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7team7 · 5 years

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SasuSaku Month Day 10: Fox’s Wedding

Title: You may now kiss the kage // Rating: G // Summary: Sasuke and Sakura are indulgent parents, and they know it. They’re particularly reminded of this when they have to go along with the puppet show/tea party extravaganza Sarada is putting on, including a gay fox wedding (Mr. Fox is marrying Mr. Sand...sounds like someone we know). // ao3 ffnet

A/N: the term “gay fox wedding” is from that tweet about the Arthur episode if you’ve never seen but the male teacher gets married to another male character and a headline talked about how the state of Alabama wouldn’t air the episode, describing it as a “gay rat wedding” lmfao.

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“Mama you sit there, Papa sit here. The show will start soon. Pwease be patient.” Sarada disappeared behind the puppet stage Sasuke built two weeks ago, complete with red velvet curtains.

Sasuke and Sakura were far too large for the tiny plastic chairs at Sarada’s child size table, but her stuffed animals fit just fine. They even had enough room for their special occasion outfits: tutus, scarves, hats, coats. Sarada had served them all invisible tea in plastic cups with matching saucers, so it was quite the formal affair.

Nearing the age of four, Sarada was having a grand old time playing with her favorite plushies and faux shuriken. She recently took an interest in putting on performances with puppets sent by Uncle Gaara’s brother. He still expressed his gratitude to Sakura for saving his life even after all these years, so he liked to send gifts to Sarada when he was already planning to send something to Shikadai.

She was having so much fun, Sasuke decided to build the stage to further her career in puppet performances. The sparkling joy in her eyes, so similar to his own, made the very embarrassing number of splinters he got during the project entirely worth it.

“Everyone pwease rise!” Sarada’s voice sounded behind the stage. Knocking their knees on the table, Sasuke and Sakura got to their feet in anticipation for the start of the show. They exchanged glances, “why do you think we’re standing instead of enjoying our tea?” mused Sasuke.

Sarada poked her head out from behind the curtains, “no talking, Papa. Don’t you know it’s rude?” Sakura had taken Sarada and ChoCho to see a “Shinobi Spectacle: Live!” production, so now Sarada thought she knew all there was to know about manners, etiquette, and politeness during a performance. Mikoto would have been very proud.

“Please welcome the great and honorable Mr. Fox as he walks down the aisle to his equally great and honorable love, Mr. Sand!” As her parents stood motionless, simply observing the Mr. Fox’s entrance, Sarada whispered, “you’re supposed to clap here.” The couple made sure to clap as loud as they could—Sarada had inherited quite the temper hidden away behind all her adorableness. Besides, someone had to pick up for her stuffed animals’ slack (I’m looking at you Mr. Dinosaur).

As Sarada started making a very long winded and surprisingly touching speech about the love between Mr. Fox, a puppet clad in orange, and Mr. Sand, covered in tan cloth, Sasuke and Sakura wondered who she could be talking about. The Uchihas knew their daughter admired both the Hokage and Kazekage greatly, but they didn’t think she kept up so closely with their love life. At the end of the ceremony, she pronounced them Mr. and Mr. then finished with a dramatic kiss. Mr. Sand really knew how to sweep a fox off his feet.

Soon the happy couple joined the others at the table for the reception. Sarada played a perfect host, and her parents continued along as polite guests. She poured more tea, which Sasuke nearly forgot to pretend to sip until Sakura pinched his leg out of Sarada’s sight, and made sure all her plushies were having a jolly old time.

Sarada smacked a palm to the center of her forehead, “I’m sowwy, I almost forgot cake! What’s a party without cake!” She scurried around her room gathering the necessary items, such as plastic strawberries and more tiny plates. Since trying cake at a birthday party, Sarada loved to come up with as many “special occasions” to eat more of the tasty treat. Monday morning? Cake time. Learned a new word? Cake time. Ate all her vegetables? Definitely cake time. Sasuke took longer to give in, so disgusted with the amount of sugar in desserts in general, but Sakura would usually agree so long as she got a bite too.

As they happily pretended to eat cake, Sarada jumped to her feet and announced, “time for their first dance!” Sasuke and Sakura swayed gently together as they watched Sarada make the puppets twirl and leap around her room. To share a life and be married brought great joy to the both of them, and their daughter only made it all that much sweeter. Sarada looked up to ask everyone to please present the wedding gifts, but her parents were staring gently at each other for the moment. Mr. Fox and Mr. Sand were lucky to have found each other, thought Sarada, but in her eyes, anyone would be lucky to have what Mr. Papa and Mrs. Mama have together.

