#gate 2 street okinawa

[travelingonvacation]

Japan is a country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a blend of modern and traditional elements. Whether you're interested in exploring historical temples, enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms, or experiencing cutting-edge technology in bustling cities, Japan has something for everyone. Here's a guide to help you plan your visit to Japan:

1. Tokyo:

Asakusa: Visit Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.

Shibuya Crossing: Experience the iconic pedestrian scramble.

Akihabara: Explore the electronics and anime district.

Tsukiji Outer Market: Try fresh sushi and seafood.

2. Kyoto:

Fushimi Inari Shrine: Walk through thousands of red torii gates.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Admire the stunning Zen Buddhist temple.

Arashiyama: Explore the bamboo groves and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park.

3. Osaka:

Osaka Castle: Visit this historic castle surrounded by a beautiful park.

Dotonbori: Experience vibrant nightlife and try local street food.

Universal Studios Japan: Enjoy the theme park attractions.

4. Hiroshima:

Peace Memorial Park: Reflect on the city's history and visit the Atomic Bomb Dome.

Miyajima Island: Explore the iconic "floating" torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine.

5. Nara:

Nara Park: Interact with friendly deer and visit Todai-ji Temple.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Explore the lantern-lined paths.

6. Hokkaido:

Sapporo: Enjoy winter sports, the Snow Festival, and delicious local cuisine.

Shikisai-no-Oka Flower Fields: Visit colorful flower fields in Biei.

7. Kanazawa:

Kenrokuen Garden: Experience one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens.

Higashi Chaya District: Wander through well-preserved geisha districts.

8. Mount Fuji:

Chureito Pagoda: Capture stunning views of Mount Fuji.

Lake Kawaguchi: Enjoy the scenery around this picturesque lake.

9. Okinawa:

Shurijo Castle: Explore the reconstructed castle in Naha.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: Visit one of the largest aquariums in the world.

10. Japanese Onsen (Hot Springs):

Experience the relaxation of traditional hot springs, such as those in Hakone or Beppu.

11. Japanese Gardens:

Visit traditional Japanese gardens like Ritsurin Koen in Takamatsu or Korakuen in Okayama.

12. Cherry Blossom Season:

Plan your visit during spring (late March to early April) to witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms.

13. Traditional Tea Ceremony:

Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony for a glimpse into Japanese culture.

14. Sumo Wrestling:

Attend a sumo wrestling match or visit a sumo training stable.

15. Japanese Cuisine:

Try sushi, ramen, tempura, kaiseki (multi-course meal), and other local specialties.

Tips:

Transportation: Utilize Japan's efficient and punctual public transportation, including the Shinkansen (bullet train).

Cash: While credit cards are accepted in urban areas, it's advisable to have some cash, especially in rural regions.

Language: English may not be widely spoken, so learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful.

Japan offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, and each region has its own distinct charm. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or modern city life, Japan provides a diverse range of experiences. Enjoy your travels in the Land of the Rising Sun!

#japan #japon #JapanTravel #ExploreJapan #JapanAdventures #VisitJapan #PhotographyJapan #JapanLovers #JapanVibes #JapanNature #JapanCulture #JapanExperience #JapanTrip #DiscoverJapan #JapanHoliday #JapanDreams #JapanWanderlust #JapanBeautiful #JapanViews #JapanLandscapes #JapanCityLife #JapanMemories #Youtube

[rtpslotmesin]

Enchanting Destinations in Japan: Must-Visit Places

Japan, a country known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and modern metropolises, offers travelers a diverse range of destinations. From historic temples to futuristic cities, here are some must-visit places in Japan:

1. Tokyo - The Electric Metropolis:

Explore the bustling streets of Tokyo, the capital city that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. Visit the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, experience the vibrant shopping district of Shibuya Crossing, and immerse yourself in the electronic wonderland of Akihabara.

2. Kyoto - Timeless Elegance:

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is renowned for its traditional temples, tea houses, and geisha districts. Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates, visit the historic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and stroll through the historic Gion district.

3. Osaka - Culinary Delights and Modern Wonders:

Osaka is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of street food and culinary delights. Explore the historic Osaka Castle, stroll through the vibrant Dotonbori district, and experience the entertainment hub of Universal Studios Japan.

4. Hiroshima - Peace and Resilience:

Hiroshima, a city with a poignant history, is home to the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome, symbols of resilience and peace. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic "floating" torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

5. Nara - Deer-filled Temples:

Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is famous for its friendly deer roaming freely in Nara Park. Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to a colossal Buddha statue, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine with its lantern-lined paths.

6. Hokkaido - Nature's Playground:

Hokkaido, the northernmost island, is a haven for nature lovers. Explore the stunning Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields, visit the hot springs in Noboribetsu, and experience winter sports in Niseko.

7. Kanazawa - Traditional Crafts and Gardens:

Kanazawa is known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, traditional tea houses, and Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens. Visit the Nagamachi samurai district and the historic Higashi Chaya District.

8. Hakone - Hot Springs and Mount Fuji Views:

Hakone, a popular hot spring destination, offers stunning views of Mount Fuji. Relax in onsens, cruise on Lake Ashi, and take the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic vistas.

9. Nikko - Sacred Mountains:

Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its ornate shrines and beautiful natural surroundings. Explore Toshogu Shrine, Rinno-ji Temple, and the picturesque Kegon Falls.

10. Ishigaki - Tropical Paradise in Okinawa:

Ishigaki, part of the Okinawa archipelago, boasts beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and a unique island culture. Explore Kabira Bay, snorkel in the pristine waters, and enjoy the vibrant local cuisine.

[dan6085]

20 Must See Destinations in Japan:

1. **Tokyo:**

Japan's bustling capital offers a blend of modern and traditional attractions. Visit the historic Asakusa district, explore the trendy Shibuya crossing, and marvel at the cityscape from the Tokyo Skytree.

2. **Kyoto:**

Known for its stunning temples, gardens, and traditional tea houses, Kyoto is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't miss the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

3. **Osaka:**

A food lover's paradise, Osaka is famed for its street food and vibrant culinary scene. Visit Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, and the lively Dotonbori district.

4. **Hiroshima:**

Explore the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome, commemorating the tragic events of 1945. Miyajima Island, with its "floating" torii gate, is a short ferry ride away.

5. **Nara:**

Encounter friendly deer roaming freely in Nara Park, home to historic temples like Todai-ji, housing a colossal Buddha statue.

6. **Hokkaido:**

Japan's northernmost island offers breathtaking landscapes, including hot springs in Noboribetsu, skiing in Niseko, and the stunning Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields.

7. **Hakone:**

Famous for its hot springs and views of Mt. Fuji, Hakone is a popular getaway from Tokyo. Enjoy a relaxing soak in an onsen and cruise on Lake Ashi.

8. **Nikko:**

Discover elaborate shrines and beautiful natural scenery in Nikko, including Toshogu Shrine and the picturesque Kegon Falls.

9. **Kanazawa:**

Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture in Kanazawa's well-preserved geisha districts, Kenrokuen Garden, and the Nagamachi samurai district.

10. **Takayama:**

Experience rural Japan in Takayama, known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, traditional houses, and the biannual Takayama Festival.

11. **Koya-san:**

A spiritual retreat, Mount Koya is home to numerous Buddhist temples, offering visitors a chance to stay in a shukubo (temple lodging) and experience a monk's way of life.

12. **Okinawa Islands:**

Explore Okinawa's unique culture, beautiful beaches, and historical sites. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is a must-visit, showcasing marine life from the Kuroshio Sea.

