http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1 daily 0.75 2025-04-23 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2025/4/23/march-to-april-2025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745420508582-NG7GTVOMVYIAOJINHN87/1CBD4A3E-5920-40DF-AE96-478E9C9F5E2A.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Obligatory photo next to their sign at the new much larger, waterfront location this year in Gothenburg. 2024’s location was outgrown in a single year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745420508445-R0GENWND3OVKYW05LSRL/38C30FC8-B876-4F81-B8A8-54EA0F845D30.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Jack from “Muttley & Jack’s” in Stockholm. We had his coffee through our KaffeBox subscription and immediately subscribed. He just recently opened his own cafe in Södermalm, Stockholm - see below for our first visit… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745420510324-OMT007FOB7XHXITHFO22/A055B7B5-60F2-4C2E-BB61-466D0DED9F55.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Justin got to tool around with some $30K espresso machine… one day we may venture towards espresso. For now, we brew Hario V60 and stainless steel filters (pour overs). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745420771596-KZRDJ2GQBOYVG992BCIB/F81D6665-99CE-488E-B397-620C06E74D8A.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 From left to right - Nordic Roasting Co (CPH), Paper Mill (Tallinn), Good Life Coffee (HEL), Lehmus Roastery (Lappeenranta, FI), Kaffa (OSL), Balck Coffee (Kalmar, SE) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422105837-Z5U2VU943IHQT3M931MP/CD566D2C-0F23-4526-B60F-B4AC07E80D93.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Last last photo ever inside our first first-hand contract apartment. Felt very surreal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422101811-5NUAN5522FZJ2SWDLM42/C8C8C8D1-14C6-4B0C-865B-57B620578D10.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Walking out the door for the last time. Oddly this was the first time in two years we met and spoke to our neighbors across the hall for more than a “hej”. You know how that goes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422098782-531K5TP3BQ5YG68ZD0UQ/A76F646C-432F-436A-9C0E-94312D26C19D.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Goodbye Jungmansgatan! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422101982-97HXYNVMARM17G4TB3J1/CCC688BE-8027-4995-A73B-7370E6B5DAA5.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 An amazing (NOT perfect) apartment. But it is full of so many memories. Bittersweet to be leaving…. (last elevator ride down to the garage). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422098839-3R8Y8BMLU6KU1W7DM6M5/2650DF7E-CAE7-4654-82A5-0EC063E222D1.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Car loaded for Linköping. Full is an understatement. I think this is the first and only time the roof of the X5 was loaded from the inside… (if you catch my drift). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422094383-D3HIJN6ZLG6P6WCP8PBP/683BEEF1-6FE7-47B1-B520-BD15B4AD9FFF.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The most gorgeous sunset we’ve literally seen the whole time we’ve been in Sweden to bid us farewell as we drove east. No filter here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422095555-QSUWU73M646YKHLW0WIY/26A3A3A1-CC82-4861-B78C-C95407304A02.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The new place… first sight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422647865-VEZBD35L70P2RLXFLCPI/8AB9F880-851D-410B-A3F7-808461884C4B.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The front door and entry and the living room to the right…. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422647913-CE6G1YZHG2WK3ZIGNJEV/788E852F-53A1-438C-B687-D9E867A897FA.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The second bedroom / office which is on the right as you enter… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422650419-JM3SL6OCLTOJS0GFTVJH/B4B36A69-BBED-4503-B439-7615144FF94A.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Second bedroom/office from the “cubby” area we use as an office… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422656029-RPMPWYMUYSU3GKHZSPAD/D55B4548-B764-4108-9D76-D262A4077517.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Second bedroom… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422652188-PNA7KURLCTMRSD71U60K/DA14B987-5413-46A4-BD34-7C598D081AD7.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Master bedroom… in the day time this is where I stand to watch the Gripens fly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422653985-KU82HQHE192ZG7FKN7AV/41B55131-D788-4588-A685-27FFFF2FC67F.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Master bedroom closets… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422653482-EJ41XNO0OL7H307UMJGA/4D9FB034-9E83-4AA1-A300-45226009EDDC.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The bathroom and combi washer dryer (we had one of this in Japan… it works). These bathrooms are purchased as a monument (a prefabricated entity) and loaded into the apartment building with a crane if you can imagine that…. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422651509-VIOSHN87C1PVVGBY5M1B/B84925CA-45EF-458E-A99D-1F14C7F99CDB.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The living room and dining room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422649766-A7HSXQFGDCPTIAJY7C34/83EF91B6-723A-4904-B1A5-A6337D25F090.