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A/N: when I was writing this I was thinking of Bonnie playing in Toy Story 3. Such a cutie. And I know this is a very American take on weddings lol sorry wrote it in 30 mins if not already obvious by the length

#ssm19d10 #sasusaku month 2019 #sasusaku #my writing

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missmyloko · 5 years

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What’s In a Book? Part 28

On The Bonus Day Of Fun I present... a book review! It’s hard to believe that my last review was also done last year! This year I’ve really set my sights on buying a few books that my collection dearly needs, so this will (hopefully) not be the last review you’ll see in 2019!

Book’s cover courtesy of Amazon Japan. 京都五花街 - 祇園甲部 - 宮川町 - 先斗町 - 上七軒 - 祇園東 - The Kyoto Gokagai by Hiroshi Mizobuchi 溝縁ひろし (ISBN 978-4-8381-0432-1) Date of Publication: 2010 Language: Dual Japanese and English (Mostly) Format: Softcover Availability: Still being printed and easily found online Price: $15 Errors: 1 As can be guessed by the look of the cover, this book came between Kyoto Hanamachi and The Kagai In Kyoto. Already with the title and introduction we can see how the author is now using the more correct term of “Kagai” instead of “Hanamachi” as that is the term used in Kyoto. It’s also nice to note that if you look at the English page with the publishing information you’ll notice some Japanese text and numbers at the bottom. These are actually the statistics for how many maiko and geiko were active at the time! I’m not too sure why they were kinda hidden there, but it seems like a fun easter egg for people who are paying attention. As of September 2009 there were 194 geiko and 89 maiko, which isn’t too far off of the current count of 188 geiko and 74 maiko. One of my only qualms is how the book begins. Even though pretty much every event has the information written in Japanese and English the entire index is written in Japanese only. This would be remedied in his next book, but it seems like a bit of an oversight that should have been corrected for this book. Overall, the book is split into three separate parts: The Calendar of Events, The Miscellaneous Maiko and Geiko Information, and The Gokagai Directory. Part 1: The Calendar of Events We’ve seen this before numerous times, so I’ll quickly list off each event covered, along with a small blurb. Each event name is as it appears in the book: Shinen New Year’s Day - Details the kadomatsu ornaments outside of businesses. Shigyōshiki Year Opening Ceremony - Ceremony to officially open the kagai. There’s a few pages of photographs showing the ceremonies in each kagai along with descriptions, but they’re only written in Japanese. Hatsuyori New Year Greeting - Gion Kobu’s special rounds. Setsubun Seasonal Division Ritual and Obake Disguise - Ceremonial dances performed at various shrines along with bean tossing and dressing up in costumes for ozashiki. Baika(sai) Plum Blossom Festival - Outdoor tea ceremony at Kitano Tenmangu hosted by the maiko and geiko of Kamishichiken. Oishi Ki Memorial Service - Special memorial service for Kuranosuke Oishi, leader of the 47 Ronin, held at the Ichiriki. Miyako Odori Dance Performance - Gion Kobu’s annual spring dances. Kyō Odori Dance Performance - Miyagawa Cho’s annual spring dances. Kitano Odori Dance Performance - Kamishichiken’s annual spring dances. It’s placed after the other two as the Kitano Odori used to take place at the end of April; it now takes place during the last week of March and the first week of April. Takasegawa Canal Sakura Cherry Blossom Festival - Held by the maiko and geiko of Pontocho each April. Dance Dedication For Annual Festival of Heian Shrine - The spectacular dedication dances of the four kagai associated with the Heian Shrine. You may know it better from its Japanese name as the Heian Jingu Reitaisai Hono Būyo Matsuri. Kamogawa Dance Performance - Pontocho’s annual spring dances. End of Miyako Odori Rituals - The Gion Kobu maiko and geiko praying together with their Inoue teachers for a successful Miyako Odori. It used to take place each year on May 1st as the odori ran from April 1st to the 30th at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo, but since it’s been moved to various locations for the past three years while the kaburenjo is undergoing retrofitting the dates have changed. In 2019 it will take place on April 28th. Kanki Inari Shrine Festival - Gion Higashi’s big event for the spring where they celebrate the ongoing success of the shrine with an outdoor tea ceremony. Fumi No Kai Singing Performance - A nagauta festival hosted by Miyagawa Cho in the early summer. Kyoto Gokagai Traditional Dance Performance Miyako No Nigiwai - The annual combined dances of the five kagai on the third weekend in June. There’s seven pages of images dedicated to this event! Beer Garden - Various outdoor beer gardens hosted by Kamishichiken. Since theirs has proven to be very popular Miyagawa Cho and Pontocho have also followed suit in recent years. Osendo Thousand Time Shrine Visit - The gathering of all maiko and geiko of Gion Kobu together with their dance teachers to pray for success on July 7th in specially made yukata. It’s better known by it’s other name of Miyabi Kai Osendo. Sannin No Kai Performance - An event held only a few times from what I can find. It featured the best dancers from Gion