13. **Yakushima:**

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Yakushima is renowned for its ancient cedar forests and beautiful hiking trails, including the mystical Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine.

14. **Ise-Shima:**

Visit Ise Grand Shrine, one of Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines. Explore the scenic coastline, and don't miss the famous ama divers in Toba.

15. **Matsumoto:**

Admire the iconic Matsumoto Castle and explore the historic Nakamachi district. Matsumoto is a gateway to the Japanese Alps and the Kamikochi National Park.

16. **Kagoshima:**

Experience the volcanic landscapes and hot springs of Kagoshima, with a stunning view of Sakurajima volcano. Sengan-en Garden and Chiran Samurai Residences offer glimpses of history.

17. **Naoshima:**

A haven for contemporary art lovers, Naoshima Island is dotted with unique art installations and museums, including the Chichu Art Museum and the Benesse House.

18. **Beppu:**

Famous for its numerous hot springs, Beppu offers a relaxing onsen experience. Explore the "Hells of Beppu," a collection of vibrant and unique hot springs.

19. **Shikoku Island:**

Discover the tranquil beauty of Shikoku, known for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu, and the Naruto Whirlpools in Tokushima.

20. **Shirakawa-go:**

Experience traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses in the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go. Visit during winter to see these thatched-roof houses covered in snow, creating a magical scene.

These destinations showcase the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse experiences that Japan has to offer. Each location provides a unique perspective on the country's history, traditions, and modern achievements.

[ryosukekiyasu]

October 6th, 2023 - Time: 22:30

Ryosuke Kiyasu snare drum solo show at Koza's Gate 2 Street in Okinawa City, Okinawa, Japan

#drummer #drumsolo #snaredrum #drums #drum solo #snare drum #snare drum solo #freejazz #snare #snaredrummer

[marsjapanaspenbloomfield]

Random facts about Japan

Vending machine ratio. To every person there is approximately 23 vending machines. You can get anything in a vending machine including cars, lettuce, hot ramen, and eggs.

Gambling is illegal. There are no gambling stations in Japan however there is one game called pachinko which isn't illegal because it is a popular game and is disguised, in the game the payer buys tiny meatballs which are slotted into the machine. the balled that win are exchanged for prizes or tokens which can be exchanged for money.

Fake Food. Outside of most restaurants, you will find fake replicas of the food that the restaurant serves!  You may also find ones that move!  Yes, animated food – only in Japan.There is a street which is unofficially known as kitchen street, but the formal name is Kappabashi Street.  It’s located between Asakusa and Ueno.  This is where restaurants purchase their kitchenware and fake food! It’s a street lined with shops selling beautiful Japanese kitchenware, from hand-painted bowls to every kitchen gadget you could think of, it’s a kitchen-lovers dream!

Japan has the third-highest life expectancy in the world. Japanese have the highest life expectancy in the world due to their diet and lifestyle.  They are very healthy people and exercise regularly.On average men will live until their 81 years old and women 87 years old.  This is causing a crisis in Japan because there’s a lack of childbirth also.  Now there are more seniors than children and this is causing a problem for the Japanese economy.Apparently, Japan sells more adult diapers than children’s

There are over 6800 islands. 

Oldest people in the world. One of the most beautiful islands that mirror paradise is called Okinawa.  On this island are the two oldest people in the world (116 & 117 years old)!

Honshu is one of the four main islands and where Tokyo is located.  The other 3 main islands are called Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu.

Slurping your noodles is not considered rude. It’s considered polite to make slurping noises and means that you’re enjoying the food and you appreciate it.

Japan eat the most seafood in the world. The Japanese eat over 17 million tonnes of fish per year.  The Japanese are the largest importer of seafood.You will seafood as a staple food for the Japanese and included in most meals.  Over 20% of their protein is from seafood!

You’re allowed to take naps on the job. Yes, that right!  In fact, naps are encouraged on the job because this improves workflow and speed.It’s also considered a sign that you are dedicated to your job and have worked hard and long for your job!

They eat KFC for Christmas dinner. Apparently, over 3.6 million people in Japan celebrate their Christmas with a KFC dinner.So how did this come about in the first place? Well, it was just a good marketing campaign when the first store opened in 1970.  KFC started a ‘Party Barrell’ based on an American Christmas dinner but with chicken of course instead of turkey.  Somehow it caught on and the rest is history.Christmas is not considered a big event as less than 2% of Japan is Christian.

Tokyo is the most densely populated city in the world. Around 38 million of Japans population live just in Tokyo.  Japan has a population of 127 million, so that’s a lot of people in a small space!You can see how busy Tokyo is during rush-hour easily by trying to hop on a train within the city or walking the busiest crossing in the world – Shibuya.

One of the safest countries in the world. Japan’s crime rate is so low is basically non-existent.  The Japanese are very honest people, reliable and law-abiding.The Japanese law is strict, so people tend to not go off the rails and on the wrong side of the law.

Don’t wear your shoes inside. Before entering a house, you will be asked to take off your shoes.  You will be given a pair of slippers usually.  It’s considered rude to wear your shoes inside.This Japanese custom was mainly a thing because back in the days the Japanese used to eat off the floor and obviously didn’t want dirty shoes ruining where they were about to eat.

They have a high suicide rate. Unfortunately, Japan has one of the highest suicide rates in the world.  Last year Japan youth suicide’s hit a record high in 30 years.The suicide forest is the second most popular place to commit suicide after San Francisco golden gate bridge.  The forest is located at the base of Mt Fuji and is said to where most people enter and never come back.The rate of suicide is due to not enough access to therapists as well as work pressures.  Japan has announced that they are working on better programs, especially in schools to help cut the rate of suicide.

The toilets sing for you. This is probably the weirdest thing about Japan, the toilets!  They do just about anything, even sing.You can also press a button and the seat will warm up, so your bottom doesn’t get cold!  

Square melons are a thing. There is such a thing as square watermelons! Apparently, they are grown like this for decoration and cost as much as $100!

They have a penis festival. The Kanamara Matsuri festival is held every year.  It started in 1969 just outside of Tokyo and celebrates the penis and female fertility!

Eating raw meat is common. You will notice on your trip to Japan that eating various types of meat raw is totally the norm.  Raw fish is commonly found in sushi. Homemade sushi tastes best and you’re lucky if you can find a guesthouse with a welcoming host to serve you local food.One of the delicacies in Japan is raw horsemeat.  It’s called Bashari and is thinly sliced and eaten raw.

No 4’s please! It is common in Japanese culture to totally avoid the number four because the word sounds the same as the word death.  Buildings will commonly not have the 4th floor, cutlery is sold in sets of 3 or 4 and the number of guests invited to a tea ceremony will never be 4! 

The Japanese are some of the friendliest in the world.This is a cold hard fact!  The Japanese are awesome, to say the least.  They are incredibly friendly, gentle and conscious people.

Fruit is the best gift you can give. If you don’t know what to get your host, then gift them fruit.  You will notice the price of fruit is astronomically high.There’s a fruit gifting shop in Tokyo and fruit can be as expensive as $27,000!

The face mask is used by the sick. When I first visited Japan, I thought the face mask was worn because people don’t want to get sick and wanted to avoid other people’s germs.  But, it’s actually the other way around.If you are sick you wear the face mask, so you don’t get others sick.  Again, this shows how nice the Japanese are!  Always thinking of others!

You can rent a cuddle. Yes, you read that right.  There are businesses where you can go in and pay for a cuddle.  Turns out people are lonely and just want a good old-fashioned hug sometimes.

