Fall outings around Japan
I recently realized that Fall may be my favorite season for several reasons. Kids are back in school, weather in Japan is beautiful- cool and clear, it is a busy time getting back into daily routines and preparing for the holidays, and most importantly fall foliage is stunning.
When school resumed, the first month was hectic with new schedules, sports practices, new parent coffees, back to school, meeting new families and all. Once we reached October, the holidays seems to arrive quickly- Halloween, Thanksgiving, and then Christmas.
This fall, my schedule was packed with adventures around Japan. I would love to share snippets of my 6 short adventures throughout October and November. Joined dear friends I have made here in Tokyo on a few adventures, along with a few lovely family memorable trips. I was busy and unfortunately behind on my blog. I was able to add more prefectures to my growing list which now includes visiting 33 of the 47 prefectures. Only 14 prefectures left to visit in Japan.
Takamatsu, Kagawa Girls Trip
Takamatsu is a city in Kagawa prefecture, one of the 4 prefectures that make up Shikoku. Takamatsu is famous for udon! I joined a group of lovely ladies on a long weekend adventure which included a trip to Naoshima, Art Island, a day exploring museums and outdoor art by biking around the island, the famous Ritsurin Koen, a large historical garden, the little town of Nagoro, which is home to “Scarecrow Village”, where scarecrows outnumber the residents, Wasanbon candy making, udon eating, and lots of laughs and fun.
2nd annual Shimoda Family Trip
Our second annual Shimoda fall break family trip took us to the prefecture of Shizuoka. Shimoda is a surfing town on the southern part of Izu peninsula. In early fall, weather is warm and our boys were able to surf. The same 3 families made the 3 hour drive and this year 2 additional families joined the fun. It was a weekend of surfing, beach bumming, eating, laughing, and enjoying each other. Andrew enjoys Shimoda since he loves to surf and hang out with his buddies. So glad we were able to do it again.
Hiroshima Family Trip
Hiroshima is one of my favorite places to visit, precisely Miyajima Island. Miyajima Island is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine, the famous red Tori Gate in the water, one of the most picturesque sight. Unfortunately it was under construction, but the island is charming and my favorite. Beautiful sights and oysters!
In addition to visiting Hiroshima, we made the drive to Hikari to meet family. It was so lovely to meet Blake’s relatives in Japan. We also reconnected with Alex’s host family where he spent his summer of 2018 living in Iwakuni, Japan. During our time in Japan, we have been able to connect with friends and we cherish our time to visit our friends around Japan.
Nakasendo Girls Trip
A small group of 5, dear friends I have met over the past 2 years adventured to the Nakasendo Trail. Such a spontaneous 2 day/1 night adventure where we rode the Shinkansen (bullet train), densha (regular train), bus, to get to Magome, a small Edo town in Gifu prefecture. The little towns along the Nakasendo Trail are so adorable, with little eateries and shops run by the locals including our cute Ryokan where we had an incredible dinner and breakfast before we hiked the Old Nakasendo Trail from Magome to Tsumago (Nagano). We met generous and kind people who offered us free food, tea, and comfort during our cold fall hike. It was definitely a lovely trip to experience.
Kyoto & Nagoya Fall Foliage Trip
Kyoto is one of my favorite places to visit because it is rich with history, beautiful shrines and temples, AND home to Matcha, which I just LOVE! This time we had 1.5 days, where earlier in spring we spent a week during Sakura (Cherry Blossom) season. Still not enough time to do everything. Fall for Momiji (Japanese Maple) season is breathtaking. I cannot decide which season I love, both are stunningly gorgeous. Momiji and Matcha, was all I needed on this trip.
We Shinkansen’d to Nagoya to meet Blake’s host mom, who he keeps in touch since he was an exchange student back in high school. It was a lovely afternoon for lunch and chatting about memories. Such a lovely time we had.
Okinawa Thanksgiving Trip
Our family loves Okinawa. This was our 3rd trip to the main island. It reminds us of the old days growing up in Hawaii. With each visit, we realize there is so much to do. Our favorites include snorkeling the Blue Cave at Cape Maeda and eating at our friends Italian restaurant Osteria Volare in Naha. On this trip, it was extra special to meet up with Blake’s classmate and wife from High School, who now live in Okinawa. It was such a lovely reunion and we got to spend 2 evenings with them.
We will be back to Okinawa as it is such a hidden gem within Japan.
