tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17261075285275424692024-03-14T02:51:51.969+09:00Thumbnail of LifeUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger145125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-40733964026842628132015-02-24T21:41:00.000+09:002015-02-24T21:43:28.239+09:00Hong Kong<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16632104311" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8599/16632104311_ecdecbc1a0_c.jpg" width="862" /></a>Thanks to my boss, I had a chance to visit Hong Kong last month for business trip. I didn't have much time to take time and enjoy Hong Kong at my own pace, but it was quite a satisfying trip navigating around my way in Hong Kong. Since I spent most of my time around Tsim Sha Tsui, the photos were taken around that Tsim Sha Tsui and Central.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16447389859" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8589/16447389859_e1b6c4aaa5_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16425889557" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8666/16425889557_72db5cf08c_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Hong Kong is using Octopus card for transportation, similar to Suica or Pasmo in Japan. You can also use the card on lots of places, such as convenient stores.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16632529352" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8578/16632529352_b23d15a6d9_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16446017438" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8646/16446017438_d547fbd50b_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16447387629" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8579/16447387629_c4681a5a8e_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
I've been pampered with delicious Japanese food everyday that I felt that Hong Kong food was a bit bland in flavor.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16425891617" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8675/16425891617_ab3fb77ec0_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16632105561" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8645/16632105561_cd09025306_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Some of them were actually quite delicious though.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16632532662" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8603/16632532662_6750cb141c_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16447390909" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8659/16447390909_0fc8cb2ba5_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16447390779" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8671/16447390779_e4bc66edf9_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16425891167" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8579/16425891167_2b77f98d3d_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16446181230" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8636/16446181230_db475ea3a7_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/16446179230" title="Hong Kong 2015 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hong Kong 2015" height="575" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8679/16446179230_a83cfb7e88_c.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-79974210063922675222014-09-11T21:30:00.000+09:002014-09-11T21:30:23.056+09:00Sushi Dai<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15020266178" title="IMG_3954 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3954" height="575" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3911/15020266178_6e693c65dd_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
Sushi Dai (寿司大) is a very very popular sushi restaurant in Tsukiji Fish Market. You probably have heard the name in many guide books before. This place is not only famous among foreigners, but among locals as well.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15203782521" title="IMG_3824 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3899/15203782521_07d3932b14_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3824"></a><br />
Last Saturday, I challenged myself to wake up at 3 in the morning, walked to Tsukiji while the rest of Tokyo was still asleep, and went to Tsukiji. The original intention was to see the Tuna Auction, but it turned out I couldn't get in because the registration was closed already...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15183802746" title="IMG_3924 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3913/15183802746_2fdd4061b8_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3924"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15020269218" title="IMG_3833 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3891/15020269218_351cc0eca8_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3833"></a><br />
A visit to Tsukiji is not complete without having some sushi breakfast. Sushi Dai is known as the best sushi restaurant in Tsukiji. You can wait a very long time in order to get seat. Some people can get very lucky and only need to wait 1 hour. I arrived at 5AM and got seat at around 9.30AM. Yeah, you read that right. Four and a half hour waiting...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15020258917" title="IMG_3940 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5555/15020258917_f2d8815447_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3940"></a><br />
There are only 2 set menu. Jyou (2500 yen) which offers 7 piece of sushi and Omakase (3900 yen) which offers 10 sushi plus 1 of your choice. You can order more if you want.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15206454302" title="IMG_3827 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3873/15206454302_ee4f3ed890_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3827"></a><br />
Yes, I know that is the wrong way to eat sushi.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15203782001" title="IMG_3836 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3872/15203782001_6c0cbe5b64_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3836"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15020156430" title="IMG_3855 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3883/15020156430_e674850afe_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3855"></a><br />
I am not exactly a sushi expert, but the sushi here is incredibly fresh and tastes really good too.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15203781691" title="IMG_3859 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5592/15203781691_95350719bd_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3859"></a><br />
Presentation is top notch as well. Look at this beautifully cut Kohada (Japanese Shad).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15183804516" title="IMG_3863 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3872/15183804516_6f769a6d7d_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3863"></a><br />
Chefs are also very friendly.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15203781351" title="IMG_3870 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/15203781351_4260f1916a_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3870"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15020053729" title="IMG_3873 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3913/15020053729_4785e83eb0_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3873"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15203780701" title="IMG_3894 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3859/15203780701_6d3388935c_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3894"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15020053159" title="IMG_3898 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5552/15020053159_07bbb38b0e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3898"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15206838035" title="IMG_3882 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5577/15206838035_635e4b562a_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3882"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15203780901" title="IMG_3890 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5567/15203780901_dcea244112_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3890"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15020154600" title="IMG_3916 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5563/15020154600_e25cf2394e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3916"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15183802156" title="IMG_3942 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5578/15183802156_dbf398dd4c_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3942"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15183801806" title="IMG_3969 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3851/15183801806_9c8a39e81b_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3969"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15206451962" title="IMG_3937 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3881/15206451962_d9e51c72d9_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3937"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15206836935" title="IMG_3923 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5564/15206836935_52e3d135ce_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3923"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15020051349" title="IMG_3984 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3906/15020051349_02efcde463_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3984"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/15183801376" title="IMG_3989 by Teddy, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3867/15183801376_7c25550e8d_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="IMG_3989"></a><br />
Was it worth waiting 4.5 hours for this ? No. But I don't mind waiting an hour for Sushi Dai. If you can wake up early in the morning and don't mind waiting, I do recommend Sushi Dai. The service is top quality and the food is great. Worthy of being called the best sushi restaurant.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-20029481974737092102014-04-13T23:13:00.000+09:002014-04-13T23:23:02.587+09:00Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820543143" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3743/13820543143_95c9285b65_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Kowloon Walled City was an ungoverned settlement in New Kowloon, Hong Kong. The city was famous for its criminal activities that even the police couldn't do anything about it. The city was controlled by Triads and had high rates of prostitution, gambling, and drug use. The city was demolished in April 1994. Despite of that, its famous still persists in literature, video games, and movies.<br />
<br />
While the city no longer exists, you can experience a little bit of the city, in Japan, in a place called Digital Kowloon Walled City.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820822914" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3665/13820822914_1c996d7195_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820483735" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="643" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3680/13820483735_4cde7fd683_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820515473" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5133/13820515473_bd27ca5a05_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Digital Kowloon Walled City or Computerized Kowloon Walled City is an amusement complex inside Kawasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture. Inside the building, you will find various games, such as arcade games, UFO catchers, medal games, darts, billiards, and table tennis.<br />
<br />
The mastermind behind this is a company called HOSHINOGUMI Co.,Ltd. They managed to design the legendary Kowloon Walled City inside this building. The concept of the building is to build a place where the visitors can fully enjoy the latest game devices while experiencing the near futuristic smell in the whole chaotic world outlook. With all the finest details, the visitors could experience even the smell and the humidity there.<br />
<br />
In order to build it, they visited different kind of secondhand stores to get lot of things they could use such as the electrical appliances, teacups, and posters. Taishiro Hoshino, the representatives of the company, insisted on using the genuine article. He even asked his friend in Hong Kong to send a box of their house garbage all the way to Japan.<br />
<br />
The posters written in Cantonese seen in every scene were made by Photoshop using the Japanese-Cantonese dictionary but all other characters on the signs are handwritten because the handwritten represents much more tasteful and powerful individuals. Each character on the signs are handwritten with brushes by Mr. Kamata, the representative director of AZUL, Inc.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820833614" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7084/13820833614_566a51e6cd_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The most impressive thing is how they use the aging technique to get the rusted, old interior that makes you feel you are in the old Kowloon city. Truly wonderful job.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820824474" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5288/13820824474_d551569b9d_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Entrance to the place. Note that it's only for 18 and over. No admittance to anyone under the age of 18.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820824954" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7197/13820824954_2f77d9cacc_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820488195" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7221/13820488195_e66f3b9880_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820510165" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2816/13820510165_4e623e8325_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The red chamber.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820540163" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/13820540163_93dc1d6158_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Inside is the dark grim alley of Kowloon Walled City. They even have a background music that makes you feel as if you are inside a horror movie or scary video games.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820499555" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7346/13820499555_6d130dea8a_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The city was the den of prostitution.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820498925" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/13820498925_a4bbd48fa4_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820493365" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7107/13820493365_da73e938b8_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Definitely do not want to put my leg in the green water.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820521743" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2892/13820521743_09aa364d01_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The exit to the parking lot.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820846454" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3728/13820846454_0319cfeb27_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The creepy escalator to the second floor.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820836094" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5231/13820836094_a3dbb15951_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
