbFPD4SEa3wXMjQTdG3ZqiACEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B12.21.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EBrJrKoxXV4/Wwux52Me77I/AAAAAAAAHQk/sfKjY0Mb0asbFPD4SEa3wXMjQTdG3ZqiACEwYBhgL/s400/2017-04-16%2B12.21.57.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
Although we had bought rice balls the night before, we had to go out again this morning to buy new ones as it turned out our Airbnb did not have a fridge. At the convenience store we were surprised to hear some really load police siren noises. These turned out to be coming from a massive, bright pink hummer. Definitely not a police car. Apparently making such noises isn't (or wasn't?) illegal in Japan.<br />
<br />
After stocking up on supplies, and eating breakfast, at a convenience store we caught the train a stop or two to Ominagaoka Station, and then caught a bus to the Ibuki Community Center.<br />
<br />
We thought we would be able to use lockers here, but we couldn't find any! We asked at the information desk and found that we could leave our luggage with them. The only catch was we had to be back before they closed.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure if there were lockers at the station, but if there were we couldn't use them or even look for them as we had less than a minute to change from the train to the bus.<br />
<br />
After storing our luggage we went back to the bus stop and waited for the next bus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Z3tAUFrXK8/Wwux1igXocI/AAAAAAAAHQQ/4KtUqh2lNiE-nWqi_AEdRPNX_dYEHq0eACEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B12.18.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Z3tAUFrXK8/Wwux1igXocI/AAAAAAAAHQQ/4KtUqh2lNiE-nWqi_AEdRPNX_dYEHq0eACEwYBhgL/s640/2017-04-16%2B12.18.56.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tCil4C_mOIo/Wwuxn_r4UyI/AAAAAAAAHPo/Bxm75mhcPiAvqBNt4HoS9JD9OxTQ6oDwQCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B11.03.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tCil4C_mOIo/Wwuxn_r4UyI/AAAAAAAAHPo/Bxm75mhcPiAvqBNt4HoS9JD9OxTQ6oDwQCEwYBhgL/s640/2017-04-16%2B11.03.22.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the summit area of Mt Ibuki</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The trail up Mt Ibuki starts at the Sannomiya Shrine and we arrived at 9:00. There are toilets here, some parking spots and vending machines. Something we didn't notice right away was that there is a small fee collected to help maintain the trail up Mt Ibuki. It costs 300 yen per person, and there is a little hut with a reception window right next to the trailhead.<br />
<br />
After paying we applied sunscreen and then it was time to start hiking!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KGFTb1G7sGo/Wwux117u2BI/AAAAAAAAHRI/RbNnfSu9KMs1w6DVHxIoinQWcdhz_38cwCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B12.17.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KGFTb1G7sGo/Wwux117u2BI/AAAAAAAAHRI/RbNnfSu9KMs1w6DVHxIoinQWcdhz_38cwCEwYBhgL/s640/2017-04-16%2B12.17.58.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We set off at 9:15. The trail at the start led through forest and was quite muddy as I think it may have rained overnight. Along the way we saw a brown snake! After 10 minutes climbing and squelching through mud we came out of the trees to find a bunch of buildings that are the remains of the old ski resort. This is the First Station (一合目).<br />
<br />
We stopped here for a little while to clean off some of the mud, and then continued climbing through up some grassy fields.<br />
<br />
After another 30 minutes or so we reached the Third Station (3合目)which is 2.4km from the trailhead and is located at a height of 720m. There is a little hut here and a big sign on the different types of flowers. We didn't stop this time and continued climbing. After another 15 minutes, at 10:15, we reached the 5th station (5合目)- 880m high, 3.6km from the trail head.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L_nDQSGpmXQ/WwuxwdffVII/AAAAAAAAHQI/nd8fRrO4w0knxlfZzWwAk8gz0LATJ85iwCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B12.01.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L_nDQSGpmXQ/WwuxwdffVII/AAAAAAAAHQI/nd8fRrO4w0knxlfZzWwAk8gz0LATJ85iwCEwYBhgL/s320/2017-04-16%2B12.01.48.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z0rIzByWY-Q/WwuxwO_nztI/AAAAAAAAHQA/tGv_jHgoPj4W2Kkwou0iJD6HWnhttIfdQCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B11.57.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z0rIzByWY-Q/WwuxwO_nztI/AAAAAAAAHQA/tGv_jHgoPj4W2Kkwou0iJD6HWnhttIfdQCEwYBhgL/s320/2017-04-16%2B11.57.16.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The trail from here zig-zagged through steep rocky/grassy fields. The various 'stations' were quite prominently sign posted and I took photos of most of them so I can say we reached the 6th station (990m, 4.1km) at 10:27 and the 8th station (1220m, 5.1km) at 10:47.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure what happened to the 7th and the 9th station, but the 8th said there was only 0.9km to go until the top.<br />
<br />
One of the main reasons we decided upon Mt Ibuki was because it is one of the few mountains that is climbable mid-April. This basically means, no snow.<br />
<br />
However!<br />
<br />
10 minutes after passing the 8th station we hit snow!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NJUyry3wAjU/WwuxwG68KqI/AAAAAAAAHRI/1GCdddZPRwEnQgY_D8414SOCleB1B2BAgCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B12.14.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NJUyry3wAjU/WwuxwG68KqI/AAAAAAAAHRI/1GCdddZPRwEnQgY_D8414SOCleB1B2BAgCEwYBhgL/s640/2017-04-16%2B12.14.42.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It wasn't very deep though, and was kinda slushy. It actually did quite a good job of cleaning all the mud off our shoes.<br />
<br />
After making our way through the snow field we reached the summit!<br />
<br />
The summit area had been cleared of snow and had lots of views. Unfortunately it was fairly cloudy so we couldn't see very far. The carpark was actually not visible from the summit, or at any point on the climb up, which was nice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Z8zfxz1X6A/WwuxoXOYiXI/AAAAAAAAHPw/Q1gzPT3em34mOr9nG1rWWvt_O3aqiXeIQCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B11.06.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Z8zfxz1X6A/WwuxoXOYiXI/AAAAAAAAHPw/Q1gzPT3em34mOr9nG1rWWvt_O3aqiXeIQCEwYBhgL/s640/2017-04-16%2B11.06.39.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Although it was only 11am, we were quite hungry, and decided to head down to the carpark where there is a restaurant. I thought we bought rice balls? Maybe we decided not to as we had already wasted money on them? I'm not sure. Hmmm<br />
<br />
The carpark was a 10 minute walk from the summit and to our surprise we happened to find three Toyota '86 cars!<br />
<br />
These cars were made famous thanks to the Initial D anime. Two were Levins's but there was also a Trueno's- it even had the same paint job as in the show. Seeing them was pretty cool.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_FC15yTSvlI/WwuxrBI10XI/AAAAAAAAHQ0/yxjK_46lDxw712_R4w5V6bccLLQU0xU2wCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B11.24.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_FC15yTSvlI/WwuxrBI10XI/AAAAAAAAHQ0/yxjK_46lDxw712_R4w5V6bccLLQU0xU2wCEwYBhgL/s640/2017-04-16%2B11.24.08.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Along with a souvenir shop, there was a kind of cafeteria next to the carpark. Food of offer included takoyaki, udon, ramen, dango, and curry. Kate got curry while I just got kitsune udon. I probably should have got something more exciting.<br />
<br />
After lunch we returned to the summit to find that the clouds had blown off somewhere to leave behind great views!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i_usBsl0L1c/WwuxrNdbXZI/AAAAAAAAHP4/hz4-bQcsXWcIT9uikAQNg5ZX44x3fMvUQCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B11.36.53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i_usBsl0L1c/WwuxrNdbXZI/AAAAAAAAHP4/hz4-bQcsXWcIT9uikAQNg5ZX44x3fMvUQCEwYBhgL/s320/2017-04-16%2B11.36.53.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dQwoXaQ7z1E/WwuxrAkOS3I/AAAAAAAAHP8/Ff4zn-GZ9LsLzkFAkptyOHlP0AUs-FcjACEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B11.41.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dQwoXaQ7z1E/WwuxrAkOS3I/AAAAAAAAHP8/Ff4zn-GZ9LsLzkFAkptyOHlP0AUs-FcjACEwYBhgL/s320/2017-04-16%2B11.41.32.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We could see the path up the mountain, the surrounding country side as well as Lake Biwa.<br />
<br />
We spent about 15 more minutes at the top enjoying the view, and then started to hike back down. We went down, down, down and moved as quickly as we could. It only took us 1 hour and 15 minutes to hike all the way back down.<br />
<br />
As there wasn't any busses coming for quite some time we ended up walking another 2km to the Ibuki cultural centre.<br />
<br />
There we grabbed our luggage and caught a bus to Omi-Nagaoka station.<br />
<br />
Next we caught a train to Maibara and then changed to a high speed shinkansen train. While waiting at Maibara we got to see lots of Nozomi shinkansen speed past at high speed, which was fun. We arrived into Hiroshima around 6:30pm or so and were really hungry.<br />
<br />
For dinner we went to a restaurant chain called Otoya. They specialise in Japanese set meals. The food is nice and very cheap. Since we worked hard hiking today we also ordered desert.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jh0-sEHDbW0/Wwux9IWYnRI/AAAAAAAAHRA/Uw2DXD2xFp427D2J5oipTiGYlXRMYgk1wCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B18.41.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jh0-sEHDbW0/Wwux9IWYnRI/AAAAAAAAHRA/Uw2DXD2xFp427D2J5oipTiGYlXRMYgk1wCEwYBhgL/s320/2017-04-16%2B18.41.48.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6RJKSfmYOQ/Wwux53jsHsI/AAAAAAAAHQo/s_iPe9AcbtUY1vwuSxoXl-2FqIpKQ5QIwCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B18.36.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6RJKSfmYOQ/Wwux53jsHsI/AAAAAAAAHQo/s_iPe9AcbtUY1vwuSxoXl-2FqIpKQ5QIwCEwYBhgL/s320/2017-04-16%2B18.36.38.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pnul6leX2vQ/Wwux9GdSXvI/AAAAAAAAHQ4/v14B__Ds858zSZ0hMCfTx_qwvpF-D5fmwCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B19.08.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pnul6leX2vQ/Wwux9GdSXvI/AAAAAAAAHQ4/v14B__Ds858zSZ0hMCfTx_qwvpF-D5fmwCEwYBhgL/s320/2017-04-16%2B19.08.49.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tgm5m5Ouo1k/Wwux9cx0wXI/AAAAAAAAHQ8/j55ZchT2fMYvsiQce5pKjxEXtH2q2x0zgCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017-04-16%2B19.09.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tgm5m5Ouo1k/Wwux9cx0wXI/AAAAAAAAHQ8/j55ZchT2fMYvsiQce5pKjxEXtH2q2x0zgCEwYBhgL/s320/2017-04-16%2B19.09.14.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After dinner we checked into our hotel and went to sleep.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow we will be doing a tour of the Mazda car factory in Hiroshima.<br />
<br />
Steps: 31,767<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2018/12/day-9-hiroshima-mazda.html"><i>Continue reading: Day 9: Hiroshima Mazda</i></a>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-41053702170843037582018-05-24T10:22:00.000+10:002018-06-06T09:56:32.162+10:00Day 7: Hikone Castle<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cQmv0UAcyU/WwUdCbCjE3I/AAAAAAAAHNc/vu1lXkUlyc4cul-X405Evn4HsdwAa9D9ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B14.47.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cQmv0UAcyU/WwUdCbCjE3I/AAAAAAAAHNc/vu1lXkUlyc4cul-X405Evn4HsdwAa9D9ACLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-15%2B14.47.42.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>Saturday 15 April 2017</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2018/05/day-6-toyama-takayama.html">Continues from Day 6: Toyama & Takayama</a><br />
<br />
Today we were going to see some more cherry blossoms at Hikone Castle!<br />
<br />
After enjoying the Takayama Spring Festival last night, we woke up early today and had breakfast at Hoshokan which was the ryokan we stayed at last night.<br />
<br />
The breakfast was Japanese style and very nutritious and filling.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xhp0QS1Ytuw/WwUcwtedcdI/AAAAAAAAHMw/2dqiDwvzl-YuR-jWtUAyiXt5Wc5K6UldQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B08.40.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xhp0QS1Ytuw/WwUcwtedcdI/AAAAAAAAHMw/2dqiDwvzl-YuR-jWtUAyiXt5Wc5K6UldQCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-15%2B08.40.18.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fByjBQTzCys/WwUcysEO-RI/AAAAAAAAHM0/yYcqU66-gSskROBvQ0XiKN9bS8BFZhGKwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B08.39.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fByjBQTzCys/WwUcysEO-RI/AAAAAAAAHM0/yYcqU66-gSskROBvQ0XiKN9bS8BFZhGKwCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B08.39.22.jpg" width="212" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g5OXFAGi9No/WwUcwLIs_dI/AAAAAAAAHMs/5I4SchpNs4UvJ_qxOueUDjZlQyKHXVjngCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B07.31.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g5OXFAGi9No/WwUcwLIs_dI/AAAAAAAAHMs/5I4SchpNs4UvJ_qxOueUDjZlQyKHXVjngCLcBGAs/s640/2017-04-15%2B07.31.40.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After breakfast we checked out, walked to Takayama station, and then caught a series of trains down from the mountains to Hikone in Shiga prefecture. We changed trains at Maibara station and as we were coming back this way in the afternoon we had intended to leave our luggage in one of the lockers at Maibara.<br />
<br />
However, we found that despite being a shinkansen station, there were only a few lockers, and they were all already full. So, we instead took our luggage to Hikone station and were relieved to find plenty of spare lockers.<br />
<br />
Hikone Castle is one of Japan's few surviving original castles. Unlike castles in Europe, castles in Japan were primarily built out of wood, which was great for earthquakes but not so good for longevity with only 12 castles from the feudal age remaining in Japan.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NLF1mpHRFwI/WwUc4Z5lnTI/AAAAAAAAHM8/CM1H7N6ducAcEY8-mCoKjzuHSegE_6wGgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B13.58.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1311" data-original-width="1600" height="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NLF1mpHRFwI/WwUc4Z5lnTI/AAAAAAAAHM8/CM1H7N6ducAcEY8-mCoKjzuHSegE_6wGgCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B13.58.02.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8zIot-JWVb4/WwUdCS5wzeI/AAAAAAAAHNg/j-mVH4lJPLUky8_p6kam4iNnd_mtxPypgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B14.54.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1019" data-original-width="1600" height="201" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8zIot-JWVb4/WwUdCS5wzeI/AAAAAAAAHNg/j-mVH4lJPLUky8_p6kam4iNnd_mtxPypgCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B14.54.06.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1M1G3YVov6o/WwUdKcwihzI/AAAAAAAAHN8/J5dEnNY8GloWNbp33R3CaZH7J7Sp0V3XwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.29.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1M1G3YVov6o/WwUdKcwihzI/AAAAAAAAHN8/J5dEnNY8GloWNbp33R3CaZH7J7Sp0V3XwCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B15.29.42.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qECvcq_imco/WwUdQftryyI/AAAAAAAAHOM/shx6kr3eqN4Kp3NslffqBZloNC8Ukm12ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.38.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="211" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qECvcq_imco/WwUdQftryyI/AAAAAAAAHOM/shx6kr3eqN4Kp3NslffqBZloNC8Ukm12ACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B15.38.26.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qj-FFEcqdr4/WwUc5tO8VKI/AAAAAAAAHNE/SU8h0KHV6n0dF8uUPydkPWVaTjMxy3lyACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B13.49.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qj-FFEcqdr4/WwUc5tO8VKI/AAAAAAAAHNE/SU8h0KHV6n0dF8uUPydkPWVaTjMxy3lyACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B13.49.14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--2qN65LKALc/WwUc5pKdz7I/AAAAAAAAHNA/7kCq9ku0UskE2vICTvdp1IgibdLP1NXiQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B13.49.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--2qN65LKALc/WwUc5pKdz7I/AAAAAAAAHNA/7kCq9ku0UskE2vICTvdp1IgibdLP1NXiQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B13.49.06.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The construction of Hikone Castle took twenty years and was completed in 1622. It is designated as a National Treasure which is the highest designation for cultural properties and one shared by only four other castles.<br />
<br />
For the last several years Hikone Castle has been suggested as an alternate to Himeji Castle which is by far Japan's largest castle and which recently went through a very long restoration period that involved most of the castle being hidden from view. Although Himeji is now fully open, Hikone castle is still worth a visit and so both were included on our itinerary.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vRkS8Pvj54U/WwUdHdgsFeI/AAAAAAAAHN0/naFjXfe3Nq4j92O4IbAuEXxNLy6tEs8XQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.18.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vRkS8Pvj54U/WwUdHdgsFeI/AAAAAAAAHN0/naFjXfe3Nq4j92O4IbAuEXxNLy6tEs8XQCLcBGAs/s640/2017-04-15%2B15.18.22.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Hikone castle is not too far by foot from the station and we arrived at around 14:00 after a 15 minute walk.<br />
<br />
The first thing we saw was that there were a huge amount of cherry blossom petals floating in the castle's moat!<br />
<br />
The wind had blown them into pink mats.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-in3gjp_uRSM/WwUdCZyiVgI/AAAAAAAAHPM/VfKbK2LsAGwZaCBSZfg6_pkj5jpELUYigCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/2017-04-15%2B14.39.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="302" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-in3gjp_uRSM/WwUdCZyiVgI/AAAAAAAAHPM/VfKbK2LsAGwZaCBSZfg6_pkj5jpELUYigCPcBGAYYCw/s320/2017-04-15%2B14.39.04.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7lV_AO_4A6s/WwUdWcWMFVI/AAAAAAAAHPM/sgCUqpxwuhY6dWc6umU9zrm-FwrO-0ojgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.59.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="302" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7lV_AO_4A6s/WwUdWcWMFVI/AAAAAAAAHPM/sgCUqpxwuhY6dWc6umU9zrm-FwrO-0ojgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/2017-04-15%2B15.59.26.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PYYekQrEc_s/WwUdMF3bIHI/AAAAAAAAHPA/YhNoMDi2EW4-3HQ_G9o2YF7GsMPsUFMNgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.21.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="302" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PYYekQrEc_s/WwUdMF3bIHI/AAAAAAAAHPA/YhNoMDi2EW4-3HQ_G9o2YF7GsMPsUFMNgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/2017-04-15%2B15.21.54.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We paid 600 yen to enter the castle which included entrance to the garden but not the museum. Inside we found lots of cherry blossom trees! They were a little bit past peak, with some green leaves visible, but still very pretty.<br />
<br />
We also found that there was a cherry blossom festival taking place, so we stopped and bought some meat kebabs, nihonshu (sake) and a crepe.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IOsawf_IAQI/WwUc7mrnmdI/AAAAAAAAHNI/wkquUcG-obEmB1mlcXKc_HQjzlk2npZ0QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B14.11.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IOsawf_IAQI/WwUc7mrnmdI/AAAAAAAAHNI/wkquUcG-obEmB1mlcXKc_HQjzlk2npZ0QCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B14.11.08.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8TXgcj_cGU/WwUc8zCXqtI/AAAAAAAAHNM/w7mzTrLzPx0YMFyEGGXQnBQeaLHkwKMjgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B14.19.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="211" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8TXgcj_cGU/WwUc8zCXqtI/AAAAAAAAHNM/w7mzTrLzPx0YMFyEGGXQnBQeaLHkwKMjgCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B14.19.12.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Next we went into the main castle area and climbed up to the top of the keep.<br />
<br />
As it was cherry blossom season there were quite a few people visiting the castle and there was a line up to get into the keep. It wasn't too crazy, but I think we had to wait around 5-10 minutes before we could go in.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQiP0k6myTI/WwUdG_iEx1I/AAAAAAAAHNs/CltcL3IwPaMveSV41oqwVZfX_kKAXJzawCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.17.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQiP0k6myTI/WwUdG_iEx1I/AAAAAAAAHNs/CltcL3IwPaMveSV41oqwVZfX_kKAXJzawCLcBGAs/s640/2017-04-15%2B15.17.04.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdtUYDv_K10/WwUdSsq70hI/AAAAAAAAHOU/Cxhw2P6fujsB7Nxa1djl1qeSn24C_kKdQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.54.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hdtUYDv_K10/WwUdSsq70hI/AAAAAAAAHOU/Cxhw2P6fujsB7Nxa1djl1qeSn24C_kKdQCLcBGAs/s640/2017-04-15%2B15.54.16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
From the windows we could look out over the top of the castle, the cherry blossoms surrounding the castle and out over the town.<br />
<br />
In one direction we could see mountains; in the other was Lake Biwa. This is the largest lake in Japan and looked like the ocean.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3IEHWEFcwI/WwUdbMwrBlI/AAAAAAAAHO8/DqvU4dftKZ8l1DXfrkpiYD3ladPqmHNwQCLcBGAs/s1600/_2017-04-15%2B15.36.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3IEHWEFcwI/WwUdbMwrBlI/AAAAAAAAHO8/DqvU4dftKZ8l1DXfrkpiYD3ladPqmHNwQCLcBGAs/s640/_2017-04-15%2B15.36.22.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
After the keep we went and had a look at the courtyard like area just below the keep building.<br />
<br />
Next we climbed back down and used our ticket to enter Genkyuen Garden. This Japanese garden was built in 1677 and features a large pond encompassed by a walking path.<br />
<br />
Hikone Castle visible from the garden and we had a nice time walking around.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oVAeuUf-B10/WwUdMwgd1DI/AAAAAAAAHOI/zsPxTXrc27IwEqya1v-YKzj7MTfJqjgHgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.41.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oVAeuUf-B10/WwUdMwgd1DI/AAAAAAAAHOI/zsPxTXrc27IwEqya1v-YKzj7MTfJqjgHgCLcBGAs/s640/2017-04-15%2B15.41.14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qf_kmjLeEIo/WwUdHKPMRPI/AAAAAAAAHNw/fkP-f2qWYSUlwgQZwOpVNje0yoeTwftcQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B15.05.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qf_kmjLeEIo/WwUdHKPMRPI/AAAAAAAAHNw/fkP-f2qWYSUlwgQZwOpVNje0yoeTwftcQCLcBGAs/s200/2017-04-15%2B15.05.00.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Hikone Castle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After finishing with the garden it was nearly 16:00 and we were already quite hungry. I guess we hadn't eaten much for lunch. We decided to make sure we had dinner before leaving Hikone as our next accommodation was an Airbnb in a very small town, with limited dining options.<br />
<br />
We spent way took long on GuruNavi and TabeLog looking for something to eat before eventually deciding on a Chinese noodle place near Hikone station.<br />
<br />
We got some noodles, meat, eggs, and vegetables.<br />
<br />
After dinner we went and got our bags and caught a train to our Airbnb. The place was an old historic house located on the Nakasendo, which is the old route that joined Kyoto and Tokyo. The house was wooden and quite cool with very steep narrow staircases.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yVxWpd5ylXE/WwUdWn5KaqI/AAAAAAAAHOo/_9Ii6zX-70szY4JecwYp5SvL2j5lLbKtACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B17.00.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yVxWpd5ylXE/WwUdWn5KaqI/AAAAAAAAHOo/_9Ii6zX-70szY4JecwYp5SvL2j5lLbKtACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B17.00.48.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0VZQZ98tLHs/WwUdW46rckI/AAAAAAAAHOs/VDBApbagC7Ur9nseeZ6d0AdbIGKLc3bTQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-15%2B18.46.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0VZQZ98tLHs/WwUdW46rckI/AAAAAAAAHOs/VDBApbagC7Ur9nseeZ6d0AdbIGKLc3bTQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-15%2B18.46.51.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Our hosts told us we could use their kitchen. Since we were going hiking the next day we bought some rice balls from a nearby convenience store. We asked if we could store them in the fridge only the find that they didn't have a fridge! They actually had a dish washer, but no fridge. Interesting.<br />
<br />
Another interesting thing was that we got to see our first Kotatsu. We live in Japan now and in winter spent most of our time under a Kotatsu, but this was the first we saw in real life.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow, we will be hiking up Mt Ibuki, one of the 100 famous mountains of Japan.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2018/05/day-8-mt-ibuki.html"><i>Continue reading: Day 8: Mt Ibuki</i></a><br />
<br />
<i>Note: You may have noticed that I have decided to try and not intersperce the pictures into the text. It actually takes a long time to do this and probably isn't so good for readers anyway. </i><i>Instead I have done what every other blog does and just put them between paragraphs. I did put more than one photo per line though, hopefully that doesn't mess with anything.</i><br />
<b><br /></b>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-87087024630596516252018-05-10T10:20:00.000+10:002018-05-24T14:52:37.964+10:00Day 6: Toyama & Takayama Festival<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nePmK4qQDSk/WrMCAathgvI/AAAAAAAAHKw/klI_Ba-4WigblifaH2yxww5z6c7To5LUwCLcBGAs/s1600/1_2017-04-14%2B19.24.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="332" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nePmK4qQDSk/WrMCAathgvI/AAAAAAAAHKw/klI_Ba-4WigblifaH2yxww5z6c7To5LUwCLcBGAs/s640/1_2017-04-14%2B19.24.10.jpg" width="500" /></a><b>Friday 14 April 2017
</b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/10/day-5-kabuki-tokyo.html"><i>Continues from: Day 5: Kabuki (Tokyo)</i></a><br />
<b><br /></b>
Now that Kate has arrived in Japan it's finally time to leave Tokyo and start sightseeing around the rest of the country.<br />
<br />
Today the plan was to visit the cherry blossoms along the Matsukawa River in Toyama, before continuing on to the Takayama Festival, which is considered one of Japan's three best festivals.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yd18kKw9vN0/WrMCFvsSRHI/AAAAAAAAHK4/klgMekiEQm89XuxESo571Fu1AlNBxguXACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B12.29.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yd18kKw9vN0/WrMCFvsSRHI/AAAAAAAAHK4/klgMekiEQm89XuxESo571Fu1AlNBxguXACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-14%2B12.29.02.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For this we had both purchased 7-day Japan Rail Passes however, I lost mine last night!<br />
<br />
I think this is the first major mistake I've made during a Japanese holiday and I was very upset.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gYgEVkneTuY/WrMCH1v4f8I/AAAAAAAAHK8/09DdiM7QK3YMSeb3bg9INegMMGAi_X0hgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B15.09.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="132" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gYgEVkneTuY/WrMCH1v4f8I/AAAAAAAAHK8/09DdiM7QK3YMSeb3bg9INegMMGAi_X0hgCLcBGAs/s200/2017-04-14%2B15.09.34.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karakuri performance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Losing a rail pass can completely ruin a holiday as they cannot be replaced and, until recently, could only be bought outside Japan.<br />
<br />
If you want to continue your holiday without one you may have to spend hundreds of thousands of yen on rail tickets.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2IQV_EDEsA/WrMB__fGb1I/AAAAAAAAHKs/bXZceJe61U0hi4lCtY6Qn36SqjZAsRuMwCLcBGAs/s1600/1_2017-04-14%2B15.43.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2IQV_EDEsA/WrMB__fGb1I/AAAAAAAAHKs/bXZceJe61U0hi4lCtY6Qn36SqjZAsRuMwCLcBGAs/s320/1_2017-04-14%2B15.43.23.jpg" width="240" /></a>Although it really sucked that I lost it before I could even use it once, I was lucky that I could buy another one from Tokyo Station and we were able to continue our trip with a delay of only around an hour.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6NsHeefAzE/WrMCDigvFTI/AAAAAAAAHK0/U-F-IQMV-sgCKKYeU0zsH5eGt3KSTfgNACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B09.33.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6NsHeefAzE/WrMCDigvFTI/AAAAAAAAHK0/U-F-IQMV-sgCKKYeU0zsH5eGt3KSTfgNACLcBGAs/s200/2017-04-14%2B09.33.23.jpg" width="200" /></a>So, first up this morning was a Shinkansen ride from Ueno station to Toyama in order to see cherry blossoms along the Matsukawa river.<br />
<br />
The original plan was to get a bento each and then have a picnic along the river.<br />
<br />
<br />
However, instead, we only had enough time to rush down to the river, have a quick look, take a few photos and then rush back to the train station.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b39sA3nxkVM/WrMCMcWjKGI/AAAAAAAAHLE/7fBpBCg8DpQmoXqEpG89WDuPghg7BaNcgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B15.40.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b39sA3nxkVM/WrMCMcWjKGI/AAAAAAAAHLE/7fBpBCg8DpQmoXqEpG89WDuPghg7BaNcgCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-14%2B15.40.39.jpg" width="320" /></a>Even so it was worth it to visit the river as the cherry blossoms were in full bloom and very beautiful.<br />