Maid café. In Japan, there are maid cafes where the staff dress up in maid costumes and treat you as their master.  Now, you may be thinking that it sounds sexual, well it’s not meant to be that way at all.  It’s just a café where the staff are dressed in cosplay.The cafe is strange, fun but maybe a little cringy all at the same time. It’s just basically a café where everyone dresses up!

About 1500 earthquakes a year. Tokyo lies on an active area where earthquakes are extremely common, and they have over 1500 of them a year. But really this is nothing for me because New Zealand has over 15,000 per year.

They take cleaning seriously. Cleaning is taught in school and is a serious part of Japanese culture.  Students and children clean their own school!

[asterinjapan]

Hello from Okinawa!

Good evening from Okinawa!

Phew, it’s been a long day, but I can tell you I got here safe and sound and even did some things already!

I’m kind of wobbling from the jetlag right now, so I’ll have dinner as I write my report and then slowly start to get ready for bed, haha. 7 PM is a little too early for that, so here we go with the report! Apologies if things sound fuzzy, that’s the jetlag speaking.

So, on October 1 I left home very early, but just as well, because the bus got caught in traffic and trains in the direction of Amsterdam were being cancelled. Luckily I still ended up at Schiphol with plenty of time left, only to find out that my luggage would not go to Okinawa directly and that I’d thus have to pick it up at Osaka and go through check-ins for my next flight all over again. Oops. My transfer time was pretty narrow, less than 2 hours, but everyone assured me that was a good time frame, so off I went with that in mind!

I had early lunch at Starbucks and mooched off their Wi-fi for a bit until it was time to get to my gate.

I actually had an aisle gate, but the ladies next to me asked to trade, and then they ended up in a whole other part of the plane anyway. Uh. On the upside, one friend of them replaced the two of them, meaning the seat in between us was empty, so yay for extra leg space!

I’m afraid of flying, so a window seat isn’t super fun to me, but I took some pictures of the view anyway and enjoyed a mostly calm flight.

Once at Osaka station, I made a run for it to get through immigration fast – that took a while, but luckily my suitcase was already waiting for me. So after that, things went pretty smoothly: I dragged my suitcase to the domestic flights terminal one floor up and checked in for my flight to Okinawa.

I was kind of scared for this flight since the plane was smaller and the skies were probably still a bit turbulent over Okinawa due to typhoon #18, but it was pretty okay! I even ended up regretting not having a window seat this time, because the plane flew us right past the islands, and they’re very pretty, haha. It probably also helped the flight was much shorter (2.5 hours instead of 11) and that they announced every instance of turbulence down to the detail, like ‘in 2 minutes we’ll have around 10 minutes of mild turbulence’. So that gave us some time to prepare. Quite some kids aboard, unlike the previous flight, and they didn’t quite like the turbulence, but all went well and we landed safely on Naha airport, Okinawa!

And whoa, quite a bit warmer than back home. I’d already ditched my scarf on Schiphol, but I was really regretting my vest and pant here. It’s over 30 C! Welcome to the subtropics.

I took the monorail through some quite nice views and made my way to the stop closest to the main shopping street, Kokusaidori. As it turns out my hotel is right in the middle of that street, so easy enough to find, haha. I was in luck since I got in minutes before check-in opened, so I was allowed into my room almost immediately. Time for a shower and to change into something lighter!

I think this is my smallest room yet, even for Japanese standards, but hey, as long as it has a bathroom I’m happy. After refreshments, I got up and moving again, because it was only 3 PM, way too early to go to bed.

First, I stumbled upon a food souvenir shop selling everything with sweet potato flavor, or ben-imo. The sweet potato of Okinawa is famous and uh, purple. And they put it in ice cream. So naturally I had to try it out! It didn’t taste particularly potato-like, but it was yummy.

After that, I walked for a good 20 minutes to find the Naminoue shrine. It’s the most important shrine of Okinawa and is located in a place that was already sacred for the Ryukyu people (the Okinawa island chain is also known as the Ryukyu kingdom and hasn’t been part of Japan for very long). So it kind of got taken over by a Japanese building, and it is very touristic too (lots of people in kimono, almost all of them Chinese), which is a bit of a shame. The shrine is still pretty, if small, so worth a visit. I prayed for the good weather to continue, wandered for a bit, and then left the premises for extra sights.

You see, Naminoue literally means ‘on top of the waves’, and that’s exactly where the shrine is located. If you walk just a little past it, you make it to the beach, and you can see the top of the shrine peeking out over a cliff. I think this was the more visually impressive sight actually, and not a lot of the other tourists were here for it.

It was still rather sunny, so I walked the beach, took in the sights and stepped into the sea for a bit (you can’t swim here except for designated areas, and I don’t have swimming gear with me anyway, oops). Actually, if you want pretty beaches, Naha city isn’t the best destination. There’s a highway road over the beach here, plenty of reconstructions going on in the distance, and occasionally the US military flies over with big choppers. But I picked Naha for its convenience as a hub to see some sights on Okinawa, and hey, if I can get to a beach with a 20 minute walk, I will!

On the way back to the hotel, it started to drizzle a bit, which was actually nice since it was so hot. I did some window shopping and ended up picking up dinner at the convenience store, since my stomach gets pretty upset with jetlags and so I didn’t want to eat out and fall asleep over my meal while also nauseous, haha.

So, there’s my first day on Okinawa! I really like it here already. The sight upon arrival was already a treat, and I can’t wait to explore more of the island and its culture.

 For now, though, I’m pretty worn out from travelling and jetlag, so I’ll sort out some pictures for today and then call it a night. I’m not quite sure about my plans for tomorrow, so that’ll be a surprise for you too!

Thanks for reading and see you tomorrow!

#japan 2019 #report #report: japan 2019 #report: travel #places: naha

[allcityallcountry]

9/28

Brain pain was the name of the game Friday morning. My choice of drink the previous night was kicking back and I was not thrilled about it. Combine that with my embarrassingly stiff legs from yesterday’s run and my day was already shaping up to be a bit of a mess.

Right around 11 Brendy and I sauntered down the street to a roaster we’d spotted the night before. Rostro was nestled behind some trees in quiet alley, the perfect place to nurse a hangover. We both got the “breakfast set” for 800¥, or roughly $7.50. Even in our dilapidated state we were both blown away by the presentation and value that this meal provided. A fresh piece of toast with butter, a hard oiled egg on one of those little pedestals, a neat salad and side of yogurt and jam. The breakfast also included a delectable iced coffee. I finished the meal off with some exceptional coffee soft cream, or soft serve as we Americans call it.

As we left the table I smacked my already aching head on a tree branch. That’s 2 for 2, also with an audience. We walked over to Yoyogi park to kill some time before Tiki arrived. Plop on the bench, breathe heavy. Since it was a Saturday, the park was filled with people: families having picnics, children catching butterflies, and joggers and cyclists making lap after lap round the under the komorebi. A feeling of bliss came over. Everything seemed so wholesome, so secure and so positive.

A mother and her child tossed a ball back and forth in the near foreground. The toddler kept looking over at us, no doubt intrigued by these two strange men sitting on the bench. In his distraction he didn’t notice that mom had kicked the ball and it pegged the little guy square in the face. A moment of silent shock, followed by laughter. The kid was fine, didn’t even cry. Mom rushed over but by then the kid was already winding up to kick it back.

We continued further into the park, sitting once more at a fountain where some local students were practicing their acting. Neither of us could really make out what the skits were about but we were entertained nonetheless. Back on our feet we headed for the west end of the park and into Harajuku. That’s where Tiki met up with us.

When he told us he was taking us to a shrine I was expecting something small, maybe the size of a corner park. I couldn’t have been farther off. The entrance alone was the size of a football field with a towering wooden gate. The walkway was equally impressive, wide with gravel in the middle and two paths on either side. As we moved deeper toward the shrine all the sounds of bustling Tokyo faded away. We passed barrels of sake, placed as offerings before rounding a couple of corners to the shrine.