You can also use this elevator to go up. No guarantees if you can arrive safely on the next floor.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820501955" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2825/13820501955_15be37c711_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The second floor is more impressive. You will find the replicate of the facade.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820512355" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7399/13820512355_b16831ff3a_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Remember that all of the items have been recreated based on old photos of the city, secondhand items, and garbages from Hong Kong.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820505665" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3725/13820505665_7626291607_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820507715" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7402/13820507715_925dcf7f10_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820535953" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2890/13820535953_62a518b7ce_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820503295" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7083/13820503295_2431fdfbb6_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820490495" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7394/13820490495_45e8380dd6_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820500825" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3667/13820500825_c17d0b0c58_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The toilet looks very dirty and scary looking. However, you don't need to worry about the cleanliness because the staffs clean it every single day ! Or so I've heard...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820538553" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2903/13820538553_74c9c25446_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
After the facade is the real game center where people can go back to the real world and enjoy modern games.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820504395" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/13820504395_0c98aa9355_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820835064" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/13820835064_ffc0e4a917_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Unfortunately, I'm not allowed to take photo past this point. It is just a normal game center though.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/13820832454" title="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City by Teddy, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Digital Kowloon Walled City" height="575" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3814/13820832454_ac317cf58e_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
So there you go. The Kawasaki's Kowloon Walled City. It's definitely a cool place to visit, have fun, and experience the Kowloon Walled City.<br />
<br />
The location is called Warehouse Kawasaki (ウエアハウス 川崎 or あなたのウエアハウス ). <br />
Address : 〒210-0024 神奈川県 川崎市 川崎区 日進町 3-7<br />
<br />
Taishiro Hoshino has posted <a href="http://www.hoshino-gumi.com/en/works/detail04/making.html">behind the scene</a> of the place. It is worth checking it out.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-14467439860639325952013-11-02T10:42:00.000+09:002013-11-02T10:42:12.590+09:00Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618400665/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3747/10618400665_612157a6ff_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
Halloween is a big event in Japan. It's the time when thousands of Halloween lovers to dress up and roam the street with their best costumes. You will be able to see anything from super sexy to bizarre. <br />
<br />
Kawasaki Halloween Parade is one of the biggest Halloween Parade in Japan. The Parade was around 1.5 Km long nearby La Citadella shopping center and there were Halloween themed decorations and shops around to make it more <strike>kawaii</strike> lively.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618421384/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2882/10618421384_e16067a910_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
You can see how crowded it was.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618423506/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7423/10618423506_489dbbe47d_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
Animals were allowed to wear costume as well !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618419894/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2874/10618419894_040e8464eb_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
The cool Batman...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618420484/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3748/10618420484_a1d99d60c8_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
... who turned out to be a charming Don Juan !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618395735/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2820/10618395735_09209c7dae_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618396315/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3802/10618396315_7c22d5902b_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618670523/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3820/10618670523_eb01b350fc_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618424584/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2822/10618424584_923de38827_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618425254/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7458/10618425254_8366a99263_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618429946/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7425/10618429946_351275df09_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618673343/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3743/10618673343_d93f542771_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618401745/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7429/10618401745_f4c8c6af02_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618429354/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5491/10618429354_7a88136432_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618434096/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3826/10618434096_649541c342_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618403815/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5524/10618403815_599df55f5c_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/10618404505/" title="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Kawasaki Halloween Parade 2013" height="575" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2827/10618404505_3887162590_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
Happy Halloween !Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-8869022953149532342013-07-07T20:54:00.003+09:002013-07-07T20:54:58.502+09:00Ishiteji<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9227709609/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Ishiteji" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7335/9227709609_86086fe6a6_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Ishiteji ( 石手寺 ) literally means the Stone Hand Temple, is one of the Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage. The Shikoku Pilgrimage (四国遍路 ) or Shikoku Junrei (四国巡礼) is a famous 88 temples pilgrimage to honor Buddhist monk Kuukai on the island of Shikoku, Japan. The Ishiteji is temple number 51.<br />
<br />
While I was in <a href="http://thumbnail-of-life.blogspot.jp/2012/10/matsuyama.html">Matsuyama</a>, I visited this temple on my free time. Unfortunately, I couldn't explore the whole temple because I needed to go back to my Hotel to prepare for <a href="http://thumbnail-of-life.blogspot.jp/2012/12/shimanami-kaido.html">Shimanami Kaido</a> trip. A shame, but I managed to explore quite a bit.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9227708857/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5492/9227708857_4bc0b04719_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
Yes, it is a really huge Temple.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230485054/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3793/9230485054_7a16126c71_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
Ishiteji is close to Dogo Onsen. You can catch a 5 minutes short bus ride or walk for about 20 minutes.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230485382/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3788/9230485382_e4b1a832dc_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230485682/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3807/9230485682_27fe2061cd_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
The temple was founded by Gyouki (行基), a Japanese Buddhist Priest of the Nara period. The temple was originally called Annoyouji and later was changed to Ishiteji because of Emon Saburou.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9227705411/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3766/9227705411_4b5d509f4c_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9227709263/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2854/9227709263_97e424392a_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
According to the legend (read: wikipedia), a mendicant visited the house of Emon Saburō, richest man in Shikoku, seeking alms. Emon refused, broke the pilgrim's begging bowl, and chased him away. After his eight sons fell ill and died, Emon realized that Kūkai was the affronted pilgrim and set out to seek his forgiveness. Having traveled round the island twenty times clockwise in vain, he undertook the route in reverse. Finally he collapsed exhausted and on his deathbed Kūkai appeared to grant absolution. Emon requested that he be reborn into a wealthy family in Matsuyama so that he might restore a neglected temple. Dying, he clasped a stone. Shortly afterwards a baby was born with his hand grasped tightly around a stone inscribed 'Emon Saburō is reborn'. When the baby grew up, he used his wealth to restore the Ishiteji (Stone Hand Temple), in which there is an inscription of 1567 recounting the tale.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9227705739/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3746/9227705739_8d3cdf3536_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9227706049/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3687/9227706049_b91b2e7a81_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9227706423/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2887/9227706423_3b344bb8b4_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230487364/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3706/9230487364_123de30fb4_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230487650/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5509/9230487650_704c8f4dce_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
Ishiteji is best known for its Hondo (the main hall), the three-storied pagoda and the Niomon Gate which are designated as National Treasure and Important Cultural Properties.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230490520/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/9230490520_69f44425ce_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230487918/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5500/9230487918_c89d4358a5_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230488212/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3693/9230488212_ee42646dc1_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9227707959/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5448/9227707959_77afbb0af7_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230488774/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2811/9230488774_4bf1bfaf02_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/9230489070/" title="Ishiteji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3820/9230489070_ebe4a61f97_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ishiteji"></a><br />
There are also tunnels, weird statues, carvings, and more buildings there. I couldn't explore all of it, but I'm quite satisfied to be able to look around more than half of it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-88674291868221968222013-03-25T00:01:00.000+09:002013-03-25T00:01:21.655+09:00Meguro Sakura<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584981641/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Meguro Sakura" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8519/8584981641_8a8f48f885_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Meguro is known as one of the best spots to watch the Sakura, especially the Meguro River. The view of sakura trees lining up on both sides of the river is beautiful. There is also a pedestrian only areas where you can take a very pleasant walk under the sakura trees. A very lovely place. However, there are also a lot of people who avoid this place because it can gets very crowded especially during weekends. Lucky for me, I live very close to the river. I could go there in the morning when there are less people, so I could enjoy the gorgeous view all for myself. And believe me, nothing beats running under the sakura trees in the morning. Happiness.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584979203/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8089/8584979203_47400706de_b.jpg" width="862" height="573" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
Sakura and waterway are always a perfect combination.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584979745/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8226/8584979745_a9e02db821_b.jpg" width="862" height="573" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
A cool sunny day. Perfect for a walk. It's a bit too early for a full bloom, but still great.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586082380/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8246/8586082380_233d7d4a62_b.jpg" width="862" height="573" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
Sakura came very early this year. Almost half a month earlier than last year. I could imagine lot of tourists might miss the chance to see full bloom Sakura this year.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586082516/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8375/8586082516_495ec1ed80_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584980947/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8524/8584980947_df9bc7f248_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584982889/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8392/8584982889_8a40069d1d_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584980683/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8374/8584980683_3d046ab3b7_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586082698/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8374/8586082698_24b0cb5dd9_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
It usually starts to get crowded around 12. Better come early if you want to avoid the crowd.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586082922/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8380/8586082922_601b0a66b2_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584982729/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8225/8584982729_31cff81dfe_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584981327/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8531/8584981327_13b389174b_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