<br />
After walking a short distance along the river, we took the next main street that headed back to Toyama Station.<br />
<br />
Upon arriving we caught the next train into Takayama. Due to the festival I was worried that this train would be packed, so I made sure to reserve two tickets using my rail pass when I first arrived into Japan. Although I lost my original pass I still had the tickets so we were able to get seats.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yfT4YkilOI0/WrMB_p1g2uI/AAAAAAAAHKo/FlcWnxDmOa0WLSbHmS6UxFdUZ0TmdPVXgCLcBGAs/s1600/1_2017-04-14%2B16.58.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yfT4YkilOI0/WrMB_p1g2uI/AAAAAAAAHKo/FlcWnxDmOa0WLSbHmS6UxFdUZ0TmdPVXgCLcBGAs/s320/1_2017-04-14%2B16.58.37.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Last time we came to Takayama it was covered in snow, so it looked quite different compared to then. It was also much more crowded, especially as we made our way to our ryokan which was located in in the main festival area.<br />
<br />
The original reason we decided to go to Takayama was to see the cherry blossoms as we thought it would be too late in most of the rest of the country. The thing about the cherry blossoms is that they are only in full bloom for about a week (if there's no rain) and the timing varies quite a bit from year to year.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xodSboXesTE/WrMCR13USSI/AAAAAAAAHLQ/PJ92jiGVDxcdh_DkWPMDbXBLu84yzrdagCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B15.57.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xodSboXesTE/WrMCR13USSI/AAAAAAAAHLQ/PJ92jiGVDxcdh_DkWPMDbXBLu84yzrdagCLcBGAs/s200/2017-04-14%2B15.57.50.jpg" width="150" /></a>As it turned out we were actually about a week too early to see any in Takayama. We thought it would still be worth it to go for the festival so as a compromise I added our stop in Toyama, which is a lower elevation and therefore was already in full bloom.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcB1TG1plJ8/WrMCTL1wgsI/AAAAAAAAHLU/t8OxAC_M2HIfb2rvO-tDeoNw0MIJOaqowCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B17.32.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcB1TG1plJ8/WrMCTL1wgsI/AAAAAAAAHLU/t8OxAC_M2HIfb2rvO-tDeoNw0MIJOaqowCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-14%2B17.32.25.jpg" width="320" /></a>As we walked along the streets of Takayama, we could see many closed flower buds, but no blooms yet.<br />
<br />
<br />
As we neared our ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) we passed a one of the floats where a karakuri performance was being conducted. This is a kind of puppet show that is performed using sophisticated mechanical dolls which can move and dance.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rrAvolOtDss/WrMCiQGG2FI/AAAAAAAAHL8/HfOKtDxH0zYI4fmLR4qniE0V7r7c4lf8gCLcBGAs/s1600/20170414_171904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rrAvolOtDss/WrMCiQGG2FI/AAAAAAAAHL8/HfOKtDxH0zYI4fmLR4qniE0V7r7c4lf8gCLcBGAs/s320/20170414_171904.jpg" width="320" /></a>We managed to reserve our stay at a ryokan called Hoshokaku (宝生閣) as I waited until bookings opened three months before our date and quickly booked it online.<br />
<br />
Upon arriving we left our bags at reception, and then went out to have a look at the festival floats which were being paraded through the streets. Kate also enjoyed a meat bun.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ejRS38llS8/WrMCUr0y4TI/AAAAAAAAHLY/w32euI-m1WQF39BALFLd4jG0mB6WHWKqwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B17.42.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ejRS38llS8/WrMCUr0y4TI/AAAAAAAAHLY/w32euI-m1WQF39BALFLd4jG0mB6WHWKqwCLcBGAs/s200/2017-04-14%2B17.42.32.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Later, we left our shoes at reception, checked in, selected our meal times, and were shown our room. We were a bit tired from our journey so we enjoyed the Japanese snacks provided and relaxed before going down to the onsen to have a soak in a bath.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Huf60kqLqWc/WrMCcxW88FI/AAAAAAAAHLo/x95a2we00qkBQB4Sr1KAJtUFAoHH9htegCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B18.56.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Huf60kqLqWc/WrMCcxW88FI/AAAAAAAAHLo/x95a2we00qkBQB4Sr1KAJtUFAoHH9htegCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-14%2B18.56.28.jpg" width="320" /></a>After the onsen it was time for dinner!<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--4IS8hdhO6Y/WrMChMgUa1I/AAAAAAAAHLw/CJSE8zjvqAARQxx9J4UmNh3dYVL3DrhWACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B18.58.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--4IS8hdhO6Y/WrMChMgUa1I/AAAAAAAAHLw/CJSE8zjvqAARQxx9J4UmNh3dYVL3DrhWACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-14%2B18.58.14.jpg" width="213" /></a><br />
We went to the dining area and were served a full multi course kaiseki ryori meal. It was super delicious!<br />
<br />
We also ordered some nihonshu (sake) to go with our meal.<br />
<br />
After dinner we headed back out to enjoy the night festival, where the floats are lit by lanterns and are dragged around town for a few hours.<br />
<br />
They were very pretty!<br />
<br />
One thing about the Takayama festival, in contrast to others we have visited, was the lack of yatai or food stalls.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-abDatP87srw/WrMChg4_GhI/AAAAAAAAHL0/eiN6sfET5hcVi7S4B1nyxMpXLNG-SeJ6ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B19.04.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-abDatP87srw/WrMChg4_GhI/AAAAAAAAHL0/eiN6sfET5hcVi7S4B1nyxMpXLNG-SeJ6ACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-14%2B19.04.52.jpg" width="213" /></a>Usually there are heaps of stands were you can buy lots of festival food such as chocolate bananas, yakisoba and grilled octopus.<br />
<br />
However Takayama didn't have much of this at all. There were no stalls but a few shops were selling things like dango. I bought a stick but actually didn't like the flavor of that particular one very much at all.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kl6tjcnciAY/WrMChq6KdpI/AAAAAAAAHL4/MJ184PG29rknPhZ2P1Tl3-GlKiN1fJUgACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-14%2B20.07.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kl6tjcnciAY/WrMChq6KdpI/AAAAAAAAHL4/MJ184PG29rknPhZ2P1Tl3-GlKiN1fJUgACLcBGAs/s200/2017-04-14%2B20.07.12.jpg" width="200" /></a>Anyway we were full from dinner so it wasn't an issue for us.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow the plan was to wake up relatively early and head down to Hikone Castle, in Shiga Prefecture and then stay a night at an AirBnB located near the foot of Mt Ibuki which we were planning to climb the following day.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2018/05/day-7-hikone-castle.html"><i>Continue reading: Day 7: Hikone Castle</i></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-80161801619205237382017-10-11T15:12:00.002+10:002018-05-14T15:12:25.036+10:00Day 5: Kabuki (Tokyo)<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OgLNncnX2rw/WdLZBEY8YcI/AAAAAAAAHJ8/T1WwQz03NrohO46sHuoK_87KqNihOaOuwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-13%2B11.41.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OgLNncnX2rw/WdLZBEY8YcI/AAAAAAAAHJ8/T1WwQz03NrohO46sHuoK_87KqNihOaOuwCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-13%2B11.41.13.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>Thursday 13 April 2017</b><br />
<b><br /></b><i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/09/day-4-tetsugakudo-park-tokyo.html">Continues from: Day 4: Tetsugakudo Park (Tokyo)</a></i><br />
<br />
Today was relatively uneventful to be honest. At least in terms of sightseeing, but it is the day the Kate was due to arrive!<br />
<br />
Actually the only sightseeing I did for the whole day was a trip to Ginza to watch a Kabuki performance, and then a bit of a look around Ginza.<br />
<br />
Breakfast this morning included ochazuke which is green tea poured over cooked rice with some Japanese pickles as a toppping. I also had one of the most delicious strawberries I've ever eaten.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J07NKSb49-c/WdLY9mIGqQI/AAAAAAAAHJs/m1pece4JwocUc22mJvSronVl9r5WqUYrACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-13%2B07.33.53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J07NKSb49-c/WdLY9mIGqQI/AAAAAAAAHJs/m1pece4JwocUc22mJvSronVl9r5WqUYrACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-13%2B07.33.53.jpg" width="320" /></a>Last night I mentioned to my AirBNB host that I had not yet seen a Kabuki performance. Kabuki is a traditional Japanese theatre performance that incorporates drama and dance.<br />
<br />
A show is made up of a number of acts and an entire performance takes up the whole day and tickets are quite expensive. However, at the Kabuki hall in Ginza it is possible for a limited amount of people to see just one act. This was my plan.<br />
<br />
The same show will generally play for a month and last night my AirBNB host looked up what performance was on in April so she could suggest to me the most interesting act.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4gSjF0oAfAc/WdLY9fxJS2I/AAAAAAAAHJo/HpI48bNzskgGeOj4H9k9sOdt-tY_csuSQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-13%2B07.53.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4gSjF0oAfAc/WdLY9fxJS2I/AAAAAAAAHJo/HpI48bNzskgGeOj4H9k9sOdt-tY_csuSQCLcBGAs/s200/2017-04-13%2B07.53.12.jpg" width="150" /></a>She recommended me a dance that would go for around 40 minutes and which started at 10:00am.<br />
<br />
In order to view just one session you have to line up before hand, I think the first two hundred people in line are able to get seats, and the ticket was fairly cheap. I think 1000 yen, but perhaps 2,000yen. There are also audio guides available that translate the Japanese.<br />
<br />
I lined up about 30 minutes early and was able to get a seat!<br />
<br />
The performance was enjoyable, though the Japanese was old fashioned very hard for me to understand. I would highly recommend getting the guide!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n_t5WCjgs5U/WdLY9pP3GaI/AAAAAAAAHJw/HbK4JUTFH8cjhUCABMbMVuKi1Suy-MsSgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-13%2B10.40.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n_t5WCjgs5U/WdLY9pP3GaI/AAAAAAAAHJw/HbK4JUTFH8cjhUCABMbMVuKi1Suy-MsSgCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-13%2B10.40.27.jpg" width="320" /></a>After Kabuki I had a look around Ginza and then walked all the way to our hotel- a Toyoko Inn near Ueno. This was around a 4.5km walk and took me about an hour. Along the way I got a cheesy pizza for lunch.<br />
<br />
Upon arriving at the hotel it was only a little past the check-in time of 3pm.<br />
<br />
Usually Toyoko Inn hotels only let you check-in at 4pm, however if you are a member you can check in at 3pm. Other benefits of membership include a free night every 10 nights, a general membership discount, discounts on certain days of the month, and the ability to book six months in advance instead of the usual three.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qIfs31-dgpE/WdLZANQqr8I/AAAAAAAAHJ0/1xeaIY8w5BE7gm9LkKtFaojJXFgpGLRTQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-13%2B11.38.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qIfs31-dgpE/WdLZANQqr8I/AAAAAAAAHJ0/1xeaIY8w5BE7gm9LkKtFaojJXFgpGLRTQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-13%2B11.38.40.jpg" width="240" /></a>There is a nominal fee to join, 1000yen or something but if pays off pretty quickly. Especially if you visit Japan frequently. You can apply at any hotel and they will take your photo and make a card for you during your stay.<br />
<br />
Upon checking in I took advantage of the fact that few other people were checked in to use the hotel's coin laundry to do my washing.<br />
<br />
Later in the evening I met Kate at the train station exit we had agreed upon and we both went to a nearby Otoya restaurant which is a chain that has traditional Japanese set meals for very reasonable prices.<br />
<br />
However!<br />
<br />
Something horrible happened at tonight's Otoya. It wasn't the fault of the staff but was my own stupid mistake, and I didn't realise it until the next morning.<br />
<br />
I left my Japan rail pass behind!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aTQz_RAShWM/WdLZAy0e3eI/AAAAAAAAHJ4/2ADKXeJ839gTlL7aE75-IWSizkBp4kaQQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-13%2B12.34.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aTQz_RAShWM/WdLZAy0e3eI/AAAAAAAAHJ4/2ADKXeJ839gTlL7aE75-IWSizkBp4kaQQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-13%2B12.34.09.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
To make matters worse we had to leave early the next day and Otoya wouldn't open until 11am!<br />
<br />
The plan tomorrow was to take an early shinkansen to Toyama in order to enjoy the cherry blossoms along the Matsukawa River. Then, at lunch we were to catch another train to Takayama for the famous Takayama spring festival and an overnight stay at a ryokan.<br />
<br />
<b>Steps today:</b> 26,075 - 22.0km<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2018/05/day-6-toyama-takayama.html">Continue reading: Day 6: Toyama & Takayama Festival</a>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-64008570533358507842017-09-29T14:59:00.000+10:002017-10-11T15:19:02.921+10:00Day 4: Tetsugakudo Park (Tokyo)<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaS4yha4kB4/WcsmfvExROI/AAAAAAAAHIw/rHCVmsD7loQUBxeipsW4momULsASTgLCgCLcBGAs/s1600/1-2017-04-12%2B10.26.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaS4yha4kB4/WcsmfvExROI/AAAAAAAAHIw/rHCVmsD7loQUBxeipsW4momULsASTgLCgCLcBGAs/s400/1-2017-04-12%2B10.26.11.jpg" width="300" /></a><b>Wednesday 12 April 2017</b><br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/09/day-3-tokyo-national-museum-tokyo.html"><br /></a>
<i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/09/day-3-tokyo-national-museum-tokyo.html">Continues from: Day 3: Tokyo National Museum (Tokyo)</a></i><br />
<br />
After a miserable rainy day yesterday the weather changed once again to the first clear blue skies I had seen since arriving.<br />
<br />
Upon waking up, my AirBnB host made okonomiyaki for us for breakfast and asked what I was planning to do today.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xW9CqHBfyIU/WcsmdecwfuI/AAAAAAAAHIo/womzmxFfqZ8vvGYqrx5g_os69axrz06BQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B08.00.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xW9CqHBfyIU/WcsmdecwfuI/AAAAAAAAHIo/womzmxFfqZ8vvGYqrx5g_os69axrz06BQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-12%2B08.00.06.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ9IGGpePdw/Wcsmpw81_rI/AAAAAAAAHJI/M8Di0M5Oc1khSqyggRNGscVSoXdAnBrIACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B10.38.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ9IGGpePdw/Wcsmpw81_rI/AAAAAAAAHJI/M8Di0M5Oc1khSqyggRNGscVSoXdAnBrIACLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-12%2B10.38.24.jpg" width="400" /></a>I said that I really felt like having a relaxing day where I could walk around a little, study Japanese and read a book or something.<br />
<br />
My host recommended Tetsugakudo Park, which was located about a fifteen minute walk from the apartment.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kWcOXv7G3Qs/WcsmkpVHUpI/AAAAAAAAHI4/oJUlhOj5aKgzEh2NFjOXMgAX2EQfV8h7gCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B10.34.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kWcOXv7G3Qs/WcsmkpVHUpI/AAAAAAAAHI4/oJUlhOj5aKgzEh2NFjOXMgAX2EQfV8h7gCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-12%2B10.34.34.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro2ctLPwnwA/WcsmemqlDaI/AAAAAAAAHIs/2Nd-OVfr3_YeakbP1_zN4PP1PXonaO46wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B10.14.53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro2ctLPwnwA/WcsmemqlDaI/AAAAAAAAHIs/2Nd-OVfr3_YeakbP1_zN4PP1PXonaO46wCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-12%2B10.14.53.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The park was founded in 1904 by a philosopher and the design incorporates 77 features that each exhibit some aspect of philosophy.<br />
<br />
Also in the middle of the park are a number of Meiji era buildings.<br />
<br />
With that my plans were decided!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oq5xLfzU-5I/WcsmmgaHWUI/AAAAAAAAHJA/hxi6XibvbNcHH5opvywMxfu8zdxxtCAMwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B10.35.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oq5xLfzU-5I/WcsmmgaHWUI/AAAAAAAAHJA/hxi6XibvbNcHH5opvywMxfu8zdxxtCAMwCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-12%2B10.35.34.jpg" width="400" /></a>Oh and by the way the okonomiyaki we had for breakfast happened to be my first time eating the dish.<br />
<br />
It was delicious!<br />
<br />
After breakfast I strolled down to the park and spent some time enjoying the cherry blossoms which had now started to freely fall from the trees, blanketing the ground. It was very pretty!<br />
<br />
At around lunch time I walked to a nearby convenience store, grabbed a bento box and returned to the park where I had a little picnic.<br />
<br />
I wasn't the only person enjoying the cherry blossoms with quite a few other people relaxing in the park.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZbBZjUnXGw/Wcsmi50_wxI/AAAAAAAAHI0/JQcTuHyVrIAgQC68oLUgVrhfNBszefM7QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B10.24.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZbBZjUnXGw/Wcsmi50_wxI/AAAAAAAAHI0/JQcTuHyVrIAgQC68oLUgVrhfNBszefM7QCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-12%2B10.24.37.jpg" width="300" /></a>After finishing my Japanese studies I headed down a sakura tree lined main street towards central Nakano.<br />
<br />
Upon arriving I made my way to Namco which is a game centre where you can play a variety of arcade games. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G0xYsCQ2IJ0/Wcsml_hVIyI/AAAAAAAAHI8/e3x4W4EWYrcd3XqFqlvacrvvNuJE-stSQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B10.35.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G0xYsCQ2IJ0/Wcsml_hVIyI/AAAAAAAAHI8/e3x4W4EWYrcd3XqFqlvacrvvNuJE-stSQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-12%2B10.35.23.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4weQ8FJpPz0/Wcsmpw0m2gI/AAAAAAAAHJM/qLv_Af79viwX9b5WYUgGdGZxEXG_KnJigCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B12.47.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4weQ8FJpPz0/Wcsmpw0m2gI/AAAAAAAAHJM/qLv_Af79viwX9b5WYUgGdGZxEXG_KnJigCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-12%2B12.47.50.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
What made this arcade particularly appealing to me was that I thought it was no smoking.<br />
<br />
Actually it turned out to allow smoking, but only in designated areas and thanks to extraction fans in those areas it didn't smell of smoke inside at all.<br />
<br />
My main interest this time around was to play some rhythm games, especially Love Live School Idol Festival which I play on my phone.<br />
<br />
This game was the most popular with more players than people though there was a system where you had a turn and then went to the back of the line of people waiting to play.<br />
<br />
As there were three machines and four players I never had to wait more than a minute or two.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ibHXPd0IWQ/WcsmnujtBdI/AAAAAAAAHJE/eHWOMS8Or5EBrr-IHXhMuZy_Uh7osI_cQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B10.37.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ibHXPd0IWQ/WcsmnujtBdI/AAAAAAAAHJE/eHWOMS8Or5EBrr-IHXhMuZy_Uh7osI_cQCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-12%2B10.37.22.jpg" width="300" /></a>
<br />
After having some fun at Namco I headed back to the apartment. I decided to walk the whole way back which took around an hour as I'd wandered quite some distance during the day.<br />
<br />
I always enjoy walking through the suburbs of Tokyo as you get to see a lot of the city and every day life you would miss out on if you were just riding the subway.<br />
<br />
Tonight I was meeting my Japanese teacher for drinks at an izakaya, so after returning back to the apartment I had a shower, got dressed then caught a train out to Okachimachi station near Ueno.<br />
<br />
During one of our lessons we went through an article which discussed the cheapest izakaya (pub/tavern) in Tokyo which taught me a lot of names for foods and drinks.<br />
<br />
We went to one of those places: 味の笛 or Ajinofue. This izakaya has two floors with the first standing only and the second containing seats.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hmfwUS9aBsk/WcsmrXItjGI/AAAAAAAAHJQ/NBIVdgYBk3UKU6lGU58OESLuXJ3T8-JOQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B13.50.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hmfwUS9aBsk/WcsmrXItjGI/AAAAAAAAHJQ/NBIVdgYBk3UKU6lGU58OESLuXJ3T8-JOQCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-12%2B13.50.32.jpg" width="400" /></a>You can order a large variety of sake for around 500-600 yen and they have a variety of small food dishes for around 1-250 yen each- very cheap!<br />
<br />
We both ate and drank a lot then I caught the subway back to my AirBnB and spent the rest of the evening watching Japanese TV with my host.<br />
<br />
The TV show that was on was a show where they found people outside Japan who were enthusiastic about an aspect of Japanese culture but due to lack of knowlage were unable to practice it properly.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jB4BExRgzgw/WcsmtmoCBLI/AAAAAAAAHJY/csLe_NaD22g7kcwfOBfecsTEa1WFJ67XACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B14.10.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jB4BExRgzgw/WcsmtmoCBLI/AAAAAAAAHJY/csLe_NaD22g7kcwfOBfecsTEa1WFJ67XACLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-12%2B14.10.12.jpg" width="400" /></a>So, for example, they had someone from Morocco who was improperly teaching Kendo (a Bamboo sword martial art) and someone from Norway trying to do a Kabuki performance.<br />
<br />
In the show they'd have a master at one of these activities from Japan go under cover and 'learn' as a pupil, then later they'd do a reveal and offer the person lessons from the real expert.<br />
<br />
Anyway while we were watching this I mentioned that I hadn't yet seen a Kabuki performance and my host said I should go and see one tomorrow at Kabuki-za in Ginza.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPF1W0qe_Y8/WcsmtRGnjlI/AAAAAAAAHJU/qjanfvgbDycQujxZmxV_ejuwu1Za_1jLwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-12%2B21.30.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPF1W0qe_Y8/WcsmtRGnjlI/AAAAAAAAHJU/qjanfvgbDycQujxZmxV_ejuwu1Za_1jLwCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-12%2B21.30.09.jpg" width="400" /></a>I hadn't looked into it much before but apparently a Kabuki performance usually goes for a whole day and is expensive, however it is possible for a limited number to watch just a short section for only 1000 yen if you line up.<br />
<br />
My host looked at the schedule for tomorrow and, after recommending the most interesting performance, tommorow's plans were decided!<br />
<br />
Tomorrow is also the day that Kate will be arriving in Japan!<br />
<br />
<b>Steps: </b> 18,275 15.4km<br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/10/day-5-kabuki-tokyo.html">Continue reading: Day 5: Kabuki (Tokyo)</a> </i>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-18794644842742058372017-09-27T14:10:00.000+10:002017-09-29T15:00:45.759+10:00Day 3: Tokyo National Museum (Tokyo)<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CGprNZRVBpM/WUtusL_Q4aI/AAAAAAAAHHg/XhIw23_BfbsXzGqK1WvHFJUvEY1QdCz4wCLcBGAs/s1600/1-2017-04-11%2B14.55.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CGprNZRVBpM/WUtusL_Q4aI/AAAAAAAAHHg/XhIw23_BfbsXzGqK1WvHFJUvEY1QdCz4wCLcBGAs/s400/1-2017-04-11%2B14.55.26.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>Tuesday 11 April 2017</b><br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/06/day-2-yomiuri-land-tokyo.html"><br /></a>
<i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/06/day-2-yomiuri-land-tokyo.html">Continues from Day 2: Yomiuri Land (Tokyo)</a></i><br />
<br />
After a nice day yesterday another low made its way over Japan and it was pouring all day.<br />
<br />
It was also very cold- under 10 degrees. A few days later the temperatures in Tokyo exceeded 30 degrees. Changing seasons indeed. <br />
<br />
<br />
My next AirBnB was located closer to the middle of Tokyo and my host very kindly let me check in whenever I wanted- she even said 9am was fine.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2T19OoemVZ4/WUtvZgSBe9I/AAAAAAAAHH0/eGqGedcg7qUgAlYxXA0lEtnfif5xTahVgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-11%2B12.36.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2T19OoemVZ4/WUtvZgSBe9I/AAAAAAAAHH0/eGqGedcg7qUgAlYxXA0lEtnfif5xTahVgCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-11%2B12.36.46.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
This worked out perfectly for me as it meant I wouldn't have to search for a place to store my luggage, so I took her up on her offer and we arranged to meet near a train station at around 09:30am.<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kXPxTOHpmsE/WUtvmOzxw1I/AAAAAAAAHH4/uaYtDYrzi3IyrTrr42EkR9kymIkvK70-QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-11%2B12.57.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kXPxTOHpmsE/WUtvmOzxw1I/AAAAAAAAHH4/uaYtDYrzi3IyrTrr42EkR9kymIkvK70-QCLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-11%2B12.57.35.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
My extremely friendly host walked me to her apartment from the station and provided me with a snack, some tea and explained how to use everything.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--N1ULzBrwkU/WUtvuQnCtSI/AAAAAAAAHH8/Z8dTmPFj0ag9JJC9TgNidnMYeHUxWd3_ACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-11%2B13.12.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--N1ULzBrwkU/WUtvuQnCtSI/AAAAAAAAHH8/Z8dTmPFj0ag9JJC9TgNidnMYeHUxWd3_ACLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-11%2B13.12.54.jpg" width="320" /></a>Next she asked me what I was planning to do today. <br />
<br />
Even after visiting Tokyo so many times I hadn't yet visited any of the many different Museums and decided today was a time to tour the Tokyo National Museum.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LfUL8D4ZnPE/WUtv5zRdt5I/AAAAAAAAHIA/WYycXKm5BIgjC--XS6oxYmdRzj4zPjQMwCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-11%2B13.37.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LfUL8D4ZnPE/WUtv5zRdt5I/AAAAAAAAHIA/WYycXKm5BIgjC--XS6oxYmdRzj4zPjQMwCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-11%2B13.37.30.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This museum holds Japan's biggest collection of art and
archaeological artefacts at over 110,000 items.<br />
<br />
Within this set there
are nearly one hundred items that have been designated national treasures. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N6qYdKPANmU/WUtwM8CloMI/AAAAAAAAHII/Vs7Juy0k4lUofbondt95PDozFZFTzT-KACLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-11%2B13.54.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N6qYdKPANmU/WUtwM8CloMI/AAAAAAAAHII/Vs7Juy0k4lUofbondt95PDozFZFTzT-KACLcBGAs/s400/2017-04-11%2B13.54.58.jpg" width="400" /></a>My host was very knowledgeable about Tokyo and told me exactly what train to get, where to change and what exit I needed in order to get to the museum.<br />
<br />
The Tokyo National Museum is located in Ueno Park, which meant that it maybe wasn't the best choice after all as it's at the back of the grounds and I got quite wet walking through the park in the rain. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1-JGKrZePc/WUtubUrGNtI/AAAAAAAAHHc/uyearQrb3HM28D-J3i4CiSZRSWBviqpmwCLcBGAs/s1600/1-2017-04-11%2B13.31.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1-JGKrZePc/WUtubUrGNtI/AAAAAAAAHHc/uyearQrb3HM28D-J3i4CiSZRSWBviqpmwCLcBGAs/s320/1-2017-04-11%2B13.31.04.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Along the way I could see that the overnight rain had stripped most of the cherry blossoms off the trees in the park.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9cmm7GWLgcE/WUtwLir26II/AAAAAAAAHIE/LG083vdEHBoTDjuMpb3xB_pkm8JTQtgLQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017-04-11%2B13.59.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9cmm7GWLgcE/WUtwLir26II/AAAAAAAAHIE/LG083vdEHBoTDjuMpb3xB_pkm8JTQtgLQCLcBGAs/s320/2017-04-11%2B13.59.10.jpg" width="320" /></a>Upon arriving at the entrance I realised that most of the rest of Tokyo had the same idea about what to do today so I had to wait in line for about 25 minutes.<br />
<br />
Once I had my ticket though I was able to enter and freely move around the museum buildings without encountering too many crowds.<br />
<br />
There are two ticket types available, the permanent collection or the special temporary exhibits. I just went with the permanent collection and then proceeded to slowly spend the rest of the day walking around the museum.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nur7kjVVOlk/WUtuy19HVCI/AAAAAAAAHHk/YxclXzDjtVcImdBTdgCZqwPq57Mkla5ngCLcBGAs/s1600/0-11-2017-04-11%2B14.20.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nur7kjVVOlk/WUtuy19HVCI/AAAAAAAAHHk/YxclXzDjtVcImdBTdgCZqwPq57Mkla5ngCLcBGAs/s400/0-11-2017-04-11%2B14.20.46.jpg" width="400" /></a>The first part started with the early archaeological Jomon period in Japan and then progressively moved to more recent history as I made my way through the buildings.<br />