Kobu, Pontocho, and Miyagawa Cho and ended with a dance by Yachiyo Inoue and Mitsugoro Bando, the heads of the Inoue and Onoe Schools. Gion Festival - The massive festival that takes place for the majority of July and is one of Japan’s Big Three festivals. It also details the Hanagasa Junko and the Dedication Dances by the maiko and geiko who are selected to perform each year. Yukata Kai Summer Music Learning - Annual event held by Miyagawa Cho in which the performers all wear yukata. Since this book was written Kamishichiken and Gion Higashi have also began their own Yukata Kai. Hassaku Summer Greeting - The annual rounds of thanks on August 1st each year. Autumn Dance Performance Practice - Beginning in September the gokagai each get ready to host their annual fall dances. Zuiki Festival - Annual event in Kamishichiken that celebrates the harvest. Onshū-kai Dance Performance - Gion Kobu’s annual autumn dances. Mizue-kai Dance Performance - Miyagawa Cho’s annual autumn dances. Kotobuki-kai Dance Performance - Kamishichiken’s annual autumn dances. Suimei-kai Dance Performance - Pontocho’s annual autumn dances. Jidai Festival - The annual procession that celebrates over 1,200 years of Kyoto history with participants dressed in period accurate clothing. Fire Drill - Annual demonstration of how to put out fires by maiko of each district. Gion Odori Dance Performance - Gion Higashi’s annual dances. Chion-In Gion Odori Presentation Dance (知恩院祇園をどり奉納舞) - This part was in Japanese only, and it appears as though after the Gion Odori the maiko and geiko of Gion Higashi did a dedication dance at Chion-In following the Gion Odori. I am not aware of this event still existing though. Ohitaki Fire Festival - Annual event held at all shrines where wishes written on paper are ceremoniously burned. Kanikakuni Festival - Annual dedication of flowers at Osamu Yoshii’s monument that features his famous poem Kanikakuni. Ichi-go Ichi-e (Treasure Every Encounter For It Will Never Recur) Autumn Tea Ceremony Party - An event held by the maiko and geiko of Gion Kobu in which they perform a tea ceremony and dances. I do not recall this event happening within the past few years. Gion Kouta Festival - Two maiko from each kagai read the lyrics of the famous Gion Kouta in front of a monument in Maruyama Park. Each kagai takes part on a rotating basis. Kaomise Soken Kabuki Watching - Annual viewing of the first kabuki performances of the year by each kagai. Kitano Kencha Tea Dedication Festival - Annual tea ceremony hosted by the maiko and geiko of Kamishichiken that celebrates the tea festival held by Toyotomi Hideyoshi that lead to the establishment of Kamishichiken. Kotohajime New Year Preparation - Visit to the head of each dance school where maiko and geiko give a gift of pounded rice cakes and receive a new fan to use in the new year. Okotosan Year End Greeting and Okera-bi Fire Offering - The annual year end greetings where maiko and geiko receive fukudama and the shrine fire ceremony where maiko and geiko light a special rope that is then used to light the oven for the new year. Part 2: The Miscellaneous Maiko and Geiko Information A short section that features an interview with a maiko (Japanese only), the misedashi process (Japanese only), a section about various maiko accessories, such as hair ornaments, hanameishi, dance fans, pocchiri, and kago (Japanese only), maiko hairstyles (Japanese only), the erikae process (Japanese only), the hiki iwai retirement process (Japanese Only), and ozashiki asobi practices (Japanese only). This is then followed by a two page blurb about Shimabara, which is written in Japanese and English. Part 3: The Gokagai Directory This may seem a bit odd to English speakers, but listed within are the history of each kagai, maps of the kagai, where all ochaya are located on said maps, and even the phone numbers for each ochaya. Obviously you can’t just call up these places as you need an introduction, but it’s not uncommon for Japanese publications to print phone numbers for businesses. This is still practiced with odori program books too! Like his other books, this section is entirely in Japanese. Like all of his other books, the real charm here is from his absolutely GORGEOUS images. This book is loaded with images for each event and even some random outdoor images that mark the changing of each season. It’s a feast for the eyes that makes this book worth the (very affordable) price alone! During the entire book I found one error, and it’s an English issue. In the introduction the English part states that a shikomi period can also be known as a minarai period, but it’s correct on the Japanese side of the text in that it states that the minarai period comes after the shikomi period. For those of you who are looking for an affordable book that details the events of the gokagai along with stunning images then this is the book for you! Rating: ✪✪✪✪✪ (out of 5)

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yukiwrites · 6 years

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To Protect her Brothers

For Corrianderweek, Day 7: Children Answering these requests with it too~ Though she isn’t as ‘little’ as intended, sorry about that ^^;

Peace has ruled over Nohr and Hoshido for so long, the war could only be read about in the textbooks. An entire new generation grew up without the fear of having their able-bodied taken, or their houses requisitioned.