The animals also joined the crowd.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584983035/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8091/8584983035_671e784e48_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586085452/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8387/8586085452_94bbbae1a4_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586085652/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8238/8586085652_8f9a97cfc9_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584979359/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8584979359_0fd90cd1d9_b.jpg" width="862" height="573" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586084610/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8527/8586084610_0323c17311_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
There is actually another spot near by which is less crowded, minus the river, but still a lovely spot. Head towards the Fudomae station and you'll see the sakura trees alongside the road.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584982497/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8245/8584982497_7977dce813_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586083480/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8392/8586083480_30ec7a3e7c_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
Gorgeous isn't it ? I purposely take this road every day when I come back from work to enjoy the view.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586083794/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8586083794_976ce5590d_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586084100/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8371/8586084100_e649922bd4_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8586084610/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8527/8586084610_0323c17311_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584982153/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8584982153_4c8b492b25_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8584981963/" title="Meguro Sakura by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8584981963_ccc2b89b03_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Meguro Sakura"></a><br />
Enjoying the sakura has always been a very special experience, and this year is no exception. I am saying good bye to winter. Welcome back, spring !Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-84307946499266212012013-01-31T00:09:00.000+09:002013-01-31T00:11:54.577+09:00Shimanami Kaido - Part 2<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428922277/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8355/8428922277_c962795503_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The second part of the Shimanami Kaido. We're going to continue where we left off, and that is the Ikuchijima Island, the most interesting island compares to others. <br />
<br />
I forgot to mention this before. Before crossing to Ikuchijima Island, make sure to stop by at the rest area and eat the Hakata Salt Soft Ice Cream. It's delicious and some people actually come far away to the island to eat the ice cream. There is also one in Hakatajima Island, but it was closed when I passed it (Hakata S.C. Park).<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244638258/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido" height="643" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8064/8244638258_23ff06a301_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
From this island, I was already half way down from reaching my goal. However, there was a must see temple on the other side of the island, so I took a side trip to that temple. That temple was called the Kosanji Temple.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430012326/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8218/8430012326_a7e4403099_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The Kousanji Temple (耕三寺) was founded in 1936 by Koso Kousanji. He was the inventor, founder, and pioneering technician of steel pipe welding. After his mother passed away, he decided to fulfill his duty as a son. He later became a Buddhist Priest in 1935 out of gratitude for his deceased mother. It took 30 years to finish the temple. The whole complex covers around 50000 square meter. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430010830/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8330/8430010830_a52906bb97_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Inside the complex, there are various structures being modeled from Japan's finest architectural monuments from Asuka, Nara, to Edo eras. There is also a full-scale replica of the Yomeimon gate of Nikko shrine. The temple is so unique and colorful, making it the only one of its kind.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428921841/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8378/8428921841_982f4d7f49_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428921997/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8049/8428921997_0345d6c076_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428923475/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8326/8428923475_758da92e44_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430011896/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8184/8430011896_115935b567_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
There is also a stamp rally, where you collect all the five stamps scattered around the complex. You will get a special "price" if you managed to collect all of it. Don't expect too much of the price though.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430011804/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8430011804_b9a014fbf0_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430011674/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8430011674_bdb749acf8_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430012066/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Kosanji" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8430012066_70f0d8d0e0_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428922365/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8211/8428922365_6ce37e5e4a_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Inside the complex and above the hill, there is a garden called "Miraishin no Oka" (Heights of Eternal Hope for the Future). It is a garden full of white marble designed by Kazuto Kuetani. The marble used in this garden was carried all the way from Carrara, Italy.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430011108/" title=" - Miraishin no OkaShimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt=" - Miraishin no OkaShimanami Kaido" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8473/8430011108_79e8b93cf8_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428922609/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8428922609_a3a659b5aa_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428922699/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8428922699_142da24dce_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The Tower of the Light. The Miraishin no Oka won the first prize in the international competition "Marble Architectural Awards 2005".<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428922775/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8080/8428922775_52062b733a_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430011568/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8325/8430011568_e768a272bf_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430011186/" title="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Shimanami Kaido - Miraishin no Oka" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8072/8430011186_af617d1c9d_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Gorgeous view from the top. I stayed there and took a nap for a while. Lovely weather.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428923945/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8428923945_a6cbfdaee3_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
After that, I went ahead to the next bridge, the Ikuchibashi. The next island is called the Innoshima Island. There is not much you can see here. There is a pirate museum, but I decided not to go there because I didn't have much free time to spare (and the museum didn't look that interesting).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428924205/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8377/8428924205_d851c8dc0f_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Well, there was really nothing interesting on the island, except this AWESOME dinosaur statue !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430012902/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8194/8430012902_21605ebd8b_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
I spotted it on my way to the next bridge, and decided to take break around here.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428924061/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8053/8428924061_5e96ce92ab_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
The statue was quite big and it was located in the middle of nowhere.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428924503/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8183/8428924503_2326c2a48a_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Danbo must join the fun.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428924863/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8428924863_065a1da6bc_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
The next bridge, Innoshima Ohashi, is the last bridge.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430013112/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8089/8430013112_0a59427eca_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
This is the only bridge where you go under the bridge to go to the next island, Mukaishima. Mukaishima is a small island. Not much you can do here.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428924769/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8085/8428924769_685ce1f843_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
There is actually another bridge that connects the Mukaishima island and Onomichi. Unfortunately, there is no road for bicycle, so it is dangerous to cross it by bicycle. The other way to get to Onomichi is by taking a ferry. Head to the port and take a ferry from there.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430013620/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8464/8430013620_0691269ab2_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
I brought along a couple of oranges from local vendor. Ehime prefecture is well known as the leading producer of oranges in Japan. The orange here is cheap and really sweet.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8428925269/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8428925269_22da23e145_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
And that is my friends, the end of my Shimanami Kaido trip. I spent the entire two months planning for this trip, practiced almost every day to make sure I am fit enough to do it. It was a very long journey, very tiring, but really worth it. A very rewarding experience.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8430013912/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8238/8430013912_fc26851069_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
And at the end of my journey, I rewarded myself with a bowl of tasty Onomichi ramen. <br />
<br />
If you want to see the entire bicycle route, I have one in my <a href="http://runkeeper.com/user/dansnosekai/route/1735293">runkeeper</a>.<br />
To read the Shimanami Kaido Part I, click <a href="http://thumbnail-of-life.blogspot.jp/2012/12/shimanami-kaido.html">here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-2443261840360973692012-12-04T23:41:00.001+09:002013-01-31T00:12:26.362+09:00Shimanami Kaido<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243567389/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8203/8243567389_097d93315e_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Shimanami Kaido was the main reason why I went to Shikoku. A few months ago, I had an urge to experience something different, something unique, something challenging during this year. I finally decided to take a journey biking along the Shimanami Kaido.<br />
<br />
So what is this Shimanami Kaido ? Shimanami Kaido ( しまなみ海道 ) is an expressway which links the main islands of Honshu and Shikoku through a series of bridges and 6 islands ( Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima and Oshima ). The best part about it is that you can travel the Shimanami Kaido by bicycle. Cycling is a very popular way of experiencing the Shimanami Kaido. The bicycle route is well maintained, and there are lots of sign pointing you to the right direction so you don't need to worry about getting lost.<br />
<br />
The <strike>beginner</strike> normal bicycle route is about 70 kilometers long. With a little bit of push, you can travel the route within 8 hours. Along the route, there are plenty of places you can visit such as temples and museums. I ended up cycling up to 100 km long. It was quite tough, but a very rewarding experience.<br />
<br />
Usually people starts from Onomichi ( Honshu ) to Imabari ( Shikoku ), but I decided to go the other way around from Imabari to Onomichi. Click <a href="http://runkeeper.com/user/dansnosekai/route/1735293">here</a> to see the route that I took.<br />
<br />
Due to the amount of photos, I will split the post into two.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244633328/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8487/8244633328_fddbbe4a40_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
You can bring your own bike or you can rent a bike. The bike rental costs 500 yen per day, plus a 1000 yen deposit which is refundable ONLY if you return the bike to the SAME station. There are lots of bike terminal where you can drop off your bicycle along the way so there is no need to make the round trip, unless you want to.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243565397/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8059/8243565397_3f688ce351_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
I stayed at Itoyama Sunrise. The only hotel available at the start the cycling terminal. Nice hotel and you can rent a bike from there. Make sure you reserve one in advance.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244633694/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8480/8244633694_ec4fc4f0f1_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
There is no other restaurant or convenient store around here, so you're stuck with the food from hotel's restaurant. Fortunately, the food was quite delicious.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243565965/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8210/8243565965_c3647e3a8b_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Planning my trip. While you here, make sure to purchase a discount coupon for the bridge toll fees. With the discount coupon you only need to pay half price for the toll fees. If you cycling all the way from Imabari to Onomochi, the total fees without discount is 500 yen.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244634196/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8489/8244634196_ce7295cebe_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Managed to get a cross bike + free rental helmet.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243566329/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8477/8243566329_68fd5a4129_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
69.9 km to go !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244634674/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8061/8244634674_bae63e3735_b.jpg" width="862" height="643" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