<br />
Something to be aware of if you plan to spend the whole day here is that there isn't really any place inside the museum or nearby to have a decent meal for lunch. So I'd recommend planning for that. I had to make do with some little snack things that were for sale at a small cafeteria.<br />
<br />
It was possible to photograph many of the exhibits, although there were also some that banned photos.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rjTJ5xkufzE/WUtwePW1-iI/AAAAAAAAHIM/aXYOva2-dwk3aosGMP2HB1bV4CyetewpwCLcBGAs/s1600/1-2017-04-11%2B15.12.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rjTJ5xkufzE/WUtwePW1-iI/AAAAAAAAHIM/aXYOva2-dwk3aosGMP2HB1bV4CyetewpwCLcBGAs/s200/1-2017-04-11%2B15.12.20.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<br />
There's a nice Japanese style garden at the back of the main buildings but it was unfortunately closed due to the inclement weather.<br />
<br />
At around 3pm I left the museum and made my way back to Ueno Station. By this time I hadn't had much to eat all day so I was absolutely starving.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6usAicziBnQ/WUtu9zxy2PI/AAAAAAAAHHo/7d6dnSNVCB0Fa6umhU7PUdDn_NFrjm0YwCLcBGAs/s1600/1-2017-04-11%2B16.43.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6usAicziBnQ/WUtu9zxy2PI/AAAAAAAAHHo/7d6dnSNVCB0Fa6umhU7PUdDn_NFrjm0YwCLcBGAs/s320/1-2017-04-11%2B16.43.08.jpg" width="240" /></a>After wandering around Ueno station for a bit, looking at the food options, I decided upon Katsudon Teishoku- Fried pork set meal.<br />
<br />
It was a lot of food and filled me up!<br />
<br />
After this late lunch/dinner I returned to my AirBnB and spent the rest of the night watching TV with and talking to my Airbnb host! <br />
<br />
<b>Walked: </b>18,944 steps 16km<br />
<br />
Clear skies are forecast for tomorrow and I spent the day relaxing in Tetsugakudo park, studying Japanese and then meeting my Japanese teacher for drinks at night!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/09/day-4-tetsugakudo-park-tokyo.html"><i>Continue reading: Day 4: Tetsugakudo Park (Tokyo)</i></a>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-47065531179132345572017-06-12T23:09:00.000+10:002017-09-27T14:14:11.690+10:00Day 2: Yomiuri Land (Tokyo)<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5jqB14IVP3E/WTz_H0cQBEI/AAAAAAAAHGI/Xnagw8vn-QsTjOsSyWhLAj61csBzY6vSQCLcB/s1600/1-2017-04-10%2B14.07.34-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="331" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5jqB14IVP3E/WTz_H0cQBEI/AAAAAAAAHGI/Xnagw8vn-QsTjOsSyWhLAj61csBzY6vSQCLcB/s640/1-2017-04-10%2B14.07.34-2.jpg" width="500" /></a><b>Monday 10 April 2017</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/05/day-1-chidorigafuchi-shinjuku-park-tokyo.html">Continues from Day 1: Chidorigafuchi & Shinjuku Park (Tokyo)</a></i><br />
<i> </i>
<br />
Although yesterday was rainy, today's forecast was just overcast so I decided to take a visit to Yomiuri Land! <br />
<br />
Yomiuri Land is a large theme park on the outskirts of Tokyo and is home to the famous Bandit roller coaster. This coaster reaches a max speed of 110kph and spends over two minutes racing around the park, following the topography of the land.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Je_kTFqDzKc/WTz_Uq_HtPI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/u6iYr1jCFvcWIKtWtBOlJ0vONE6UjI60ACLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B10.41.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Je_kTFqDzKc/WTz_Uq_HtPI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/u6iYr1jCFvcWIKtWtBOlJ0vONE6UjI60ACLcB/s400/2017-04-10%2B10.41.11.jpg" width="400" /></a>When it opened it was the fastest roller coaster in the world and also held a record for the largest height difference between the highest and lowest points of the track: 78m.<br />
<br />
This was achieved due to the use of the hills- the highest point above the ground is 51m.<br />
<br />
Yomiuri Land is also a lesser known, but still notable, cherry blossom spot of Tokyo.<br />
<br />
In fact, every year there are night illuminations and you can spend an evening racing through the cherry blossom trees at 110kph. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UUdyKw3L80A/WTz_hGK0isI/AAAAAAAAHGU/DW5kcfwaw2wyAkDxU9_NRjAkgEMzLAGMQCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B10.51.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UUdyKw3L80A/WTz_hGK0isI/AAAAAAAAHGU/DW5kcfwaw2wyAkDxU9_NRjAkgEMzLAGMQCLcB/s400/2017-04-10%2B10.51.39.jpg" width="400" /></a>As with Chidorigafuchi, I had unfortunately arrived too late to take part in the evening illuminations, however the park was open during the day and I'd still be able to view cherry blossoms while riding a roller coaster!<br />
<br />
After waking up my AirBnB host made breakfast- pancakes, eggs and sausages and I set off on the train.<br />
<br />
Where I was staying wasn't ideally located for the park, so I had around an hour's train ride first.<br />
<br />
This wasn't much of an issue as the park only opened at 10am, although as it turned out I didn't arrive until 10:30am anyway.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SP4s2x7OPOY/WTz_xtEaBwI/AAAAAAAAHGY/WHmCsv3WE4wZY8EAUO2gcYbLfCTBPhERQCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B11.09.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SP4s2x7OPOY/WTz_xtEaBwI/AAAAAAAAHGY/WHmCsv3WE4wZY8EAUO2gcYbLfCTBPhERQCLcB/s400/2017-04-10%2B11.09.45.jpg" width="400" /></a>Yomiuri Land is located on the top of a hill and there are two train stations you can approach from. I used the Keio Yomiuriland stop and after arriving walked a short distance up a hill then paid 500 yen for a return ticket on the Gondola.<br />
<br />
As I rode the gondola up the hill the park slowly came into view!<br />
<br />
The most eye catching ride was the Bandit roller coaster and I had a great view of it from above! <br />
<br />
Although I had made sure to go on a Monday I was a bit worried it might be crowded as the cherry blossoms were still full bloom and it has rained yesterday.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j5jWAyYLFrs/WTz_3LdkjBI/AAAAAAAAHGc/NsnqRtbiDn4lljCs_tdfsMLDTqb9GAj5QCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B11.54.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j5jWAyYLFrs/WTz_3LdkjBI/AAAAAAAAHGc/NsnqRtbiDn4lljCs_tdfsMLDTqb9GAj5QCLcB/s320/2017-04-10%2B11.54.45.jpg" width="320" /></a>To my surprise I found that the park was utterly empty!<br />
<br />
A ghost town!<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBZeMWwWHnQ/WT0Bi0csJ4I/AAAAAAAAHG0/uKDWvGv2guEj0DVPvfes1y2ydl2NWM1dACLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B14.33.34-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
After arriving at the top I walked around to the entrance. Now, normally entry and unlimited rides costs 5,400 yen, but by showing my foreign passport I only had to pay 4,900 yen.<br />
<br />
One thing that was interesting was that my unlimited pass was just a stripe of paint on my hand that glowed under UV light. Before each ride they looked at my hand under a black light to check for the glow.<br />
<br />
Doesn't seem very secure to be honest.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBZeMWwWHnQ/WT0Bi0csJ4I/AAAAAAAAHG0/uKDWvGv2guEj0DVPvfes1y2ydl2NWM1dACLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B14.33.34-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBZeMWwWHnQ/WT0Bi0csJ4I/AAAAAAAAHG0/uKDWvGv2guEj0DVPvfes1y2ydl2NWM1dACLcB/s400/2017-04-10%2B14.33.34-1.jpg" width="400" /></a>Anyway! First up! The Bandit!<br />
<br />
It was really fun! <br />
<br />
Since there was no one else around I got to sit at the front, which although is the slowest part of the train, is exciting in its own way.<br />
<br />
The ride time was very long and it was really great to whip through the sakura blossoms. The ride had a few surprises thanks to the topography too!<br />
<br />
I mentioned before that the park was empty, but man was it empty.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5TcxvN0Ex-c/WT0BOV-oaDI/AAAAAAAAHGw/eJ1lvxCUajkJHGIyWJ0cz3rRRp9w_V5DgCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B14.13.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5TcxvN0Ex-c/WT0BOV-oaDI/AAAAAAAAHGw/eJ1lvxCUajkJHGIyWJ0cz3rRRp9w_V5DgCLcB/s400/2017-04-10%2B14.13.54.jpg" width="265" /></a>There were probably more staff than customers- I don't think there were more than 100 guests total.<br />
<br />
On
the one hand it was great since I didn't have to wait in line for
anything but it was a bit disconcerting to have the music playing and
all the staff looking at you, but no one else around.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GMsdpbcUDDo/WT0AlGTO4rI/AAAAAAAAHGo/gAWLLHRzgy0S6UlulJrmmA55WWyKDpjXgCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B13.44.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="255" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GMsdpbcUDDo/WT0AlGTO4rI/AAAAAAAAHGo/gAWLLHRzgy0S6UlulJrmmA55WWyKDpjXgCLcB/s400/2017-04-10%2B13.44.12.jpg" width="384" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3JjBM06YKw/WT0Bz_O6j4I/AAAAAAAAHG4/aOq4dagwa8g5glosnJSytWadK1xRL_TrACLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B14.41.02-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3JjBM06YKw/WT0Bz_O6j4I/AAAAAAAAHG4/aOq4dagwa8g5glosnJSytWadK1xRL_TrACLcB/s400/2017-04-10%2B14.41.02-2.jpg" width="400" /></a>It also actually caused a bit of waiting because they wouldn't run the ride until more people showed up- I think I sat in the car of at the Bandit roller coaster station for 10minutes on one occasion.<br />
<br />
However, I also took full advantage of this and made sure to ride as much as I liked.<br />
<br />
I think I rode the bandit 7 times and had a go on every other interesting ride as well.<br />
<br />
There is one other major roller coaster at Yomiuri Land, the Momonga Standing and Loop Coaster. This coaster is interesting for two reasons.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7OozhK3iT1U/WTz_PTTaRII/AAAAAAAAHGM/IWaw2bz4UdY-9Rgaq1DONw72BBHbWImzwCLcB/s1600/1-2017-04-10%2B13.40.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7OozhK3iT1U/WTz_PTTaRII/AAAAAAAAHGM/IWaw2bz4UdY-9Rgaq1DONw72BBHbWImzwCLcB/s400/1-2017-04-10%2B13.40.34.jpg" width="400" /></a>The first reason is you ride it completely standing up or choose to sit down.<br />
<br />
The other interesting thing is that the two different types of car sit on a section of track that isn't directly connected to the rest of the circuit.<br />
<br />
At the boarding location one side is the standing up line, the other sitting down, and the operator can slot in the next type of car to leave from off to the side of the track. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kyxpb14FQQk/WT0ANz9CRMI/AAAAAAAAHGg/6ruhaQgP1aUUJdlRmXPb87p0q5d8IDhTACLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B13.11.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kyxpb14FQQk/WT0ANz9CRMI/AAAAAAAAHGg/6ruhaQgP1aUUJdlRmXPb87p0q5d8IDhTACLcB/s400/2017-04-10%2B13.11.16.jpg" width="300" /></a>Other rides included a drop tower, a 360 degree swinging ship, pedal rail ride, slow go kart track and the giant sky river tube ride.<br />
<br />
After I'd had enough of the rides I spent some time wandering around the rest of Yomiuri Land which included a park, a hill with a temple/shrine and some sporting fields. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oGypHpokCIw/WT0AR6vZMaI/AAAAAAAAHGk/iHeXVIUZDFAOmhsHR4pUtYj4H2sa80K5QCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B12.27.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oGypHpokCIw/WT0AR6vZMaI/AAAAAAAAHGk/iHeXVIUZDFAOmhsHR4pUtYj4H2sa80K5QCLcB/s320/2017-04-10%2B12.27.57.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PVwCwDoT4Zo/WT0CF5pSFvI/AAAAAAAAHG8/AQp7ppErrwsP3laFqdND7fADPFPGHtQigCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B15.23.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="375" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PVwCwDoT4Zo/WT0CF5pSFvI/AAAAAAAAHG8/AQp7ppErrwsP3laFqdND7fADPFPGHtQigCLcB/s640/2017-04-10%2B15.23.39.jpg" width="500" /></a>At around 15:30 I made my way back down to the train station via the gondola and returned to central Tokyo.<br />
<br />
For dinner I thought I'd check out Uobei Sushi in Shibuya. <br />
<br />
This is a robotic restaurant where you order all you food via a screen in front of you and it gets automatically delivered using a conveyor belt.<br />
<br />
When I arrived at about 7:30pm the place was really busy. The line moved relatively fast, however I still had to wait about 40 minutes until I got a table.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9qWH09FLlPk/WT0CNmvqJGI/AAAAAAAAHHA/aE2FAkG1Vxs2-LyWV0mpIiMqT_Zi4WxJwCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B20.52.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9qWH09FLlPk/WT0CNmvqJGI/AAAAAAAAHHA/aE2FAkG1Vxs2-LyWV0mpIiMqT_Zi4WxJwCLcB/s320/2017-04-10%2B20.52.37.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XXHTMdaExWw/WT0BLW374kI/AAAAAAAAHGs/5XRfkma-WPgMjFarHDaNHXyX2NpJYdh5wCLcB/s1600/2017-04-10%2B14.18.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XXHTMdaExWw/WT0BLW374kI/AAAAAAAAHGs/5XRfkma-WPgMjFarHDaNHXyX2NpJYdh5wCLcB/s200/2017-04-10%2B14.18.28.jpg" width="200" /></a>Once I'd secured a seat I quickly started ordering lots of sushi!<br />
<br />
The sushi was extremely cheap at 108yen, and tasted alright considering.<br />
<br />
Not fantastic.<br />
<br />
It was fun though ordering and having it arrive magically in front of you.<br />
<br />
It had gotten pretty late so I was really hungry and ordered heaps! I ate too much I think.<br />
<br />
After dinner I returned to my AirBnB and went to sleep.<br />
<br />
<b>Walked:</b> 24,979 steps - 22.1km<br />
<br />
Tomorrow is forecast to be rainy so I'll be having a slow day at the Tokyo National Museum.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/09/day-3-tokyo-national-museum-tokyo.html"><i>Continue reading: Day 3: Tokyo National Museum (Tokyo)</i></a></div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-79669738095746734292017-05-21T19:24:00.000+10:002017-06-12T23:10:18.147+10:00Day 1: Chidorigafuchi & Shinjuku Park (Tokyo)<b>Sunday 9 April 2017</b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PoWxL7Fcvt8/WSEuCAKCc2I/AAAAAAAAHC8/vJTsryxikuMNpWCWyuEDCpBP6XKFKgFPwCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B13.24.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PoWxL7Fcvt8/WSEuCAKCc2I/AAAAAAAAHC8/vJTsryxikuMNpWCWyuEDCpBP6XKFKgFPwCLcB/s640/2017-04-09%2B13.24.15.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/05/jt7-flight-and-tokyo.html">Continues from JT7: Flight and Tokyo</a></i><b><i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/05/jt7-flight-and-tokyo.html"> </a></i></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Today! At long last!<br />
<br />
I will be able to see sakura (cherry blossoms) for the first time!<br />
<br />
I woke up at around 8am, and after getting ready, joined my lovely AirBnB hosts for breakfast, which was delicious!<br />
<br />
After breakfast I checked out, walked to the station and on the way I saw my very first cherry blossoms!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SMO1AznH0A4/WSEsife7tCI/AAAAAAAAHCk/6nrcWpNOPTMhQyosxg0koUIwegyrWj20gCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B08.42.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SMO1AznH0A4/WSEsife7tCI/AAAAAAAAHCk/6nrcWpNOPTMhQyosxg0koUIwegyrWj20gCLcB/s320/2017-04-09%2B08.42.08.jpg" width="320" /></a>The tree was just part of a school, and some of the petals had already fallen but it was really cool to see!<br />
<br />
From the station I caught a train back into the city of Tokyo from the suburbs of Nerima<br />
<br />
My next AirBnB is actually on the same Seibu train line, which runs west out of Ikebukuro station, however I decided to leave my luggage at Ikebukuro instead of further out as it's a much bigger station and has more lockers.<br />
<br />
This didn't go as well as I had hoped.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PdjDqeNQrE/WSEthiLZ3wI/AAAAAAAAHC0/ji0Tz6l-T8cfaUX5A95HcpoofrvZJVwQACLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B13.21.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PdjDqeNQrE/WSEthiLZ3wI/AAAAAAAAHC0/ji0Tz6l-T8cfaUX5A95HcpoofrvZJVwQACLcB/s400/2017-04-09%2B13.21.44.jpg" width="249" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oiEH9BmouYk/WSEtCZ9mPoI/AAAAAAAAHCs/2KKRhTIBuBAmEpdfp62w02VOjUUivzJSACLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B12.59.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oiEH9BmouYk/WSEtCZ9mPoI/AAAAAAAAHCs/2KKRhTIBuBAmEpdfp62w02VOjUUivzJSACLcB/s400/2017-04-09%2B12.59.42.jpg" width="400" /></a>While I managed to find an empty locker soon enough, when it came time to leave I couldn't find it again!<br />
<br />
I had even taken multiple photos so I knew where it was, but I couldn't work out where I was in the station most of the time.
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LwAOXenfMfk/WSEtGCKjnhI/AAAAAAAAHCw/qosZRxHbOsIFbfGYsqox4U63OgCzX2fGgCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B13.03.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LwAOXenfMfk/WSEtGCKjnhI/AAAAAAAAHCw/qosZRxHbOsIFbfGYsqox4U63OgCzX2fGgCLcB/s640/2017-04-09%2B13.03.12.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0B2eE8I2w54/WSEtzj0vQvI/AAAAAAAAHC4/D5vkYIsLNqgxSFtXKSLfdwPj-jRaW-NXACLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B13.24.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0B2eE8I2w54/WSEtzj0vQvI/AAAAAAAAHC4/D5vkYIsLNqgxSFtXKSLfdwPj-jRaW-NXACLcB/s400/2017-04-09%2B13.24.10.jpg" width="400" /></a>The main issues were that there were not that many station maps, some of the maps didn't cover the area my locker was in, and it didn't take long after walking away from a map for me to get lost again.<br />
<br />
It took me around 40 minutes!<br />
<br />
But, I'm getting ahead of myself.<br />
<br />
From Ikebukuro I caught a train down to Kudanshita station which is not too far from Yasukuni Shrine and Chidorigafuchi.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IP-bInzXchA/WSEvWBZbleI/AAAAAAAAHDM/1rgUtbuz5wQGXa477vbUFiw6cZ-NQTywgCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B13.35.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IP-bInzXchA/WSEvWBZbleI/AAAAAAAAHDM/1rgUtbuz5wQGXa477vbUFiw6cZ-NQTywgCLcB/s400/2017-04-09%2B13.35.02.jpg" width="400" /></a>Yasukuni Shrine enshrines the Japanese war dead, but is also home to around 1000 sakura trees and is a noted cherry blossom spot. <br />
<br />
Today was a pretty rainy day which wasn't fantastic but did at least help keep the crowds away and also added to the ambience in some areas.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DR-BAvRoZVs/WSEuVzgIiOI/AAAAAAAAHDA/oLF8cp_CRzEVqcjgr5_FW0buLCHUGekTgCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B13.34.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DR-BAvRoZVs/WSEuVzgIiOI/AAAAAAAAHDA/oLF8cp_CRzEVqcjgr5_FW0buLCHUGekTgCLcB/s320/2017-04-09%2B13.34.12.jpg" width="249" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QxbdWn6N1U8/WSEyJ9ZF7oI/AAAAAAAAHD4/aQ_u6Fvgb_EAF8eslEMu4SHOJwI4FH08QCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B16.09.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="497" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QxbdWn6N1U8/WSEyJ9ZF7oI/AAAAAAAAHD4/aQ_u6Fvgb_EAF8eslEMu4SHOJwI4FH08QCLcB/s640/2017-04-09%2B16.09.02.jpg" width="329" /></a>The cherry blossoms were really amazing! <br />
<br />
To be honest I had pretty high expectations after all these years and I'm happy to say that I was very impressed! <br />
<br />
I've seen flowers blooming on trees before, jacarandas for example, but the cherry blossoms are really something else.<br />
<br />
They seem to just be popping like bundles of popcorn all over the tree and the small, delicate, ephemeral petals contrast nicely with the big, strong and old trunks and branches. The fact that there are just flowers with minimal green leaves also adds to the charm.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gn2fR8En9fk/WSEwA_-Dv0I/AAAAAAAAHDY/NAftvazHXo8a25uazTCcNlcPj8w6D-fWwCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.10.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gn2fR8En9fk/WSEwA_-Dv0I/AAAAAAAAHDY/NAftvazHXo8a25uazTCcNlcPj8w6D-fWwCLcB/s320/2017-04-09%2B15.10.24.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UOj3V5gqGF0/WSEw2PXbmgI/AAAAAAAAHDo/NT4X3lhZZzwXsEHTLe4suil-ZQ28d6SqQCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.27.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UOj3V5gqGF0/WSEw2PXbmgI/AAAAAAAAHDo/NT4X3lhZZzwXsEHTLe4suil-ZQ28d6SqQCLcB/s640/2017-04-09%2B15.27.28.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xet2iEMe6lg/WSEwFyVCb6I/AAAAAAAAHDc/DkmK2uKtc38t3gYoEAFPFrvbonP5RyglwCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.14.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xet2iEMe6lg/WSEwFyVCb6I/AAAAAAAAHDc/DkmK2uKtc38t3gYoEAFPFrvbonP5RyglwCLcB/s320/2017-04-09%2B15.14.46.jpg" width="212" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krd4Fq0GeDM/WSEv6sXwKvI/AAAAAAAAHDU/G6u8a07SvN0-UVVDeNbIzKQh-CCpY1iNwCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.00.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krd4Fq0GeDM/WSEv6sXwKvI/AAAAAAAAHDU/G6u8a07SvN0-UVVDeNbIzKQh-CCpY1iNwCLcB/s400/2017-04-09%2B15.00.04.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yWgthLlTdxQ/WSExuuXQeJI/AAAAAAAAHDw/OQZwQY2ImiAfyLKsjeUgzBEaSS00SJOLwCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.52.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yWgthLlTdxQ/WSExuuXQeJI/AAAAAAAAHDw/OQZwQY2ImiAfyLKsjeUgzBEaSS00SJOLwCLcB/s400/2017-04-09%2B15.52.42.jpg" width="264" /></a>After walking around the grounds of Yasukuni shrine I made my way down to Chidorigafuchi. <br />
<br />
Chidorigafuchi is a moat on the north-western outskirts of the Imperial Palace. Along the edges of the moat there are hundreds of cherry blossom trees and is regarded as one of Tokyo's best cherry blossom spots.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fAEgoKovqH0/WSEwvuz0DfI/AAAAAAAAHDk/fqVW69fnBhYfSqgS58_euPBXxEj2-ESvQCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.15.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fAEgoKovqH0/WSEwvuz0DfI/AAAAAAAAHDk/fqVW69fnBhYfSqgS58_euPBXxEj2-ESvQCLcB/s320/2017-04-09%2B15.15.44.jpg" width="212" /></a>At night, during late March and early April (ending on the 6 April in 2017) there are illuminations and I was planning on visiting during this time, however thanks to my cancelled flight it was not to be.<br />
<br />
When I arrived at Chidorigafuchi I got a message from last night's AirBnB host asking if I wanted to join her and her friends for a walk around Shinjuku Park to look the flowers.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ynQuhwUXxs/WSEyl9ql7uI/AAAAAAAAHD8/Is0lcLxJ8ZEcpDqKyQzEkFibdPobVMnywCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.58.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ynQuhwUXxs/WSEyl9ql7uI/AAAAAAAAHD8/Is0lcLxJ8ZEcpDqKyQzEkFibdPobVMnywCLcB/s400/2017-04-09%2B15.58.00.jpg" width="266" /></a>I happily agreed!<br />
<br />
This meant I had around an hour to spend at Chidorigafuchi which was the perfect amount of time to walk down along the moat, take heaps of pictures and then make my way back to the station.<br />
<br />
Shinjuku Park, or Shinjuku Gyoen, is one of Tokyo's largest and most popular parks and is also known as one of the best places to view cherry blossoms in Tokyo. In fact, thanks to the wide variety of trees planted there, many of which bloom later, it's often recommended as a place to see sakura even after all the petals have fallen off the trees in the rest of the city. <br />
<br />
Although a public park there is a nominal 200 yen cost to enter and since alcohol is prohibited inside there is also a bag search conducted.<br />
<br />
After meeting with my AirBnB host and her friends we went inside and walked around taking lots of pictures. Although I had my DSLR out there was no need to be embarrassed as my camera was probably the cheapest and smallest of the lot! In fact in our group there was even someone who worked with cameras at the Nikon factory!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XGY9wlBRcAs/WSExT5XtCtI/AAAAAAAAHDs/g01ojtaZY_AJKJsEhVTnxeGo2dolMjIbgCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.33.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XGY9wlBRcAs/WSExT5XtCtI/AAAAAAAAHDs/g01ojtaZY_AJKJsEhVTnxeGo2dolMjIbgCLcB/s400/2017-04-09%2B15.33.14.jpg" width="400" /></a>We spent around ninety minutes walking around before heading back the entrance and parting ways.<br />
<br />
After spending all day walking around I caught a train to Ikebukuro station and then started the arduous task of finding my locker!<br />
<br />
After finally finding the damn thing I caught the Seibu line back out west to my next AirBnB. I ended up not having dinner first due to the time it took me to find my locker, so I arrived pretty hungry.<br />
<br />
Thankfully though my hosts had a menu and it was possible to buy some food.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u2VKTabGJL8/WSFWMCdrp2I/AAAAAAAAHEU/4ivTWyvavpICpUaRPiHHgG04tB86vg0OgCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B15.40.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u2VKTabGJL8/WSFWMCdrp2I/AAAAAAAAHEU/4ivTWyvavpICpUaRPiHHgG04tB86vg0OgCLcB/s200/2017-04-09%2B15.40.40.jpg" width="167" /></a>I went with some udon and an onigiri.<br />
<br />
Before and after dinner I spent some time chatting to my host who told me about his and his wife's adventures around the world. They were also interested to see my itinerary plans for this trip.<br />
<br />
Finally, I took the opportunity tonight to do some washing- thanks to the rain today one pair of pants were quite muddy and the other pair I wore on the plane and I consider them fairly germed up after that... My hosts had a cool machine that was both a washer and dryer in one so I was able to put my dirty clothes in at night and in the morning they were clean and dry.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w3P0Gd4uUdU/WSEzOcEauzI/AAAAAAAAHEE/rAPnPd7WR-sXS-AcpO3qmL9hG6T8yXGMwCLcB/s1600/2017-04-09%2B19.09.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w3P0Gd4uUdU/WSEzOcEauzI/AAAAAAAAHEE/rAPnPd7WR-sXS-AcpO3qmL9hG6T8yXGMwCLcB/s320/2017-04-09%2B19.09.22.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Oh! Also!<br />
<br />
I have a pedometer app on my phone now, so I'll report on how many steps I did each day<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Walked:</b> 20,240 steps - 17.9km<br />
<br />
Tomorrow I'll be heading to Yomiuri Land to view more cherry blossoms but this time while riding roller coasters!<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/06/day-2-yomiuri-land-tokyo.html">Continue reading: Day 2: Yomiuri Land (Tokyo)</a></i>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-33154487110531196052017-05-08T19:02:00.000+10:002017-06-12T23:15:39.667+10:00JT7: Flight and Tokyo<b>Saturday 8 April 2017</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/05/day-0-limbo.html"><i>Continues from Day 0: Limbo</i></a><br />
<br />
Jetstar cancelled my flight to Tokyo two days ago, so I definitely had a sense of deja vu today travelling down to the Gold Coast from Brisbane.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-neVuk9VsvZ0/WRAzIHDfDoI/AAAAAAAAHCM/v3QHG3fBDxIF4-KvuKW8gFQDkcOITyiYACLcB/s1600/2017-04-08%2B10.22.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-neVuk9VsvZ0/WRAzIHDfDoI/AAAAAAAAHCM/v3QHG3fBDxIF4-KvuKW8gFQDkcOITyiYACLcB/s320/2017-04-08%2B10.22.21.jpg" width="320" /></a>As it was now a Saturday, Kate was able to drive me down which sure beat getting the train and bus again. Upon arriving Kate dropped me off and I used the new self check-in kiosk to get my plane ticket. Kate then re-picked me up and we went and had brunch at a nearby cafe then went for a long walk along the beach.<br />
<br />
Upon boarding my flight I was pleased to find that my seat was an aisle seat only three rows back from the door. There were still around 24 other rows in front of me, mainly business and premium economy but this is the closest I've been to the front on a flight to Japan.<br />
<br />
The flight was pretty uneventful, we took off a little late, but not too bad. I mainly studied Japanese using Anki, and listened to the <a href="http://www.theskepticsguide.org/">Skeptics Guide to the Universe</a> podcast.<br />
<br />
Total flight time from take off to touch down: 8 hours 27 minutes.<br />
<br />
Upon landing there was still another Jetstar plane at our gate so we had to wait for a little while.<br />
<br />
Time from touch down until I stepped off the plane: 24 minutes 27 seconds.<br />
<br />
<br />
After getting of the plane I hustled through immigration, customs, and then from terminal 3 to terminal 2 train station which is around 900m. <br />
<br />
Unfortunately as I had filled my disembarkation card out in pencil the immigration people made me redo it in pen. On the plane I had a pencil and a pen but I thought if pencil is good enough for an election, it's good enough for my details. Apparently not, has to be blue or black pen. This cost me around 5 minutes.<br />
<br />
Time from stepping off the plane to arriving at Narita Terminal 2 train station: 23 minutes 27 seconds.<br />
<br />
<br />
Upon arriving at the train station I put 10000 yen on my Suica card, then went to the Keisei ticket counter and reserved a seat on the next Sky Liner.<br />
<br />
Originally, on the 6 April, I was booked in to stay at a Toyoko Inn hotel and had a sent a heap of stuff there:<br />
-Pocket WiFi<br />
-May'n concert tickets (useless as the concert was already over by the time I got to Tokyo)<br />
-Go Pro accessories (I got a go pro)<br />
