Today began with a sad development in our travel team: Alan has come down with a cold. Poor guy was feeling miserable, so he wisely stayed behind to rest while I headed out alone. I missed having my favorite travel buddy beside me all day.
Fortunately, I was in excellent hands with our guide, Miyuki. She spoke wonderful English, was genuinely funny, and had the kind of energy that makes a bus full of sleepy tourists wake right up. You could tell she truly loves what she does. She asked everyone to choose a buddy so we could keep an eye on one another and make sure nobody was accidentally left behind in Japan. I teamed up with another solo traveler, Kathy, and she turned out to be a terrific partner. We weren’t attached at the hip, but we checked in with each other, and occasionally teamed up to chase down good photo opportunities.
Which brings me to my personal mistake of the day: I left my camera on the ship.
I had convinced myself I wouldn’t need it. Reader, I was wrong.
Our first stop was Seibien Gardens, a lovely and peaceful place with winding paths, beautiful landscaping, and birds everywhere. Birds! The very creatures that usually cause Alan and me to suddenly stop walking and whisper excitedly. I thought of him often there.
Next came Seiryu Temple, home to Japan’s largest seated Buddha, set among serene and beautiful grounds. We were first treated to a lovely musical performance, which added to the peaceful atmosphere. Then we walked up to see the Buddha itself – an impressive and calming sight. Also? More birds. Still no Alan. Still no camera. Lessons were being learned.
Lunch was at the Art Hotel, where a buffet awaited us and was surprisingly excellent. The hotel lobby was decorated with elaborate hanging balloon creations that reminded me of ornate Chinese lanterns. Very colorful, very detailed, and far beyond anything I could make with a balloon animal kit.
After lunch we traveled far back in time to the Sannai-Maruyama ruins, one of Japan’s most important archaeological sites. This reconstructed Jomon village dates from around 13,000 to 300 B.C. There were pit dwellings, raised structures, houses, and a large tower that made it easier to imagine daily life thousands of years ago. Fascinating to see history brought to life in such a tangible way.
Our final stop was the Nebuta Warasse Museum, and what a colorful finish to the day. The museum celebrates Aomori’s famous Nebuta Matsuri festival, which has been dazzling people for over 300 years. Massive illuminated floats from the previous year’s festival were on display – bold, dramatic, and full of movement and artistry. Absolutely worth seeing.
Then it was back to the ship, where I returned with a deeper appreciation, and love, of Japan… and a renewed commitment to never again leave my camera behind. This was definitely one of the best excursions in Japan – maybe even this trip – so far.