You will see the first bridge, Kurushimakaikyo Bridge, almost immediately. This bridge is the longest bridge among the others. All the bridges, except one at Onomichi side, have a separate cycle / walk lane from the road. There is no need to worry getting hit by the car from behind. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243566725/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8342/8243566725_1ac9b8cdf6_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Gorgeous view from the bridge.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244635112/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8067/8244635112_e5a9ec80ec_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243567263/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8199/8243567263_675e71b31c_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
The second bridge, Hakata-Oshima Bridge.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243567903/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8337/8243567903_720ac2cd0c_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
The entrance to the bridge toll.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244636224/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8202/8244636224_da20d35131_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
The box on the left is where you put the toll fee. There is nobody guarding the place. It is really up to you whether you want to pay it or not.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243568223/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8064/8243568223_fd18a94b14_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Each bridge has different fee. This bridge here costs 50 yen.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244636528/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8337/8244636528_6def23927f_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244636656/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8198/8244636656_35b714eff3_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Taking a break. There are couple of convenient store, rest stops and vending machines along the way so you don't need to worry about food and drinks. However, to be safe, make sure you bring a few of them.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243568649/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8477/8243568649_8461dd9674_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Spectacular view. Check if the weather is nice before you come here. Try to avoid holiday season as well.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244637112/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8068/8244637112_8012ba7886_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Made friends with few cyclers on the third bridge, Omishima Bridge.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244637356/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8202/8244637356_2a987bfb5a_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Spotted the fourth bridge, Tatara Bridge.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243569371/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8487/8243569371_c06687051d_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
Grabbed lunch before continuing the journey.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243569557/" title="Ooyamazumi Jinja - Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8063/8243569557_04fa6a6815_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ooyamazumi Jinja - Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
I start diverting away from the normal path after the third bridge. I went away to Ooyamazumi Jinja, a small lovely shrine on the Oomishima Island.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244637794/" title="Ooyamazumi Jinja - Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8478/8244637794_2c19abdce4_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ooyamazumi Jinja - Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243569845/" title="Ooyamazumi Jinja - Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8210/8243569845_d7eec46032_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ooyamazumi Jinja - Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8244638058/" title="Ooyamazumi Jinja - Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8345/8244638058_efbdd8cdf3_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ooyamazumi Jinja - Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243565117/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8345/8243565117_b792781457_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
After the shrine, I went back to cross the fourth bridge.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8243567133/" title="Shimanami Kaido by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8482/8243567133_0b5a536b79_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Shimanami Kaido"></a><br />
The next island, Ikuchijima Island, has the most attractions compare to the other islands. However, that needs to wait till next time. See you on the next post. :)<br />
<br />
Part 2 is <a href="http://thumbnail-of-life.blogspot.jp/2013/01/shimanami-kaido-2.html">here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-49473354783791344692012-11-10T15:25:00.001+09:002012-11-10T15:25:57.075+09:00Matsuyama Castle<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171222183/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8477/8171222183_9abc91ba62_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
Matsuyama Castle (松山城) is definitely the best Castle I've been in Japan. The castle stands proud above the hill, right in the middle of the town. This castle is one of the preserved castle. It is still original, with a little bit of repair here and there because of the fire long time ago. It also offers you a gorgeous view of the city from the top. There is also a place where you can dress up as a samurai inside. And for non Japanese speakers, rejoice ! All of the history and description have very good English translation. It is a very impressive castle.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171251696/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8347/8171251696_823afe5413_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
The castle is located on Mount Katsu. In order to get there, you will need to take ropeway or chairlift.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171251782/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8061/8171251782_47e3b27472_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
I picked the chairlift because chairlift usually gives you a better view and experience.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171266484/" title="Matsuyama Chairlift by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8485/8171266484_d734a5f9d0_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Chairlift"></a><br />
Matsuyama Castle on the top<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171244075/" title="Matsuyama Castle History by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8337/8171244075_613f1bdf71_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle History"></a><br />
A little bit of history.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171251876/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8210/8171251876_1f45c70e1e_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171251962/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8200/8171251962_08fc11ec4b_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
The stone walls. The stones are mostly granites and the corner sections are almost all stabilized by wooden logs.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171222923/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8486/8171222923_2322ec5760_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
Danbo insisted on posing in front of the castle<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171252088/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8480/8171252088_20d47beeec_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
The gorgeous view<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171252168/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8341/8171252168_2ae55fcab2_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
The gate<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171252242/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8063/8171252242_ba9809b8c7_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171222269/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8344/8171222269_3eb4374a17_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171252540/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8347/8171252540_46f7f77463_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
The castle were skillfully design with repeated zigzag patterns and jutting corners to confuse <strike>visitors</strike> enemies. The stone walls have loopholes to be used as crossfire for defense tactic.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171222437/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8338/8171222437_68fbccbd43_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171222495/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8207/8171222495_395182991f_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
Inside the castle, there are weapons and armors exhibition that you could enjoy.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171222573/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8064/8171222573_5ec9761e7c_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
English ! English everywhere !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171222671/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8478/8171222671_89a2bba2a6_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
Reminds me of Sharingan.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171252970/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8342/8171252970_62eb41a2ff_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8171222847/" title="Matsuyama Castle by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8061/8171222847_67e97e95c1_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Matsuyama Castle"></a><br />
Lovely view from top of the castle.<br />
<br />
If you have time to visit Matsuyama, the Matsuyama Castle is definitely place not to be miss.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-26440794213086980442012-10-19T22:43:00.002+09:002012-10-19T22:59:17.214+09:00Matsuyama<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102506394/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8335/8102506394_c746c62a68_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
There are four main islands in Japan: Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu. <a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/list/e1001.html">Shikoku</a> ( 四国 = Four Countries ) is the smallest of the four. It is considered to be the forgotten island among the four. People rarely go to Shikoku. Guide books don't bother mentioning about this island. Even my friend questioning my decision to go to this island.<br />
<br />
Let me tell you that Shikoku is Japan's hidden gem. There are lots of thing to do here. Some of them are pretty wild, but if you like outdoor, nature, adventures, and willing to spend some time to venture into the inner part of this place, you will be rewarded with amazing scenic views, natural beauty untouched by human.<br />
<br />
I only had a few days off to enjoy the island, but I definitely want to go back to Shikoku again.<br />
<br />
I will split the Shikoku review into separated posts, starting from Matsuyama.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102493245/" title="Willer Express by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Willer Express" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8196/8102493245_f31452f4cc_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
To go to Matsuyama, I took a Willer Express night bus. You could also take Shinkansen or plane to go to Shikoku.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102493323/" title="Willer Express Gate by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Willer Express Gate" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8102493323_53cf48b566_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Willer Express Bus Gate<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102493835/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8328/8102493835_ff4de4af3f_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Arrived in Matsuyama in the morning.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102506146/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8194/8102506146_67f2cce2c1_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Matsuyama is the largest city on Shikoku and the capital of Ehime Prefecture. You could spend one day enjoying what the city has to offer.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102493529/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8043/8102493529_5074bac2e0_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The main transportation here is the city train (tram).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102506308/" title="Matsuyama Train by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama Train" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8195/8102506308_abdb216833_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The train ticket costs 150 yen per ride. You could buy a one day ticket for 400 yen.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102495261/" title="Matsuyama Botchan Train by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama Botchan Train" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8102495261_2ae7dd2429_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
There is a special small-gauge steam locomotive here called Botchan Train. The Botchan Train was the first small sized locomotive in Japan and it was imported from Krauss & Company in Munich. The train ran on the Matsuyama Plains for 67 years through Meiji, Taisho, and Showa Eras.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102495135/" title="Matsuyama Botchan Train by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama Botchan Train" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8469/8102495135_f2b61aab43_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Soseki Natsume, a world-renowned Japanese novelist, often used the railway for commuting. His famous novel "Botchan" was published in 1906 and uniquely depicted the railway and the Dogo Onsen. The train enjoyed the popularity of the novel and was given the name "Botchan Train" or "Botchan Ressha". The current Botchan Train is a diesel-powered replica of the original Botchan Train.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102495473/" title="Matsuyama Botchan Train by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama Botchan Train" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8474/8102495473_30c41a60a2_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Inside Botchan Train. It costs 300 yen per ride.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102493969/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8050/8102493969_c11e349099_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102506660/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8186/8102506660_f20705bfa9_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102506902/" title="Matsuyama Orange Ice Cream by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama Orange Ice Cream" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8335/8102506902_576f55226d_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Orange flavor Ice Cream. Ehime Prefecture is well known as the leading producer of oranges in Japan. There are lots of Orange flavor products that you could enjoy here.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102507120/" title="Matsuyama Goshiki Soumen by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama Goshiki Soumen" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8049/8102507120_da4fb1bcf7_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Goshiki Soumen (五色そうめん). Goshiki Soumen is a five colored noodles. It is colored using natural substances: yellow from eggs, green from powdered green tea, brown from buckwheat flour, red from plums and shiso (type of culinary herb), and white. There is also Tai Soumen (sea bream noodles) that you should try.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102494385/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8467/8102494385_ecae446951_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102494177/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8047/8102494177_74a85e22ea_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102507650/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8465/8102507650_8762d54684_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102507782/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8335/8102507782_a0d8a3b5d2_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102507348/" title="Dogo Onsen by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Dogo Onsen" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8336/8102507348_efc588b688_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest onsen hot springs in Japan, with a history stretching back over 1,000 years. The main building in the movie Spirited Away was modeled on the present building of the Dōgo Onsen public bathhouse.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102507450/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8195/8102507450_c51958daf5_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