-Sumo tickets<br />
<br />
Once I found my plane was cancelled though I rang the hotel and they were happy to hold my items for me until I could pick them up on Saturday. Thank you very much Toyoko Inn Akiba Asakusabashi Eki Higashi Guchi!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkY2GCloll0/WRAzQ-R9NBI/AAAAAAAAHCQ/wRPbTgo3PVs5UNc6vU59-_My1a6isF7hACLcB/s1600/2017-04-08%2B22.16.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkY2GCloll0/WRAzQ-R9NBI/AAAAAAAAHCQ/wRPbTgo3PVs5UNc6vU59-_My1a6isF7hACLcB/s320/2017-04-08%2B22.16.19.jpg" width="320" /></a>This meant however I was in quite a hurray as I had to make my way from Narita to Asakusabashi, to the hotel, then out to my AirBnB in Nerima which is another 55 minutes away. I also had to arrive by 10pm as that was a latest I could check in- earlier the better though so I didn't keep my hosts awake.<br />
<br />
After a lot of rushing around I managed to make it!<br />
<br />
I arrived pretty hungry and was very happy when my hosts provided me some rice and tofu!<br />
<br />
After that I had a shower then crashed to sleep.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow I'll be seeing my first cherry blossoms and visiting Chidorigafuchi, Yasukuni shrine and Shinjuku Park.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/05/day-1-chidorigafuchi-shinjuku-park-tokyo.html"><i>Continue reading: Day 1: Chidorigafuchi & Shinjuku Park (Tokyo) </i></a>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-19948151788558671252017-05-08T17:06:00.000+10:002017-05-08T19:02:49.685+10:00Day 0: Limbo<b>Thursday 6 - Friday 7 April 2017</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/05/spring-2017-japan-trip-itinerary.html"><i>Continues from Spring 2017 Japan Trip Itinerary</i></a><br />
<br />
So! <br />
<br />
Jetstar cancelled my flight! No Japan today! No Japan tomorrow!<br />
<br />
I was booked to fly out at 10:45 on Thursday, 6 April 2017 so woke up at 5am and made the long trip down to the Gold Coast.<br />
<br />
Everything seemed fine until 9:30am when we found that we'd been delayed 2 hours. <br />
<br />
I was pretty upset by this as I had been hoping to try and see the Chidorigafuchi cherry blossom illuminations. Tonight was the last night and since they remained lit up until 22:00 and the plane lands at 7pm, I had a decent chance of making it.<br />
<br />
A two hour delay though? Forget it. <br />
<br />
So we all sat and waited 2 hours, and then!<br />
<br />
Cancelled. No flights to Tokyo today. <br />
<br />
This is my third cancelled flight in about four years, which has gotta be higher than average considering I only fly once or twice a year. Once with Qantas, once with Air New Zealand and this time Jetstar.<br />
<br />
Jetstar definitely handled it the worst out of all the airlines. <br />
<br />
Air New Zealand put us up in a hotel for the night and we flew out ASAP the next morning on a special flight. <br />
<br />
Qantas let us know beforehand by phone (it was due to a snowpocalypse) and rebooked us onto a different flight the next day.<br />
<br />
Jetstar made us all wait in line for ages and when we got to the desk the options were bad. I only had carry on, so was pretty close to the front but was only given the option of flying out Sunday (3 days later) or flying to Melbourne Friday night (2000km in the wrong direction), then back up to Cairns, then from Cairns to Tokyo. Once those filled up I think they started just giving out refunds.<br />
<br />
Luckily I managed to log in online before getting to the counter and change my flight to a direct Saturday flight (not possible 20mins later). <br />
<br />
Still, that's a two day delay. <br />
<br />
Jetstar were going to pay for one hotel night at the gold coast, but not two. So I ended up opting to just go home and try again Saturday. <br />
<br />
Since I'd lost two days I decided to forget about skiing and luckily found a nice AirBnB in Tokyo instead. I used the time on Friday to redo the itinerary a bit.<br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://www.mushingo.com/2017/05/jt7-flight-and-tokyo.html">Continue reading: JT7: Flight and Tokyo</a></i><br />
<br />
Last itinerary revision:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkna6S0gZjQ/WRAYqD1GjZI/AAAAAAAAHB4/0sPgF10BOnUh3gGaBTpv6PM7bfncZIQngCLcB/s1600/reviseditenerary2017.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkna6S0gZjQ/WRAYqD1GjZI/AAAAAAAAHB4/0sPgF10BOnUh3gGaBTpv6PM7bfncZIQngCLcB/s640/reviseditenerary2017.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-19615797933264967852017-05-06T23:04:00.000+10:002017-05-07T18:52:40.689+10:00Spring 2017 Japan Trip Itinerary <b>Spring 2017 Japan Trip</b><br />
<br />
Welcome to the Mushingo Japan Travel Blog! <br />
<br />
This series of posts will cover our April 2017 trip to Japan!<br />
<br />
Although we had been to Japan many times before we still had yet to see the cherry blossoms, so that was the main motivation this time. The other main themes of this trip were hiking, Takayama festival, theme parks, rabbits, ryokan, heavy industry, fine dining, festivals, castles and sumo.<br />
<br />
As with last trip I made a detailed itinerary in excel (click to embiggen). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8BfUe_LUmA/WQ7gTKcmFgI/AAAAAAAAHA8/ARwfJFJk9_YnxWw48nsKTBWXI85LM8WTQCLcB/s1600/itenerary2017.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8BfUe_LUmA/WQ7gTKcmFgI/AAAAAAAAHA8/ARwfJFJk9_YnxWw48nsKTBWXI85LM8WTQCLcB/s640/itenerary2017.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1935OxzS7O8/WQ29_zKWC-I/AAAAAAAAG_8/OV1jqJwpVPsDnY01_qEmOiMxb3WhPD47wCLcB/s1600/itenerary2017.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The part on the right in pink is the cherry blossom predictions. I
actually had to make quite a few last minute changes, after the
accommodation was booked, as the cherry blossoms were predicted to bloom
around a week later than I was expecting!<br />
<br />
Here is the text summary:<br />
<br />
<b>Thursday 06 April </b><br />
Arrive by myself and hopefully get off the plane and train in time to see the cherry blossom illuminations at Chidorigafuchi. <br />
<br />
<b>Friday 07 – </b><b>Monday 10 </b><b> April </b><br />
Spend some time in Tokyo, stay at some home-stay style AirBnB's.<b> </b>Go to Yomiuriland and ride the Bandit roller coaster. See cherry blossoms in Shinjuku park. Drive a go-cart around the streets of Tokyo. Visit the Tokyo national museum. Go to Toshimaen. Ride a bike around the Showa Memorial Park. See May'n concert.<br />
<br />
<b>Tuesday 11 – Thursday 13 </b><b>April </b><br />
Skiing for three days at the Kagura Ski field, with Kate arriving on the 13 April ! <br />
<br />
<b>Friday 14 April</b><br />
Catch an early morning shinkansen to Toyama to see the cherry blossoms. Then get a train to Takayama for the evening spring festival.<br />
<br />
<b>Saturday 15 April</b><br />
Leave Takayama early in order to spend some viewing the Hikone Castle cherry blossoms. Stay at an AirBnB in Maibara. <br />
<br />
<b>Sunday 16 April</b><br />
Hike up Mt Ibuki-san which is one of Japan's 100 famous mountains (#89). Catch evening train down to Himeji.<br />
<br />
<b>Monday 17 April</b><br />
Day trip to Hiroshima. Catch an early morning train to Hiroshima city to the Mazda car factory tour. Spend the afternoon at rabbit island (Ōkunoshima) before returning to Himeji.<br />
<br />
<b>Tuesday 18 April</b><br />
See Himeji castle in the morning, then stop at Shin-Kobe for some Kobe Steak at Wakkoqu on the way back to Tokyo.<br />
<br />
<b>Wednesday 19 April</b><br />
Tokyo Disney Sea theme park. <br />
<br />
<b>Thursday 20 April </b><br />
Wake up early in order to travel to Fukushima for a stroll around Hanamiyama which is known for flowers and cherry blossoms. In the afternoon return to Tokyo and visit the Ghibli Museum, then continue to Kawaguchiko in the evening.<br />
<br />
<b>Friday 21 April</b><br />
Fujikyuu Highland theme park.<br />
<br />
<b>Saturday 22 April</b><br />
Hire a car and spend the day visiting the sights around Kawaguchiko, hopefully see some cherry blossoms and visit the Fuji Shibazakura Festival. In the afternoon drive to Chichibu and stay in an AirBnB. <br />
<br />
<b>Sunday 23 April</b><br />
Climb Mt. Ryokami-san which is one of Japan's 100 famous mountains (#65). In the afternoon check into Hananoya ryokan in Chichibu. <br />
<br />
<b>Monday 24 April</b> <br />
Watch sumo wresting at the Fukaya Spring tournament, perhaps visit Nagatoro Machi or Iwadatami on the drive there. In the evening travel back to Tokyo via train and have dinner at Jumbo Yakiniku.<br />
<br />
<b>Tuesday 25 April</b><br />
Participate in a tour of the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel or G-Cans, which is a huge storm drain. Then maybe visit Tobu Zoo or Kawagoe before returning back to Australia.<br />
<br />
<br />
Unlike other trips I did not make a Japan Travel book and instead just crammed everything into the excel document.<br />
<br />
Also, as always, this was just the plan! Even though I like to plan, travelling doesn't always go as expected and I can tell you right now that we didn't do things on the list and did things not on the list!<br />
<br />
Now, in other news... <br />
<br />
You may have noticed the new name and domain for this blog: <a href="http://www.mushingo.com/">www.mushingo.com</a> <br />
<br />
This is a word I made up.<br />
<br />
I was trying for some word that is compatible with Japanese, easy to say in English, not too long and not already taken. It is possible to write it in Japanese as 無信号, which means "no traffic lights" or "no signal", which is open to the readers interpretation. <br />
<br />
Also!<br />
<br />
Kate and I are officially moving to Japan! <br />
<br />
We both applied to the JET programme last year and have been accepted! <br />
<br />
This means that from August this year we will be helping to teach English at Japanese primary, middle or high schools. We can stay for 1-5 years, and will probably stay for 2-3 years. <br />
<br />
Although we have both been accepted we don't find out the general location until late May.<br />
<br />
So all I know at this stage is "Japan". <br />
<br />
Exciting times!<br />
<br />Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-40046495927505941412017-02-12T23:09:00.000+10:002017-02-12T23:11:13.855+10:00JT5: Introduction and Conclusion<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wQy-ytoNdUs/WKBTiRWOkvI/AAAAAAAAG8c/4s3Nv0Q3qYMCQKBvuLEn_8bR2sOGl5d2gCLcB/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wQy-ytoNdUs/WKBTiRWOkvI/AAAAAAAAG8c/4s3Nv0Q3qYMCQKBvuLEn_8bR2sOGl5d2gCLcB/s400/16.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>2015 trip to Japan and Korea summary</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello and welcome to the 'Trip to Japan' travel report blog!<br />
<br />
My name is Eric and in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 Kate and I travelled to Japan (and Korea in 2015) from Australia. Each trip was filled with lots of fun activities, interesting experiences and amazing scenery..<br />
<br />
In order to share these things with everyone I established this travel blog!<br />
<br />
It's 2017 now which means it took me nearly two years to finish the 2015 trip report.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X7ktT9Eqxg0/WKBTn26ZFsI/AAAAAAAAG88/8BEsjuP8iEcT4aEA_6bFp6Y1CD4nNBCZACLcB/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X7ktT9Eqxg0/WKBTn26ZFsI/AAAAAAAAG88/8BEsjuP8iEcT4aEA_6bFp6Y1CD4nNBCZACLcB/s320/5.jpg" width="320" /></a>Yikes!<br />
<br />
In 2016 we didn't go to Japan and instead travelled to the USA for four weeks and New Zealand for two weeks.<br />
<br />
Kate and I also got married and I finished my Master of Information Technology and we started making preparations to move to Japan for a few years!<br />
<br />
Hopefully in July of this year!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nIPe9KZ31YQ/WKBTh29RRlI/AAAAAAAAG8Y/gzTInjwwkM4gvISK2kJieeE9-qp9VAIWwCLcB/s1600/15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nIPe9KZ31YQ/WKBTh29RRlI/AAAAAAAAG8Y/gzTInjwwkM4gvISK2kJieeE9-qp9VAIWwCLcB/s400/15.JPG" width="400" /></a>As far as this blog goes I still haven't written anything
about our first 2011 trip, and we actually spent another week or so in Japan at
the end of 2015 so there's a couple of places we went to around Kanto region
that I'd like to share.<br />
<br />
Finally, despite having been to Japan so many times we still haven't actually seen any cherry blossoms, so in April we have another short ten day trip planned!<br />
<br />
Aside from cherry blossoms the themes of this trip will be mountain hiking, theme parks, ryokan, heavy industry, festivals, castles and sumo.<br />
<br />
The rest of this entry is a quick description of each day of our 2015 Winter trip with links to the full posts!<br />
<br />
You can find similar summaries for the <a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/introduction-and-conclusion.html">2012 Autumn</a>, <a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2014/04/jt3-introduction-and-conclusion.html">2013 Spring</a> and <a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2015/09/jt4-introduction-and-conclusion.html">2014 Summer</a> trips as well. <br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HwksGrm7p70/WKBTj8aZzII/AAAAAAAAG8o/k-yfn62AKSgYC9IgKZRYvohwTIm7c1wcwCLcB/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HwksGrm7p70/WKBTj8aZzII/AAAAAAAAG8o/k-yfn62AKSgYC9IgKZRYvohwTIm7c1wcwCLcB/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HwksGrm7p70/WKBTj8aZzII/AAAAAAAAG8o/k-yfn62AKSgYC9IgKZRYvohwTIm7c1wcwCLcB/s320/2.jpg" width="208" /></a><br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2015/10/japan-trip-2015-itinerary.html"><b>Japan Trip 2015: Itinerary</b></a><br />
An overview of our goals for this trip, our planning and itinerary, what hotels we booked and all the other preparation we did.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2015/11/jt5-flight-and-tokyo.html"><b>JT5: Flight and Tokyo</b></a><br />
Our journey from our home in Brisbane, Australia to our hotel in Tokyo, Japan. Filled with gripping moments such as when Jetstar left Kate's bag behind and we had to tell them our day by day itinerary. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2015/11/day-1-tokyo-ginza-and-nippon-budokan.html"><b>Tokyo - Ginza and Nippon Budokan</b></a><br />
Today we got some new clothes for Kate at the Ginza Uniqlo and I went a Lisani concert to see LISA, KOTOKO, ZAQ, ClariS, Suzuko, Kalafina and fripSide!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/day-2-jimbocho-tokyo-and-seoul.html"><b>Jimbocho (Tokyo) and Seoul (Korea)</b></a>
<br />
A Japanese Bento Box cooking class in Tokyo in the morning before heading back out to Narita to catch a plane to Seoul, South Korea.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NqOSy7K4bhU/WKBTlwSdXHI/AAAAAAAAG80/Qre1EYngv24rrE3-ftcWi-T3mreJFaPnACLcB/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NqOSy7K4bhU/WKBTlwSdXHI/AAAAAAAAG80/Qre1EYngv24rrE3-ftcWi-T3mreJFaPnACLcB/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/01/day-3-seoul.html"><b>Seoul (Korea)</b></a><br />
This entire day was spent exploring the city of Seoul. We saw some markets, Sungnyemun and Seoul tower.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/01/day-4-dmz-and-north-korea.html"><b>DMZ and North Korea</b></a><br />
We technically went into North Korea today from the South Korean side. This was a brief few minutes as part of an extensive tour of the joint security area and demilitarised zone between North Korea and South Korea. We also visited one of the tunnels that the north dug into the south.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/02/day-5-seoul-and-yumoto-onsen.html"><b>Seoul and Yumoto Onsen</b></a><br />
Most of this day was spent travelling back to Japan from South Korea. <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4QsznpipL3A/WKBTnTiXFAI/AAAAAAAAG84/se58QsgJnpExwXz1ATXOOSF_GUkZ0Ki3wCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4QsznpipL3A/WKBTnTiXFAI/AAAAAAAAG84/se58QsgJnpExwXz1ATXOOSF_GUkZ0Ki3wCLcB/s400/4.JPG" width="400" /></a>We made our way all the way to a fantastic ryokan at Yumoto Onsen near Nikko. There we enjoyed a fantastic kaiseki dinner and a magical outdoor onsen in the snow. <b> </b><br />
<b><br /><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/02/day-6-nikko-koriyama.html">Nikko & Koriyama</a></b><br />
Exploring the natural side of Nikko. As it is the middle of winter the whole place was completely blanketed in deep drifts of snow. <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rzMjI4d_XKs/WKBTpVt-XnI/AAAAAAAAG9E/sQDVHB3cT-8GS-t3crNnFM0bJ1AMkQeLwCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rzMjI4d_XKs/WKBTpVt-XnI/AAAAAAAAG9E/sQDVHB3cT-8GS-t3crNnFM0bJ1AMkQeLwCLcB/s400/7.JPG" width="400" /></a>We saw lots of frozen waterfalls! In the evening we made our way over to Koriyama City in Fukushima Prefecture.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com/2016/04/day-7-aizu-wakamatsu-sendai.html"><b>Aizu-Wakamatsu & Sendai</b></a><br />
Aizu-Wakamatsu is famous for samurai and sake. After a train trip from Koriyama we visited Oyakuen Garden, the castle and toured two different sake distilleries.<br />
<br />
We were taught the history, the production process and were able to sample the brews. Our train back to Koriyama was cancelled due to blizzard but we managed to get a bus back and then a shinkansen up to our next stop Sendai.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/04/day-8-tashirojima-cat-island-sendai.html"><b>Tashirojima (Cat Island) & Sendai</b></a><br />
Cats! Off the Sanriku coast north of Sendai is a small island full of cats! We caught a ferry and spent a few hours visiting the kitties and wandering around the island.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kUX2J-At-R0/WKBTqrcSTlI/AAAAAAAAG9I/U208CudJQS0gRzrVM0wMYm07lye7-3mWgCLcB/s1600/8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kUX2J-At-R0/WKBTqrcSTlI/AAAAAAAAG9I/U208CudJQS0gRzrVM0wMYm07lye7-3mWgCLcB/s320/8.JPG" width="320" /></a>Our ferry back from the island was cancelled due to rough seas, we only had to wait for the next one though which was a stronger vessel.<br />
<br />
It was still a rough journey!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/06/day-9-nikka-wiskey-distillery-hakodate.html"><b>Nikka Whiskey Distillery & Hakodate</b></a><br />
Sendai markets in the morning then a train out to the Nikka Whiskey Distillery for a free tour and sample. In the evening we caught Shinkansen and trains all the way up north the town of Hakodate, located on Japan's most northern island of Hokkaido.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/06/day-10-hakodate-furano.html"><b>Hakodate & Furano</b></a><br />
Instead of visiting the Onuma Quasi National Park as planned we decided to spend the day indoors at the Round One sports entertainment centre instead. We had spent many days outside and this day was particularly snowy and bitterly cold.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JQb57q_FwI/WKBTq1F2B5I/AAAAAAAAG9M/YOHL1q64TSEUKuC3ayyjl1Pcbroapo_kQCLcB/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4JQb57q_FwI/WKBTq1F2B5I/AAAAAAAAG9M/YOHL1q64TSEUKuC3ayyjl1Pcbroapo_kQCLcB/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a>First we had a look around the Hakodate market, then enjoyed a few hours planning arcade games and sports like ping pong, baseball batting, tennis and mini-bowling at Spocha In the evening we journeyed further into the centre of Hokkaido to the town of Furano. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com/2016/06/day-11-furano-skiing.html"><b>Furano Skiing</b></a><br />
Our first day skiing ever! We had a lesson for absolute beginners in the morning where we were told how to put the skiis on and how to go down the practice bunny slope. In the afternoon we managed to make our way down the beginner slope. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TyC73bRqSIg/WKBTg5yQzWI/AAAAAAAAG8U/CDyxCEP0I905uQc_KGLHtYpvp8FwzdgEwCLcB/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TyC73bRqSIg/WKBTg5yQzWI/AAAAAAAAG8U/CDyxCEP0I905uQc_KGLHtYpvp8FwzdgEwCLcB/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/06/day-12-furano-skiing.html"><b>Furano Skiing</b></a><br />
In the morning we had a beginner group skiing lesson, though it was just Kate and I. We learnt how to ride the ski lift and how to make our way down with the snow plough and skiing in straight lines.<br />
<br />
In the afternoon we practised going down the beginner slopes some more. Once back at our lodging we had some Furano wine and cheese. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RjNnUTjXk8s/WKBTfzdas9I/AAAAAAAAG8M/8A95rCXzrCEEiWZ1h0IIChVkNHzkm1wJACLcB/s1600/14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RjNnUTjXk8s/WKBTfzdas9I/AAAAAAAAG8M/8A95rCXzrCEEiWZ1h0IIChVkNHzkm1wJACLcB/s400/14.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/06/day-13-furano-skiing.html"><b>Furano Skiing</b></a><br />
There were no lesson spaces available today, so we had the whole day to ourselves. We skied some more, and caught the gondola to the top of the mountain.<br />
<br />
For lunch we rode a taxi to the Furano Cheese Factory where we had an amazing cheese pizza. The afternoon was more skiing and I managed to go down every beginner slope on offer on the Kitanomine side.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/07/day-14-asahikawa-and-kitami.html"><b>Asahikawa and Kitami</b></a><br />
Today we left Furano on our way to the top of Hokkaido. Along the way we stopped in at Asahikawa which is the coldest city in Japan. There we visited the Asahiyama zoo and then paid a visit to the Asahikawa snow festival. In evening we continued north to Kitami, which was the closest city to Abashiri with non-smoking rooms.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vYChG_1IaDs/WKBZlU7qEkI/AAAAAAAAG9g/leHX8sTKqPMKA-CprPZC-yhAJCjUSFFgwCLcB/s1600/16-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vYChG_1IaDs/WKBZlU7qEkI/AAAAAAAAG9g/leHX8sTKqPMKA-CprPZC-yhAJCjUSFFgwCLcB/s400/16-1.jpg" width="322" /></a><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-15-abashiri-and-kushiro.html"><b>Abashiri and Kushiro</b></a><br />
Abashiri is located on the northern coast of Japan and we travelled out here to see the frozen sea ice! The drift ice floats down from the north and we went on boat tour which smashed through the ice sheets.<br />
<br />
In Japan Abashiri is known for its infamous prison, it's the Alcatraz or Azkaban of Japan. In the afternoon we visited the old prison buildings and grounds and also paid a brief visit to the northern people museum. In the evening we continued on around the coast of Hokkaido to Kushiro city.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-16-kushiro-marshland-sapporo.html"><b>Kushiro Marshland & Sapporo</b></a><br />
The Kushiro Marshlands are the last place in Japan where Red-Crowned Cranes can be seen in the wild after they were saved from extinction. Winter is the best time to see them as due to habitat loss feeding places are needed outside of the warmer seasons to sustain their population.<br />
<br />
We joined a bus tour to a few of the best spots, and then returned back to Kushiro on a C-11 steam locomotive train! In the evening we caught a delayed train back around Hokkaido to Sapporo.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CuqGSNvK7QM/WKBTi-IdUTI/AAAAAAAAG8g/wtyu3LPsKPsOBUZLxz-B7EULWzkMx8A1gCLcB/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CuqGSNvK7QM/WKBTi-IdUTI/AAAAAAAAG8g/wtyu3LPsKPsOBUZLxz-B7EULWzkMx8A1gCLcB/s400/17.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-17-sapporo-snow-festival.html"><b>Sapporo snow festival</b></a><br />
After visiting the Sapporo Factory shopping centre in the morning we went out to enjoy the Sapporo Snow Festival. There were lots of giant snow sculptures, clear crystalline ice sculptures, food, stalls and a ski jump slope. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/09/day-18-sapporo-and-otaru-snow-light.html"><b>Sapporo & Otaru Snow Light Path Festival</b></a><br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dnnAZAtBEmg/WKBTjQpijFI/AAAAAAAAG8k/PNcgEFoqKyAnFyxOfswif8W5W4k9bYjqQCLcB/s1600/18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dnnAZAtBEmg/WKBTjQpijFI/AAAAAAAAG8k/PNcgEFoqKyAnFyxOfswif8W5W4k9bYjqQCLcB/s400/18.JPG" width="400" /></a>We had another go at Spocha in the morning today before travelling out to Otaru for our final winter festival.<br />
<br />
The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is exactly what it says on the tin with lots of candles lighting up small sculptures and holes along a deep path within the snow and along the canal. It was very pretty! For dinner we had delicious yakiniku.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/10/day-19-aomori.html"><b>Aomori</b></a><br />
Leaving Hokkaido today on our way back down to Tokyo. We stopped in at Aomori for a visit to the Furukawa Fish Markets, some Karaoke and to rest for the night.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/11/day-20-zao-onsen.html"><b>Zao Onsen</b></a><br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gDY0cYPW3ZI/WKBTkIDrHVI/AAAAAAAAG8s/B4Tg6bV9fpw8hUeunWFsh09CP8XKz32dgCLcB/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gDY0cYPW3ZI/WKBTkIDrHVI/AAAAAAAAG8s/B4Tg6bV9fpw8hUeunWFsh09CP8XKz32dgCLcB/s400/20.jpg" width="400" /></a>After a cool breakfast overlooking Aomori city we made our way down to Zao Onsen to see some snow monsters and super acidic onsen water!<br />
<br />
The snow monsters are formed from huge amounts of snow and ice freezing onto trees at the top of the mountain.<br />
<br />
It was extremely cold and windy up there, -20 degrees Celsius. We stayed at a ryokan and the water in the most acidic bath had a pH approaching 1 and actually stung a little to sit in. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2017/01/day-21-zao-onsen-tokyo.html"><b>Zao Onsen & Tokyo</b></a><br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EjOObHhP4x0/WKBTkoKZmlI/AAAAAAAAG8w/s6H-q7aNejgckJ1nmlPLhdQzw3Qcl3B_gCLcB/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EjOObHhP4x0/WKBTkoKZmlI/AAAAAAAAG8w/s6H-q7aNejgckJ1nmlPLhdQzw3Qcl3B_gCLcB/s400/22.jpg" width="400" /></a>After breakfast at our ryokan we made our way all the way back down to Tokyo and did some headphone shopping and more Karaoke in Akihabara!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://microseism.blogspot.jp/2017/01/day-22-chiba-and-tokyo.html"><b>Chiba and Tokyo</b></a><br />
Our penultimate day was spent enjoying some indoor go-karting in the neighbouring prefecture of Chiba before returning back to Tokyo to gorge ourselves on sweets and look around the shops in Shibuya. <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/day-23-tokyo-sumida-aquarium.html"><b>Sumida Aquarium (Tokyo)</b> </a><br />
Our last day before flying out! We visited the Sumida Aquarium and Solamachi shopping town located at the base of the Tokyo Sky Tree.<br />
<br />
In our last couple of hours we beat out some beats on the Taiko no Tatsujin drumming machines in Akihabara. <br />
<b> </b><br />
And that's our trip!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Feel free to leave a comment with any questions or comments!<b> </b></div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-4931845698978594132017-02-11T15:30:00.000+10:002017-02-11T15:31:35.831+10:00Day 23: Sumida Aquarium (Tokyo)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmy0CQeXY5E/WJ6P9_cWZ_I/AAAAAAAAG7I/xqmSPsocTFQn_OmAtF2ZbGZGSBHBKO2LgCEw/s1600/2015-02-16%2B11.27.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmy0CQeXY5E/WJ6P9_cWZ_I/AAAAAAAAG7I/xqmSPsocTFQn_OmAtF2ZbGZGSBHBKO2LgCEw/s400/2015-02-16%2B11.27.22.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Wormies" (Actually eels)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Monday, 16 February 2015</b><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2017/01/day-22-chiba-and-tokyo.html">Continues from: Day 22: Chiba and Tokyo</a></i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today is our last in Japan!<br />
<br />
However we still have a bit of time left to enjoy Tokyo as we're not flying out until late in the evening.<br />
<br />
We decided upon a visit to the Sumida Aquarium mainly because it is one of the few attractions in Tokyo that is open early in the morning.<br />
<br />
Well, 09:00 is not really early in the morning at all, however in Tokyo it's basically the crack of dawn as shops and attractions don't really get going until 10:00 or even 11:00.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLWB3zonIz0/WJ6PyCY5WmI/AAAAAAAAG7I/5HIRW8qMh6cAK83kN6oSYPsH8yg_1KvfACEw/s1600/2015-02-16%2B10.26.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLWB3zonIz0/WJ6PyCY5WmI/AAAAAAAAG7I/5HIRW8qMh6cAK83kN6oSYPsH8yg_1KvfACEw/s400/2015-02-16%2B10.26.04.jpg" width="400" /></a>On the flip side stuff is usually open very late, sometimes until 06:00 the next day.<br />
<br />
What this means is that if you're looking for things to do after 06:00 but before mid-morning it's a bit tricky, though there are always things like parks, shrines and some temples that are always open.<br />
<br />
Anyway we like aquariums so it was a good choice!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e749iT8NSn4/WJ6P0cZc_qI/AAAAAAAAG7I/fm9GkN3QemgzXKiVD_IFVB6u2b9Nhj0PQCEw/s1600/2015-02-16%2B10.37.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e749iT8NSn4/WJ6P0cZc_qI/AAAAAAAAG7I/fm9GkN3QemgzXKiVD_IFVB6u2b9Nhj0PQCEw/s320/2015-02-16%2B10.37.43.jpg" width="320" /></a>The Sumida Aquarium is located at the base of the 643m tall Tokyo Sky Tree tower which is the tallest structure in Japan.<br />
<br />
