LUNCH WITH NANA & TIME TO LOOK BACK

22.12.2024

We both slept well, especially me, as I was the last of the three of us to get out of bed. Nana started work at 10.00am and left at 9.30am. Mami and I will go and meet her for lunch at Aeon at 1.00pm. In the meantime we will start packing our bags, as we will be going back to Shunan to spend the remainder of our time with them.

We will be driving to Shunan in Nana’s car, a five hour drive, which is a drive I have only done once before in Japan. The hardest part will be navigating my way through the Osaka traffic before getting on the Tollway. Nana is happy to let us have the car for a while as the train station is a short walk from home and at the other end, a short walk to work. She then saves the money she has to fork out for a parking spot for her car.

It has been a slow day, so Mami and I have decided to give you our ‘Best Three Experiences’ so far. We will be interested to hear from the readers of this blog what were the “Experiences or Places You Would Like to See”.

Mami’s Top 3

No. 1.

The No 1 experience for me was Echigo-Yuzawa, particularly the cable car ride. Normally, you would need to ski to experience such breathtaking winter views, but the Yuzawa Kogen Ropeway allows non-skiers like Rob to enjoy the same magical sight. The day we arrived was sunny, as shown in the photos, but when we left, heavy snow had set in. It didn’t bother us at all since we were cozy inside, gazing out the hotel windows. It was truly wonderful.

No. 2.

My second favorite was Yokohama. Despite being Japan’s second-largest city with over three million people, Yokohama has a calm, relaxed and organised atmosphere. The main attractions are all within walking distance, and if you prefer not to walk, there are trains or the 100 Yen Tourist Bus to take you around. I loved taking nighttime photos—the city wasn’t too crowded, and it felt completely safe being there on my own.

No. 3.

The third favourite was Hakodate, and the sushi there was incredibly fresh and delicious! As soon as I took my first bite of tuna sushi, I completely forgot about the 50-minute wait. It was absolutely worth it, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat! Despite the chilly weather, we braved the cold to watch fireworks by the dock. Although we’re not usually fans of touristy activities, I really enjoyed the experience of seeing a massive Christmas tree and capturing the fireworks. It was such a beautiful moment, and it made me reflect on how much we love Hokkaido and how lucky we are to be living this amazing life.

Rob’s Top 3

No.1.

For me it has to be Sapporo. I love walking in streets covered in snow, with light snow falling. Even in the past, when the temperature got to -19 degrees I never felt cold. I love the cool freshness outside and the warm cosiness of the underground  shopping network.

But for me, the crowning moment was  the Christmas musical concert in the park. Achurch choir, three amateur acapella groups and a high school choir. I left this concert floating on a cloud of happiness and joy. I am sad my video does not do these fantastic performances justice. All three were sooo good and so beyond what I thought it might be and that’s why for me Sapporo wins.

No. 2.

Yokohama was my second choice. I had never stayed more than a day in Yokohama. This time two nights and three days gave me a better feel  for the second largest city in Japan. Although it is only a short densha ride from Tokyo, the pace is slower and calmer. The harbour has been used well and the historic buildings have been kept, restored and repurposed. The building which housed Tully’s was an absolute joy and is a good example of how Yokohama values its history. I really liked everything about Yokohama.

No. 3.

Like Mami, Echigo Yuzawa had a lot of appeal. From the start when we arrived at the station with Maiko and put our feet into the foot bath, I was smiling. The snow, the beautiful old buildings in the town, the cable car up the ski slope and the views it provided when we arrived were all spectacular. It was so peaceful and idyllic. What’s not to love? 

Love to hear what you, the readers of our blog, would most like to visit if you come to Japan.

Cheers,Rob&Mami