On the left side is the Botchan Karakuri Clock. Characters from novel Botchan will appear to the tune of melody from the Botchan Karakuri Clock.<br />
<br />
On the right side is Ashi-yu. It is a hot foot bath which can be freely used.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102494801/" title="Matsuyama by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8192/8102494801_3d424f0649_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8102508102/" title="Matsuyama Ishiteji Temple by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Matsuyama Ishiteji Temple" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8466/8102508102_ebf2a02d1c_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
There are still a few places in Matsuyama that I would like to cover, but I will cover it on the next posts.<br />
<br />
Happy Friday !Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-11861559205276756792012-09-23T23:18:00.001+09:002012-09-23T23:25:13.662+09:00Teuchi Udon Kuukai<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015388415/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8456/8015388415_37a26de343_b.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai"></a><br />
Last month I had a chance to visit to Shuunan City in Yamaguchi Prefecture for business trip. The city itself doesn't offer any interesting sightseeing spot, however the city does have a lot of delicious food to offer. <br />
<br />
One of them that I really want to introduce is the Teuchi Udon Kuukai (手打うどんくうかい), the best udon that I've had eaten so far.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015387533/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8455/8015387533_87471c5a21_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The udon is so famous that you will see people line up every single day to eat it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015389096/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8316/8015389096_3415fa4e6d_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
It is so good that the restaurant got the Best Restaurant award from Tabelog since 2009.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015389960/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai" height="643" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8038/8015389960_c3d458073a_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The udon is handmade. You can see how they make the udon while you are waiting in the line. It looks fun and easy to make.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015388235/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8313/8015388235_6beeb14276_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Inside of the restaurant.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015389804/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8304/8015389804_9d5fde8803_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Plenty of menu to choose from.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015388051/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8435/8015388051_9d1bd86627_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015388912/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai - Niku Bukkake Udon by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai - Niku Bukkake Udon" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8298/8015388912_792ea007ff_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Niku Bukkake Udon. Udon with minced onion, nori, radish, and lots of thin slice beef served with thick dashi broth. The best thing about it is the udon. The udon is a bit thin and springy, and it tastes really good that we decided to come here again within the next few days.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015390700/" title="Teuchi Udon Kuukai - Kamatama Udon by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Teuchi Udon Kuukai - Kamatama Udon" height="647" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8456/8015390700_a7b7db2973_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
I ordered Kamatama Udon on the next visit. Colleague said that Kare Kamatama Udon is the best. Kinda regret I didn't order that. :(<br />
<br />
While we're on the subject of Shuunan food, let me introduce other delicious Shuunan food as well. I only took a few shots with my iPhone because I didn't bring my DSLR with me.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015389139/" title="Bari Uma Koku Ramen by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Bari Uma Koku Ramen" height="613" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8042/8015389139_dbb813564b_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Bari Uma Koku Kara Ramen (バリ馬濃く辛ラメン). Thick broth, very delicious. Not as spicy as it looks.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015391178/" title="Bari Uma Koku Ramen by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Bari Uma Koku Ramen" height="647" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8306/8015391178_74fb160d5e_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Bari Uma Koku Ramen (バリ馬濃くラメン).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015390540/" title="Nagasaki Chanmen by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Nagasaki Chanmen" height="647" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8437/8015390540_dba7484f4a_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Nagasaki Chanmen, ramen with lot of veggies. Not really unique to Yamaguchi, but still yummy !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015388971/" title="Hormon Kinryuu by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Hormon Kinryuu" height="575" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8036/8015388971_c160716a87_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Yakiniku Hormon Kinryuu (ホルモン金龍), cheap and very delicious.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/8015389747/" title="Sanzoku Yaki & Sanzoku Musubi by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Sanzoku Yaki & Sanzoku Musubi" height="647" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8322/8015389747_5944da54fa_b.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Irori Sanzoku, unique restaurant in the middle of mountain. Sanzoku Yaki and huge Sanzoku Musubi. The onigiri is as big as my hand. Sanzoku (山賊) means Mountain Bandit.<br />
<br />
If you come to Shuunan City, make sure you try these places. Highly recommended !Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-11223481840141117452012-08-14T00:54:00.000+09:002012-08-14T00:54:20.670+09:00Oshino Hakkai<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774023092/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7774023092_8f89053e95_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
Oshino (忍野) is a small village in Yamanashi Prefecture. The village used to be a lake called Lake Utsu (宇津湖). Lake Utsu used to be the biggest lake surrounding Mount Fuji. When Mt. Fuji erupted around 800 AD, the lava from Mt. Fuji split the lake into two, Lake Yamanaka (山中湖) and Lake Oshino. Later, the lake Oshino dried up, but the eight spring (pond) still remain and they are called Oshino Hakkai (忍野八海). <br />
<br />
The spring waters are underground water that flowed down from Mt. Fuji. When the snow melt into water from the top of Mt. Fuji, it got filtered down the mountain through layers of lava, traveling for over 80 years to finally spring at Oshino Hakkai, resulting a very pure, clear water.<br />
<br />
The purity of the water is the proud of the locals. It is said that the water is one of the best waters in Japan.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774026242/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8421/7774026242_a155f0e07a_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
There are two ways to get there, by train and by bus. If you prefer train, take the Fujikyuukou Line to Fujisan Station and take a bus until Oshino Hakkai Iriguchi (忍野八海入り口). It is five minutes walk from there.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774018490/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8284/7774018490_cc506b5716_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
If you prefer bus, there is Keio highway bus that runs from Shinjuku to Oshino Hakkai. From there, it is about 10 minutes walk to the spring. It took me about 20 minutes because I got lost a bit. So yes, I did take the bus.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774018870/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8297/7774018870_c38422d865_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
Inside the bus. It's a 2.5 hours trip.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774019184/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7254/7774019184_c173b786a4_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
The Eneos is where I got off from the bus. I was confused at that time, because I couldn't find any sign of the pond anywhere, and the GPS wasn't helping at all. As a warning, if you decided to take the bus, head to the direction where I took the above photo, you will find a small sign pointing to the spring at the end of intersection of the road.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774019546/" title="Oshino Hakkai Zarusoba by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8286/7774019546_85679824a7_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai Zarusoba"></a><br />
Getting zarusoba for lunch.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774019878/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8445/7774019878_da2fdeabfa_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
Only in Japan you can find unattended shop. Just leave the money in the box if you want to buy it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774020222/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8299/7774020222_2a0377daa8_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
The weird entrance to the village. The entrance is that small narrow path on the left side of the photo.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774020624/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8446/7774020624_c6fc6290a6_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774022016/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8438/7774022016_71941ea410_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
Oshino Village<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774022360/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8295/7774022360_73ea911de9_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774022758/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8441/7774022758_beca6b759e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
The pond's water here is really clear and transparent. Even though it was very deep (about 8m), you could clearly see the bottom of the pond.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774025550/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7120/7774025550_21c2522264_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
Those fishes must be really happy to live in the pond.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774024772/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7261/7774024772_96c188feec_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
Some of them are not lucky enough.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774025158/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8303/7774025158_195d1f3e58_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774023768/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8292/7774023768_12e7328981_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774021534/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8446/7774021534_1643b1fb82_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
Next to one of the springs, there is a place where you can feel and drink the water.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774021070/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8282/7774021070_eee1a96a87_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
The water is very cold and feels so refreshing.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774025898/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8429/7774025898_96d378f9f0_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774024454/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7255/7774024454_edc07eaa56_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a><br />
When you come here, make sure to wear shorts and sandals so you can easily jump down and play in the river. The water here is so nice and refreshing, it is definitely one of the best waters in Japan.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7774024090/" title="Oshino Hakkai by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8298/7774024090_d115916ab9_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Oshino Hakkai"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-67460215169298466082012-07-17T21:51:00.000+09:002012-07-17T22:07:37.128+09:00Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudou<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589676304/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7113/7589676304_09a09c3fbe_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
There are probably exist a few thousands of temple and shrine in Japan. It's quite to easy find a temple or shrine close to where you live. One day, I was taking a walk around Meguro and I was surprised to find the Ryusenji Temple (滝泉寺) there. It is also commonly known as Meguro Fudou or Meguro Fudouson (目黒不動尊). It turned out that the temple is one of the oldest of it's kind. It is also the 'Black' temple of the Five Colors of Fudou (五色不動) : White (白), Black (黒), Red (赤), Blue (青), Yellow (黄).<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589678762/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7263/7589678762_b9a13f0a5e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
The map of the temple. Quite big.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589677234/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8427/7589677234_30869d2495_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