During our first trip it was still under construction, during a later trip when it was finished we were able to go up to the top observation deck.<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YycT9ta3XvU/WJ6P7JcMooI/AAAAAAAAG7I/0XyW1_UwsOwUoKigLNWHBHGzwAn1MEYZwCEw/s1600/2015-02-16%2B10.58.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YycT9ta3XvU/WJ6P7JcMooI/AAAAAAAAG7I/0XyW1_UwsOwUoKigLNWHBHGzwAn1MEYZwCEw/s320/2015-02-16%2B10.58.17.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Today however we stuck to the bottom and descended below the sea...<br />
<br />
The Sumida Aquarium was very interesting!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QOn9fPFb6SI/WJ6P16H7dtI/AAAAAAAAG7I/eExoarb3oDIwluGxHPR00JjVmjNzp-36gCEw/s1600/2015-02-16%2B10.44.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QOn9fPFb6SI/WJ6P16H7dtI/AAAAAAAAG7I/eExoarb3oDIwluGxHPR00JjVmjNzp-36gCEw/s320/2015-02-16%2B10.44.38.jpg" width="320" /></a>As aquariums go it isn't huge but it is very well done and is full of lots of interesting sea creatures. There's a particular focus on animals that don't require too much space, such as sea jellies.<br />
<br />
They even had mantis shrimp!<br />
<br />
Mantis shrimp are very interesting as they can launch their claws with a speed of 23 metres per second!<br />
<br />
Not only that but they have the most complex eyes of any animal for some reason. Humans have three colour detector cells (cones), letting us see all the colours of the rainbow, and some birds have 4, however this shrimp has 12!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0nYxd9yXCw/WJ6Q1hd8tyI/AAAAAAAAG7M/EXdB390_CEs_GXkeroSznN-h2A2JHPm0QCLcB/s1600/2015-02-16%2B10.46.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0nYxd9yXCw/WJ6Q1hd8tyI/AAAAAAAAG7M/EXdB390_CEs_GXkeroSznN-h2A2JHPm0QCLcB/s640/2015-02-16%2B10.46.25.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J-dgRTzEKu0/WJ6P5X41mAI/AAAAAAAAG7I/gS_12mCuaNgX9VdtilSgj1mHBmoTu9-TgCEw/s1600/2015-02-16%2B10.52.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J-dgRTzEKu0/WJ6P5X41mAI/AAAAAAAAG7I/gS_12mCuaNgX9VdtilSgj1mHBmoTu9-TgCEw/s400/2015-02-16%2B10.52.38.jpg" width="400" /></a>I find them quite fascinating.<br />
<br />
It wasn't all just tiny animals though as there were also some penguins and seals which were playing with the handlers.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--y1VofAgYgE/WJ6QASYxq3I/AAAAAAAAG7I/byPXbkOqDx40G-jbuMxghyNZKfRW-dDawCEw/s1600/2015-02-16%2B11.51.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--y1VofAgYgE/WJ6QASYxq3I/AAAAAAAAG7I/byPXbkOqDx40G-jbuMxghyNZKfRW-dDawCEw/s200/2015-02-16%2B11.51.29.jpg" width="195" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
My favourite creature were these really cute eels that poked their heads out of the sand.<br />
<br />
Although they were eels they looked like cute smiling worms.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FnEcg0UdUck/WJ6RI7RFhrI/AAAAAAAAG7Y/sxiXi5ZO2_M0fKgOKEINCf2fw7aeKcuhACLcB/s1600/2015-02-16%2B12.00.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FnEcg0UdUck/WJ6RI7RFhrI/AAAAAAAAG7Y/sxiXi5ZO2_M0fKgOKEINCf2fw7aeKcuhACLcB/s400/2015-02-16%2B12.00.29.jpg" width="400" /></a>I even ended up buying a big stuffed animal toy of the eel who is my friend to this day!<br />
<br />
Speaking of animal related souvenirs they also had some delicious treats in the shape of some of the creatures- Kate got an octopus one!<br />
<br />
After finishing with the aquarium we had lunch at the nearby Solamachi shopping area, which is also part of the sky tree complex.<br />
<br />
Once we were done with lunch we still had a couple of hours until we had to catch our train so we headed down to Akihabara to play some arcade games!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7KlEqacj44s/WJ6QYlC5bCI/AAAAAAAAG7E/9ry-CMplx4YDzeI4Pn4rnzleJVylKLEngCEw/s1600/Taiko_no_tatsujin_arcade_machine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7KlEqacj44s/WJ6QYlC5bCI/AAAAAAAAG7E/9ry-CMplx4YDzeI4Pn4rnzleJVylKLEngCEw/s320/Taiko_no_tatsujin_arcade_machine.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Photo credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Taiko_no_tatsujin_arcade_machine.jpg">Minseong Kim</a></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We mainly played Taiko no Tatsujin (aka Taiko Master) which is a Japanese drumming rhythm game. Basically you have you get some sticks and have to hit the drum in a certain way according to the displayed timing.<br />
<br />
We'd never played before so it took us some time to work out exactly how to play correctly.<br />
<br />
It was lots of fun, and our muscles were even a little sore the next day!<br />
<br />
Before too long it was time to grab our luggage, catch our train back to Narita and head back home to Brisbane, Australia!<br />
<br />
And, almost two years (!!!) later, that's the end of the 2015 trip.<br />
<br />
Thank you for reading!</div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-39728167562228563102017-01-08T15:55:00.000+10:002017-02-11T15:36:04.840+10:00Day 22: Chiba and Tokyo<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4SqMzliC3B4/WG8nNbFvHsI/AAAAAAAAG5c/AIUINk72RQo1jO5y-Xtd-G14khfqYat6QCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B12.11.56-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4SqMzliC3B4/WG8nNbFvHsI/AAAAAAAAG5c/AIUINk72RQo1jO5y-Xtd-G14khfqYat6QCLcB/s400/2015-02-15%2B12.11.56-1.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>Sunday, 15 February 2015</b><br />
<br />
<i><a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2017/01/day-21-zao-onsen-tokyo.html">Continues from: Day 21: Zao Onsen & Tokyo</a></i><b> </b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today we travelled out to Chiba City for some indoor go karting, then later returned back to Shibuya to have lunch at an all you can eat sweets cafe.<br />
<br />
Chiba is a neighbouring prefecture and city to Tokyo and we caught a train to Hon-Chiba Station and then walked one and a half kilometres to Harbour Circuit Indoor Karting.<br />
<br />
Although there were signs at the front, we felt a little apprehensive entering the building as it was pretty empty inside and we had to go up to the second floor.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDu-JAdQV6g/WG8nNT7sTaI/AAAAAAAAG5Y/QnquYZBObEYFT4uTexnIfQjCJAbw_8fogCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B09.56.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDu-JAdQV6g/WG8nNT7sTaI/AAAAAAAAG5Y/QnquYZBObEYFT4uTexnIfQjCJAbw_8fogCLcB/s320/2015-02-15%2B09.56.54.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Once we arrived and signed in though our slight worries evaporated.<br />
<br />
The track took up most of the floor area, and probably two or three levels and the rest of the space holds race car themed reception, waiting, equipment, spectator, and amenities areas.<br />
<br />
Upon arriving we paid around 5000 yen each for four, seven minute rounds and all equipment.<br />
<br />
Although expensive, this is quite reasonable for go karting.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1b8sy37SQeE/WG8nOCASOaI/AAAAAAAAG5k/4nyg0UI13Cw_sAeZU635KXjKyOziQ5LwwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B12.12.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1b8sy37SQeE/WG8nOCASOaI/AAAAAAAAG5k/4nyg0UI13Cw_sAeZU635KXjKyOziQ5LwwCLcB/s320/2015-02-15%2B12.12.55.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<br />
As it was our first time go karting at this location (and first time ever for Kate), we had to watch a short energetic instructional video first. <br />
<br />
After the video we were given helmets and hair nets (to keep ourselves and the helmets clean), and then it was time to race!<br />
<br />
As we arrived early in the morning it wasn't very crowded at all, so we didn't have to wait. However we were not the only ones there and we raced with a young Japanese teenager.
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bZO2MgQBcJA/WG8nNj-MnrI/AAAAAAAAG5g/qoTC6q8WvCAz8g0BD8JdAuZedIjWn286ACLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B12.12.24-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bZO2MgQBcJA/WG8nNj-MnrI/AAAAAAAAG5g/qoTC6q8WvCAz8g0BD8JdAuZedIjWn286ACLcB/s400/2015-02-15%2B12.12.24-2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The track wasn't super long, but it was heaps of fun to be driving around and cornering indoors at high speed.<br />
<br />
I've since driven around another indoor go kart track in Australia, and I have to say that the theming and lighting really added positively to the experience at Harbour Circuit.<br />
<br />
<br />
After each race we got instant feedback on a printout. Statistics indicated how long it took us to complete each lap, and how we fared verses others during our last race, today, and this month.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--VWLHQxRMHw/WG8nOMP7qbI/AAAAAAAAG5o/eqeSfa6cTKkr-EXcn90zTBHunUpm8ZzaQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B12.13.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--VWLHQxRMHw/WG8nOMP7qbI/AAAAAAAAG5o/eqeSfa6cTKkr-EXcn90zTBHunUpm8ZzaQCLcB/s320/2015-02-15%2B12.13.48.jpg" width="320" /></a>Yep, that Japanese teenager completely smoked us!<br />
<br />
Go Karting was heaps of fun and although we spent two hours there I wished we could stay even longer!<br />
<br />
Once it was time to leave we found that due to Valentine’s day there were currently running a promotion and our tickets allowed us to participate in the lottery.<br />
<br />
We managed to win four boxes of chocolate and two chocolate bars- not bad!<br />
<br />
Our winnings set a sugary theme for the rest of the day as our next stop was a visit to Sweets Paradise in Shibuya, Tokyo.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5iD-Ozh9BNQ/WG8nO7WIebI/AAAAAAAAG50/RQ3fnLu8ahM4FtsWuX0bmLatdhxtBOBygCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B15.42.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5iD-Ozh9BNQ/WG8nO7WIebI/AAAAAAAAG50/RQ3fnLu8ahM4FtsWuX0bmLatdhxtBOBygCLcB/s400/2015-02-15%2B15.42.54.jpg" width="400" /></a>Sweets Paradise is a chain of all you can eat sweet buffet restaurants. We paid ¥1500 yen which gave us 80 minutes to stuff ourselves with sugar. <br />
<br />
You are probably thinking that you can only eat a small amount of sweets at once before feeling ill?<br />
<br />
Well, the operators of Sweets Paradise are well aware of this and have prepared a number of savoury pastas as well as a slice of pizza each in order to give your taste buds a glucose overload reprieve.<br />
<br />
So yeah, we ate a lot of cake!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PGQtYdCzY_E/WG8nO2aWbAI/AAAAAAAAG5w/j5-XANxXuYAVyToe2dmhoOCLCkL3bFFQQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B15.36.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PGQtYdCzY_E/WG8nO2aWbAI/AAAAAAAAG5w/j5-XANxXuYAVyToe2dmhoOCLCkL3bFFQQCLcB/s320/2015-02-15%2B15.36.14.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Hawaii, Strawberry, Matcha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYflrkMxo4s/WG8nOf3LpUI/AAAAAAAAG5s/XnQlv2m42B4tI5O2Kl3d6Bi3K6Wt7bxiQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B14.48.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYflrkMxo4s/WG8nOf3LpUI/AAAAAAAAG5s/XnQlv2m42B4tI5O2Kl3d6Bi3K6Wt7bxiQCLcB/s320/2015-02-15%2B14.48.00.jpg" width="320" /></a>Apart from cakes there were also pancake, waffle, ice cream and shaved ice machines which could be used freely.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w1zdPTyGYQI/WG8nPEs30kI/AAAAAAAAG54/a4n9hGLVMwA7SZIYujV1zkhdDjDAd05VQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B17.12.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w1zdPTyGYQI/WG8nPEs30kI/AAAAAAAAG54/a4n9hGLVMwA7SZIYujV1zkhdDjDAd05VQCLcB/s320/2015-02-15%2B17.12.23.jpg" width="320" /></a>Now, you might think that eating a bunch of shaved ice is a waste of money, however it is actually quite expensive to buy in Summer (like 300-500 yen) and also doesn't fill you up too much. <br />
<br />
I had a lot of shaved ice!<br />
<br />
Another plus was that I could easily try the many different flavours that I wasn't sure if I would like or not- such as green tea.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pOJ0CorxpCw/WG8nPWrWyGI/AAAAAAAAG6A/i6qulz-bGQYF0vLIbpBwxcJ4z-sVGb57gCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B17.18.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pOJ0CorxpCw/WG8nPWrWyGI/AAAAAAAAG6A/i6qulz-bGQYF0vLIbpBwxcJ4z-sVGb57gCLcB/s320/2015-02-15%2B17.18.50.jpg" width="320" /></a>One final thing worth mentioning about Sweets Paradise, which applies to many all you can eat buffets in Japan, is that in order to prevent food wastage you have to finish what you take.<br />
<br />
Basically if you take whole bunch of stuff, get full, and can't finish, you will be charged a fee. This isn't unreasonably applied, so if it’s just one item that you really don't like the taste of its OK to leave that.<br />
<br />
The basic idea is to just take a small amount, eat that, and then get a new plate and go back for more. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jwMcIShonnw/WG8nPY4ki0I/AAAAAAAAG58/8QCqmg6IPpw3URhXtMGS_P22mC8p1wECgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B19.09.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jwMcIShonnw/WG8nPY4ki0I/AAAAAAAAG58/8QCqmg6IPpw3URhXtMGS_P22mC8p1wECgCLcB/s400/2015-02-15%2B19.09.18.jpg" width="400" /></a>After our 80 minutes were up we vowed to never eat again, and spent the rest of our day looking around Shibuya.<br />
<br />
One location we spent a large amount of time in was Tokyuu Hands.<br />
<br />
I especially liked their science equipment section where you could buy beakers, glass pipes, Bunsen burners and all sorts of other cool sciencey stuff.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIwXzcMY_14/WG8nP4lbYAI/AAAAAAAAG6E/aHUi2BvJwGc_ZUUjIwDiIn2vCoMTark0gCLcB/s1600/2015-02-15%2B19.09.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIwXzcMY_14/WG8nP4lbYAI/AAAAAAAAG6E/aHUi2BvJwGc_ZUUjIwDiIn2vCoMTark0gCLcB/s400/2015-02-15%2B19.09.29.jpg" width="400" /></a>Shibuya is actually their flagship store selling toys, games, novelty items, gift cards, gift wrap, costumes, bicycles, travel products (such as luggage and camping gear), hobby materials, household hardware, tools, do-it-yourself kits, pet supplies, office supplies and stationery, calligraphy, painting, drawing supplies, furniture, lighting, home appliances, storage solutions etc etc.<br />
<br />
At the top there was a little cafe and an outdoor balcony garden high above Shibuya.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The top of the Ikebukuro branch wins though as they boast a cat cafe full of 20 cats!<br />
<br />
After finishing with Shibuya we returned to our hotel (Toyoko Inn Tokyo Kanda Akihabara) and packed up all our stuff for our plane back to Australia tomorrow.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow is our last day, however before flying out we had enough time to visit the Sumida Aquarium!<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2017/02/day-23-tokyo-sumida-aquarium.html">Continue reading: Day 23: Sumida Aquarium (Tokyo) </a></i></div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-59808304484312585602017-01-05T15:39:00.000+10:002017-01-08T16:09:35.216+10:00Day 21: Zao Onsen & Tokyo<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ub3gfaOBmIY/WG3YrHWewkI/AAAAAAAAG5A/izGPLGCykuErwD9vuhkYnmwus3QuG80JwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-14%2B07.29.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ub3gfaOBmIY/WG3YrHWewkI/AAAAAAAAG5A/izGPLGCykuErwD9vuhkYnmwus3QuG80JwCLcB/s400/2015-02-14%2B07.29.20.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>Saturday, 14 February 2015</b><br />
<br />
<i><a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/11/day-20-zao-onsen.html">Continues from Day 20: Zao Onsen</a></i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today we are heading back to Tokyo from Zao Onsen to do some headphone shopping and karaoke!<br />
<br />
We stayed at the Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) Matukaneya last night and upon waking we enjoyed another dip in the ryokan's onsen before feasting on breakfast.<br />
<br />
<br />
The food was a mix of Japanese vegetables and seafood, as well some more western fare such as bacon and eggs which we fried up on a candle powered hot plate.<br />
<br />
After checking out, we were dropped off by the hotels courtesy bus at the Zao onsen bus terminal. We then caught the next bus to Yamagata station which cost 1000 yen and took forty minutes.<br />
<br />
Although we had caught a local line train from Sendai yesterday, Yamagata is actually a major station on the Yamagata Shinkansen line. This line is one of the mini shinkansen lines with the trains on it running on existing tracks at a reduced speed compared to the main line shinkansen.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-si7Ld10wwao/WG3YrCO8jSI/AAAAAAAAG48/5Nu99dBNkVUrAzZuMA9-V0TBlQIbwQPAACLcB/s1600/2015-02-14%2B09.26.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-si7Ld10wwao/WG3YrCO8jSI/AAAAAAAAG48/5Nu99dBNkVUrAzZuMA9-V0TBlQIbwQPAACLcB/s400/2015-02-14%2B09.26.46.jpg" width="400" /></a>It was still pretty fast and once we reached Fukushima our train attached itself to one of the main Yamabiko trains and we reached Tokyo after a total journey time of around two and a half hours.<br />
<br />
However, by the time we got back into to Tokyo, stored our luggage at our hotel (Toyoko Inn Tokyo Kanda Akihabara), it was time to eat again.<br />
<br />
We decided to go to Otoya which offers a large variety of Japanese style set meals and is one of our favourite chains in Japan.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b4f7iAiilUQ/WG3Yq8V16BI/AAAAAAAAG44/sgyb1cFgD3UiHT65tCx3N3bLYfu8DrlDgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-14%2B15.45.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b4f7iAiilUQ/WG3Yq8V16BI/AAAAAAAAG44/sgyb1cFgD3UiHT65tCx3N3bLYfu8DrlDgCLcB/s400/2015-02-14%2B15.45.17.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fried fish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Kate got fried fish and I had some gyuutan which was very nice although not as good as the gyuutan we had enjoyed in the <span class="st">dish's</span> hometown Sendai.<br />
<br />
Kate ordered some dessert which was some sort of red bean and green tea sunday, and it was apparently the best desert she has ever eaten.<br />
<br />
For my part I had some Japanese pudding (purin) which was also extremely delicious.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkYsSSO4thE/WG3Yri3_ZII/AAAAAAAAG5E/bvp0CXPY-AgGs0s4P6Xbv5080-qHEKOswCLcB/s1600/2015-02-14%2B15.47.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkYsSSO4thE/WG3Yri3_ZII/AAAAAAAAG5E/bvp0CXPY-AgGs0s4P6Xbv5080-qHEKOswCLcB/s400/2015-02-14%2B15.47.32.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gyuutan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After Otoya I did some shopping. What I was looking for was some headphones to use for my computer as I basically didn't have anything at the moment beyond earbuds.<br />
<br />
The great thing about headphone shopping in Tokyo is you can find a huge selection and each model has a demo pair you can plug into your own device (e.g. phone) to test the sound!<br />
<br />
I mainly looked at Yodobashi which is a huge electronic chain, and the headphone specialist store E-earphone in Akihabara. <br />
<br />
The huge range can actually make choosing a bit difficult to be honest, but after lots of testing I ended up buying a pair of Shure SRH840 headphones.<br />
<br />
The prices were already cheaper than what I could get in Australia (even using an online offshore website), and I was able to additionally get them tax free and with a 5% discount for paying with Visa due to a visa promotion.<br />
<br />
All up I saved about $60, which was great. I'm still using these headphones now and they perform really well, my only slight complaint is that they are a bit heavy.<br />
<br />
Along with my Shure SRH840 purchase I also picked up some audio-technica ear buds which cost only 1000 yen each, but sound really good; comparable to many mid to high end ear buds.<br />
<br />
Once evening hit it was time for some karaoke!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PB06iMmO_Fs/WG3Yrrk66HI/AAAAAAAAG5I/JwC7rfTH8n4U8ZfwvN0TnJL_qkJTfsk7ACLcB/s1600/2015-02-14%2B17.51.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PB06iMmO_Fs/WG3Yrrk66HI/AAAAAAAAG5I/JwC7rfTH8n4U8ZfwvN0TnJL_qkJTfsk7ACLcB/s320/2015-02-14%2B17.51.29.jpg" width="219" /></a>We went to the Big Echo in Akihabara near the station and ended up with a room that had a great view out over the train line.<br />
<br />
Another plus was we got an electronic ordering tablet for the first time which meant we could order food and drinks for the room without having to ring up on the phone. This is a huge plus it’s always difficult talking on the karaoke phones, especially in Japanese.<br />
<br />
As it was Saturday night in the middle of Akihabara we probably payed the highest hourly rate in all of Japan for karaoke which meant, with the addition of a few alcoholic drinks each our bill came to around 8000 yen for two hours.<br />
<br />
This was much much higher than usual, but still- really not that bad!<br />
<br />
Tomorrow we'll be travelling to Chiba to do some indoor go karting!<br />
<br />
<i><a href="https://microseism.blogspot.jp/2017/01/day-22-chiba-and-tokyo.html">Continue reading: Day 22: Chiba and Tokyo </a></i></div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-65136846538335123612016-11-15T22:24:00.000+10:002017-01-05T15:40:34.543+10:00Day 20: Zao Onsen<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d07GCmaTJn8/WCm4NrwhdUI/AAAAAAAAG3k/KiAtILnuoLU_Va9H2M9fAuBJ4n5KvdQHQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B15.46.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d07GCmaTJn8/WCm4NrwhdUI/AAAAAAAAG3k/KiAtILnuoLU_Va9H2M9fAuBJ4n5KvdQHQCLcB/s640/2015-02-13%2B15.46.59.jpg" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Zao Onsen ropeway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Friday, 13 February 2015</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<i><a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/10/day-19-aomori.html">Continues from Day 19: Aomori</a></i><br />
<br />
According to our itinerary we were actually planning on staying at Nyuto Onsen tonight, but we’d actually had to change our plans mid-trip as the hotel we booked wasn't able to accommodate us! <br />
<br />
We still really wanted to stay at an onsen town and we set about trying to decide between the various options in Tohoku that would make a good stop on the way down to Tokyo.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_V9OfXSGKsg/WCm3ywgGr1I/AAAAAAAAG3Q/pKxj7g4mcOIzt00hrGg8XrEFZTDe3kGDgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B07.53.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_V9OfXSGKsg/WCm3ywgGr1I/AAAAAAAAG3Q/pKxj7g4mcOIzt00hrGg8XrEFZTDe3kGDgCLcB/s400/2015-02-13%2B07.53.28.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View over Aomori from the Sun Route Hotel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Takayu and Ginzan Onsen were among the options considered, however we ultimately decided on Zao Onsen as it had the added feature of the snow monsters. <br />
<br />
So, after awaking in the morning in Aomori we enjoyed breakfast on the top floor of our hotel. This was actually quite unusual as every other time we’ve had a meal at a hotel in Japan it has been on the first or second floor.<br />
<br />
From the top floor we got a nice view out over Aomori, which was a real nice perk of this hotel.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jgA3x_0pB0o/WCm33Qw2ewI/AAAAAAAAG3U/2AybNCOifJ0n-Zt60zsfIbU9s3ArGmK1QCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B07.24.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jgA3x_0pB0o/WCm33Qw2ewI/AAAAAAAAG3U/2AybNCOifJ0n-Zt60zsfIbU9s3ArGmK1QCLcB/s320/2015-02-13%2B07.24.31.jpg" width="320" /></a>Additionally the food was a lot fancier than usual, we even had some soup that was cooked using the cool candle set-up usually seen in ryokan.<br />
<br />
After breakfast we caught a shinkansen all the way down to Sendai where we changed to a regular train which took us across to Yamagata city and prefecture. This second train was actually on the same line that we had caught last week when we visited the Nikka Whiskey Distillery. If we’d had known we were coming here earlier it we could have visited along the way.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QDGNeF90VIA/WCm3x4vGSfI/AAAAAAAAG3M/I1lO7fOL5yMTnQ40VemfdHzenHsMkvttACLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B13.13.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QDGNeF90VIA/WCm3x4vGSfI/AAAAAAAAG3M/I1lO7fOL5yMTnQ40VemfdHzenHsMkvttACLcB/s320/2015-02-13%2B13.13.32.jpg" width="320" /></a>Zao Onsen is named after Mount Zao which is an active volcano located further up slope.<br />
<br />
Speaking of slopes Zao Onsen is also one of Japan’s best ski resorts and apart from the snow monsters, the onsen themselves are famous for being one of the most acidic in all of Japan; with a pH approaching 1. <br />
<br />
To get to the town from Yamagata Station we changed to a bus which took around forty minutes and cost one thousand yen. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RvClPZGBVss/WCm41C-VaWI/AAAAAAAAG4E/awbyLA0D7Nw5i00Rs2-aC8LEKFY-OI_5ACLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B17.01.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RvClPZGBVss/WCm41C-VaWI/AAAAAAAAG4E/awbyLA0D7Nw5i00Rs2-aC8LEKFY-OI_5ACLcB/s320/2015-02-13%2B17.01.19.jpg" width="320" /></a>When we arrived at Zao we found the town and streets were completely covered by snow and ice which made navigating the streets to our hotel very slippery and difficult.<br />
<br />
We gingerly made our way to our ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inn), Matukaneya,which sadly wasn’t all that close to the bus terminal.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hX-xyXXn0vY/WCm4ADPExqI/AAAAAAAAG3c/dkI4z9LkXOcrB8M3g-drsmbBKgbzHeF4ACLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B15.10.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hX-xyXXn0vY/WCm4ADPExqI/AAAAAAAAG3c/dkI4z9LkXOcrB8M3g-drsmbBKgbzHeF4ACLcB/s320/2015-02-13%2B15.10.14.jpg" width="320" /></a>Upon arriving at our ryokan we were welcomed and shown to our room where we found some delicious snacks consisting of apples, biscuits and some wagashi or Japanese sweets.<br />
<br />
I actually wanted to buy some of the wagashi and biscuits from the <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h1huhWSTvw0/WCm4IDC47mI/AAAAAAAAG3g/c3Hjt3iLZ7klBO7w0iENd321UxkhAs5aACLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B15.17.49.jpg">ryokan's souvenir store</a> to take back home though I had to settle on just
the biscuits due to expiry dates and ease of storage. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hnk2Lxh12nA/WCm37OprKlI/AAAAAAAAG3Y/SDnF9mKoxBQUUgsUyRzToyAOJzBEHjzkgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B14.51.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hnk2Lxh12nA/WCm37OprKlI/AAAAAAAAG3Y/SDnF9mKoxBQUUgsUyRzToyAOJzBEHjzkgCLcB/s320/2015-02-13%2B14.51.14.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WSUvDVF69nk/WCm4t8evhRI/AAAAAAAAG38/_cG8gWSDE-sblTmB2F2PcfXFYrsCtdx0ACLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B16.35.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WSUvDVF69nk/WCm4t8evhRI/AAAAAAAAG38/_cG8gWSDE-sblTmB2F2PcfXFYrsCtdx0ACLcB/s640/2015-02-13%2B16.35.15.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c2n6jToSmCg/WCm4XnxmnbI/AAAAAAAAG3o/ljXYiuUXngUtW5QW_vfSfJoCkYwXHAOmgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B16.20.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c2n6jToSmCg/WCm4XnxmnbI/AAAAAAAAG3o/ljXYiuUXngUtW5QW_vfSfJoCkYwXHAOmgCLcB/s400/2015-02-13%2B16.20.16.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<br />
Next we ventured back out into the snow and ice and caught a series of ropeways all the way up to the mountain summit.<br />
<br />
This is where the snow monsters can be found!<br />
<br />
Snow monsters or Juhyo (Tree Ice) are a rare phenomenon that only occur on a few mountains around the world.<br />
<br />
What needs to happen is extremely cold water and snow needs to blow strongly from the same direction within a certain temperature range. If the temperature is too hot the ice will melt and if it's too cold the ice won't cling to the trees. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8GpdXhhICM/WCm4i_NOk1I/AAAAAAAAG30/FyFH9pSKHGYnwzdKrXLKTIiCdDV44-f9QCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B16.22.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8GpdXhhICM/WCm4i_NOk1I/AAAAAAAAG30/FyFH9pSKHGYnwzdKrXLKTIiCdDV44-f9QCLcB/s400/2015-02-13%2B16.22.35.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
These conditions are met in Zao when the cold Siberian wind blows across the moisture rich Sea of Japan.<br />
<br />
When this super cold, moisture laden air hits the mountain trees the snow and ice drops out of the air and creates a thick wintery coat, forming the snow monsters.<br />
<br />
The snow monsters gradually build up in size through winter and February is the best time to see them!<br />
<br />
Now, when they say cold Siberian wind, they’re not kidding.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FT-e_cZXVZ4/WCm4cLaZLjI/AAAAAAAAG3w/uNj8pEa_JVE6ng1CiSYxKGA30aQqOdQAwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B16.21.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FT-e_cZXVZ4/WCm4cLaZLjI/AAAAAAAAG3w/uNj8pEa_JVE6ng1CiSYxKGA30aQqOdQAwCLcB/s400/2015-02-13%2B16.21.59.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
IT WAS FREEZING AT THE TOP!!!<br />
<br />
When we got there we saw that the temperature was reading -20 degrees Celsius and it was blowing an absolute gale.<br />
<br />
Despite our thick winter jackets, beanie and gloves we couldn’t stay outside for longer than about two minutes before starting to get unbearably cold. <br />
<br />
The top of the gondola had a heated resting area where we could defrost before going outside to be assaulted by the wind, snow and cold again.