Still, Nohr's First Princess has had the same goal ever since she was young: to protect her brothers in whatever duties they perform for the good of the realm -- and to be the right hand of the next King, her older brother Siegbert. She longed to be captain of his guard; to deliver his judgement towards all corners of the land and spread peace in honor of him.

Her short, blonde hair bounced right under her pointy ears as she walked through the corridors towards the breakfast room. "Good morning, Papa! Good Morning, Mama." The young woman said, placing a kiss over both King and Queen's foreheads.

Xander welcomed the caress, but still spoke with a stern voice. "Katerina..."

The princess giggled, taking her usual seat, one chair away from her Father. "C'mon, Papa," Katerina said without losing her smile, "I always call you 'Father properly in court, don't I?"

The King smiled at his youngest, though his frown remained. "That you do. I just pray that you do not get carried away by habit. Especially now that we are closer than even to your inheriting ceremony."

Katerina opened her mouth to reply, but the sound of the door opening interrupted her. "Oh, and I cannot wait to pass Bolverk down to her, dear brother." Camilla walked in, Midori by her side. "I'm sure it'll find in you a better wielder than it did in me, darling." She said, pinching Katerina's cheek.

"Thank you, Aunt Camilla." Katerina squeezed her eyes as Camilla's hands pinched her, then added: "But don't say that! I still have so much to learn about fighting over wyverns, and you're the best rider of all Nohr."

The Princess gave a soft laugh, circling the table so as to take her seat, "oh, you're too kind, dearie. But of course I'll teach you anything you wish to know."

At that moment, Crown and Second Princes walked in and Katerina turned her head to them. "Sieggy, Kana! Good morning." She greeted as Siegbert placed a kiss over her head and Kana circled the table to sit beside Kamui.

"Monin', Sis!" Kana said at the same time Siegbert wished a very good morning to everyone and bowed before taking his seat.

Xander always sat at the leftmost corner of the table, Kamui by his left and Siegbert by his right. On the Queen’s left sat the Second Prince Kana, right in front of Katerina herself, who was always next to Siegbert. Beside her would sit her cousin Midori, followed by her mother, Lady Camilla. In front of them would sit Prince Leo, his wife Sakura and their son Forrest. Azura would sit adjacent to Camilla, largely due to the elder princess’ insistence, since neither of their husbands would bring themselves to sit at their liege’s table.

Despite living in Hoshido for years now, Elise would always have a reserved seat at their table.

Without the threat of war hanging over everyone's heads, their mornings could be spent with leisure -- not disregarding their usual duties, of course: Siegbert accompanied Xander in his tasks more often than not, for example. He was, after all, the same age as Xander was when he took the throne after the war ended so many years ago.

Kana studied under Leo so as to learn how to be the King's brother and how to use his power and connections as a Prince to aid the Crown in any way possible.

Katerina was a free spirit, and very much loved to train her body -- in both human and dragon form. She was well-studied and learned well under Kamui and Camilla, but she knew her place was with a weapon in hand to protect her Brothers.

Her days weren't only filled with training and studying, however: She loved to spend time with any one person of her family, and always made sure to MAKE them make time for her, be it for only talking over tea or for simply enjoying each other's presences.

That morning, Kamui was brushing her daughter's hair, wondering which bow to tie on it after she was done. "I wonder if that's how I would've looked like with short hair," the Queen mused, looking at Katerina through the mirror.

The princess looked up to Kamui. "You never had short hair, Mama?"

"I'm afraid so. When I was your age, the style of my hair wasn't really my priority, after all..." She bobbed her head, remembering her teenage days -- ones she spent thinking about her forbidden love.

Katerina leaned on the dresser, placing both elbows over it and resting her chin on her hands. She looked up at her mother through the mirror. "...Was it the war?"

"Oh," Kamui snapped out of her own memories and resumed the brushing, smiling fondly. "Oh, no. My role at the war would only come a few years later. At seventeen I could only think of how hopelessly in love with your father I was."

The princess widened her eyes, her cheeks flushing. "Really?! Tell me more, Mama!" She turned her body toward the Queen, holding her hands. "I've only heard stories about the war, but not so much about your lives before it..."

"Of course," Kamui caressed Katerina's cheek, "come, let us sit so we can talk."

They moved to the divan that was placed beside the dresser, Mother holding daughter's hand on hers.

"Hmmm, where should I begin?" She tilted her head, searching for the many, many memories she and Xander had shared together.

"... You said you loved Papa since you were my age?" Katerina gulped, thinking she was delving into forbidden territory by asking such personal question... but it was so thrilling to hear! Her brave Mother and Father before they were so. How were they in the past? She could hardly imagine one without being with the other, after all.