You could get to the temple by walking from Fudomae Station or Meguro Station. It's about 10 minutes walk from the station.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589677446/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8161/7589677446_fab55a02f6_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589679394/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8288/7589679394_2f3f3d554c_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
The temple was founded by Jikakudaishi Ennin back in 808. It is part of Tendai sect of Buddhism.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589679188/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7262/7589679188_7671df526f_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
While The Ennin was on his way from Shimotsukenokuni (下野国) in Tochigi Prefecture to Mt. Hiei (比叡山) in Kyoto, he stopped by in Meguro for a while. That night, he had a dream about God Fudo. After seeing the God Fudo, Ennin made a carving of the Fudo. The temple was built later to worship the God Fudo.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589679828/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo 不動明王 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8023/7589679828_14d9d8762e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo 不動明王"></a><br />
The Fudo.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589679610/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8157/7589679610_a278ac3148_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
The visitors can splash the Fudo statue with the provided water.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589677850/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo 瀧泉寺 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/7589677850_8bffe0b194_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo 瀧泉寺"></a><br />
There is also a small pond and waterfall called dokko (独鈷) closed to the statue.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589678066/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo 瀧泉寺 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8283/7589678066_04c62a16e4_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo 瀧泉寺"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589678268/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8167/7589678268_57dfccd977_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589678492/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8282/7589678492_8cbeb9c4b6_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589678974/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7121/7589678974_374c1ba812_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589676764/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8150/7589676764_06a80fe1cc_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589677002/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8016/7589677002_2311b5f7ed_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589677652/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7589677652_170b267250_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589676044/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7274/7589676044_99484fb48a_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7589676564/" title="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8013/7589676564_1a145a56df_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Ryusenji Temple Meguro Fudo"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-41085446509123703872012-06-12T22:55:00.000+09:002012-06-12T22:55:20.909+09:00Fuji Shibazakura<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365084144/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7074/7365084144_7ce78f3575_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
I first set my eyes on Fuji Shibazakura Matsuri two years ago, right after I went to <a href="http://thumbnail-of-life.blogspot.jp/2010/04/hitsujiyama-park-chichibu.html">Hitsujiyama Park Shibazakura</a>. The harmony between mount Fuji and Shibazakura are so mesmerizing that I promised myself that I will definitely go to this place. Last month, I finally able to visit this place. Unfortunately, the weather was not perfect. No blue sky and a bit cloudy. A shame, but nevertheless it's still a gorgeous place.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179854751/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7219/7179854751_a327f54fc7_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
I usually prefer to travel by myself because of the flexibility to manage lots of thing freely, but this time I went there using a tour. Once in a while, it's good to just sit down and enjoy the tour.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365082204/" title="Raoh by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7095/7365082204_1e20560bc2_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Raoh"></a><br />
Raoh !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365082330/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7229/7365082330_03b9db2dbb_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
A very healthy lunch was included in the tour package.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179854671/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5463/7179854671_2d00174af1_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179854853/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7216/7179854853_5c1f035e14_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
Visiting a temple. Unfortunately, I have no idea where this place is. ^^'<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179854965/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7101/7179854965_62d680c70d_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365082934/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7243/7365082934_b8b6ca4f07_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179855081/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5337/7179855081_0459a2c3d5_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365238914/" title="DSC_7436 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5072/7365238914_b2f3c17375_o.jpg" width="862" height="573" alt="DSC_7436"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179855351/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8011/7179855351_dee7142d65_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
After the temple, it's time to visit the Wild Cherry Farm for some all you can eat Cherry !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365083180/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7229/7365083180_536ee65e2d_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365083292/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8165/7365083292_e69051bcdc_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
Can't get enough of these sweet cherries.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365083396/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7072/7365083396_ec99bc043f_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
Finally reached the main destination, the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, around 3 PM.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179855925/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5319/7179855925_cb4520617e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
The place is really beautiful. Carpet of flowers are everywhere.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179855809/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7084/7179855809_189d54bf73_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
Lovely Shibazakura.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179856151/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7229/7179856151_b09bf3b6da_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365083804/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7237/7365083804_d1b730b820_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
Taking a quick break, and eating yakisoba. The yakisoba here is quite famous and yummy.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7365084036/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5470/7365084036_75b302c5e3_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179856493/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7092/7179856493_42332927c5_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7179855707/" title="Fuji Shibazakura Tour by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7071/7179855707_dd42e06bb2_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Fuji Shibazakura Tour"></a><br />
Make sure to add this to your must visit place in Japan. :)<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-22089321366110188262012-05-17T22:21:00.000+09:002012-05-17T22:21:48.694+09:00Doraemon Museum<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215114976/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Doraemon Museum" height="575" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5339/7215114976_bdcdbffd95_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Japan has so many interesting museums, from Ramen to Gyoza museum, from Parasite to Dinosaur museum, and from Bandai to Ghibli museum. Regardless of your age and interests, you will be able to find some museums that are worth the visit. For Doraemon's fans, the <a href="http://fujiko-museum.com/english/">Fujiko F Fujio Museum</a> is definitely a place I would recommend.<br />
<br />
The Fujiko F Fujio Museum, also known as Doraemon Museum, was first opened on September 3, 2011. The museum is still new and a bit small, but it has its own charm, especially if you're a big fan of Doraemon.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215112728/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8027/7215112728_964a1caa72_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
The museum is easily accessed from Noborito Station using shuttle bus or 15 minutes walking. You'll notice a small doraemon statue right in front of the station.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215113008/" title="Sakura Season by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7092/7215113008_1e79a317a4_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Sakura Season"></a><br />
Snap this photo on my way to the museum.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215113124/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8012/7215113124_b8543cf80e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
Similar to Ghibli Museum, advance reservation is required. You need to buy the ticket from Lawson ticket machine. You need to specify a specific date and time when you purchase the ticket. Admission ticket is 1000 yen (adults), 700yen (12-18), 500 yen (4-11), and free (under 4).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215113256/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7226/7215113256_792d744f3c_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
Piisuke ! One of my favorite Doraemon's story.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215112872/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7074/7215112872_a6d8580c49_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
Fujiko F Fujio, who has long lived in Tama-ku, Kawasaki-city, had a strong relationship with the Kawasaki City. He was rewarded the Cultural Award from the city due to his achievements. Mrs. Fujiko's wish to return a favor to the children who have supported her husband's manga have led to the planning of construction for this museum. The museum was created as cultural facility for a wide range of generation, and intends to introduce his world and message through his original pictures.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215113570/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7105/7215113570_6403030522_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215113432/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8155/7215113432_85038bebbb_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
You will be able to see the collection of Fujiko F. Fujio's work, from Doraemon, Perman (パーマン), 21-emon, Obake no Q-Tarou, and other Fujiko's series. There are also a theater featuring a short original film, a manga room, play room, cafe, and a gift shop.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215113740/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7232/7215113740_9cb4d2278f_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
You can learn a lot about Fujiko's life and his artworks. For non-speaking Japanese, you don't need to worry because an excellent English audio guide is provided.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215113840/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8012/7215113840_cdc8ea6bee_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215113968/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7213/7215113968_b8e10e7fa1_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215114072/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5441/7215114072_6e0142030f_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215114192/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7088/7215114192_8f7f73d6e9_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
Anywhere door ! どこでもドア !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215114348/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7239/7215114348_57e4f8f73d_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215115908/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7101/7215115908_6632dc2915_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215114470/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7081/7215114470_dc9a4e1b60_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215114660/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7212/7215114660_03cd461a67_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215114844/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7075/7215114844_6ba01b9e99_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
Dorayaki and Anki Pan !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215115452/" title="Doria~mon by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5151/7215115452_c09edcef05_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doria~mon"></a><br />
Doria~mon ! The restaurant has a lot of interesting menu based on the Fujiko F Fujio's work. Make sure you reserve first because the restaurant is quite famous.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215115594/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8143/7215115594_61c9d4b2b2_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7215115704/" title="Doraemon Museum by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7096/7215115704_b6c058dda4_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Doraemon Museum"></a><br />
Definitely a must visit place for Doraemon's fans, and if you want to pay a respect to Hiroshi Fujimoto's grave, I blog about <a href="http://thumbnail-of-life.blogspot.jp/2010/07/doraemons-grave.html">Doraemon's Grave</a> a few years back with instruction how to go there.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-59431725281792881072012-04-11T20:49:00.001+09:002012-04-11T23:38:07.592+09:0020th Anniversary with Danbo<iframe width="853" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vuXkXlRyXDg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<iframe width="853" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/azxUyn-1xpY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<iframe width="853" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4VuEig19yDc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
Danbo !! <3Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-17288043581423976632012-04-10T23:02:00.000+09:002012-04-10T23:02:59.284+09:00Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7064370299/" title="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7120/7064370299_e3d49203e0_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