The structure was immaculate, extending out in all directions with a courtyard in the middle. Before entering, we washed our hands as all visitors do in a fountain just in front of the shrine. You ladle water over each hand and let the rest pour down the handle. We entered the shrine, making sure to step over the raised threshold in the entryway. Tiki informed us that stepping on the threshold is a sign of disrespect. We approached the shrine and performed a short ritual. You stand before a wooden box and drop a coin in. Once you have submitted your offering you bow twice, clap twice, say a silent prayer and then bow once more. I rarely pray, but it essentially boiled down to wishing for positive outcomes for the people that I care the most about.

We left the immaculate shrine and headed into Harajuku for a late lunch. We stopped at a few stores, including snow peak, before heading down to a small restaurant for some spaghetti. I had no idea that spaghetti was a common Japanese dish. After lunch we walked back to the park and split some beers while the sun set. We reminisced and talked about future plans, watching the families slowly trickle out of the park and be reabsorbed by the city streets.

We returned to the hostel briefly before beginning the walk toward Shibuya for dinner. By this point in the evening I had walked a lot and my legs hurt worse than napoleon’s chapped lips. I was tired and grumpy and lagging behind my companions. Shibuya was positively bustling, so we only ventured a couple of blocks into the downtown area. We took a cramped elevator up to the fourth floor of a building and climbed another flight before arriving at our destination.

We sat in the back of an Okinawa izakaya. The restaurant was noisy but in a good Saturday night king of way. It made me think of a former coworker of mine, Rich, who’s Okinawa relatives still live on the island. We sampled a couple of Okinawan beers, neither of which were too shabby. Their claim to fame was that they brewed using water from and underground coral cave.

The food was not really my cup of tea, but I enjoyed my company greatly which more than made up for it. We also tried out some Okinawan sake which was so boozy that it tasted like a glass of gin. Brendy had two.

Brendy and I parted ways with our dear friend, whom we likely won’t see again until the end of our trip. We returned to the hostel beaten but blissful because the next leg of our journey was about to begin. Until tomorrow.

[wandering-vr-cycler]

Okinawa Madama-michi Road

I'll start to publish travelogue of my VR cycling journey from Okinawa. Okinawa is located at the southern end of Japan, and an island away from the mainland.

I arrived here Naha in Okinawa on the ferry from Kagoshima in Kyushu. It was 1 day voyage. (Please remember all events are just virtual)

Today's cycling course (Click hyperlink then the course map appears) was

Typical Naha sightseeing course

Madama-michi Road: The military road in Ryukyu Kingdom era From Naha military port to Shurijo castle.

① Naha Ferry Terminal

This is the place I arrived from Kagoshima to Okinawa. I'm starting VR cycling journey in Okinawa from here. First of all I'll go to Naha city.

②Naha Kokusai-dori street

Everyone visiting Okinawa is sure to visit here. There are many souvenir shops and restaurants along this street. It is called " Miracle one mile" because of its remarkable recovery from ruins after the Pacific war. I feel some exoticism different from Mainland Japan.

③Naha Tsuboya Yachimun-dori street

Yachimun is Okinawa's traditional pottery. Many potteries and pottery shops are lined up along the street. Historically many potters were gathered here 300 years ago in Ryukyu Kingdom era. I feel nostalgia with this cobblestone road.

④Naha military port

Currently this port is in the control of US army. But its relocation is considered, but it seems to have trouble. In Ryukyu kingdom era, this place was also military port of the kingdom. Madama-michi was the road which the kingdom army marched from Shurijo castle to this port as an important military base. I'll pedal VR bike from here toward Shurijo castle.

⑤Onoyama Park Station

A monorail station seen to the left front is Onoyama Park station of Yui rail which is currently Okinawa's only railway. Before the Pacific war, some railways once existed in Okinawa. However they all were destroyed by the war. After the war railway infrastructure in Okinawa has not been neglected. At last Yui Rail, a long-cherished desire of Okinawa people, opened in 2003. For the future Okinawa transit railway is being considered.

⑥ Toyomijo castle ruins

Once Toyomijo castle was built on the top of the hill seen to the left. Around 1400, Okinawa was divided into 3 nations. (Northern part, Central part, Southern part) Nations struggle for supremacy each other. The southern nation built this Toyomijo castle, but it fell down by the central nation which became Ryukyu Kingdom.

⑦Shikina-zaka slope

Madama-michi road near Shurijo Castle consists of continuous steep slopes. A ghost story, fire balls which express the spirit of dead people floated around this slope, has been handed down.

⑧Kinjo-cho town cobblestone road 1

The most attractive spot of Madama-michi. This is the slope entrance to Shurijo castle.The old cobblestone road remains as is was in Ryukyu Kingdom era.

⑨Kinjo-cho town cobblestone road 2

A Okinawa style rest house stands at halfway up the cobblestone slope. A banyan tree reminds me that it is subtropical region here in Okinawa. Shurijo Castle is just around the corner. Everyone visiting Shurijo Castle should visit here by extending a little foot.

⑩Shurijo Castle Shurei-mon Gate

The goal of today's cycling course is in front of the famous Shurei-mon Gate. It's also the goal or start point of Madama-michi road. Shurei-mon is drawn on a 2000 yen note which is not so much current.　Unfortunately, Shurijo Castle burned down most of it in 2019. The next VR cycling journey of mine will starts from here to somewhere in Okinawa island.

[antiziosadventureinokinawa]

Spring break-Hokkaido

So I haven’t updated this in months because i forget cause im lazy. So school has already started but that is for another story. I might even turn this into half or something.

So Spring break started with me being afraid of my grades and feeling like a failure but it didn’t go as bad as I thought but I was pretty down at that time. The trip with my family was pretty much planned at that point with hotels being booked and whatever so I just had to clean my room and get ready and pack.

The first destination was Hokkaido via Kansai airport where I met up with my sister. Since the plan left pretty early I thought about taking a hotel room in Naha but decided to take a taxi instead. Because the busses here in okinawa isn’t like it is back home, and since I wanted to make sure I didn’t get there too late I ordered a taxi at like 5:30am. And I didn’t sleep that well that night. But I was there on time and had no problems, and arrived at Kansai waiting for my sister. Also since I didn’t have her flight numbers at hand it took some time before I found out where and when she was arriving. After having found her gate and something to eat I had to wait for like 2 hours because she had to go through the boarder control.

When I finally met her we hugged beacaue I had missed her so. We had lunch and went around Kansai airport while waiting for our plane to Hokkaido (New Chitose Airport). Well in Hokkaido it was more waiting for that bus, and I have to say I really enjoyed the airport because it had some pretty cool food related stuff that you could buy, like fresh crabs and seafood in general. But still waiting for the bus to take us to the hotel my sister kinda fell asleep because she hadn’t slept properly on her flight either.

Finally arriving at the hotel we were both exhausted but when we first got into the entrance we realised the place was huge, like they had a merry go round and three front desk and we had to go to the north one to check in. We were in an annex to the main building but it was pretty good. Also people helped carry out bags which feels kinda surreal, cause I feel like that’s something I should do myself.

The next day we will up pretty late cause we didn’t have any alarms because we were both so tired, but with that all the breakfast places had closed for time being so we had to go to the konbini to get food. Well we had to find the konbini as well, navigating the hotel was a bit of an adventure tbh.

But we rented our skiis/snowboards. Had some lunch and then started skiing.