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzPEoq5idPU/WCm4ktksoXI/AAAAAAAAG34/6u3QVsX13Gg2ge76tv2Cr2IvtguaHw_twCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B16.23.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzPEoq5idPU/WCm4ktksoXI/AAAAAAAAG34/6u3QVsX13Gg2ge76tv2Cr2IvtguaHw_twCLcB/s400/2015-02-13%2B16.23.17.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Being outside at the top of the Zao ski resort was easily the coldest cold I have ever experienced and I felt for the first time that I would actually die if I stayed out there for too long.<br />
<br />
Due to the weather conditions we actually couldn’t see heaps of snow monsters though we did managed to glimse quite a few all the same. And in any case it was worth coming up here just to experience the cold. <br />
<br />
When it was time to come back down the ropeway we were able to enjoy a great view of heaps of snow covered trees, so we didn’t miss out at all!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jeq3YHfc4Uo/WCm4YNIU3fI/AAAAAAAAG3s/xY9VtxGGpUYPk465_NbqvhbPjS5I1nbIQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B16.21.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jeq3YHfc4Uo/WCm4YNIU3fI/AAAAAAAAG3s/xY9VtxGGpUYPk465_NbqvhbPjS5I1nbIQCLcB/s400/2015-02-13%2B16.21.49.jpg" width="400" /></a>After returning back to our ryokan we enjoyed the hot spring onsen which, as mentioned earlier, are among the most acidic in all of Japan. Due to this there are actually four separate baths at our hotel, which equates to two different types for each gender to choose from.<br />
<br />
The first is the super acidic onsen water and the other has waters which have been neutralised somewhat. <br />
<br />
I tried both types. The normal pH onsen was nice and like any other but the pH 1 onsen bath was quite different. No one else was in there and I found that no soup or any chemicals were provided to wash with beforehand.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KCd0ynjrgJA/WCm43bXpcnI/AAAAAAAAG4I/tAp_5uVolSsMJOdvxb9NclmwlWbe3stOACLcB/s1600/2015-02-13%2B18.59.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KCd0ynjrgJA/WCm43bXpcnI/AAAAAAAAG4I/tAp_5uVolSsMJOdvxb9NclmwlWbe3stOACLcB/s400/2015-02-13%2B18.59.08.jpg" width="400" /></a>However there were signs indicating that you just had to rinse off and hop in. I did this and found that the water actually did sting a little bit.<br />
<br />
It wasn’t too bad but I’m not sure if I’d want to stay in there for too long as the acidity is the same as battery acid.<br />
<br />
For dinner we enjoyed a delicious kaiseki ryori feast for dinner which is one of the staples of a ryokan stay. The main feature was Zao beef which we fried up on a hotplate- it was really delicious!<br />
<br />
We also ordered some nihonshu (sake) which made a great accompaniment!<br />
<br />
Tomorrow we'll be hopping back on the shinkansen to complete our return to Tokyo. </div>
<br />
<i><a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2017/01/day-21-zao-onsen-tokyo.html">Continue reading: Day 21: Zao Onsen & Tokyo </a></i><br />
<br />
<br />Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-79223025537458342322016-10-11T17:41:00.000+10:002016-11-15T22:25:53.729+10:00Day 19: Aomori<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nSGeLSLdedc/V_yUOgi5cmI/AAAAAAAAG2c/1QhGsvgPpio7rbnILnrZCNp-dwjZfoiHQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-12%2B15.23.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nSGeLSLdedc/V_yUOgi5cmI/AAAAAAAAG2c/1QhGsvgPpio7rbnILnrZCNp-dwjZfoiHQCLcB/s400/2015-02-12%2B15.23.19.jpg" width="400" /></a><b>Thursday, 12 February 2015</b><i> </i><br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/09/day-18-sapporo-and-otaru-snow-light.html">Continues from: Day 18: Sapporo and Otaru Snow Light Path Festival</a></i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
This morning is our last in Hokkaido and today is a bit of a travel day as we'll be making our way down for a night in Aomori at the top of Honshu.<br />
<br />
We left early and caught two trains, the first was a limited express to Hakodate which took about three hours.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WfTEl90s_Jw/V_yT07DomhI/AAAAAAAAG2Q/PDfFDPw8StMYVR64RsStWjfdlpQp_Zy6wCLcB/s1600/2015-02-12%2B09.40.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WfTEl90s_Jw/V_yT07DomhI/AAAAAAAAG2Q/PDfFDPw8StMYVR64RsStWjfdlpQp_Zy6wCLcB/s200/2015-02-12%2B09.40.10.jpg" width="151" /></a>Next we changed to another limited express which travelled through the 53.85km long undersea Seikan tunnel to Aomori in around three hours.<br />
<br />
All up the journey took around six hours but it was very comfortable, relaxing and we enjoyed the sights outside the window while we ate some of the ice cream sold on board. <br />
<br />
There's actually been massive developments along the Seikan Tunnel since this trip as the Shinkansen line has been extended all the way to Hakodate. This has cut travel times by half and you can now travel between Aomori and Hakodate in as little as one hour.<br />
<br />
Arriving into Aomori in the mid-afternoon we found that the city was covered in a thick layer of snow!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5CHhNm9aVc/V_yT9YTChOI/AAAAAAAAG2U/HpU4hNMQ_bM0FUikTTW5OEUPA-htS0WNQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-12%2B10.59.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5CHhNm9aVc/V_yT9YTChOI/AAAAAAAAG2U/HpU4hNMQ_bM0FUikTTW5OEUPA-htS0WNQCLcB/s320/2015-02-12%2B10.59.01.jpg" width="320" /></a>The first thing we did was make our way to our hotel so they could hold our luggage. We were staying at the Hotel Sun Route Aomori which wasn't quite as conveniently located as the Tokyo Inn we had used last time we were in Aomori.<br />
<br />
Next we went to the Furukawa Fish Market which has a really cool system where you can make your own seafood donburi (rice bowl). What you do is buy tickets and then exchange the tickets for a bowl of rice as well as small portions of food sold by each vender to be used as toppings. The tickets are around 100 yen each and sold in sets of five or ten.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Y30q0Sulrg/V_yUFsK9rtI/AAAAAAAAG2Y/35TniQGQthck3r2ZpKX4aeJKjPdzoj_7ACLcB/s1600/2015-02-12%2B15.21.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Y30q0Sulrg/V_yUFsK9rtI/AAAAAAAAG2Y/35TniQGQthck3r2ZpKX4aeJKjPdzoj_7ACLcB/s320/2015-02-12%2B15.21.20.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2N-kk9Y4zTI/V_yUTHa3XjI/AAAAAAAAG2g/0V8FUCZjyTUxyPM2hPDTeygK2tPqbJ_iwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-12%2B15.24.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2N-kk9Y4zTI/V_yUTHa3XjI/AAAAAAAAG2g/0V8FUCZjyTUxyPM2hPDTeygK2tPqbJ_iwCLcB/s320/2015-02-12%2B15.24.37.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
There's a heap of variety of toppings such as fish, crab, shellfish, seaweed, fish eggs, omelette, vegetables and pickles.<br />
<br />
The food looked really clean and was well presented.<br />
<br />
Although this is what we planned for lunch I'm sorry to say that we actually didn't get any of this as it was around 3pm and we were really too hungry for raw fish.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUelgsgpzz0/V_yUb6mMKjI/AAAAAAAAG2s/sR6duOjwdWEQ_3hBRMHcrIAadxHQdtJpQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-12%2B16.20.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUelgsgpzz0/V_yUb6mMKjI/AAAAAAAAG2s/sR6duOjwdWEQ_3hBRMHcrIAadxHQdtJpQCLcB/s320/2015-02-12%2B16.20.00.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thick layer of snow, will be difficult to ride home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Instead we ended up going to Otoya which is one of our favourite chain restaurants in Japan.<br />
<br />
They serve a variety of Japanese set meals and this one in Aomori was actually the first we went to back in 2012.<br />
<br />
In the evening we went to Karaoke!<br />
<br />
Aomori sadly doesn't have a huge number of Karaoke places and we were disappointed to find that the local Big Echo only had smoking rooms available.<br />
<br />
Instead we went to Karoke Maneki Neko, which is actually another large chain and in Aomori it was bigger than Big Echo and also had non-smoking rooms!<br />
<br />
The only stumbling block is you have to be a member to hire a room, and this was a bit tricky as the sign up form was all in Japanese and assumed we lived in Japan. It was a touch screen though which was nice.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HaJtnXMWa94/V_yUXiMAS0I/AAAAAAAAG2k/e0COqxqxCOIzetZl6F2qWBJ8nLR_rfpYACLcB/s1600/2015-02-12%2B17.29.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HaJtnXMWa94/V_yUXiMAS0I/AAAAAAAAG2k/e0COqxqxCOIzetZl6F2qWBJ8nLR_rfpYACLcB/s200/2015-02-12%2B17.29.03.jpg" width="200" /></a>I ended muddling through and used our hotels address and phone number- the lady at the front desk didn't seem to mind at all. Once I had finished my photo was taken and we were all set!<br />
<br />
We sung for two hours and had a heap of fun!<br />
<br />
Tomorrow we were planning on visiting Nyuto Onsen, but are instead going to Zao Onsen to see the snow monsers!
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://microseism.blogspot.com/2016/11/day-20-zao-onsen.html"><i>Continue reading Day 20: Zao Onsen</i></a>
</div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-18420713592560626402016-09-24T22:27:00.002+10:002016-10-11T17:45:41.067+10:00Day 18: Sapporo and Otaru Snow Light Path Festival<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KG8sebeC_wk/V-ZnDs8cLZI/AAAAAAAAG1I/RyO4kod5kcEB0lgMs0agqpIBRP_u_JbKACLcB/s1600/IMG_3680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KG8sebeC_wk/V-ZnDs8cLZI/AAAAAAAAG1I/RyO4kod5kcEB0lgMs0agqpIBRP_u_JbKACLcB/s400/IMG_3680.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Otatru snow light path candles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Wednesday, 11 February 2015</b><br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-17-sapporo-snow-festival.html">Continues from: Day 17: Sapporo snow festival</a></i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today we were having another go at a Round One Stadium before travelling to Otaru to view the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival!<br />
<br />
Borrowing from my description a few days ago, Round One Stadium is a chain of sports entertainment centres located across Japan.<br />
<br />
Each centre offers some combination of bowling, karaoke, arcade games and UFO catchers, billiards, darts, baseball batting and pitching, table tennis and spocha.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zo0u68rewzw/V-Zma5sYS4I/AAAAAAAAG0k/jxrl-Hi3b2EhEGijtJTaD5RHuP3NCd00gCLcB/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zo0u68rewzw/V-Zma5sYS4I/AAAAAAAAG0k/jxrl-Hi3b2EhEGijtJTaD5RHuP3NCd00gCLcB/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gyukaku yakiniku</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Spocha is a special section where for around 2,000 yen you can enjoy soccer, basketball, mini-bowling, golf driving, archery, volleyball, badminton, baseball batting, baseball pitching, darts, mini-motor racing, billiards, fishing, frisbee, ping-pong, pool, shooting, bubble soccer, roller blading, tennis, shooting, arcade games, mechanical bull riding, massage chairs, karaoke plus heaps of free arcade and amusement games and more for three hours.<br />
<br />
As mentioned we did this in Hakodate a little over a week ago but unfortunately had to leave in a hurry as we overestimated the amount of time we had available. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-akkOGHrDjJ4/V-ZmXmizQ6I/AAAAAAAAG0g/VNf4YRx-_LE4ErVlhgwISS9Cnou0BqMAwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-11%2B18.01.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-akkOGHrDjJ4/V-ZmXmizQ6I/AAAAAAAAG0g/VNf4YRx-_LE4ErVlhgwISS9Cnou0BqMAwCLcB/s320/2015-02-11%2B18.01.26.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
So today was attempt two!<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, we found that this was smaller than the one in Hakodate and as it was also a public holiday the place was packed.<br />
<br />
We still had lots of fun though as we stayed much longer so we ultimately got to do lots more activities and games.<br />
<br />
Most of the sporting courts and equipment have timers so no one was able to hog things for too long which was great.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dum34BqfpuI/V-ZmuVkpmeI/AAAAAAAAG04/KW2Y2d7wZck39UVD90S80cvZLfbQPdPQACLcB/s1600/IMG_3671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dum34BqfpuI/V-ZmuVkpmeI/AAAAAAAAG04/KW2Y2d7wZck39UVD90S80cvZLfbQPdPQACLcB/s400/IMG_3671.JPG" width="400" /></a>After thoroughly enjoying ourselves we caught a train to the nearby coastal town of Otaru for dinner at Gyu-Kaku which is a well-known Yakiniku chain.<br />
<br />
At Yakuniku (Korean Barbeque) you get to cook your own food using a little fire in the middle of your table.<br />
<br />
The food largely consists of lots of meat, particularly pork and beef but also chicken and seafood.<br />
<br />
You can also order vegetables to fry up as well, cabbage is popular but the big oyster mushrooms were my favourite.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c-7veLlT4ac/V-Zm04_p9JI/AAAAAAAAG08/qZDIIXfQH8UpZ1nsp5hC5jN9s8D5dQbKACLcB/s1600/IMG_3673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c-7veLlT4ac/V-Zm04_p9JI/AAAAAAAAG08/qZDIIXfQH8UpZ1nsp5hC5jN9s8D5dQbKACLcB/s320/IMG_3673.JPG" width="320" /></a>
It was a lot of fun and the food was amazingly delicious!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oNL1lDwHmN0/V-Zm4vSXUdI/AAAAAAAAG1A/QrE9LJj-kdEuQTO0WhxMphhmum3_5WFfACLcB/s1600/IMG_3674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oNL1lDwHmN0/V-Zm4vSXUdI/AAAAAAAAG1A/QrE9LJj-kdEuQTO0WhxMphhmum3_5WFfACLcB/s320/IMG_3674.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E0utlgi6Okw/V-ZoVuXv4oI/AAAAAAAAG1k/SM5dQ9G6qKsnaeMQPg12Q9ueefdGNHS3wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E0utlgi6Okw/V-ZoVuXv4oI/AAAAAAAAG1k/SM5dQ9G6qKsnaeMQPg12Q9ueefdGNHS3wCLcB/s400/IMG_3664.JPG" width="400" /></a>After that we went outside and walking along the Otaru Snow Light Path.<br />
<br />
Otaru is a small city known for its harbour and historically preserved canal area.<br />
<br />
It's only a half hour train ride from Sapporo and also includes the original Nikka Whiskey Distillery, Herring Mansion and other historical sights, so it's a great day trip.<br />
<br />
We came for a night trip though in order to see the Otaru Snow Light Path which is a festival held every year in February, around the same time as the Sapporo Snow Festival we had visited yesterday.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-To5uZGpQ-GY/V-ZmfVtZkUI/AAAAAAAAG0o/JqtkvlgwFmkdvXyjIEurEh5x548UYnJLwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-11%2B19.48.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-To5uZGpQ-GY/V-ZmfVtZkUI/AAAAAAAAG0o/JqtkvlgwFmkdvXyjIEurEh5x548UYnJLwCLcB/s400/2015-02-11%2B19.48.51.jpg" width="223" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I8gIS-d2djI/V-Zm9bvMsLI/AAAAAAAAG1E/8WB4mH7tnhQtYOjRBS-Ryqhi0L2Xmg7jACLcB/s1600/IMG_3679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I8gIS-d2djI/V-Zm9bvMsLI/AAAAAAAAG1E/8WB4mH7tnhQtYOjRBS-Ryqhi0L2Xmg7jACLcB/s400/IMG_3679.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ID0OmTkpX5o/V-ZnH3CmU8I/AAAAAAAAG1M/RdGd-Ce55cI032X6RKxfP11VWFr2h9_nwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ID0OmTkpX5o/V-ZnH3CmU8I/AAAAAAAAG1M/RdGd-Ce55cI032X6RKxfP11VWFr2h9_nwCLcB/s400/IMG_3683.JPG" width="400" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The festival in Otaru causes the city to be decorated in lights and small snow statues filled with candles which glitter and flicker, creating an enchanted atmosphere.<br />
<br />
We walked by thousands of little statues and candles both though the town and then along one of the canals.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yt_Mg39xLd0/V-ZnOucO9zI/AAAAAAAAG1U/jcR4plf1Gvwz9woyxbvCqU9ozTiB-fqFQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yt_Mg39xLd0/V-ZnOucO9zI/AAAAAAAAG1U/jcR4plf1Gvwz9woyxbvCqU9ozTiB-fqFQCLcB/s400/IMG_3688.JPG" width="400" /></a>The canal also had little candles floating in the water and is flanked by snow covered old warehouses.<br />
<br />
Once we made our way back to Otaru station I bought some Japanese Pudding (purin) to enjoy on the train ride back.<br />
<br />
It was super delicious!<br />
<br />
Tomorrow we'll be leaving Hokkaido and visiting Aomori at the top of Honshu!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/10/day-19-aomori.html"><i>Continue reading: Day 19: Aomori </i> </a></div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-29556788522662216252016-08-30T15:43:00.000+10:002016-09-24T22:29:39.460+10:00Day 17: Sapporo snow festival<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bvgHqnMQG3Y/V8QvnqPAgNI/AAAAAAAAGy4/cHITd-M9UlIsOwMzv-9fRD0TRN3mwfBsgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B12.50.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bvgHqnMQG3Y/V8QvnqPAgNI/AAAAAAAAGy4/cHITd-M9UlIsOwMzv-9fRD0TRN3mwfBsgCLcB/s640/2015-02-10%2B12.50.58.jpg" width="470" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Huge star wars snow sculpture!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Tuesday, 10 February 2015 </b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-16-kushiro-marshland-sapporo.html">Continues from Day 16: Kushiro Marshland & Sapporo</a></i><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today we were in Sapporo for the Sapporo Snow Festival!<br />
<br />
The event is Japan's largest winter festival and takes place every year during a week in February.<br />
<br />
It first began in the 1950's when school students would build snow sculptures in the main Odori Park but has now grown into a huge event with over two million visitors each year.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6dnzOQOnG8E/V8Qwc6eJ6TI/AAAAAAAAGzQ/w2pV81fIOqcviNNsqE6oW9T0HcW4H7oXACLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B12.14.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6dnzOQOnG8E/V8Qwc6eJ6TI/AAAAAAAAGzQ/w2pV81fIOqcviNNsqE6oW9T0HcW4H7oXACLcB/s400/2015-02-10%2B12.14.36.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Apart from the stalls and snow sculptures along Odori park, the festival has also spread to ice sculptures in Susukino and family oriented activities and rides around Tsu Dome.<br />
<br />
As we thought the festival will be more interesting in the afternoon we decided to have a look at Sapporo Factory first which is a large shopping and entertainment facility located within walking distance of our hotel.<br />
<br />
There's around 200 shops here, but most interestingly is that the site is the result of the redevelopment of Japan's first beer brewery.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O1d9KnbZjrg/V8QwHgvq6bI/AAAAAAAAGy8/UeC29Bzdmv0qnIMEsjzEV5eWSU_pAeFsQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B11.35.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O1d9KnbZjrg/V8QwHgvq6bI/AAAAAAAAGy8/UeC29Bzdmv0qnIMEsjzEV5eWSU_pAeFsQCLcB/s400/2015-02-10%2B11.35.02.jpg" width="400" /></a>There's a few old red brick buildings around and also some equipment and such which is used to decorate the place.<br />
<br />
Apparently there's also a functioning brewery on site as well.<br />
<br />
We had a look around and it was a pretty nice place to explore, especially the atrium area which was a really pleasant open space.<br />
<br />
On the ground floor there were some eateries where I got a chocolate banana crepe and Kate ate some prawn dumplings.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MsdiOniEri4/V8QwPtfw9CI/AAAAAAAAGzE/uiT5LksGiPsibG_FpKnFNR947V_t3MV0gCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B12.08.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MsdiOniEri4/V8QwPtfw9CI/AAAAAAAAGzE/uiT5LksGiPsibG_FpKnFNR947V_t3MV0gCLcB/s320/2015-02-10%2B12.08.11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow miku promotion </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Something I noticed near one of the grocery stores was that there were refrigerated lockers you could use to keep your groceries cool, which was interesting. <br />
<br />
After that we walked down to the Sapporo snow festival at Odori Park!<br />
<br />
There were lots of huge snow sculptures which featured some real world places such as the Hsing Tian Kong Temple (Taipei, Taiwan), Toy Town (Japan) and Todaiji Temple (Nara). <br />
<br />
There were also popular culture sculptures such as a huge Star Wars display, as well as Sanzae-san, Girls und Panzer and Love Live.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mBmH5UBwub4/V8QwmAW5bdI/AAAAAAAAGzc/qRskTBNcYQ448dl-DRWj4yVLemfUsV3lwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B13.01.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mBmH5UBwub4/V8QwmAW5bdI/AAAAAAAAGzc/qRskTBNcYQ448dl-DRWj4yVLemfUsV3lwCLcB/s400/2015-02-10%2B13.01.27.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hsing Tian Kong Temple (Taipei, Taiwan)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some of the biggest were over 15 metres high.<br />
<br />
There were also commercial sculptures, for example Nissin the cup noodle company had a few on display.<br />
<br />
Apart
from the sculptures there was also people doing cool tricks on a snow
jump ramp.<br />
<br />
A lot of people actually fell over trying to do their jumps, I
think they were having a competition, it was fun to watch at any rate!<br />
<br />
The stalls mainly consisted of various food and drinks and we were tempted into buying some <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Zqv-1r-1r8/V8Qwl5UIORI/AAAAAAAAGzY/6AhcWBqTeJordxsw8wcxyPFPCpXpppFJQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B13.05.45.jpg">hot red wine</a> which we though would warm us up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mKoKQL7_of8/V8QwaBuK-MI/AAAAAAAAGzM/UC9VuAmIMYYvkMPNc8vaSiTDaVS0jijgQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B12.35.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mKoKQL7_of8/V8QwaBuK-MI/AAAAAAAAGzM/UC9VuAmIMYYvkMPNc8vaSiTDaVS0jijgQCLcB/s640/2015-02-10%2B12.35.00.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fvvTbV2t2zM/V8QwpF3I3OI/AAAAAAAAGzg/GtUvHRSxiuckhjtCKdwdVt95XETbFu8yQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B13.29.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fvvTbV2t2zM/V8QwpF3I3OI/AAAAAAAAGzg/GtUvHRSxiuckhjtCKdwdVt95XETbFu8yQCLcB/s640/2015-02-10%2B13.29.20.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="text_exposed_show">Todaiji Temple (Nara)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_mRYfaoXuIg/V8QwvhVU16I/AAAAAAAAGzo/SAVdThRC15ULwFAahA-6T0b7AF3xYi5KwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B14.00.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_mRYfaoXuIg/V8QwvhVU16I/AAAAAAAAGzo/SAVdThRC15ULwFAahA-6T0b7AF3xYi5KwCLcB/s320/2015-02-10%2B14.00.17.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="text_exposed_show">Sanzae-san</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-waqoAyGRTCw/V8Qw8oqwCsI/AAAAAAAAGz0/2W2nbv53n_o2I2h-5hK0g-kJA0hh8zljQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B14.34.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-waqoAyGRTCw/V8Qw8oqwCsI/AAAAAAAAGz0/2W2nbv53n_o2I2h-5hK0g-kJA0hh8zljQCLcB/s320/2015-02-10%2B14.34.55.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love Live</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8rInkeGvU60/V8QxJ2_PBiI/AAAAAAAAG0E/9oXhZmmQL5Y-eh15kym0Ivw5uo8qJKWcwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B22.15.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8rInkeGvU60/V8QxJ2_PBiI/AAAAAAAAG0E/9oXhZmmQL5Y-eh15kym0Ivw5uo8qJKWcwCLcB/s400/2015-02-10%2B22.15.04.jpg" width="225" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NFM109lc2Ho/V8QxC923tmI/AAAAAAAAGz8/kc_JNRJQvLAt7fVxCnLXp-ZHZ2JiESwQgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B16.39.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NFM109lc2Ho/V8QxC923tmI/AAAAAAAAGz8/kc_JNRJQvLAt7fVxCnLXp-ZHZ2JiESwQgCLcB/s400/2015-02-10%2B16.39.45.jpg" width="400" /></a>Unfortunately it was absolutely disgusting!<br />
<br />
After pouring that out into a drain we instead found some delicious warm nihonshu (sake) which we enjoyed inside a covered stall.<br />
<br />
While we were drinking them we also talked to some Japanese girls, though I can't remember what about.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--15aXEw6qok/V8QxHehk6LI/AAAAAAAAG0A/e-BdgBLLpjM2QwBpujKW3dk3rs6ZKT4MgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-10%2B20.32.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--15aXEw6qok/V8QxHehk6LI/AAAAAAAAG0A/e-BdgBLLpjM2QwBpujKW3dk3rs6ZKT4MgCLcB/s320/2015-02-10%2B20.32.28.jpg" width="192" /></a><br />
Next we went to have a look at the ice sculptures in Susukino, which were cool!<br />
<br />
For dinner we went to the only yakitori bar in Susukino that had a non-smoking area (though there were also smoking seats).<br />
<br />
After dinner we had some drinks and a parfait at a casual Italian themed cocktail bar.<br />
<br />