My favorite season, the Sakura Season, is here. A couple of years ago while I was still living in Indonesia, I really had no idea why people always making such a big deal about Sakura. The whole idea of enjoying flowers kinda felt like a stupid and girly idea back then. Only after coming to Japan, I could truly understand the joy of watching flowers and Sakura immediately became my favorite flower. And during this time, I would feel really bad if I don't spend time blogging about it. :D<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6918292254/" title="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5454/6918292254_4d31673bc8_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012"></a><br />
This time I went to Shinjuku Gyoen for Hanami. A lovely place to see the flowers.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7064370429/" title="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7214/7064370429_1cb303f451_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6918292414/" title="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7267/6918292414_947f97f17e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6918292334/" title="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5118/6918292334_6437b53424_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7064370863/" title="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/7064370863_bd51d3495f_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/7064371015/" title="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5443/7064371015_89d92a0ca0_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6918292784/" title="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6918292784_c7902bc06a_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Sakura Shinjuku Gyoen 2012"></a><br />
Sakura <3Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-69766436551200026942012-03-18T17:43:00.000+09:002012-03-18T18:25:53.462+09:00Tonki - Tonkatsu Restaurant<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6992237389/" title="Tonki by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Tonki" height="647" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7036/6992237389_1f2a8b6a48_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Tonkatsu, deep fried pork cutlet, is no doubt one of my favorite Japanese foods. Why, oh why, does fried food taste so delicious ? Tokyo offers lots of Tonkatsu restaurants. The most famous one is probably Wako, a nationwide chain Tonkatsu restaurant. However, when we talk about personal recommendation, there are two places I would recommend. One is Katsukura in Shiodome, and the other one is Tonki in Meguro.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6846109836/" title="Tonki by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Tonki" height="647" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7210/6846109836_07f35de86b_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Tonki is a family business Tonkatsu restaurant, probably one of the oldest. They only serve ヒレカツ (hire katsu = fillet cutlet), ロースカツ (roosu katsu = loin cutlet), and 串カツ (kushi katsu = meat skewered with onion). All comes with rice, miso soup, pickle, and cabbages. The meal cost around 1350 ~ 1800 Yen.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6846109880/" title="Tonki by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Tonki" height="647" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7178/6846109880_ac8770aef3_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The most interesting about Tonki is the dining experience. I really suggest you to sit down on the counter on the 1st floor. It is basically an open kitchen where you can see them making the tonkatsu. It is similar to the one you see in a production line. One person dipping the pork, one frying the pork, one cutting the pork, one serving the rice, one handling the cabbage, etc. It's as if you're watching an efficient production system working here.<br />
<br />
What about the food ? The skin is darker than normal tonkatsu, but it is crispy and tastes really good. You don't feel those oily taste you usually get after eating fried food. The meat is tender and delicious. However, it is not as good as other Tonkatsu restaurants such as Katsukura or Wako. The miso soup, although delicious and has a chunk of pork in it, is also not that satisfying. Their service on the other hand is the best.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6992237341/" title="Tonki by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Tonki" height="647" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7051/6992237341_fedc76045e_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Tonki only servers dinner and does not open on Tuesday. It is always crowded, so you might need to wait a little bit. The address is Shimo-Meguro 1-1-2. It is 5 minutes walk from Meguro Station.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-21812119103470148102012-03-11T18:11:00.000+09:002012-08-13T23:08:14.012+09:00Seaworld Orlando<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971872983/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7206/6971872983_2e64c51daf_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
There is always something fascinating about the sea creatures and Seaworld is a good place to learn about them. It has a little of everything for everyone. The penguins, the sea lions (I love the show !), the polar bears, the manta rays, Shamu, Kraken (roller coaster), etc. Just be careful that you might get wet. :)<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754602/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/6825754602_9b4ae4975c_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825753946/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="644" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7191/6825753946_2a5e53d91b_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The park was not as crowded as I would expected. There was no need to 'rush' to enjoy everything before the day ends. The park was not that big, but the layout was a bit confusing. You probably need to spend a few minutes to get used to it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971872797/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="644" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/6971872797_0e928d647c_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754046/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="644" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/6825754046_7a1f269006_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971872927/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="644" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7057/6971872927_0f0a32990f_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754258/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7055/6825754258_230c17dcdd_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Although there are lots of things you could do in the here, I would suggest you to put the live show on top of the priority list, especially the Sea Lions and Shamu show.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971873107/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7191/6971873107_8de6a06e09_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971873169/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7045/6971873169_8b39b47acc_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754414/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7208/6825754414_7930d15e92_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971873371/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7049/6971873371_c346b86f0b_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971873465/" title="Seaworld Orlando Food by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaworld Orlando Food" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6971873465_12c17956ef_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
For a theme park, the food here was quite good.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754716/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/6825754716_3f8df989cc_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Seaworld Orlando"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754690/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7046/6825754690_2909b53766_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Seaworld Orlando"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971873643/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7197/6971873643_22735ff55b_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Seaworld Orlando"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754838/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7047/6825754838_313f5e412e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Seaworld Orlando"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754898/" title="Seaworld Orlando Penguins by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7042/6825754898_16523febb0_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Seaworld Orlando Penguins"></a><br />
Penguins !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825754946/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7057/6825754946_81a595e328_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Seaworld Orlando"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971873303/" title="Seaworld Orlando by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7039/6971873303_aa8627f324_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Seaworld Orlando"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6971873933/" title="Kraken by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6971873933_493c5a6755_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Kraken"></a><br />
Kraken !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6825755002/" title="Kraken by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7050/6825755002_309d8c1128_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Kraken"></a><br />
If you love the sea or animals, and you are in Orlando, the Seaworld Orlando is the place to go.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-66118050684685797462012-02-16T23:05:00.000+09:002012-03-11T19:32:05.789+09:00Wonhobby Broadcast International<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886230733/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7048/6886230733_a3c525b93f_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
At the end of each Wonder Festival, Good Smile Company usually has a live broadcast called Nama Wonhobby. Last Sunday, for the very first time, they started an English version of it called Wonhobby Broadcast International Ver at Good Smile Tetsujin Cafe in Akihabara. The broadcast was hosted by <a href="http://www.dannychoo.com/">Danny Choo</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/ferlynyoshimi">Ferlyn Yoshimi</a> using Nico Nico Douga. I was impressed how they both managed to pull it off without taking a break at all for more than four hours. No toilet break either !<br />
<br />
The broadcast managed to reach 5000 viewers and 70000 comments. Impressive numbers. The broadcast also had Aki Takanori (Good Smile Company's Big Boss), Akiyama-san (General Manager of Good Smile Company), Digitaro (Nitroplus' Boss), and Matsuura Hiroaki (Sanjigen's Boss).<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886230909/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7178/6886230909_c5dce38944_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886231043/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7048/6886231043_a85c2ba96f_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886231149/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7208/6886231149_e57237ab51_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886231273/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7192/6886231273_a5cfc51a2a_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886231405/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7208/6886231405_7af3079e5f_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886231521/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6886231521_88c3c12f66_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886231791/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7061/6886231791_8d1bb86672_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886232033/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7052/6886232033_6159baf24b_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
The crews behind.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886231625/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7185/6886231625_37c892259d_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886232115/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7205/6886232115_f2038f211b_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886231927/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6886231927_18db2f9f24_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886232343/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/6886232343_d23c24866c_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
Snow Miku looking dangerously cute !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886232469/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7059/6886232469_ab617c0741_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886232831/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/6886232831_66f5901ef9_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
Yoshimi getting jealous because only Danny got the present.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886232975/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7063/6886232975_995806b444_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
Yoshimi and BL. ^^<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886232707/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7040/6886232707_c540c1e7a4_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6886232587/" title="Wonhobby Broadcast International by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7050/6886232587_21c7dd7a2c_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Wonhobby Broadcast International"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-594426283634659162012-02-02T23:04:00.000+09:002012-08-13T23:06:22.984+09:00Apple Store 5th Avenue<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806586273/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7158/6806586273_0a12b68631_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
While in New York, I visited the most beautiful Apple Store I've ever seen, the Apple Store 5th Avenue. The tall glass cube, with Apple logo on the middle of it, stood high and proud among the buildings. It was a beautiful piece of architecture.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806586369/" title="5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="5th Avenue" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6806586369_f1d9491d29_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
5th Avenue<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806585515/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7155/6806585515_07a42c1cdd_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
The store is definitely one of the unique landmark of New York that you can't and don't want to miss.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806585695/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6806585695_5e971643a9_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806586171/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7015/6806586171_e5a29aa36c_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue"></a><br />
The giant 3D iconic Apple logo. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806586061/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6806586061_62a59910d3_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue"></a><br />