The slopes I think were longer then the ones back in Sweden, but shorter than the alps. Also they didn’t keep up all the slopes either, especially the harder ones, idk why, maybe to make them even harder, or to allow it to become a ‘puckelpist’ (to lazy to look up the word in english).

That evening we went to the chineses restaurant, they had like 10 different restaurants in this hotel and the hotel across the street, and you could eat at both. We had thought to go to the izakaya first, but it was some time we would have to wait, and most of the others were kinda expensive, so we just went to the other side of the hotel, which probably took like 5 minutes at least. Maybe.

Next day we had breakfast at the traditional japanese place, which I really enjoyed, but my sister less so. Not that she thought it was bad, just that they har lots of strange stuff. So it was time for another day in the snow. Also I have to say that I did miss my own equipment, because the things I have are probably a bit higher standard than the rental equipment. That evening we actually went to the izakaya, which was worth it, so good, with all the fresh fish Hokkaido had to offer, well some of it. We had some.

Third, and last day of skiing, we had breakfast in the chinese restaurant again, and I’m not sure I would qualify all the food there as breakfast, it was delicious. After that it was out skiing, and the weather was a changable as ever, I mean sometimes it was sunny and clear, while other times it was snowy and cloudy, just like back home. But also the snow was so much higher and plentiful than back home. So yeah. That evening we were at a teppanyaki, where you grill your own meat, which was a first, but really fun.

The morning after it was another breakfast at the Chinese place, because we couldn’t be bothered to try a new place, because the other place in out hotel that had breakfast was such a long queue, and the place across the street, we didn’t know how to navigate and find what we wanted. Then it was on a bus back to the airport, and onwards to Tokyo.

#antizio #antizios adventure in okinawa #well more like my adventures in hokkaido/japan #but let's not get into details

[chatchalita]

My (almost half) Kyushu Trip

This trip is the most unprepared trip and the trip that “unlike me”

I like to spend more than 1 day in certain place, just to see the city, relax, and sightseeing at my own pace rather than move around every day.

This probably text-heavy rather than pictures heavy due to my laptop not cooperate and the pictures from my phone didn’t import properly and you probably will see pictures I posted before because of the above reason.

I went to Kyushu via Peach Aviation on Jan 15-20, 2018. A first trip of the year, yay.  On the 15th, I flew from Bangkok to Okinawa. And wow, I shook a little from cold weather in Okinawa.  The plane was so warm.  The flight supposed to arrive at 8am, but my flight was 15 minutes delayed. I was in a rush because I have another flight to catch at 9:50am, but it not a connection flight, which mean I have to check-out and check-in again. The immigration person keep asking me what am I doing here this time, I would like to think that he just doing his job to make sure he gives the right amount of days allowed in Japan rather than thinking that he suspect that I would ran away and overstayed in Japan.  I was really worried that I might miss the flight since most of the time the international flight and domestic flight are in separate building. When I got out, the check-in counter is right in front of my eyes and the gate is close by. Because the airline is low-cost airline. They have their own separate building that every single one of their flight will be here (to be fair, they share with another airlines). So, I made it in time and once I arrived at to Fukuoka, I rushed to Fukuoka City Museum to find that it close on that day. See  So on the first day, I went to Kokura Castle and Moji Port in KitaKyushu and then stay in Kitahama, Beppu.  

*Note I bought JR North Kyushu pass, 8500 yen for 3 days, I think it worth the money since I don’t have to buy ticket every time and I can ride Shinkansen

Second day, Jan 16.

The original plan was to visit Kitsuki castle and walk around the castle town because I came to love Japanese castle and later visit Beppu Hells, but I’m me, I can’t force myself to wake up early for the sake of sightseeing and ended up sleep in.  And I think it was the right choice...if the guide said 2-3 hours in sightseeing, I will took 3-4 hours or even longer than that.  I took a bus to Kannawa to see “Jigoku” or hells, the name was taken from that fact that all the hot springs here are too hot for human to enter and probably hot like hell.

I think I visited the place in different order than most ppl do, it seem like they usually walk for 10 minutes to reach the farthest hell first then go back to the same route to visit the rest.  Let’s just say I do the opposite...

*all the descriptions taken from English sign*

The first hell I visited is called “Shiraike Jigoku or the white pond hell, whose boiling spouting up water turns blue-white colored when falling down upon surface of the water.  There is also a tropical aqurium where a ‘king fish’ of prarucu’ ‘man-eating fish’ of piranha and several other tropical fish have been raised.”

After I got out of this, I was hungry since I have not eat anything yet and it was 11am almost 12pm, and I just walk in the nearest store and order the first food I saw, which happen to be the food of that area

Dangojiru, a ramen made from dango I think and this food is put together with Kyoto’s black ramen in the list of food I will never eat again.  It’s very plain and too much vegetable I guess, I rather eat a weird hint of burnt bitter sweet and super salty black ramen more than this.  Maybe I dislike it due to its plain taste and the lack of meat...

Next stop, “Oniyama Jigoku (Oniyama Hell), the force of the steam is so strong here that about one and a half train cars can be pulled by its pressure, and it creates ideal conditions for breeding crocodiles.”  This place probably a place that I didn’t took a picture of onsen with its name because this place is known for crocodiles, the temperature of the onsen is 99.1 C

And the real hell start here, “Kamado Jigoku (Oven Hell)  This jigoku derives its name from the fact that it used to be used for cooking foods long long ago.  The great red demon standing on an enormous cooking pot is the symbol of this jigoku”  That picture probably more appropriate than this picture, but the tour groups were there, there are a lot of people and they loud.  They also have a shop there for souvenirs and I just wanted to get out of this place as soon as possible.  Hey, I’m an introvert and I like quiet place.

“Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) so called because this jigoku looks like the sea, which emerged after an explosion of a volcano 1,200 years ago and because the color of the boiling water of the pond is cobalt-blue.”  

Oniishi Bozu Jigoku, it seem like I forgot to take a picture of the sign, but the name came from the fact that the little bubble popping up looking like head of the monk.  This place was so relaxing and nobody there, there is a footbath in here, which they put some kind of citrus in it and it was really nice.  The previous two jigoku also have footbath but there are too many people around.  So these 5 jigoku are the one within walkable distance, the other two is 3km away and riding bus there is the best option

Tatsumaki Jigoku (Geyser), I don’t have a trivia for this because I don’t remember and the sign was cut off otl  

Chinoike Jigoku (Blodd Hell), it named after the redness.

Overall, I think the jigoku are pretty interesting, definitely a tourist trap, but it was fun to take pictures with all of them.  Not a place I would visit again unless I want more of their skin-care product :p

After I finish journey through hells, I decided to go for a sand bath, which I got covered in black sand.  The temperature is too warm, it not like hot like the sand bath in different prefecture that I saw in one of the youtube video, which is kind of disappointment since I expected sauna temperature in a cool weather.  Then I went back to my hotel to relax and go out again to find food; I ate seafood ochazuke and Tamayaki (like takoyaki, but use scallop instead), then I finally went to Family Mart to print out Ogo-tan’s conbeni print.

Asahi Tower Beppu Tower is located near my hotel, so I decide to go up there on my way back, I think I got sold because they said the tower was kind of old or something, but it was not worth it, there’s nothing up there, the night view can be seen anywhere, not unique to Beppu.

