Photo of the Day: Baker’s Dozen

I feel a bit cheeky [I think that deserves an emoticon —> (>.<)] posting this photo, and not just because "a baker's dozen" is an exaggeration. This is another photo from last summer's mikoshi (float) battle festival on the Zaimokuza side of Yuigahama Beach. For those unfamiliar with Japanese festival culture, men often wear fundoshi, … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Baker’s Dozen

Photo of the Day: Anchor Away

There's an awful lot of fishing equipment at the edge of the beach. It's not really "on" the beach, but rather on a concrete landing raised above the beach. It's out of the way, but still accessible for a wee peek with curious toddlers and the like. Fairly perfect, actually. While exploring the other day, … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Anchor Away

Photo of the Day: Flying Kites

There are fun kites—the kind you fly on a windy day, and then there are these kites—scavenging nightmares that will steal the food right out of your hands (or mouths!). And believe you me, they really don't care if they accidentally take a bit of flesh off you, too. If you eat outdoors anywhere near … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Flying Kites

Photo of the Day: Wakame, Phase Three

Once wakame season really gets underway, it's no longer soft enough to eat fresh as shabushabu. I already posted a photo of the first dry, wakame hanging on clothes pins and blowing in the wind. After, it's laid out in rows and left to dry a bit more. To keep it from flying away in … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Wakame, Phase Three

Photo of the Day: Beach Bike

Bicycling across sand is a pretty tough slog, but some brave visitors are keen to give it a go. There are several bicycle rental shops in the area, including one right by Hase Station. In non-peak season, renting a bike is a great way to see more of the area. During peak season, however, you'll … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Beach Bike

Photo of the Day: Hopes and Dreams

Often stacked tablet upon tablet, prayers, hopes, dreams and wishes for the future are laid bare for all to see at Anyou-in. Though usually about passing entrance exams and finding love, messages sometimes bleed heartbreak. On more than one occasion, a quick survey has revealed letters to lost little ones, updates on the lives of … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Hopes and Dreams

Photo of the Day: Friendly Giant

And the Daibutsu (Great Buddha) finally makes an appearance. This fellow once resided under a roof, but two typhoons and one tsunami made short work of that three times. Our inn is about an 8-10 minute walk from the Daibutsu, but it takes a bit longer in peak season when the sidewalks are overflowing with … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Friendly Giant