The entrance with elevator and stairs leading underground. The whole store is located underground.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806585933/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6806585933_1343edc3cf_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806586493/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6806586493_4d9def86de_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue"></a><br />
Inside the store, you'll find flocks of people playing around with iDevices all over the place.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806585821/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6806585821_be411138e1_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue"></a><br />
The store normally opens 24/7/365. It was almost midnight when I was there and the people kept coming inside the store.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6806585593/" title="Apple Store 5th Avenue by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7158/6806585593_0822686cb0_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Apple Store 5th Avenue"></a><br />
It's amazing that in a city that never sleeps, there is an Apple Store that never stop working. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-67994287981204977392012-01-21T21:58:00.002+09:002012-01-21T21:58:35.555+09:00Georgetown Cupcake<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735644969/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes Red Velvet by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Georgetown Cupcakes Red Velvet" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6735644969_4a9d99cbc8_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
I rarely eat a cake. Not because I don't like cake, I just prefer to eat other foods. However, if I live in DC, I would definitely treat myself once in a while with these delicious mouthwatering Georgetown Cupcakes.<br />
<br />
For those of you who are unfamiliar with Georgetown Cupcake, it is a cupcake bakery located in the Washington, D.C. The shop was founded by the two sisters, Katherine Kallinis and Sophie LaMontagne, in February 2008. At that time, the Georgetown Cupcake was the first and the only cupcake bakery in the town. Georgetown Cupcake is a very well know cupcake bakery, they even has their own reality TV show called DC Cupcakes. There's even a story that people come to D.C. just to treat themselves with Georgetown Cupcake.<br />
<br />
I was in DC a few weeks ago. I've tried Magnolia and Sprinkles Cupcakes before, so I needed to try Georgetown Cupcake to see how good they are. And they're good. Very, very goodddddd. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735644461/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Georgetown Cupcakes" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6735644461_8d00b0c851_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Georgetown Cupcake building on the M Street. If there is one thing that I don't like about Georgetown Cupcake, it's the fact that you need to line up almost an hour just to eat it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735644605/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Georgetown Cupcakes" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7150/6735644605_7922d08291_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735645045/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Georgetown Cupcakes" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6735645045_469f6399e2_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735644747/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Georgetown Cupcakes" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6735644747_97a4250590_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Look at all those cupcakes. Yummy.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735644853/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Georgetown Cupcakes" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6735644853_8555e6c672_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735645773/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Georgetown Cupcakes" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7020/6735645773_f593d5c03b_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Georgetown Cupcake offers some daily and seasonal special cupcakes. They have different flavors every day. Red Velvet is the most famous out of them. I'm not gonna lie. I tried a dozen of different flavors and I like every single one of them. Delicious !<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735645131/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7150/6735645131_03d9078b7e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Georgetown Cupcakes"></a><br />
The cool thing about them, you could watch the cupcake making in action while waiting for your order. They even allowed me to take photos of them.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735645665/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6735645665_b0b624d1d9_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Georgetown Cupcakes"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735645423/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6735645423_838358bf42_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Georgetown Cupcakes"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735645301/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7019/6735645301_872f784d1e_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Georgetown Cupcakes"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735645223/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6735645223_7346b0af68_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Georgetown Cupcakes"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6735645505/" title="Georgetown Cupcakes by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6735645505_a824483192_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Georgetown Cupcakes"></a><br />
If you're a cupcake lover, the Georgetown Cupcake should be in your need-to-try list. If you're from Washington and you're just happen to come to Japan, please make sure you bring some of the cupcakes for me ! :DUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-70423452161205396522012-01-09T08:46:00.001+09:002012-01-09T08:46:16.098+09:00Happy New Year 2012<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6662934165/" title="Happy New Year 2012 by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6662934165_65a6aae095_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Happy New Year 2012"></a><br />
Happy New Year 2012, everyone ! How was last year ? Did you accomplished last year's goal ? Sorry for not updating this blog as often as I promised. Last year, especially last month, was a bit hectic. Now that things are starting to quiet down, hopefully I will have more time to blog.<br />
<br />
Anyway, goodbye 2011 and welcome 2012 ! Hope for more adventures in 2012. Happy New Year ! :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-41173919290290328962011-11-27T12:15:00.001+09:002011-11-27T12:49:32.460+09:00Culture Japan HQ<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408973537/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Culture Japan HQ" height="647" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6408973537_625e36a729_o.jpg" width="862" /></a> <br />
It all began one day when I noticed that <a href="http://puppy52dolls.com/">Chun</a>, a very talented doll fashion designer, was tweeting from Akihabara, Tokyo. I contacted her immediately and we all ended up invading Culture Japan HQ. XD<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408972249/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6408972249_3109e78ede_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Culture Japan HQ"></a><br />
We had ramen for dinner first before going to Danny's house. And as you can expect from bloggers, we always take photos before eating our food. ^^'<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408973151/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Culture Japan HQ" height="647" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6408973151_1641f02492_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Ordered Tsukemen this time.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408972739/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Culture Japan HQ" height="575" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6033/6408972739_fecc0c211d_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Some of these photos were taken by Chun and her hubby.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408971611/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Culture Japan HQ" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6408971611_27beeab846_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
First time inside Danny's house. Lovely House. <3<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408973353/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Culture Japan HQ" height="647" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6408973353_ba82ee9787_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Danny's new employee ? :P<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408972589/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Culture Japan HQ" height="484" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6408972589_ff398f6d10_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408971949/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Culture Japan HQ" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6408971949_05456b7372_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408971321/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img alt="Culture Japan HQ" height="575" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6408971321_fc08d05205_o.jpg" width="862" /></a><br />
Chun's Aki and Danny's Yuki-chan are gorgeous.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408971465/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6408971465_64dd3aec8c_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Culture Japan HQ"></a><br />
Danbos also join the fun.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408971767/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6408971767_6a3229a40a_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Culture Japan HQ"></a><br />
Someone was a bit jealous.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408972081/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6408972081_1f4516c6c0_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Culture Japan HQ"></a><br />
Gumako is so adorable. <3 Little Danbo and Gumako make a cute couple.
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408973003/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6408973003_46ba7bc977_o.jpg" width="862" height="644" alt="Culture Japan HQ"></a><br />
On the other hand, Papa Danbo has someone else in mind. XD<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408973705/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7171/6408973705_7ed2f9bdea_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Culture Japan HQ"></a><br />
Watching Culture Japan from Culture Japan HQ.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408972837/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6408972837_c6b4ff1746_o.jpg" width="862" height="575" alt="Culture Japan HQ"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6408972461/" title="Culture Japan HQ by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6119/6408972461_9f48c6f432_o.jpg" width="862" height="484" alt="Culture Japan HQ"></a><br />
Thanks to Chun for hanging out with me, and Danny for inviting us to his home.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1726107528527542469.post-89851153638976853662011-11-03T23:00:00.000+09:002011-11-03T23:13:07.425+09:00iPhone 4S<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6308728993/" title="iPhone 4S"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6118/6308728993_391e3ced49_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="iPhone 4S"></a> <br />
I finally upgraded my iPhone from 3GS to 4S a few weeks ago. I've been trying my hard to resist the temptation to upgrade my iPhone when iPhone 4 came out last year. I couldn't get it because I was stuck with my 2 years contract at that time. When iPhone 4S came out, I still had a couple of months left in my contract. Luckily, Softbank had a free upgrade plan from 3GS to 4S. And that's how I got my iPhone 4S.<br />
<br />
I always wanted a pocket camera that I could bring with me everywhere I go. I don't want to bring my DSLR with me because it's heavy and I definitely couldn't bring it to my work. I could get a pocket camera, but a camera with a good quality, reasonable price, and light weight is pretty hard to find. The iPhone is the answer to that. I love the idea of using your phone as a camera which means I could bring it with me everywhere I go. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
What about the quality ? So far, I've been really impressed by the camera. With the help of apps, you can take photos and retouch them almost instantly. The DSLR is definitely better and I have more control with it. However, the iPhone 4S camera is already good enough. Sometimes it made me feel like I don't want to take out my Canon 40D.<br />
<br />
Let me show you some of the photos that I took with my iPhone.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6308701215/" title="Hello Kitty Bus"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6230/6308701215_2053fc671d_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Hello Kitty Bus"></a><br />
Hello Kitty Bus at Shinjuku<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6309222438/" title="ニラ玉炒め"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6233/6309222438_d6c5ff876d_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="ニラ玉炒め"></a><br />
ニラ玉炒め for dinner<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6309222374/" title="Mentos"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6211/6309222374_79182cacc6_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Mentos"></a><br />
Huge Mentos<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6309221946/" title="Tennozu Isle"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6100/6309221946_f04bdb3c87_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Tennozu Isle"></a><br />
Tennozu Isle<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6309222000/" title="Tennozu Isle"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6235/6309222000_b4f59fa0dc_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Tennozu Isle"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6309222224/" title="Murayama Reservoir"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6215/6309222224_7c9d8b4e63_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Murayama Reservoir"></a><br />
Danbo at Murayama Reservoir. Lovely place.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6308701645/" title="Murayama Reservoir by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6056/6308701645_d03d47fbef_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Murayama Reservoir"></a><br />
I can even do this. :)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6308701437/" title="Murayama Reservoir by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6102/6308701437_eab074706c_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Murayama Reservoir"></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dansnosekai/6308701117/" title="Train Platform by dansnosekai, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6116/6308701117_3b42027e79_o.jpg" width="862" height="647" alt="Train Platform"></a><br />
Good bye, 3GS. Sorry, but you're not going to be missed. :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6