Third day,

It’s a day, I actually waking up early (to catch the train back to Hakata)  for the sake of everything yay.  The plan, was Nagasaki...and I was going to get through with this plan until I ride the train and changed my mind.  It was very last minute, I had no plan.  I thought that 3 hours in Nagasaki is not enough and not worth it to ride 4-6 hours of train (two-way) from Hakata.  I have to hurried back to Hakata before Fukuoka City Museum close.  So, I went to Kumamoto Castle, which happened to be under construction due to earthquake, like I said in one of my post before, I knew it was under construction, but I didn’t know it was all the area.  At that point, I was regretting the fact that Fukuoka City Museum closing on Monday ruined my plan, I could have ride a ferry from Kumamoto to Nagasaki and actually enjoy Nagasaki until night time, but I have my sword priority.  So, I went to Tamana to see Doudanuki since I already in Kumamoto.  The museum was really really nice, I enjoyed it a lot despite the fact that I couldn’t read Japanese.  The dedication that I rode taxi there because the bus do not reach that place.  And the station person in Tamana station was so helpful, what a good place.  And then, I rode shinkansen back to Hakata again and finally able to see Hasebe in Fukuoka City Musuem.  See I took better pictures of the swords, like zoom in and such, but I’m too lazy to post it so that post ended up with generic sword pictures.

My hotel is in Tenjin, which has Animate there, something I couldn’t find and ended up spent money in Book-off instead.  The food that day was Mos Burger during lunch (Idk why I craved for Japanese-western food, don’t judge me) and Oyster tempura-don plus karage.

Fourth day, another unplanned day

I flew back to Okinawa and sat at Naha airport for 2 or was it 3 hours because I don’t know what to do.  I was looking at the brochures and tried to come up with a plan for today.  My original plan was to go the south and go to Okinawa world and I just ended up too lazy to go.  In the end, I decided to go to my hotel and walk around that area.  My hotel happen to be within the walkable distance from Animate, I always picked the best location for my hotel eh?  The street that I was walking was Kokusaidori street, which is a shopping street for souvenirs.

Although, it’s unplanned it was great, I enjoyed looking in each shop and eat whatever food I found on my way Animate.

Fifth day, each day’s adventure is getting shorter and shorter

I bought a day tour to Okinawa’s aquarium because I’m too lazy to do my research for the bus.  This day tour is so rush, I didn’t spend enough time in the aquarium, two hours include lunch is not enough.  The taco rice in the aquarium was great though, I can see whale shark while I ate.  The other place include in the tours are Kadena, a place where you can see American’s air force plane, Cape Manza, a place that related to Urashima Taro (If my Japanese is corrected, I mostly sleep through the bus ride) and American Village, a shopping place that the tour let people be in for 50 minutes, I cannot do anything during that period of the time. Sadly, it was raining that day and I’m not feeling very happy about it.

Sixth day, visited 3 world heritage

The last day in Japan,  visited Shirikinaen Garden, Shuri Castle, Tamadun, and Naminoue Shrine - Beach.  Shirikinaen was beautiful, I loves Japanese garden.  Shuri Castle was too large and I was too tired to explore all the area, is I visit Shuri Castle on the first day of my trip, I probably able to finish the stamp rally.  Naminoue beach is the only beach I went although I went to Okinawa,

Overall, I did enjoyed this trip a lot.  There’s a point that I was worn out enough to just want to stay in the hotel and not going anywhere, but it was a fun alone time trip.  In all the prefectures I visited, I probably will visited them again some day because I feel like I didn’t see enough, but it probably won’t be my priority since I rather visit other prefectures and complete my bucket list (visit all prefectures in Japan)

Oita, definitely will visit again for onsen-escape, maybe not Beppu, maybe it would be Yufuin next time.

Kumamoto, in 2019 when Kumamoto Castle is complete, let’s do it since it one of Japanese’s greatest castle...and maybe Mt. Aso...

Fukuoka, if I have a chance, might have a proper sightseeing here in the future

Okinawa, if I go there again, I want to stay near Ocean Expo park or something, it seem there’s a lot of interesting place in there.  Might go there in Spring because Summer is too hot and probably too crowded.

4/8 Kyushu visited, need to clear the rest the next time.

When I read this in the future, I probably regretted this for writing too little haha.  But I’m kind of tired half way through and it ended up the way it is.

#sometimes i pretends that i'm a travel blogger #just chatchalita traveling #chatchalita impulse half kyushu trip hopefully #hopefully it the last time I used that tag

[capoeiraokinawa]

OKINAWA. Only two (2) tickets left for this weekend's (March 15) MMA and Kickboxing fights at Koza Music Town on Gate 2 Street, Okinawa, City. 5,000yen a piece. SEND ME a private message if you want them. https://www.instagram.com/p/B9nP5YJpWTk/?igshid=pf2bxe5ii3us

[japansauce]

Another place we talked about in our Cheap Entertainment In Japan! is the famous Yoyogi Park, which has many free things for visitors to do. For everyone looking to travel to this cool area, here are the top 10 things you should do in Yoyogi Park.

1. See Some Street Performers

Picture from GoJapanGo.com

On most days, but especially on the weekends, you can find all types of street performers entertaining all of the visitors to Yoyogi Park. I’ve personally seen bands, musicians, magicians, idols, jugglers, dancers, and more. There is no charge to enjoy the entertainment, but if you really want to support them, then leave them a tip! That is, if they will accept one.

2. Take a Picture In Front of the Torii

As you walk into the main part of Yoyogi Park, you will quickly come across massive wooden torii gates, like the one pictured above. There are actually a couple of these gates at each end of Yoyogi Park, as they are the entry gates to Meiji Jingu. The large torii you will find here are actually the largest wooden torii in the world, standing 12 meters high and over 17 meters wide. Also, the wood used to make them are over 1,500 years old! So be sure to take a picture in front of these torii, as they back a beautiful back drop.

3. Admire the Colors of the Sake Barrels

    The colorful barrels you will find as you walk down the large path past the torii gate are actually sake barrels called “kazaridaru”. These colorful barrels are donated every year by sake brewers across Japan, as an offering to the gods at Meiji Jingu. The shrine will use the sake that is donated for their ceremonies and festivals. The wall of barrels changes over time, so be sure to stop by each time you visit Tokyo to take a look at the new wall!

4. Find Your Zen In Meiji Jingu

Keep walking deeper into Yoyogi Park and you will eventually come to Meiji Jingu, the most famous Shinto shrine in Japan, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. Here is a short video of Meiji Jingu:

5. Be a Witness at a Traditional Shinto Wedding

Meiji Jingu is the most popular location for traditional Shinto weddings, and on weekends there can be over 15 weddings in one day! So your chances of seeing one of the wedding processions is pretty high. You can take pictures quietly and discretely while the procession is walking by, but please don’t bother the happy couple and their family on one of the most important days of their lives!

6. Stroll Through Meiji Jingu’s Garden

As you are enjoying some peace and quiet inside of Meiji Jingu, you can also stroll through the wonderful flowers you can find inside of Meiji Jungu’s Inner Gardens. If you are visiting in June, then you will see the colorful irises in full bloom. There is a small entry fee of about 500 yen ($4.50 US Dollars), but it is worth every penny.

7. Travel Back In Time With the Rockabilly Dancers

If you head towards the Yoyogi park entrance on Sunday morning, you can catch the now famous Japanese Rockabilly Dancers…well, dancing. It is like looking into the past, as the group wears the Rockabilly style of clothing from the 1950’s, and rocks out to classic rock and roll.

They have reached a level of fame that has allowed them to appear in music videos too, such as this one from Peter & Bjorn:

If you manage to see them perform, I would suggest leaving them some form of tip, since maintaining their look can be an expensive undertaken. I mean, leather boots and hair grease ain’t cheap!