The cocktails were not too fancy and many were really just mixed drinks, but again it was one of one two places that was non-smoking!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Tomorrow we will go Round One Sports Entertainment for more sports and games before travelling out to Otaru to see the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/09/day-18-sapporo-and-otaru-snow-light.html"><i>Continue reading: Day 18: Sapporo and Otaru Snow Light Path Festival</i> </a></div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-16391994782302057922016-08-08T23:09:00.000+10:002016-08-30T15:44:16.772+10:00Day 16: Kushiro Marshland & Sapporo<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BSU6mckebBI/V6QZu30ZOXI/AAAAAAAAGxQ/o2Ts0Vgzydoed761GSU02hnOmFB3YaccACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.47.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BSU6mckebBI/V6QZu30ZOXI/AAAAAAAAGxQ/o2Ts0Vgzydoed761GSU02hnOmFB3YaccACLcB/s640/2015-02-09%2B10.47.10.jpg" width="500" /></a><b>Monday, 9 February 2015 </b><br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-15-abashiri-and-kushiro.html">Continues from Day 15: Abashiri and Kushiro</a></i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today we're going on a tour of the Kushiro Shitsugen Marshlands to see Red-Crowned Cranes in the wild before returning to Kushiro via a ride on a steam locomotive (SL) C-11 train!<br />
<br />
Kushiro is a city located on the north eastern coast of Hokkaido and has been an important port city for Japan in modern history.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wgk-GyH6pPA/V6QZDJdRXbI/AAAAAAAAGwo/Hrn7SjijSLwVIwcEkhJAQw_-aquBTOGEACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B09.55.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wgk-GyH6pPA/V6QZDJdRXbI/AAAAAAAAGwo/Hrn7SjijSLwVIwcEkhJAQw_-aquBTOGEACLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B09.55.01.jpg" width="400" /></a>The biggest tourist attraction in the area is the Kushiro Shitsugen Marshland which is the largest wetland in Japan.<br />
<br />
It was established in 1987 as a national park in order to protect the last population of endangered Japanese Cranes in Japan.<br />
<br />
Japanese Cranes are also known as Red-Crowned Cranes or Manchurian Cranes in English and Tanchozuru (丹頂鶴) or just Tancho in Japanese.<br />
<br />
Due to hunting and habitat destruction the birds were thought to be extinct in the wild until a population of around 20 individuals was discovered in 1926 near Kushiro.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9-Fd8wxd69M/V6QY-WHkQJI/AAAAAAAAGwk/mfayHB6RSs4ZNi0UmlrMEzYIyzvKYOWEACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B09.58.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9-Fd8wxd69M/V6QY-WHkQJI/AAAAAAAAGwk/mfayHB6RSs4ZNi0UmlrMEzYIyzvKYOWEACLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B09.58.25.jpg" width="400" /></a>Since then, thanks to substantial efforts their numbers in Japan have recovered to around 1000 birds, however they are still very much an endangered species.<br />
<br />
The birds are quite large, and can reach a height of 150-160cm tall, which is about the height of a person. They have black and white feathers and a red top on their heads.<br />
<br />
Contrary to what you might expect, winter is actually one of the best times to view the cranes.<br />
<br />
Due to the destruction of habitat it’s not possible for the wetlands at their current size to support all of the cranes each winter.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gYuDw1XcxWA/V6QZJVH0dXI/AAAAAAAAGws/BPxc6wuTEHwyj-kveYDHkE07mP8JVxp9ACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.28.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gYuDw1XcxWA/V6QZJVH0dXI/AAAAAAAAGws/BPxc6wuTEHwyj-kveYDHkE07mP8JVxp9ACLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B10.28.24.jpg" width="400" /></a>In order to ensure that the cranes survive through winter a number of feeding locations have been established around the marshland.<br />
<br />
Each day the cranes gather to feed and dance and can be viewed and photographed from the viewing areas provided.<br />
<br />
During the planning stage of our trip we were concerned about how to actually get to these viewing areas as the wetlands are spread out over a large area and although there are one or two public buses they are incredibly inconvenient.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wt8SpvLjGLA/V6QZKys_AJI/AAAAAAAAGww/Ul4FQ6KgjG86_PvWxsyGBXVncSFdVd_jQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.30.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wt8SpvLjGLA/V6QZKys_AJI/AAAAAAAAGww/Ul4FQ6KgjG86_PvWxsyGBXVncSFdVd_jQCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B10.30.36.jpg" width="400" /></a>Hiring a car is the general suggestion but we were not really keen on this as neither of us had ever driven in snow or ice before and didn't want to learn in Japan.<br />
<br />
After a bit of searching on Japanese websites though I happened to find a day tour offered by a local bus company!<br />
<br />
The tour, information and booking form were all completely in Japanese, but was otherwise perfect as it would not only take us to all the main sights but was also designed to line up with the timetable of one of JR Hokkaido's sightseeing steam trains!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-THrAQPN2hi4/V6QZTpx45eI/AAAAAAAAGw4/KdnbaVZfaN8mnklLNXyAbnXGUn-RPzmbACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.36.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-THrAQPN2hi4/V6QZTpx45eI/AAAAAAAAGw4/KdnbaVZfaN8mnklLNXyAbnXGUn-RPzmbACLcB/s320/2015-02-09%2B10.36.06.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-exv9rh8htSo/V6QZO7NkXQI/AAAAAAAAGw0/qV0R5Y0cu30BbpEORwYGZeb_HzQE6ACLQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.34.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-exv9rh8htSo/V6QZO7NkXQI/AAAAAAAAGw0/qV0R5Y0cu30BbpEORwYGZeb_HzQE6ACLQCLcB/s320/2015-02-09%2B10.34.20.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdQXHKqk5qQ/V6Qb3f5yYUI/AAAAAAAAGyk/Tvp80ppu5j4Fmx8LRY15aXkmg0GdBswcACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.43.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdQXHKqk5qQ/V6Qb3f5yYUI/AAAAAAAAGyk/Tvp80ppu5j4Fmx8LRY15aXkmg0GdBswcACLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B10.43.36.jpg" width="400" /></a>The tours are run by Akan Bus and the one we went on is called the <a href="http://www.akanbus.co.jp/sightse/w002.html">Shitsugen 55Pass de Meguru - Fuyu no Tanchougou</a>.<br />
<br />
So basically when signing up you could decide to be dropped off at one of the stations on the outskirts of Kushiro or you could return all the way back to Kushiro.<br />
<br />
It was cheaper to leave early and we were very happy to learn that the steam train journey was fully covered with the JR pass too. In order to ensure we didn't miss out on a seat on the train we made sure to reserve our ticket as soon as we received our JR pass when we arrived in Japan a couple of weeks ago.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V438Ai2ybpc/V6QY719CSrI/AAAAAAAAGwg/KDn2m3WBy88ZeY5SvD5pF16jLK4sBunfwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B09.46.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V438Ai2ybpc/V6QY719CSrI/AAAAAAAAGwg/KDn2m3WBy88ZeY5SvD5pF16jLK4sBunfwCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B09.46.43.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kushiro Japanese Crane Natural Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We signed up online, and were able to pay when we picked up our tickets on the day of our tour.<br />
<br />
Everyone else on the tour was Japanese, which wasn't much of a surprise.<br />
<br />
The first place we went to was the Kushiroshi Tanchozuru Natural Park or the Kushiro Japanese Crane Natural Park where it's possible to view the cranes year round in a quasi-natural environment.<br />
<br />
We didn't get too much time here, about 20 minutes, so we quickly walked out to see the cranes.<br />
<br />
The park looks a bit like a zoo at first glance with the birds in big cages.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-amdBw2ShWg4/V6QZfnjni1I/AAAAAAAAGxA/qLdlhdiuyK8tC8Le8FqyAi2QWL8F3sFEQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.44.01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-amdBw2ShWg4/V6QZfnjni1I/AAAAAAAAGxA/qLdlhdiuyK8tC8Le8FqyAi2QWL8F3sFEQCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B10.44.01-1.jpg" width="400" /></a>Looking a bit closer though you can see that the fences have no roof and the birds are free to fly off whenever they like.<br />
<br />
The fences are there to give the birds some peace from the humans. Apparently the cranes usually stay within the fences, but do fly off sometimes though they always return.<br />
<br />
This is probably a good place to visit during the non-winter months as it's the most likely place you'll be able to see the cranes.<br />
<br />
During winter it's not as good, at least when we were there, as the place is quite spread out and the snow had half melted into a slush which made walking difficult.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cQWS6GecXfk/V6QZajWK-OI/AAAAAAAAGw8/ERl39gYq_gEFyaECij3TIeyZPiI867NxACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.39.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cQWS6GecXfk/V6QZajWK-OI/AAAAAAAAGw8/ERl39gYq_gEFyaECij3TIeyZPiI867NxACLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B10.39.37.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tancho Observation Center</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We were however able to see and photograph some cranes!<br />
<br />
We were able to get really close to a few too which was really cool. <br />
<br />
Next we went to the Akan International Crane Center which is home to a museum, a breeding centre and is right next to the Tancho Observation Center which overlooks one of the winter feeding grounds.<br />
<br />
Upon arriving we quickly headed to the observation area where we found heaps of people with cameras and ever more cranes!<br />
<br />
I had fun taking photos with everyone else.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ML7nY2JfNiU/V6QZ4ZQdzDI/AAAAAAAAGxY/As56wfpvhmo5em7E47rkD9Jcv0FrizHjACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.47.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ML7nY2JfNiU/V6QZ4ZQdzDI/AAAAAAAAGxY/As56wfpvhmo5em7E47rkD9Jcv0FrizHjACLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B10.47.11.jpg" width="400" /></a>The cranes were very photogenic, hopping and jumping around for the camera.<br />
<br />
After a little while it started snowing quite heavily so we went back inside to have a look at the museum.<br />
<br />
One of the displays showed many different cranes species from around the world, and I learnt that the Brolga which is an Australian bird is also a crane.<br />
<br />
After around an hour at the Akan International Crane Center we hopped back on the bus to go and get some lunch!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RcG0Ls94zAw/V6QZjA7Z8CI/AAAAAAAAGxE/gdbLWzzzngsogAW5W8lLNK7ABpvGUM4aACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.45.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RcG0Ls94zAw/V6QZjA7Z8CI/AAAAAAAAGxE/gdbLWzzzngsogAW5W8lLNK7ABpvGUM4aACLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B10.45.00.jpg" width="291" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2hu6m0hBmPY/V6QZoU_b3AI/AAAAAAAAGxM/B6WzlfniK64HuFSdOAFVBpEKVhuAxWmLQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B10.46.41-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2hu6m0hBmPY/V6QZoU_b3AI/AAAAAAAAGxM/B6WzlfniK64HuFSdOAFVBpEKVhuAxWmLQCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B10.46.41-1.jpg" width="358" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5nz0YfvJa8/V6QZ8kaXzEI/AAAAAAAAGxg/ED_3d7bwdRcBea8l_b0AmetToK8lks3WwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B11.58.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5nz0YfvJa8/V6QZ8kaXzEI/AAAAAAAAGxg/ED_3d7bwdRcBea8l_b0AmetToK8lks3WwCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B11.58.15.jpg" width="400" /></a>We went to the Yamahana-onsen Refre which is an onsen (hot spring) ryokan not too far away. On the way there we also passed the Kushiro zoo.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uAUyic1YvdQ/V6QZ_b8CAWI/AAAAAAAAGxk/cIEo33rW5Xk_ldEgUXmUBFjZWIt32b2OgCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B12.26.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uAUyic1YvdQ/V6QZ_b8CAWI/AAAAAAAAGxk/cIEo33rW5Xk_ldEgUXmUBFjZWIt32b2OgCLcB/s320/2015-02-09%2B12.26.47.jpg" width="249" /></a>For lunch I got a Karaage set meal which came with rice, pickles and miso soup.<br />
<br />
We also shared a small bottle of local nihonshu (sake), which was nice! <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5h02YcAF3uY/V6QaGH62t4I/AAAAAAAAGxo/8SreZ3CYrvks-zu5Ovv9sByptL45xHsDACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B14.33.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5h02YcAF3uY/V6QaGH62t4I/AAAAAAAAGxo/8SreZ3CYrvks-zu5Ovv9sByptL45xHsDACLcB/s640/2015-02-09%2B14.33.13.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x22Bo2ruhO0/V6QaSKyDlHI/AAAAAAAAGx0/kWzlu98-19EQX7PdXSxR4dP6HoN6t5udQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B14.34.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x22Bo2ruhO0/V6QaSKyDlHI/AAAAAAAAGx0/kWzlu98-19EQX7PdXSxR4dP6HoN6t5udQCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B14.34.42.jpg" width="400" /></a>Next we went to the Kushiro Marsh Observatory which has a number of exhibits about the marshland and a view that overlooks the whole area from the roof.<br />
<br />
There's also boardwalks which connect to the Kushiro Shitsugen Viewpoint, though we only had a quick twenty minute stop here so we just enjoyed the view from the roof.<br />
<br />
While we were up there we talked to some middle aged guys who were also on our tour who were surprised that we like sake and that we didn't appear drunk at all, though we really didn't drink much.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfV6fdo7gJk/V6Qad01hZoI/AAAAAAAAGyA/bSdArO3y4ugQecq0GbVwrUvnjzgwxAWzQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B15.30.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfV6fdo7gJk/V6Qad01hZoI/AAAAAAAAGyA/bSdArO3y4ugQecq0GbVwrUvnjzgwxAWzQCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B15.30.47.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6_gNrLPjyzk/V6Qb1uKP6OI/AAAAAAAAGyg/CXZyB-yOjPo3ic_dPkNzTSo405JscRQ6gCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B15.33.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6_gNrLPjyzk/V6Qb1uKP6OI/AAAAAAAAGyg/CXZyB-yOjPo3ic_dPkNzTSo405JscRQ6gCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B15.33.47.jpg" width="235" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mWCkGx_zCwA/V6QaOHY900I/AAAAAAAAGxw/nuo5cz-foPMxF2S6hE9w2zAnGCYrnDzcwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B14.33.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mWCkGx_zCwA/V6QaOHY900I/AAAAAAAAGxw/nuo5cz-foPMxF2S6hE9w2zAnGCYrnDzcwCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B14.33.19.jpg" width="400" /></a>We also looked briefly at the displays inside the building and Kate brought a nice Kushiro keychain which she is still using even now.<br />
<br />
The next part of the tour was a drive through the marshlands where we saw some deer, a red fox and a few more cranes.<br />
<br />
At around 2pm we arrived at the Toro station which was the end point of our tour, as we were getting the steam train back to Kushiro!<br />
<br />
We were actually surprised to find that most people stayed on the bus. After a making our way to the platform we only a had a short wait until the Steam Locomotive (SL) Class C11-171 steam train came chugging along.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q569-_XAbEs/V6QagAJdzWI/AAAAAAAAGyE/GyvMOFz1L2ku95ispGZtN6-vznkEWo1iwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B15.32.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q569-_XAbEs/V6QagAJdzWI/AAAAAAAAGyE/GyvMOFz1L2ku95ispGZtN6-vznkEWo1iwCLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B15.32.07.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
It was really cool!<br />
<br />
Not only was the main engine steam powered but the carriages were also old fashioned and even had little coal burners inside for heating.<br />
<br />
The train made its way back to Kushiro alongside the marsh.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r8CCE88szUc/V6QaXxfFZxI/AAAAAAAAGx8/xdzH-VHUVnkrKLMWOICZPu-CulX41RftACLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B14.46.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r8CCE88szUc/V6QaXxfFZxI/AAAAAAAAGx8/xdzH-VHUVnkrKLMWOICZPu-CulX41RftACLcB/s400/2015-02-09%2B14.46.48.jpg" width="249" /></a>As we got closer to the city we started seeing lots of people out with their cameras taking photos of us as we steamed past.<br />
<br />
I even saw a police officer who had pulled over on the side of the road to take a photo with his camera phone.<br />
<br />
Upon arriving into Kushiro we retrieved our luggage from the hotel for this afternoon's journey to Sapporo.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately the train was delayed due to a winter storm, which seem to have caused some blackouts.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dpe-f9RpIX0/V6Qar23gLGI/AAAAAAAAGyQ/ad2KUnr11GQdttTmlHda_mGQqEaSJAluwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B16.26.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dpe-f9RpIX0/V6Qar23gLGI/AAAAAAAAGyQ/ad2KUnr11GQdttTmlHda_mGQqEaSJAluwCLcB/s320/2015-02-09%2B16.26.19.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marimo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We killed time looking around the station where we found some steam train themed bread as well as some cute balls of moss, which are apparently called marimo and grow in the nearby lake Akan.<br />
<br />
Apparently they are a protected species in Japan and the subject of considerable conservation efforts as they are quite rare and are only known to form in Iceland, Scotland, Japan, Estonia and Australia.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uYMrX-S9RLk/V6Qamu4UnVI/AAAAAAAAGyI/9J-j6xCWlLUgPNZtKIvlvswuTjEejJZfQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-09%2B15.37.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uYMrX-S9RLk/V6Qamu4UnVI/AAAAAAAAGyI/9J-j6xCWlLUgPNZtKIvlvswuTjEejJZfQCLcB/s320/2015-02-09%2B15.37.40.jpg" width="280" /></a>After about an hour or so wait our train turned up and we completed the long four hour journey to Sapporo, arriving at around 10pm.<br />
<br />
We were staying at the Super Hotel in Sapporo, which we were lucky to get as when we went to book we found the city almost entirely booked out due to the Sapporo Snow Festival.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow we'll be attending the Sapporo snow festival!<br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-17-sapporo-snow-festival.html">Continue reading: Day 17: Sapporo snow festival</a></i> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-43464663355830355562016-08-05T13:14:00.001+10:002016-08-08T23:11:43.879+10:00Day 15: Abashiri and Kushiro<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qJc_w_Txm1A/V57aA65pJgI/AAAAAAAAGvk/8n-qLCW9HLMhVnp3DFpnGwKQY7U86fM5ACLcB/s1600/IMG_3315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qJc_w_Txm1A/V57aA65pJgI/AAAAAAAAGvk/8n-qLCW9HLMhVnp3DFpnGwKQY7U86fM5ACLcB/s640/IMG_3315.JPG" width="500" /></a><b>Sunday, 8 February 2015</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/07/day-14-asahikawa-and-kitami.html">Continues from: Day 14: Asahikawa and Kitami</a></i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today<b> </b>we'll be exploring Abashiri which is a town located on the most Northern coast of Japan and famous for its notorious prison and drift ice.<br />
<br />
In the evening we'll continue our journey in Hokkaido around to Kushiro. Abashiri is located at a latitude of 44 degrees north, is the furthest north we've been in Japan and has a reputation for extreme cold.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o4_93K-Oyk4/V57Z7rMUx5I/AAAAAAAAGu0/9LSe5h88-bAEwD2Qs3agHSs4CeiX_oAUwCLcB/s1600/2015-02-08%2B08.02.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o4_93K-Oyk4/V57Z7rMUx5I/AAAAAAAAGu0/9LSe5h88-bAEwD2Qs3agHSs4CeiX_oAUwCLcB/s320/2015-02-08%2B08.02.33.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitami train station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
However, Abashiri is actually slightly further south than Venice in Italy, which is located at 45 degrees north, which really goes to show how much heat the thermohaline circulation or North Atlantic Current adds to Europe.<br />
<br />
Anyway, we actually stayed in Kitami last night as all of the non-smoking rooms in Abashiri had been booked.<br />
<br />
Kitami is about 50km south west of Abashiri, and after waking up and checking out of our hotel we caught a train to Abashiri, which took about one hour.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DLoq5CgL8UU/V57Z-TgTktI/AAAAAAAAGvM/2pkuiaYjKWEJKgj3AbKfL6N80ipU-bOFgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DLoq5CgL8UU/V57Z-TgTktI/AAAAAAAAGvM/2pkuiaYjKWEJKgj3AbKfL6N80ipU-bOFgCLcB/s400/IMG_3281.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sightseeing boat Aurora</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lw7mlL5rlD0/V57aBIqK3-I/AAAAAAAAGvo/eWLRUR2TLQIUcYROLeKswu3b8mxWh9kkgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lw7mlL5rlD0/V57aBIqK3-I/AAAAAAAAGvo/eWLRUR2TLQIUcYROLeKswu3b8mxWh9kkgCLcB/s400/IMG_3326.JPG" width="249" /></a>The reason we came to Abashiri is to see the drift ice!<br />
<br />
Drift ice is frozen sea ice which occurs when ocean water freezes in winter, which occurs around the north and south poles.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gWGGwEbfqz4/V57aCO_f5II/AAAAAAAAGvw/JR3Majl7pFc4TR_JcDOWwkSvQsx5GY_fwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gWGGwEbfqz4/V57aCO_f5II/AAAAAAAAGvw/JR3Majl7pFc4TR_JcDOWwkSvQsx5GY_fwCLcB/s400/IMG_3340.JPG" width="400" /></a>In the northern hemisphere this occurs as far south as the sea of Okhotsk which is where Abashiri is located.<br />
<br />
Although it can sometimes be seen from the coast, the best way to view the drift ice is to catch a sightseeing boat which will travel out into the sea to find some, and then power through it!<br />
<br />
As these cruises can be quite popular it's important to book ahead, in order to ensure you don't miss out.<br />
<br />
We booked a cruise on the Aurora sightseeing boat company.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-38sBBz2xFRQ/V57Z_v0Uz2I/AAAAAAAAGvU/xX2F0HyHztM0eR34qKx5mgySwEBs9fkmgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-38sBBz2xFRQ/V57Z_v0Uz2I/AAAAAAAAGvU/xX2F0HyHztM0eR34qKx5mgySwEBs9fkmgCLcB/s400/IMG_3308.JPG" width="400" /></a>They have an <a href="https://ms-aurora.com/abashiri/en/">English</a> website which has details about their cruises although unfortunately bookings can only be done on their <a href="https://ms-aurora.com/abashiri/reserves/index.html">Japanese</a> website, which is what we used.<br />
<br />
The port is not located too close to the train station but fortunately there is reasonably frequent bus service which we used to get there.<br />
<br />
When we arrived we found heaps of people waiting to get on the next boat!<br />
<br />
The boats are pretty big though and we had already booked, so all we had to do was pay for our ticket and hop on.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n-XnjavFQCI/V57aCP6RttI/AAAAAAAAGv0/GHmrDSjzIqQ9L23cXWcyZZCVVHis2MPkQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n-XnjavFQCI/V57aCP6RttI/AAAAAAAAGv0/GHmrDSjzIqQ9L23cXWcyZZCVVHis2MPkQCLcB/s400/IMG_3353.JPG" width="324" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J8Wxn8nPQD0/V57aBxpWTHI/AAAAAAAAGvs/39SGSueRIsslAiKjONAuIRe3aHLqMOsvACLcB/s1600/IMG_3328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J8Wxn8nPQD0/V57aBxpWTHI/AAAAAAAAGvs/39SGSueRIsslAiKjONAuIRe3aHLqMOsvACLcB/s400/IMG_3328.JPG" width="324" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hy2hJjua93I/V57aDAGrOfI/AAAAAAAAGv8/CuU8okZGtFMkcLLLY1iY5BQhlCarY_EnQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hy2hJjua93I/V57aDAGrOfI/AAAAAAAAGv8/CuU8okZGtFMkcLLLY1iY5BQhlCarY_EnQCLcB/s400/IMG_3363.JPG" width="400" /></a>After a brief ten minute cruise we approached our first drift ice!<br />
<br />
The ice was is fairly thick sheets, but broken up into drifting mats of ice, with most of the sea surface water. A bit further on we came to big sheets where most of the sea was ice!<br />
<br />
The boat the ploughed through the ice which was lots of fun!<br />
<br />
The ice made all sorts of creaking and cracking noises as we broke though.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_SfGnth0CZ8/V57Z_4JcDhI/AAAAAAAAGvY/2d_2lUvh6rUORI5LQSfI0oqHchJq2gEbQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_SfGnth0CZ8/V57Z_4JcDhI/AAAAAAAAGvY/2d_2lUvh6rUORI5LQSfI0oqHchJq2gEbQCLcB/s400/IMG_3298.JPG" width="249" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3likhlRLZUY/V57aCiHZ9wI/AAAAAAAAGv4/HTYS7OJUaXM_nD-mt6B4Ih467A8JNGhuACLcB/s1600/IMG_3358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3likhlRLZUY/V57aCiHZ9wI/AAAAAAAAGv4/HTYS7OJUaXM_nD-mt6B4Ih467A8JNGhuACLcB/s400/IMG_3358.JPG" width="400" /></a>
<br />
We also sailed over some large pieces which caused our boat to list considerably before popping out from the other side with water cascading down.<br />
