In Kobe at the moment. In fact, in this very room pictured on the right, a cozy Manga (comic/internet cafe) place between Motomachi Eki and Chinatown Kobe. I get 9 hours for 1800 Yen, a formidable deal in this country. They got a shower and other night amenities.
Last few days were eventful. First night we had sushi, shopped around then crashed at LaQua Spa in Korakuen 後楽園. Day 2, Kendall joined us; we took Shinkansen plus JR plus bus to a late near Aizu 会津. Did some hiking in the rain. The view was very nice, but ground muddy. Was going to head to Kiushiu 九州, but a time update tell the we wouldn't have made it in time for check in at our hostel in Fukuoka. So, another night in onsen-happy LaQua. Kendall loved it. For 3000+ Yen, we get to use awesome bath and hotspring facilities and overnight stay on a sofa or a mat. It's a Japanese version of these bath/recreation places I crash in China, a watered down version, with focus on bathing.
Day 3, we early rose to a 6 hour Shinkansen (the famous Japanese bullet train) ride to Fukuoka 福岡 in Kyushu 九州. There they shopped; I waited, and then we we to a famous Ramen Street and had some good food. They seem to sell more Yakisoba (fried noodles) and Yakitori (bbq chicken) than ramen.
Day 4 we met up with Rosanne's friend Atsuko. Thanks to her we had a nice tour of the region, starting with Dazaifu 太宰府, a famous shrine in Japan. Then to Yanagawa 柳川 for a nice walk munching on local cookies. Finally to Atsuko's home, which was with her family for 500 years. They have a room dedicated to Japanese tea ceremony, and we played around with dainty pots and bowls, while Atsuko explained to us each movement. The night ended in a wicked fusion of Japanese and western appetizers, followed by an oversupply of sushi!
The meal was really really good. So, thank you, the Imaizumi Family!
...
As you can see, I chose a 'flatto' -- a nice room for sleeping but not for typing. So I write the rest after I get to Tokyo tomorrow.
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2 comments:
Hi Ethan:
Great pictures and great blog. You are having fun (as I am stuck and lost in my thesis, haha)
I've been to Hiroshima, Kobe, and Kyoto before during a two day trip. I just remember I ran a lot back then... Time flies. Miss Rosane and you.
Enjoy your time.
Ernest
Ernest,
Whatever you're cooking in your thesis, I'm sure at least it will smell very good. A good struggle always yields good returns, monetary or else.
Looking forward to your next landing in Asia.
Ethan
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