8. Have Fun At A Festival

  Throughout the year, Yoyogi Park is host to many, many festivals, so chances are that you will be able to join one on your trip to Japan. Just to list a few, you can find the following festivals: Okinawa; Cinco de Mayo; Tokyo Rainbow Pride; Salsa Street; Harajuku Omotesando Yosakoi; and more! The festivals are generally free to attend, and have many different types of food stalls for you to enjoy.

9. Hop A Ride On A Horse

One of the best kept secrets in Yoyogi Park is the Pony Park located inside of the Tokyo Riding Club on the Northwest Edge of the park. And though this riding club is considered the most expensive horse riding club in Japan, on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1:45-2:30pm, small children under the age of 12 can get free pony rides!

If you are too old to ride the ponies, don’t worry, you can take part in brushing the ponies or feeding them carrots you bring with you. It is really fun enjoying such great fun with horses in the middle of a city as big as Tokyo.

10. Have a Picnic in the Park!

I’ve saved one of the best, and most obvious, activities for last. Have a picnic in Yoyogi Park! Unlike other areas in Japan, picnicking is encouraged in Yoyogi. You will often find families and young couples with picnic blankets and yummy meals on nice sunny days. You are allowed to bring food and drinks into the picnic areas of the park, but you have to be sure to clean-up any trash you make. What is cooler than traveling around the world, to one of the coolest cities, and enjoying a nice Onigiri ball in the middle of the park.

How To Get There

Getting to Yoyogi Park is very easy, as you just have to hop-on the JR Yamanote Line train and get off at Harajuku Station. From there, just follow the signs to Yoyogi Park, which is only a five minute walk from there.

The next time you are in Tokyo, we hope you have the chance to checkout some of these fun activities in Yoyogi Park. And if you do, feel free to send us your pictures of all the fun you had!

  Top 10 Things To Do In Yoyogi Park! Checkout all of the fun things you can do the next time you are in Tokyo! #Japan #Tokyo #Yoyogi #travel #life #live #anime #manga #otaku #Top10 #park #free #food #goodeat #zen #peace #fun #crazy Another place we talked about in our Cheap Entertainment In Japan! is the famous Yoyogi Park, which has many free things for visitors to do.

[wikitopx]

Enjoy a stroll and culinary delights in Okinawa, the old Ryukyu Kingdom Naha, Okinawa, where Naha Airport is located, is the hometown of Shuri prefecture, an area with strong traces from the Ryukyu kingdom.

Naha also contains International Street, bustling with tourists, and the Naha Shintoshin town planning project. This is an urban area of interest, allowing you to stroll through a historic and nostalgic town. Visitors can maneuver through the city using the Okinawa Urban Monorail.

[toc]

1. Explore the History of the Ryukyu Kingdom at Shuri Castle Park

Located a 20-minute walk from Shuri monorail station, Shuri Castle Park, Registered World Heritage. This was the court of the Ryukyu dynasty, which ruled over what is now Okinawa for 450 years.

Walkthrough Shurei Gate, a famous photography spot, and head up to the higher ground for the impressive painted main building. For an admission fee, you can go inside for up to 60 minutes to see the throne rooms and queens, as well as art objects and other items, as you experience the history of the tide. Great Ryukyu.

2. International Street, A Shopping Avenue Busy with Visitors

  Naha’s International Street was known post-WW II as the miracle mile for its almost-instantaneous reconstruction. For souvenirs and restaurants, this is a major attraction for visitors to Okinawa.

Popular spots to visit include Makishi Central Public Market, dining facilities and Don Quijote, Japan's largest discount store. If you’re going for a stroll at night, there are izakaya where you can listen to performances of traditional Okinawa folk music and shamisen players.

International Street Access: Ten minutes away from Kentencho-mae or Makishi stop on the path of a walk alone

3. Okinawa Nature, History and Culture at the Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum

Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum, designed to resemble Okinawa castle ruins, is located in a part of Naha known as Sh Shososhin.

Here you can see exhibits about subtropical Okinawa nature, its culture, and history during the Ryukyu Dynasty, as well as when it was controlled by the United States. You can also learn about folklore and Okinawa archeology.

At art museums, there are mainly artworks related to Okinawa from artists inside and outside the province. The exhibits change seasonally, and you can also see old-fashioned Japanese kominka houses and outdoor artworks.

Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum Address: Okinawa, Naha, Omoromachi 3-1-1 Access: Ten minutes away from Omoromachi Station on the exclusive road

4. Food and Drink at Makishi Central Market

Enter the main market street outside the center of International Street and you'll arrive at Makishi Central Market. The first floor sells fish and fresh meat, with colorful fish and unusual seafood, pig feet, and other products.

The retro vibe feels pleasant while strolling through the back streets, and the standing bars and izakaya allow you to enjoy everyday life in Okinawa.

Makishi public market Address: Okinawa, Naha, Matsuo 2-10-1 Access: 10 minutes away from Makishi Station on the unitary path

5. Experience Traditional Okinawan Art with Tie-dye

At Okinawa's traditional fabric dyeing workshops and some tourist establishments, you can try your hand at the tie. Choosing a pattern and dyeing fabric is a common activity, and you can take home your finished product.

Shuri Ryusen Address: Okinawa, Naha, Shuri, Yamakawa Access: 15 minutes from Gibo Station on the Monorail

6. The Local Shopping Center, San-A Naha Main Place

At San-A Naha Main Place, a major shopping center frequented by residents, you can check out major electronics retailers and Tokyu Hands. It is also convenient for buying food in bulk. On the first floor, there's a remarkable Okinawa souvenir corner for the variety of snacks.

Ingredients for Okinawan taco rice, instant soba, Okinawa spices and other items used by Naha's local community can be purchased here. It is thrilling to walk through the spacious supermarket.

San-A Naha Main Place Address: Naha, Omoromachi 4-4-9

7. Take a Keepsake Photo Dressed in an Okinawan Kimono

How about having a photo in Okinawa's kimono to remember your trip? There are shops on International Road and around Shuri Castle with places to take photos. Today, they continue to be used in Ryukyu dances, mostly in Okinawa.

Women wear traditionally colored kimonos and hanagaki hats, while men wear sensational kimonos and hachimaki headbands. Sometimes you can just put kimono on your clothes.

In total, it takes about 15 to 30 minutes to get your picture, from choosing a kimono to taking a photo.

8. Tips for Enjoying the Night in Naha

We recommend staying one night in Naha if you arrive at the airport in the evening, or spend an evening of sightseeing in Naha before returning home. The one-way street from Naha Airport to Shuri Station is cheaper than other areas (about 550 yen / 1.75km) and allows convenient transportation when combined with a taxi.

If you take a boat to a remote island in the morning, you can reach the port quickly by taxi.

Have dinner and take a walk on International Street, watch Shuri Castle light up from Shuri Station on the exclusive road, and enjoy Naha's night view. For half a day, you can see another side of Okinawa, visiting Tsuboya Yachimun Street, with ceramics and antiques, Makishi Central Market, Shuri Prefecture and small alleys.

9. Try Popular Regional Cuisine

Okinawa soba is something you absolutely must try a tasting. The thickness and shape of noodles vary by island and region, and each shop prepares its soup in a different way. The soup comes from sources like pork bones and bonito flakes. One recommendation is the soba at Okinawa Soba Eibun.

10. Souvenirs You Have to Get In Okinawa

Okinawan chinsuko biscuits and Okinawan fried rice cakes called sata andagi are staples if you buy souvenirs from Okinawa.

Traditional art products with modern touches, as well as simple packaging products made of local ingredients, are very popular. Stroll down the supermarket walkway to discover Okinawa food that you can only find locally.