"Oh, posh," Kamui gestured, dismissing Katerina's statement. "I was in love with him since I was a child; it only took me a long time to accept my feelings."

"Accept them, Mama?"

"Why, yes." Kamui nodded, forlorn. "We were raised as siblings and I've always thought my feelings ugly and out of place. How dared I love someone who was caring for me like I was his own blood in such a dirty way?"

Katerina's brow flickered with emotion, gripping at her mother's hand. "Your love isn't dirty, Mother!" She said in a tone higher than intended, calling Kamui more formally than usual in reflex. "I've never seen a love that... that belongs so much like yours and Papa’s..." her voice trailed off, her face reddening due to the sudden outburst.

Kamui took one hand to her mouth in surprise, her daughter's blush contaminating her face as well. "Oh, my child." She booped the princess' nose and lifted her chin with one finger. "Thank you for saying that, hm? I don't think that way anymore -- and haven't been for a long, long time -- but your words matter to me all the same."

Still embarrassed, Katerina looked away from her mother. "It's the truth, though."

The Queen's smile grew as Katerina tried not to laugh, but both ended up giggling after a few moments. "Indeed it is. I can't put it to words the depth of the love I feel towards your father, your siblings and you, my Katie." She once again caressed her daughter's cheek, who tilted her head towards the hand to enjoy it fully.

"Thank you, Mama." Katerina placed her hand over Kamui's, closing her eyes. "I don't know if I can find a love like yours -- or if I want to find one, for that matter. ... But I'm so glad that I'm the daughter of both of you."

"And I'm so very grateful to having a strong, independent and considerate daughter like you, Katie. I'm sure you'll find happiness in whichever path you trail; be it with a loved one by your side, or with your comrades."

Katerina shyly raised her shoulders. "It doesn't feel real that I can love someone like you do Papa... But it's also some sort of inspiration," she said, raising her gaze to the ceiling, as though she could see her future unravelling before her. "I know I have as much passion towards my own goals at the moment."

Kamui nodded, closing her eyes and holding Katerina's hands over her lap. "Which I'm sure you'll be able to accomplish them all with ease, being your Father's daughter and your siblings' sister, after all. But more than that, by being you."

Katerina giggled. "Now you're embarrassing me, Mama!"

"Nonsense!" Kamui laughed, pinching her daughter's nose. "I'm only telling the truth!"

They both laughed, taking the weight off of the princess's shoulder. "Thank you, Mama. Now I feel even more certain that the ceremony tomorrow will go over well."

The Queen smiled fondly at her child. "Of course it will, my Katie. We'll all stand by you. Besides, I'm sure it'll feel like that Bolverk will return to its former master. You grow into the late Queen Katerina everyday, after all."

Katerina closed her eyes and clutched one hand over her chest, remembering the tall picture of the late Queen hanged over the main hall. "May she give me strength."

The ceremony wasn't a public event, though it still had its fair share of attendants: Every bearer of dragon blood as well as their retainers stood by the red carpet inside the throne room -- some of them hoshidans as well.

On top of the stairs, a few steps under the throne in front of which Xander stood, knelt Katerina, wearing a dragon tiara Kamui had given to her on the previous day. The Queen had gotten it on the day they found out she was pregnant with Katerina, and found it only fitting that it was handed down to her on the right time.

In front of the Princess lay Camilla, holding Bolverk with both hands. "This legendary weapon has been passed down in the late Queen's house for generations -- until it fell back to the late King in honor of her name." Camilla spoke in a clear voice, her words reverberating through the hall. "Much like the sword Siegfried, whose master it finds in our current King, Bolverk can only be wielded by the worthy. From my Father, to me. From me, back to the blood of its former master." Camilla handed the giant axe to the Princess, urging her to be on her feet. "If you are not worthy, its weight will be so, you'll immediately drop it on the ground."

Katerina nodded, reaching out to the axe.

"If you are worthy, however, it will be as light as a feather -- it'll deliver it's heaviness and your justice onto your foes instead." She finished, nodding at the nervous princess. "Go on, dear, there's nothing to be afraid of."

Taking a deep breath, Katerina looked to the audience: to her brothers (Kana silently cheered for her, almost jumping; Siegbert only nodded and smiled with confidence), to her mother... then turned her gaze in the opposite direction, to her Father.

Xander nodded solemnly, then smiled.

She was so blessed to have so many people caring for her; believing in her. She wasn't afraid nor nervous anymore.

Katerina took the axe with one hand, lifting it as she held her breath -- and it was so light she almost turned over herself, such was the strength she used. "Oh! It's so light!" She blurted out.