<br />
Very entertaining!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sCQsgFykzkM/V57aAEAKmMI/AAAAAAAAGvc/sok-xXRry6AbKpc_bRqsvcvr3rv1ll62wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sCQsgFykzkM/V57aAEAKmMI/AAAAAAAAGvc/sok-xXRry6AbKpc_bRqsvcvr3rv1ll62wCLcB/s400/IMG_3311.JPG" width="400" /></a>It was also very cold!<br />
<br />
After about an hour sailing around through the ice the boat returned back to the port.<br />
<br />
There were a few small stalls in the main building and we bought some manju which are a sweet bun filled usually with red bean (anko), but also custard and other flavours.<br />
<br />
In Japan, Abashiri is most famous for one thing: the prison.<br />
<br />
The prison was built in the 1800's to hold Japan's most dangerous criminals and was located in Abashiri due to its remoteness.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xei61wljzt8/V57aDe9IbDI/AAAAAAAAGwA/AN1d5iuyt6o3t2Xc3G9zQXfyy2770gddwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xei61wljzt8/V57aDe9IbDI/AAAAAAAAGwA/AN1d5iuyt6o3t2Xc3G9zQXfyy2770gddwCLcB/s320/IMG_3370.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
It's a bit like the Alcatraz of Japan.<br />
<br />
There still is an operating prison in Abashiri though it was modernised in the 1980's and the old buildings were moved to the Abashiri Prison Museum.<br />
<br />
To get there we caught another bus.<br />
<br />
Despite the manju we'd just eaten we were still quite hungry, so we stopped in for another snack at a cafeteria like building next to the prison.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UGrQukSfZd4/V57aDwayTII/AAAAAAAAGwE/Y8S8CJ0WkM8ZoU0WwFOzptTktPnkjOePQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UGrQukSfZd4/V57aDwayTII/AAAAAAAAGwE/Y8S8CJ0WkM8ZoU0WwFOzptTktPnkjOePQCLcB/s640/IMG_3372.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lZhHl0k-o_4/V57Z7v7JOuI/AAAAAAAAGuw/KgfZMUR4FU0TMsKKNi4oaJlX2n8Vl3SsACLcB/s1600/2015-02-08%2B13.55.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lZhHl0k-o_4/V57Z7v7JOuI/AAAAAAAAGuw/KgfZMUR4FU0TMsKKNi4oaJlX2n8Vl3SsACLcB/s320/2015-02-08%2B13.55.51.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TOAlYGFlqdI/V57aE0mOC6I/AAAAAAAAGwQ/33L10tdrJmoPFqMY85jCnY77n12Utr3pQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TOAlYGFlqdI/V57aE0mOC6I/AAAAAAAAGwQ/33L10tdrJmoPFqMY85jCnY77n12Utr3pQCLcB/s400/IMG_3404.JPG" width="400" /></a>The Abashiri Prison Museum is an open air museum and we spent about an hour walking around the grounds and looking in the various buildings.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zS-5txQa79w/V57aEeKkNeI/AAAAAAAAGwM/5_j9lFCQxDQ-LUmP4dSglknOESAnZasOQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zS-5txQa79w/V57aEeKkNeI/AAAAAAAAGwM/5_j9lFCQxDQ-LUmP4dSglknOESAnZasOQCLcB/s400/IMG_3388.JPG" width="400" /></a>Inside the buildings we found models and such inside depicting what they would have looked like back in the day.<br />
<br />
The displays all had explanations in Japanese, English, Korean and Chinese.<br />
<br />
One of the interesting buildings in Abashiri prison is the radial prison cell block which features five corridors lined with cells that radiate out from a central point.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PPBQPV6__5c/V57Z8CEHOrI/AAAAAAAAGu4/mC5_JUCWFq4G2hWlVf8GOjqOUPCO1eyCQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-08%2B13.57.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PPBQPV6__5c/V57Z8CEHOrI/AAAAAAAAGu4/mC5_JUCWFq4G2hWlVf8GOjqOUPCO1eyCQCLcB/s400/2015-02-08%2B13.57.12.jpg" width="400" /></a>This central point is the watch house which can therefore keep an eye on a large number of cell blocks at once.<br />
<br />
Once we'd finished looking at the museum we stopped in at the souvenir shop, which was offering free amazake, which is a low/no alcohol sake.<br />
<br />
The prison is one of three museums located on Mount Tento, with the other two being the Museum of Northern People and the Okhotsk Ryuhyo (drift ice) Museum.<br />
<br />
We had a small amount of time to spare before we had to get our train to Kushiro, and decided to make a quick visit to the Museum of Northern People as we had already seen the drift ice in the morning.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o9LU5Bbd1i8/V57Z84gqb4I/AAAAAAAAGvA/OSO3xABjdyQP-Nh_n_XgaFCao-j2VUMJQCLcB/s1600/2015-02-08%2B14.01.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o9LU5Bbd1i8/V57Z84gqb4I/AAAAAAAAGvA/OSO3xABjdyQP-Nh_n_XgaFCao-j2VUMJQCLcB/s400/2015-02-08%2B14.01.16.jpg" width="400" /></a>Northern people means Inuit Eskimos, Japans Ainu, First Nations people of Northern Canada, and the Sami and Siberian people.<br />
<br />
We paid 550 for entry and then had a quick look at the various exhibits which showed historical relics and artefacts and showcased a number of the interesting innovations made by northern people in order to survive in the harsh artic environment.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQWG2WiVTUg/V57Z9Phq6AI/AAAAAAAAGvI/p2PHN47Ar8U2DJgJPJS-7kSmCAbr92K4QCLcB/s1600/2015-02-08%2B14.55.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQWG2WiVTUg/V57Z9Phq6AI/AAAAAAAAGvI/p2PHN47Ar8U2DJgJPJS-7kSmCAbr92K4QCLcB/s320/2015-02-08%2B14.55.30.jpg" width="320" /></a>Before long it was time to catch the bus back to Abashiri where we boarded the 4:15pm train to Kushiro.<br />
<br />
The train was themed with Lupin the Third pictures, but was otherwise nothing special and slowly made its way around the Hokkaido coast, pulling into Kushiro at just before 8pm.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow we'll be visiting the Kushiro Marshlands which are the only remaining habitat where the endangered Japanese Cranes can be found!<br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-16-kushiro-marshland-sapporo.html">Continue reading Day 16: Kushiro Marshland & Sapporo </a></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<br />Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-2116228345042885612016-07-16T13:39:00.000+10:002016-08-05T13:24:39.063+10:00Day 14: Asahikawa and Kitami<b>Saturday, 7 February 2015</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LE-VXl79y_o/V35RqQ8seoI/AAAAAAAAGsI/0r8X_V4U_3IBmIghcu5hzaVwIENmatc2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LE-VXl79y_o/V35RqQ8seoI/AAAAAAAAGsI/0r8X_V4U_3IBmIghcu5hzaVwIENmatc2wCLcB/s640/IMG_3081.JPG" width="450" /></a><i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/06/day-13-furano-skiing.html">Continues from: Day 13: Furano Skiing</a> </i><br />
<br />
Today we will be visiting Asahikawa before continuing north east almost all the way to Abashiri on the northern coast of Hokkaido.<br />
<br />
Asahikawa is located in central Hokkaido and is the coldest major city in Japan with average high temperatures remaining below freezing during winter and a minimum temperature record of -42 degrees. <br />
<br />
Brrr!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LTWI6rGktwI/V35RbCOZ2jI/AAAAAAAAGr4/LJl_I0lol1cACqlchQqJxZ5l3OQd9bBxwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LTWI6rGktwI/V35RbCOZ2jI/AAAAAAAAGr4/LJl_I0lol1cACqlchQqJxZ5l3OQd9bBxwCLcB/s400/IMG_3063.JPG" width="400" /></a>The biggest attractions of the city are probably the Asahiyama Zoo and the Asahikawa Winter Festival which we timed our trip to coincide with.<br />
<br />
So, in the morning we checked out of our hotel, caught a taxi to Furano station and then a train to Asahikawa.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UXHHpBC6AAI/V35Rho4oozI/AAAAAAAAGsE/6DLhGmhZOAwyuZgz_GxjGNTkQT_xD9Q8wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UXHHpBC6AAI/V35Rho4oozI/AAAAAAAAGsE/6DLhGmhZOAwyuZgz_GxjGNTkQT_xD9Q8wCLcB/s320/IMG_3065.JPG" width="249" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We decided to do the zoo first as we thought the festival is more lively in the afternoon, so we were headed to the zoo first.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8L5UCQjnH2E/V35RtP-kq3I/AAAAAAAAGsM/t77BP-OrN_IFZnN2BF1wIyc1OijErQ3swCLcB/s1600/IMG_3082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8L5UCQjnH2E/V35RtP-kq3I/AAAAAAAAGsM/t77BP-OrN_IFZnN2BF1wIyc1OijErQ3swCLcB/s400/IMG_3082.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King penguins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Due to the festival, we found the station to be packed and scrambled to find lockers to store our bags.<br />
<br />
Luckily thanks to our small carry on sized suitcases we managed to secure a locker each, though we did see some Chinese tourists with huge bags who were not so lucky.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_UDNib3RFXQ/V35Rv0v9fHI/AAAAAAAAGsQ/xIn_aXQNTNUW0-7lI2D2-NJXvaS7SkuTQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_UDNib3RFXQ/V35Rv0v9fHI/AAAAAAAAGsQ/xIn_aXQNTNUW0-7lI2D2-NJXvaS7SkuTQCLcB/s320/IMG_3083.JPG" width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gentoo penguin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After stowing our goods we made our way to the bus stop to find a huge line!<br />
<br />
Fortunately there were frequent buses and we managed to get on without waiting too long. We were also lucky to get a seat as it was quite a long journey of around half an hour out to Arashiyama.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tcrl26nVS_Y/V35SBSp2FnI/AAAAAAAAGsg/AWajxvrVs0ksmpzW-vxJo3Tx5dYvyNX1wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tcrl26nVS_Y/V35SBSp2FnI/AAAAAAAAGsg/AWajxvrVs0ksmpzW-vxJo3Tx5dYvyNX1wCLcB/s400/IMG_3131.JPG" width="400" /></a>Arashiyama is a popular zoo as it has been designed to allow visitors to get close view of the animals through the use of cleverly designed enclosures and viewing locations.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KnQuPua76bw/V35Rxt_kYDI/AAAAAAAAGsU/GhN2CEL4AMgDZkJ-5Iqu9n9YF-AkK60xACLcB/s1600/IMG_3087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KnQuPua76bw/V35Rxt_kYDI/AAAAAAAAGsU/GhN2CEL4AMgDZkJ-5Iqu9n9YF-AkK60xACLcB/s320/IMG_3087.JPG" width="249" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZtHT_3VlQU/V35SHd3-lhI/AAAAAAAAGss/Qy3cfUwNxEgKrvlEfXUfFePNtpujPHmkQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZtHT_3VlQU/V35SHd3-lhI/AAAAAAAAGss/Qy3cfUwNxEgKrvlEfXUfFePNtpujPHmkQCLcB/s400/IMG_3132.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wolves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After arriving at around 10:30 we bought our ticket, which was much quicker if we used the vending machines, and then entered the zoo. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jCZK_QWmGho/V35SGGc3FaI/AAAAAAAAGso/rgO5V6IjaV84NkIXErFA6SBUWxSVBb7ZgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jCZK_QWmGho/V35SGGc3FaI/AAAAAAAAGso/rgO5V6IjaV84NkIXErFA6SBUWxSVBb7ZgCLcB/s320/IMG_3134.JPG" width="249" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b71o11nAZYE/V35SM6N1EgI/AAAAAAAAGsw/F9icP2Bz_MUhCvb-1uNVYwo5XweKFZwSwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b71o11nAZYE/V35SM6N1EgI/AAAAAAAAGsw/F9icP2Bz_MUhCvb-1uNVYwo5XweKFZwSwCLcB/s400/IMG_3146.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grizzly Bear</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first animal we met was a hippo, then we saw an ostrich.<br />
<br />
After that we gathered with almost everyone else in the zoo for one of the highlights- the daily march of the penguins!<br />
<br />
We had a good viewing location and got to watch ten adult king penguins waddle along the road, they were very cute!<br />
<br />
There was also another penguin, that looked like a baby king penguin but I now know, thanks to Polar Bear Cafe, that king penguin chicks looks like an ugly puff of feathers and this little penguin is actually a Gentoo penguin.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3WWAxL_gYa8/V35R7LKiEeI/AAAAAAAAGsY/rr9ov72kY_w4sPz75WIcm_FPCMPBmtfnACLcB/s1600/IMG_3115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3WWAxL_gYa8/V35R7LKiEeI/AAAAAAAAGsY/rr9ov72kY_w4sPz75WIcm_FPCMPBmtfnACLcB/s200/IMG_3115.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese Tanuki</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While the king penguins were pretty stoic, the little Gentoo penguin was much more curious and cute and ran around all over the place.<br />
<br />
Next we explored the rest of the zoo visiting some goats, lemurs or maybe a monkey, then birds such as owls, hawks and cranes and then reptiles such as turtles and snakes.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lTobE-oY0NA/V35SYHtMdxI/AAAAAAAAGs8/Wizrwrv5MYIF_qrgKooqwcIOpsQOZDEwgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lTobE-oY0NA/V35SYHtMdxI/AAAAAAAAGs8/Wizrwrv5MYIF_qrgKooqwcIOpsQOZDEwgCLcB/s320/IMG_3172.JPG" width="320" /></a>We also saw some tanuki which are a famous animal in Japan, as well as a fox, Japanese monkeys and chimpanzees.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ihqjQC7ZcTE/V35SNLXnnaI/AAAAAAAAGs0/6oxiI5OwJLkgZOkDEM_zDNp89No2Pj2NwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ihqjQC7ZcTE/V35SNLXnnaI/AAAAAAAAGs0/6oxiI5OwJLkgZOkDEM_zDNp89No2Pj2NwCLcB/s320/IMG_3142.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lesser Panda</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
There was also a wood pecker which really surprised me when it started rapidly and loudly pecking wood! <br />
<br />
Another highlight of the zoo is the wolf enclosure where you can view them closely using a transparent dome built into the enclosure. Though they were not too exciting today.<br />
<br />
Another exhibit was the lesser pandas which are really cute!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7BCAEzlNQ0/V35SRqp02FI/AAAAAAAAGs4/fWFrMfbqE0s9VqdZu4qeS7D8M3iBrVoHACLcB/s1600/IMG_3151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7BCAEzlNQ0/V35SRqp02FI/AAAAAAAAGs4/fWFrMfbqE0s9VqdZu4qeS7D8M3iBrVoHACLcB/s200/IMG_3151.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EzCArn93vb0/V35SnTsw4YI/AAAAAAAAGtM/QHhXjJOcmvY7HB8No1O9SpC88JanizRSACLcB/s1600/IMG_3190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EzCArn93vb0/V35SnTsw4YI/AAAAAAAAGtM/QHhXjJOcmvY7HB8No1O9SpC88JanizRSACLcB/s320/IMG_3190.JPG" width="320" /></a>Next up was a bear, followed by a tiger!<br />
<br />
Not only tigers though as we also saw other big cats such as lions and even a leopard. <br />
<br />
In a contrast to the polar bears I've seen in Australia, usually just lying down, the polar bears at Asahiyama were swimming and playing around a lot!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8aZvbmPRH3Q/V35SjDT3CiI/AAAAAAAAGtI/BxOh2F_63cY9398T-CZsB6cNwLn68LHdQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8aZvbmPRH3Q/V35SjDT3CiI/AAAAAAAAGtI/BxOh2F_63cY9398T-CZsB6cNwLn68LHdQCLcB/s320/IMG_3186.JPG" width="212" /></a>One of the other big highlights of the zoo is the seal area which contains a small, water filled floor to ceiling cylinder that travels through the middle of the viewing area.<br />
<br />
Seals can swim through this which is really cool to watch!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S45OTPvTOSA/V35Svz2fiaI/AAAAAAAAGtY/aUuljd1Bo484_RG_qx5148YI9mLopyx1QCLcB/s1600/IMG_3197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S45OTPvTOSA/V35Svz2fiaI/AAAAAAAAGtY/aUuljd1Bo484_RG_qx5148YI9mLopyx1QCLcB/s320/IMG_3197.JPG" width="280" /></a>Finally, before leaving at around 1pm we also met the giraffe.<br />
<br />
After catching a bus back to Asahikawa we made our way down to the city's winter festival.<br />
<br />
The Asahikawa winter festival is the second largest in all of Japan, beaten out only by Sapporo's snow festival.<br />
<br />
The winter festival runs for about a week in early February and attracts visitors from around the world, many of whom, including ourselves, also visit the nearby Sapporo festival which occurs at the same time.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2B-nbxUmhVA/V35St4VT6uI/AAAAAAAAGtU/LFhgSvaoeXwoRNjniO_dwDejJeCduWWywCLcB/s1600/IMG_3210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2B-nbxUmhVA/V35St4VT6uI/AAAAAAAAGtU/LFhgSvaoeXwoRNjniO_dwDejJeCduWWywCLcB/s400/IMG_3210.JPG" width="380" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ultraman</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Upon arriving at the festival area we had a look at a couple of snow sculptures of giant heads before making our way to the food area for lunch- we were starving!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jz3DL_B6iMQ/V35S-iUcnvI/AAAAAAAAGto/9NP01zEzmAYjBP8XFrzubtTcgZhr-Nh1wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jz3DL_B6iMQ/V35S-iUcnvI/AAAAAAAAGto/9NP01zEzmAYjBP8XFrzubtTcgZhr-Nh1wCLcB/s320/IMG_3225.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow maze</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We ended up getting some chicken skewers and a pizza, though we also saw Emu, Crocodile and Kangaroo from Australia for sale- which was surprising!<br />
<br />
After lunch we went on a ride which involved being pulled around on a rubber boat by a snow mobile, it was fun!<br />
<br />
Next we walked through a snow maze and then had a look at some humongous snow sculptures.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A7Oi4npV5A4/V35TLhCHouI/AAAAAAAAGtw/4EN3B1cC8MgSalCGhLYU6wRi9BZOoQk7ACLcB/s1600/IMG_3239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A7Oi4npV5A4/V35TLhCHouI/AAAAAAAAGtw/4EN3B1cC8MgSalCGhLYU6wRi9BZOoQk7ACLcB/s400/IMG_3239.JPG" width="400" /></a>One of Ultraman was probably about 15m high. Off to the side of this sculpture was a slide you could slide down, though it sadly looked to be for kids only.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvYxzIPNlrQ/V35S5V3WAAI/AAAAAAAAGtk/1AY1FB08YJomJJ_nT9kHW34U9cea35rdACLcB/s1600/IMG_3215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvYxzIPNlrQ/V35S5V3WAAI/AAAAAAAAGtk/1AY1FB08YJomJJ_nT9kHW34U9cea35rdACLcB/s320/IMG_3215.JPG" width="185" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emu, Crocodile and Kangaroo Skewers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
On the way back to the station we walked past some ice sculptures, some which were completed though most were still currently being sculpted- which we watched.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OToUps6oKas/V35TTv2L4II/AAAAAAAAGuA/sJko2aLTE18exKeUl6HkqCax2M0vYm4BgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OToUps6oKas/V35TTv2L4II/AAAAAAAAGuA/sJko2aLTE18exKeUl6HkqCax2M0vYm4BgCLcB/s320/IMG_3258.JPG" width="236" /></a>Once back at the station we grabbed some eki-ben (train lunch boxes) for our train ride, got our luggage and caught a train north to Kitami, which isn't too far from Abashiri.<br />
<br />
<br />
We also bought some delicious sable cookies with chocolate inside them from the station earlier, they were really delicious!<br />
<br />
The reason we were staying in Kitami was that all the non-smoking hotels in Abashiri were booked out!<br />
<br />
Thankfully though we found a dormy inn in Kitami for a reasonable price. Dormy inn is quite a nice hotel brand as they have onsen, free washing and free late night noodles!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bXu-j5o9Dvo/V35Rdqc_4II/AAAAAAAAGsA/1rcKNCDI6j8sKiK_goH52g57jvOkeANlACLcB/s1600/2015-02-07%2B16.56.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bXu-j5o9Dvo/V35Rdqc_4II/AAAAAAAAGsA/1rcKNCDI6j8sKiK_goH52g57jvOkeANlACLcB/s320/2015-02-07%2B16.56.42.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Tomorrow we'll be catching a train to Abashiri for an ice breaker boat to see the oceanic drift ice, as well as a visit to the northern peoples museum and the notorious Abashiri prison.<br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/day-15-abashiri-and-kushiro.html">Continue reading: Day 15: Abashiri and Kushiro</a></i><br />
<br /></div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-791892523641624801.post-22983547334153397792016-06-28T23:02:00.000+10:002016-08-03T10:24:58.323+10:00Day 13: Furano Skiing<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kf3TTuI3SfA/V3JyxRyWRpI/AAAAAAAAGrI/1vwbyKb1yVcNX_5yrrkwiy8TVDj_TvlFwCKgB/s1600/2015-02-06%2B11.41.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kf3TTuI3SfA/V3JyxRyWRpI/AAAAAAAAGrI/1vwbyKb1yVcNX_5yrrkwiy8TVDj_TvlFwCKgB/s640/2015-02-06%2B11.41.32.jpg" width="470" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the top of the Kitanomine Gondola</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Friday, 6 February 2015 </b><br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/06/day-12-furano-skiing.html">Continues from: Day 12: Furano Skiing </a></i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last day skiing in the central Hokkaido town of Furano today!<br />
<br />
Although we had wanted to book another half day lesson today like we had done the previous two days, we were not able to as they were booked out.<br />
<br />
The upside to this at least was that we had the whole day to ourselves.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8tcKEWGFgE/V3JySkbGPII/AAAAAAAAGrQ/7kVNzC3D7CAn0G-P7bms5ZV6jmT99k9kgCKgB/s1600/2015-02-06%2B11.35.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8tcKEWGFgE/V3JySkbGPII/AAAAAAAAGrQ/7kVNzC3D7CAn0G-P7bms5ZV6jmT99k9kgCKgB/s400/2015-02-06%2B11.35.33.jpg" width="400" /></a>So in the morning we bought a full day ski pass each for 5200 yen and then did a few runs together, going up the Kitanomine high speed lift and down the beginner family slope.<br />
<br />
Kate was a more nervous and a far bit slower than me so we decided it would be fine to try splitting up on the next slope.<br />
<br />
So I did the slightly steeper Junior slope and waited down the bottom while Kate did the Family slope again.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j-o03aqgbAk/V3JxPxh0TmI/AAAAAAAAGq8/veBMjvL8k1sqPCOeTUR6s4yC_XE_bd2sQCKgB/s1600/2015-02-06%2B11.21.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j-o03aqgbAk/V3JxPxh0TmI/AAAAAAAAGq8/veBMjvL8k1sqPCOeTUR6s4yC_XE_bd2sQCKgB/s400/2015-02-06%2B11.21.44.jpg" width="400" /></a>After reuniting we then took our skies off and caught the main gondola up the very top of the mountain to have a look at the view. We left our skies behind as there were no beginner trails from the top, we also checked that we could catch the gondola back down when we got on.<br />
<br />
We spent several minutes at the top enjoying the view and posing for some photos before catching the gondola back down to the bottom of the mountain.<br />
<br />
We then caught a taxi to the Furano cheese factory, which is located about ten minutes away and cost around 1000 yen or so. Upon getting out of the taxi I slipped backwards pretty badly on the ice, but thankfully was not too injured.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XOkeWliOSyw/V3JzIvyTVNI/AAAAAAAAGrg/5Zcaz-Pp7x4GGr58S_ag8HRt61eMX0NXACKgB/s1600/2015-02-06%2B12.32.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XOkeWliOSyw/V3JzIvyTVNI/AAAAAAAAGrg/5Zcaz-Pp7x4GGr58S_ag8HRt61eMX0NXACKgB/s200/2015-02-06%2B12.32.21.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Five cheese pizza!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At first we thought the place was shut as there was no one around and it looked really quiet. We eventually managed to find that the restaurant was open and we ordered a seven cheese pizza for lunch, which was really really tasty.<br />
<br />
Along with the restaurant and the cheese making viewing windows it is also possible to participate in hands-on butter, ice cream, bread and cheese workshops.<br />
<br />
We didn't do any of these, either because they were not running today or possibly because we didn't feel we had enough time.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0py5iangcY/V3Jy3ZNf9NI/AAAAAAAAGrU/Naqpmty9VvQ9P0XCwomh_9ymjHl1t8ntwCKgB/s1600/2015-02-06%2B12.44.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0py5iangcY/V3Jy3ZNf9NI/AAAAAAAAGrU/Naqpmty9VvQ9P0XCwomh_9ymjHl1t8ntwCKgB/s400/2015-02-06%2B12.44.06.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Furano Cheese Factory gift shop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After having a looking at the gift shop, and buying more cheese, we asked the staff to call us a taxi and returned back to the Furano ski area.<br />
<br />
In the afternoon we did lots more skiing! <br />
<br />
We split up and I did all of the other beginner courses that could be reached from the first lift and then went up the second lift to do the steeper beginner trails up near the top of the mountain.<br />
<br />
It was lots of fun and I think I did about 24-26 runs total today!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XaqeOD0iNo/V3JzEnQILfI/AAAAAAAAGrc/1VNxpHdwwL4VLsg3KEEXQiWK6-GQmkeegCLcB/s1600/2015-02-06%2B19.55.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XaqeOD0iNo/V3JzEnQILfI/AAAAAAAAGrc/1VNxpHdwwL4VLsg3KEEXQiWK6-GQmkeegCLcB/s200/2015-02-06%2B19.55.10.jpg" width="198" /></a>In the evening we returned our ski equipment then ourselves to our hotel and packed up ready for tomorrow where we'll be travelling to Asahikawa to visit the Asahiyama zoo and then the Asahikawa snow festival before continuing on to the northern extremes of Hokkaido!<br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://microseism.blogspot.com.au/2016/07/day-14-asahikawa-and-kitami.html">Continue reading: Day 14: Asahikawa and Kitami<b></b></a></i>
</div>
Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04021523188017590960noreply@blogger.com0