Our November 2017 Japan holiday itinerary was divided into 4 parts: 3-day holiday at Ginza, 4-day stay and family gathering at Kodaira, 3-day “babe” time in Higashi-Shinjuku and finally 3-day “slowing-it-down” R&R at Nippori before we finally head back to Manila.
My
feeling of exuberance is still on at Ginza. The crowd, exciting modern
structures and numerous shops that wifey is so eager to check-on: the newly
opened Ginza 6 that was still being constructed during our last Tokyo visit
couple of years ago; shopping of course where wifey did not spare Coach and Joe Malone. We can easily forget about
Tsukishima and the Imperial palace but a day spent in Tsukiji Market is a must
for some Yakitori, Oysters and squids, Tamagoyaki and what else but ramen
tolerance!
We
had some personal Kodaira vacation where we shopped at a local market and tried
finding ingredients to cook some “pinoy” food contrary to the usual local
practice. Adobo and “ginitla” were my best options. The “tatami” mat experience was just as special as I recalled our usual “banig” siestas during our youngsters
years.
We just found out this time that Mitsui Outlet Park in Irumashi is far better than Gotemba Premium Outlet if not for the majestic Mt. Fuji view.
“Babe”
time for our Higashi-Shinjuku stay where I get to again indulge on the numerous
Japanese menus at a local commissary I call “tapatan” for it is located exactly in
front of our fave abode. And Yes, Shinjuku Eastside Square and its arcade
located underground. No way, Yamachan Tebasaki will not be missed out of
course! A sound sleep and some hot green
tea to sooth my itchy throat I still got from Manila.
After
our Yanaka Ginza afternoon stroll at our last stop Nippori, we can forget about
anything and settle in at our newly discovered abode. A traditional Japanese ryokan where shoes are off immediately upon entering, and that all were provided
by Japanese handmade slip-ons. Where people seldom speak English though all are
very accommodating and attentive of anyone’s needs. We even had a short hotel tour courtesy of
the benevolent owner, showing us the hotel’s best treat for their guests: Ryokan
“onsen”.
And what is it about Onsen?
There
really is nothing more relaxing or therapeutic than lying back in a hot bath
after a long day—especially when the weather gets extra cold, or perhaps on the beach overlooking a beautiful mountain, or listening to the sound of a rushing
river. And once you’ve done and appreciate it...you'll never look back!
Stripping
off in public can be very daunting at first. But once you “dare to bare”
however, it really does not seem to be an issue anymore. Soon, you will get adapted to
it. Besides, Japanese do not care bat
an eyelid so in no time, you will get comfortable and eventually lose your self-consciousness.
More
than the nude part, I am more concerned about the etiquette that surrounds an
onsen. I made some blunders but good enough
that no one noticed my being a stranger.
Momentarily I realized I just had somewhat a "sento"
experience since the onsen is just inside a hotel.. But having noted the essential
etiquette I should remember.... I now am ready for the real Japanese public
Onsen. LATER!!!!