Her cousins and brother Kana laughed in the audience, same as Camilla who hid a giggle. "I'm so proud of you, my dear Katie!" Camilla said, bear-hugging her niece. "Now Bolverk is finally back at where it belongs."

Pride and excitement beating wildly inside her chest, Katerina couldn't contain her smile from widening and her face from reddening. She looked straight at the portrait of the late Queen and bowed. "I'll make you proud, Grandmother. I'll protect my King and brother as well as this realm with everything I have!"

#corrianderweek2017 #corriander #kamarx #xander #siegbert #katerina #kana #camilla #fire emblem fates #my writings #i love my children #i love them so much #they're not 'children' there anymore BUT I DONT CARE THEY'LL ALWAYS BE MY BABIES #implied some ships there #leosaku camilla x kaze and ryomaelise were some #also azura x jakob #kamui

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augustinjapan-spring2017 · 7 years

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Day 37: So much to do, so little time...

Today was a review day in my Japanese class since our Lesson 13 & 14 review test is this Friday. The test is going to be on vocab, listening comprehension, grammar, verb conjugation, and kanji recognition. I have a lot of studying to do for it tomorrow. Luckily the review today helped me feel a lot better about it.

In Koto we finally finished learning the last version of Sakura, so hopefully next time we’ll play all 6 versions together in harmony as a class (and then move on to new songs!). In Pop culture we continued talking about the dark manga “gekiga.” Specifically looking at a few artists and how they were influenced by Tezuka Osamu and how they influenced him to start creating his own manga for older audiences. Finally, in Religion of Japan today, we discussed the interviews that one half of the class provided on paper and how people in Japan deal with religion.

Some interesting things coming up is that Trisha and I have a bunch of upcoming field trips. This Sunday I’m joining Trisha and her class at a Japanese tea ceremony. Then the following weekend Trisha’s joining my class to visit the Tenri, which is a base for the “new religion” Tenrikyo. And next next weekend I’m going with Trisha’s class to an art museum in Osaka. Plus, in April, I’ll hopefully be joining Trisha’s other class to go see a Takurazuka performance. There is so much we have planned and we’re super excited!

(prev) 22 February 2017 (next)

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topfygad · 5 years

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10 Unmissable Osaka Day Trips – Aussie on the Road

Often spoken of in the same breath as Kyoto and Tokyo, Osaka is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason.

Not only is it home to one of Japan’s largest international airports, but it’s also home to a whole range of fascinating attractions ranging from ancient castles to hands-on experiences to theme parks to some of the best food in Japan. Don’t believe me? Just check out Adventures Around Asia’s post on the most unique things to do in Osaka.

Another huge selling point for Osaka is how connected it is to the rest of Japan. From this dynamic city, it is possible to take a number of fascinating day trips to nearby landmarks and cities.

Once you’ve finished exploring Osaka, why not take one (or more) of these fascinating Osaka day trips to extend your exploration?

Meoto-Iwa’s wedded rocks are one of Ise’s most popular Shinto sites.

#10 – Ise

The starting point for the breathtaking Kumano Kodo Iseji, Ise City is home to one of Japan’s most beloved Shinto shrines in the form of the Ise Grand Shrine.

While Mie Prefecture is part of the greater Kansai region, Ise lies a long way from Osaka. Even so, it is possible to get there in a shade under 2 hours on the JR train. Set out bright and early for your chance to experience the serenity of Ise Grand Shrine in the early hours of the day.

If you’re pressed for time, skip Geku and focus your attention on the beauty of Naiku. When you’re done there, wander along Okage Yokocho to sample delicious street food and do a little souvenir shopping in an old-town themed street.

There’s more to see in Ise than the Geku and Naiku Shrines, of course, with the wedded rocks at Meoto-Iwa being a popular spot for young lovers wanting a little extra luck for their romance.

Lastly, Ise is famous for its delicious cuisine. There are plenty of places to eat in Ise, but I’m especially partial to the delicious Ise udon, which has more noodles and less broth. It’s perfect for a carb-o-holic like me!

Getting There: You can reach Ise from Osaka 2 hours and 20 minutes on the slow JR train (1,700 Yen/$17 USD) or in just under two hours on the express JR train (3,030 Yen/$30 USD).

See: Ise Grand Shrine and Meoto-Iwa.

Extend Your Stay: If you’re keen to tackle the Iseji Kumano Kodo, Ise is the starting point for my two-week Kumano Kodo itinerary.

Naoshima’s most iconic image. Image courtesy of saltowitz

#9 – Naoshima

You might not know the name, but you’ve probably seen the eye-catching photo of that iconic sculpture sitting out on the pier.

Sometimes known as ‘art island’, Naoshima is an idyllic little beach island that has been overrun with stunning works of art. Thanks largely to the Benesse Corporation, Naoshima is fast becoming one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions.

