Thursday, March 27, 2008

From Noxious Volcanoes to Fish for Breakfast






After leaving the comfort and familiarity of the Akiyoshidai we travelled to Fukuoka and Aso,land of bubbling volcanoes. We travelled for about 5 hours to get back to Yamaguchi yesterday. It snowed on Mount Aso and quite frankly I'm still waiting for Spring to kick in. I believe the blossoms come on in full force on the 1st and I can hardly wait to see them in Kyoto.
We have one more day in Yamaguchi as Justin has to re-bulid his crates to the liking of International customs. Something to do with natural wood and bugs.

Then it's off to the ancient city. I had a good dose of kultcha today and took in Rurikoji, the Five-Storied pagoda and Joeji Temple with it's beautiful stone garden (you know..the manically raked variety!) All on a bike that Hiro,our friend from the Art Village lent me. We are staying at his house tonight. It is a beautiful,typical Japanese home where every wall is a sliding door and the floors are tatami mats.

Had my first onsen in Aso. I get to do my favourite thing in the world..lie for ages in water hot enough to poach me. These are public baths that are both inside and outside. Steaming , natural spring water, glossy stones and gently waving bamboo!

Love to you all.
Gabs

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