More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Yokohama

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-naha-705828.html

#Wikitopx #Wikitopx - Feed

[ryosukekiyasu]

Ryosuke Kiyasu snare drum solo shows in Okinawa, Japan starts from today

6 Oct. Fri - Okinawa City at Koza's Gate 2 Street

7 Oct. Sat - Naha at Azat Fanfare

8 Oct. Sun - Naha at Bar Kaiki Club

9 Oct. Mon - Naha at groove

#drummer #drumsolo #snaredrum #drums #drum solo #snare drum #snare drum solo #freejazz #snare #snaredrummer

[skerbango-blog]

Marine Officers Don’t Get Tattoos

By SoK

Back when I was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Marines in 1982, it was an unwritten and unspoken rule that Marine Officers simply did not get tattoos.  Nearly all the troops had some ink, in some way, shape or form.  Having the Eagle, Globe and Anchor on prominent display was de rigueur.  Some Marines had their duty stations as tats, some had unit tats, and many of them had naked lady tats….including the ladies. I did not once see any visible tattoos on any of the officers under whom I worked.  In 1985, I transferred from Cherry Point, NC to Marine Corps Air Station, Futenma, Okinawa.  Within 2 months, I was sent down as a detachment commander for the Tactical Air Command Center, supporting an exercise run by the Air Force called Cope Thunder at Clark AFB in the Philippines.  SROD will tell you that the PI is some shit to visit.  The local currency is pesos, and the Marines spent a bunch of them outside the gate in the local establishments.  It gave even the most unattractive Marine some “pesonality” to the local working girls.

A buddy of mine, Tom Cook, a fine Michigan Man, was along for the detachment.  One Friday night Happy Hour, in the midst of pursuing Air Force nurses at the Clark AFB Officers’ Club, Tommy and I decided that we were going to get tattoos on Saturday morning.  It seemed like a great idea at the time.  We asked the bartender if he knew of a local, reputable parlor where some Marine Lieutenants could make a terrible mistake.  He gave us a black business card with the name “Junior” on it and a street address in Angeles City, just outside the gate of the base. Tom and I agreed to meet outside the Bachelor Officers Quarters at 0900 the next day, and commence tattoo-getting operations.  

Sure as shit, we both show up at 09 the next day, “Junior’s” card in hand and take a taxi out to the Clark main gate.  In the true spirit of being in the PI, we took a pedicab to the address listed on the card.  This was in the Marcos’ days, and we were warned before coming to the PI to be wary of straying too far in to the barrios.  We were straying FAR in to the barrios.  We roll up on Junior’s place, which looked legit and clean.  Tom wanted a LaCoste alligator on his upper left chest.  He was a Michigan Man, after all, and he had standards. I picked a peso coin with a pouncing eagle on it.  I figured since it as going on my right hip, I could do what I want, and the only way anyone would see it would be in a very familiar fashion.  

Junior was an artist. There were no stencils or anything like that.  It was all done freehand.  Tom is up first.  Oddly enough, the Phil Donahue show is playing on the TV.  Tommy gets done, and I’m up.  I fucking hate pain in all of its visitations.  I was stone-cold sober, had taken no measures to anesthetize myself, and just lay there while he worked.  Tattoo turned out great!  We each paid our twenty bucks to Junior, head back to the gate, and take a taxi back to the BOQ.  We pledged not to say a word to anyone about it, for fear of ostracization.  A month later, the exercise wraps up, and we are sent back to Oki.  My life as a junior officer in a squadron resumes as normal.  In the late spring of 1986, the Commanding General of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing decides that he wants to hold a Mess Night.  This is a very formal affair with every officer in the Wing present and in Dress Blues.  There are different meal courses presented with different types of alcohol, parading of the roast beef, speech by the Guest of Honor (a 3 star General, in this case), and toasts.  It’s a very scripted event…..except for the fines.  Marines drink.  We drink a lot.  The fining portion of the evening is done to fund the drinking after the formal part of the Mess Night.  The President of the Mess, the aforementioned Commanding General of the Wing, reads from a list of offenses and calls the offender up to the front of the Mess to address the offender and fine him commensurately.  We are seated in the Mess based on seniority, and I am so far down the food chain, that I can barely see the head table.

“Second Lieutenant Kerbango, front and center!”  Fuck me running…..someone had dimed me out.  I got up, did the 50 yard walk of shame and presented myself to Major General Charles H. Pittman.  Charging Charlie Pittman had a reputation in the Marine Corps, and he scared the shit out of me.  My knees were shaking standing there.  “Lieutenant, I understand you got a tattoo, is that correct?”  Yessir.  “I’d like to see that tattoo, Lieutenant.”  Uhhhhh, it’s not readily presentable, sir.  “Lieutenant, I want you to stand up on this table and show us exactly where that tattoo is.”  Yessir. So, in front of 350 fellow Marine officers, many of them women, I climbed up on the table and dropped trou/underwear….in Dress Blues.  “That is a fine tattoo, Lieutenant.  How much did it cost you?”  20 bucks sir. “That’ll be your fine, Lieutenant, now get the fuck off my table.”  I hopped down and made my way, scarlet-faced, back to my table.  It was truly a walk of shame.  

Suffice it to say that Tom dropped a dime on me.  But I drank my 20 bucks worth of fines that night, and I had an unauthorized Red Sox jersey underneath my Blues!

[angelican-sadness]

Dope Experiences

I get ignored so much when I talk to my husband. He doesn’t even get to hear about the dope experiences I’ve had this weekend because he doesn’t even care to ask. What am I doing here? 🙃

So anyways. Here’s some dope shit I did this weekend since I’m in a different country, my husband is all I’ve got, and I don’t have anyone to tell at the moment.

I’ve been hoop dancing for a little over a year now and last night was my first performance at a little EDM show in Okinawa, Japan at Remy’s on Gate 2 Street (writing it down so I don’t ever forget it). I went all by myself and saw the person hosting the event and another hooper who was working the door there, so I was pretty nervous because the people I knew of were people I’ve only met once or twice before and I had nobody there to support me at all. Anyways, the girl working the door offered to come on stage with me to get over my fear of it (she’s 7 months pregnant so what a trooper she is!) and honestly it was fucking incredible. I loved being up on that stage. Showing the crowd what I’ve worked so hard for this past year. Then I met another girl who hoops on the island as well and we exchanged numbers and she came up with me a few times too, but there were times that I was up there all alone and I just lost myself in the music. It was truly amazing! During breaks I was able to go into the crowd and dance around and all the people created a dancing circle that people just went in and out of and it was just so fucking fun! So many flow artists were there (glovers, hoopers, orbiters, poi).

Then after the show, I walked back to my car and realized I left my keys at the place so I had to walk all the way back. After I grabbed my keys and started walking back, I met this group of guys and they were super nice. Definitely from the country and they were hella respectful. But one of the guys was super drunk talking to me about his wife and how he can’t wait for her to be here and that he loves her so much and he makes sure she will never go a single day questioning their love. It was so fucking sweet. :’) I look up to relationships like that so much. ♥️ When we entered onto base, I had some cookies and cake pops left from my coworker’s baby shower I attended earlier and I offered it to them and gave them a ride back to their dorms and it was such a good feeling helping those guys out. They were so damn sweet. I don’t know their names but they truly deserve the world and more ♥️♥️♥️

Even though I feel alone in my marriage sometimes, I’m glad I can say I’m stronger now than I used to be. I used to not get out of bed when I had relationship issues because it got me so down, but now it’s different. It sucks but I won’t let it tear through me like it used to. I love myself and all the things I do regardless of who has my back or not and I’m super happy to say I’m stronger now than ever before. I just hope this passes and I don’t have to go even 1 day questioning the love like that lucky girl that I mentioned in the last paragraph. ✌🏼