Naoshima is a bit of a journey from Osaka, as you’ll need to take the JR train to Okayama and then transit on local lines to the ferry. It’s just 45-minutes from Osaka to Okayama.

Once you’ve taken the ferry (for the princely sum of 290 Yen/$2.90 USD), you’ll be able to wander Naoshima at your leisure to soak in its many art installations and its immense natural beauty.

Getting There: Take the JR train from Shin-Osaka Station to Okayama Station and then follow these instructions. It’s around 6,000 yen ($60 USD) on the JR line, or 3,020 Yen ($30 USD) on the slower local trains.

See: Wander the many art installations on the island.

Extend Your Stay: Spend a day or two exploring Okayama.

Making your own Japanese sweets is one of many hands-on activities in Sakai City. Image courtesy of Adventures Around Asia.

#8 – Sakai City

So close to Osaka that you would be forgiven for thinking that they’re the same city, Sakai City is the place to go for hands-on activities. Less than a half-hour’s travel from Osaka, it’s the perfect place to get a little off the beaten path and try something new.

Adventures Around Asia has already designed a fantastic girls day in Sakai, but there are plenty of man-friendly activities as well.

In the course of a single day in Sakai City, I tried my hand at honing my own sashimi knife, dyed yukata fabric, learned how to make Japanese candy, attended a tea ceremony, and soared high over the city’s ancient burial mounds in a VR experience.

As a relatively new tourism market, you’re going to want to email the Sakai Tourism Board ([email protected]) ahead of time to get some assistance in planning things, but it’s well worth the day-trip.

Getting There: It takes roughly 30-minutes to get to Sakai from Osaka or Kansai International Airport.

See: Visit the Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko for a traditional tea ceremony, make Japanese sweets at Machiya Cafe Sacay, and visit the city’s ancient burial mounds.

Extend Your Stay: Splash out on a night at the Agora Sakai Regency and explore the city by bicycle.

Himeji Castle is especially gorgeous during cherry blossom season. Image courtesy of Reginald Pentinio

#7 – Himeji

While Osaka has an impressive castle of its own in the form of Osaka Castle, Himeji Castle is hands-down the most famous castle in all of Japan.

Japan’s best-preserved feudal castle, Himeji-Jo is sometimes known as White Heron Castle due to its striking all-white exterior and the graceful curve of its eaves. It’s one of Japan’s most beautiful architectural achievements.

Insider tip? You can snap your photos of Himeji Castle without having to pay for admission, although the tour of the interior is informative and you’re obviously helping contribute to the upkeep of the historic site.

At just ninety-minutes on the JR train from Osaka, it’s totally possible to experience both Osaka Castle and Himeji Castle in a single day too!

Getting There: It takes ninety-minutes to reach Himeji from Osaka.

See: Himeji Castle is the obvious attraction in Himeji.

Extend Your Stay: While there might not be enough in Himeji to hold your attention for multiple days, you could pay a visit to the nearby Kokoen Gardens for just 40 Yen more with a combined Himeji Castle/Kokoen ticket.

The deer of Nara are just one of many attractions in a gorgeous city. Image courtesy of conifer conifer

#6 – Nara

Famous for its friendly population of deer, Nara is a city with far more to offer than just an up close and personal interaction with hungry deer.

Many flock to the city to wander Nara Park and feed the bowing deer, but to me, the real attractions are the many temples and shrines in the city. Todaiji and Horyuji are doubtlessly impressive, but my heart belongs to Shintoism and Kasuga Taisha is every bit as stunning as the shrines that dot the Kumano Kodo.

The city is home to a number of other temples and shrines, but is also a great place to tour Japanese gardens. Yoshikien is especially gorgeous.

Getting There: It takes a shade under an hour to reach Nara from Osaka.

See: Wild deer in Nara Park, Todaiji and Horyuji Temples, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Yoshikien gardens.

Extend Your Stay Stick around for dinner at Sakura Burger, where you can try delicious Japan-US fusion burgers.

Kobe is a green, gorgeous city that warrants an extended visit.

#5 – Kobe

Famed for its succulent Kobe beef, I discovered that Kobe is far more than just a place to grab a meal. If you’ve read my One Day in Kobe post, you’ll see there is a wealth of things to do in the port city.

From scenic hikes and the stunning Kobe Herb Gardens to the modern vibe of Meriken Park and the nearby shopping precinct to going on a boozy sake distillery tour, there’s just so much about green, modern Kobe to love.

Getting There: It takes 15-30 minutes to reach Kobe from Osaka.

See: Try Kobe beef, visit the Kobe Herb Gardens, go on a sake distillery tour, and visit Meriken Park.

Extend Your Stay: You can see a full day itinerary for Kobe outlined in my One Day in Kobe post, but this could easily be extended out to two days with a full-day to relax and enjoy the Kobe Herb Gardens.

Universal Studios Japan is a blast! Image courtesy of Andrea Hale.

#4 – Universal Studios Japan

While it technically lies within Osaka, a day trip to Universal Studios Japan is an adventure unto itself. With multiple ‘worlds’ to explore, an attached shopping/dining precinct, and rides & shows galore, USJ is a fantastic day out for the entire family.

Our visit just so happened to coincide with Christmas festivities, which meant an abundance of Minion madness as part of the park’s ‘Yellow Christmas’, but we also managed to sneak in a little time at the fantastic Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Our day at the park only scratched the surface of what there is to do, as we weren’t able to find time to explore attractions such as the Evangelion VR ride, the terrifying Hollywood Dream roller coaster, or the Jurassic Park ride.

We did, however, ride the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey rides, both of which were a blast!

We also saw two fun parades and the famous The Gift of Angels nightly performance, which is truly gorgeous to behold.

Getting There: It takes around 30-minutes to reach Universal Studios Japan from Osaka city.

See: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, live shows and parades, themed rides, and delicious food.

Extend Your Stay: It’s a big park, so why not book a hotel in the attached City Walk so you can spread your exploration out over two days?

The ‘floating’ Torii of Miyajima are one of the most popular attractions near Hiroshima. image courtesy of Michael Day.

#3 – Hiroshima and Miyajima

Famous for all of the wrong reasons, Hiroshima will forever live in infamy as the site of the first use of an atomic bomb against a civilian population.

Rebuilding from the ruins of that war-ending event, Hiroshima now stands as a tribute to the destructive capacity of war and the healing that had to be done after that fateful day.

Visitors to Hiroshima can learn more about the bombing of Hiroshima by visiting sites such as the A-Bomb Dome, the Peace Memorial Park, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, but there is more to dynamic Hiroshima than its dark past.

Gorgeous gardens such as Shukkeien, historic sites such as Fukuyama Castle, and the World Heritage-listed Itsukushima Shrine are worth the trip in their own right.

The latter is on nearby Miyajima, which might mean you’ll want to spend a night in the area so you’re not rushing to fit both Hiroshima and Miyajima into a single day.

Getting There: It takes 2.5 hours to get from Osaka to Hiroshima, with Miyajima another hour from Hiroshima.

See: Visit memorials to the Hiroshima bombing, tour Shukkien gardens, and pay a visit to Miyajima.

Extend Your Stay: If you want to explore at a more relaxed pace, consider booking a hotel in Hiroshima or Miyajima so you can take your time.

Koyasan is also home to Japan’s largest (and most haunting) graveyard. image courtesy of DocChewbacca

#2 – Koyasan

One of the holiest locations in all of Japan, Koyasan (Mount Koya) is the center of Shingon Buddhism and a hugely popular tourist attraction with those wanting to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture.

As you would expect from a holy site, Koyasan is awash with temples, pilgrimage trails, and opportunities to get in touch with a little inner peace.

For those with a little more time, Koyasan is a fantastic place to overnight at a temple or even launch your own exploration of a longer pilgrimage trail such as the Kumano Kodo.

Getting There: It takes just over ninety-minutes to reach Koyasan from Osaka.

See: Buddhist temples and pilgrimage trails.

Extend Your Stay: Spend a night in a traditional temple to really immerse yourself in Buddhism.

Kyoto might be Japans’s most photogenic cities. Image courtesy of Terence Lim

#1 – Kyoto

I would be loathe to say Kyoto is just a day trip city. There’s enough in gorgeous Kyoto to warrant a full week of its own, but if time is pressing and you’re based in Osaka, it��s certainly possible to get a taste of Kyoto in a day.

The city wears its history on its sleeve, and you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous temples and shrines at every turn. It’s also the home of Japan’s fading geisha culture, so geisha-watching is a pastime of its own.

For mine, the real highlights for a day in Kyoto would be Fushimi Inari shrine (best seen at dawn), the Arashiyama bamboo grove, golden Kinkaku-ji, and the chance to spot geisha in Gion.

You’ll be dealing with crowds every step of the way, however, so keep that in mind when planning your day in Kyoto!

Getting There: Kyoto is an hour from Osaka.

See: Kinkaku-Ji, Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, and spot geisha.

Extend Your Stay: Kyoto deserves more than one day. Consider spending at least three days in Kyoto to really do it justice.

As you can see, Osaka is not only a fantastic place to visit, it’s also a fantastic place to base yourself while you take day trips to nearby cities such as Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji.

It really is the perfect combination: a hub for exploration and an attraction in its own right.

What are your favourite day trips from Osaka?

What about things to do in the city itself? How would you recommend a visitor spend their time in Osaka?

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