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 From the living room corner facing towards the kitchen (left) and entry way/bathroom (right). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745422655264-SHKJI3MCVA2DOFBBBRT9/FA07F1CA-7DA8-469B-BC94-658A31E6DAD8.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The kitchen! Turned out so cute! I LOVE these colors! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1749216770785-Y0CTUA3NAQEWOM7XG0WP/4CFA9C9D-E6B8-4F57-86C9-A9F42A56DA10.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Pre-fabbed bathrooms waiting to be added into the structure for new apartments being built nextdoor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/4ab3a31a-054c-400e-aeec-79fead9d26e6/FullSizeRender_VSCO+28.JPG #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 - Make it stand out Our first time in our apartment (December 6, 2024). We came to see how the location felt and assess the noise levels as it is adjacent to a fairly busy road. The walls had just been poured and the drywall was not up. The pre-fab bathroom is behind us through the plastic sheet. We couldn’t even see the views yet as there were plastic tarps over the roof and top floor with scaffolding (we got an idea of our view from the unit directly below as the plastic didn’t obstruct their view). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745469681538-8UFAHC96L1954MWCJ5ZG/FullSizeRender_VSCO.JPG #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Hands down our favorite. It came from “Lilla Sur” in Gothenburg. It was a saffron-orange flavored bun, dense and crispy with sugar/butter (similar to many cinnamon buns here). One of the best things I’ve eaten in my life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745469676698-9WQP4L0LSIDJA7HLVHN8/4A66CBC7-9D4D-4FFC-85D0-F990FCC03FCC.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The day after we arrived in Linköping was Fat Tuesday - I was able to swing by the local bakery (~10 min walk from our apartment) and try theirs. They had a gluten free one as well! Much lighter and fluffier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745469680132-GAU0RX9WHJ3JWNVTWN7E/5E7D28DF-D6D3-49E6-9D33-88710BEC2D14.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 This actually made the trip over with us from Gothenburg to Linköping - we picked it up at our former neighborhood bakery Bullen & Brödet (the Bun and the Bread). We ate it after unloading our X5 at 10 pm at night. Sadly/inexplicably their quality has slipped. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745469677481-57T18G92SO9S14VOQ8CO/2A5EA3AA-B871-49C5-B903-BFB895F6DCE2.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Our new roastery and bakery in town - Simon’s! They regularly have a huge selection of really good fika treats (baked goods). This is their semla. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747539455450-T4IHY8ACDM2MIPF692SQ/IMG_2916+Large.jpeg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Watching Justin’s flight depart! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745908429914-KTO0LAFDMAI82JDSDMK9/FullSizeRender_VSCO+30.JPG #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Licorice caramels (not the gooey caramel like in the USA, but a hard-ish candy that melts in your mouth), regular licorice, licorice sticks, wallabies, and coins. Even banana licorice caramels. I am proud of my collection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745908428879-EB92OHH5WHSL4R64S7IM/FullSizeRender_VSCO+29.JPG #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 All purchased from “Lakrits Roten”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747551653244-33HHW019EALSA92BI7FM/1974BC3E-C876-4B80-B5C0-7EFC1A390671.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Really excited to try the café! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747551649781-TJLNUZVTW6F4CH5PD1Z5/4F6AFE02-887E-433C-9FFF-916F6CEB5B8C.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Love the space! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747551651982-6RIHJABJOCIFL9WXZFHX/4FFAA9F2-BFC6-4A24-A3E0-9EA7FFBBB4B4.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The food they have is really impressive. I’d been drooling over the Instagram posts for months now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747551654115-O8LMMXYNIH72EYJM30IM/5FEEA8F3-FF48-4C7A-B519-5C1887A38910.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The whole world in your coffee cup! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747551656596-QO584MO1AMC9W7PZ4NO9/92D28A4C-E2D5-4826-A983-309BB1053219.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The café… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747551659388-E2EPOI6Y10TN35J3TS6S/90341A83-1860-4998-9993-A8382A195994.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Our first subscription to arrive in Linköping came with a handwritten note from Jack! What a nice guy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747552529948-AFSC3903N1CEX6UYWFYW/3452FFF7-5C36-40A6-BEA0-5E7CC7CBA75A.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The big holidays in Sweden have their own special “lördagsgodis” (literally: Saturday’s candy). This is the spread for Easter! Every grocery store in Sweden has a wall of bulk candy. Even many convenience stores. It is a THING here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747552529558-70BQBMHMV59PR8JWP19K/7F3D8265-193F-4468-8385-4D46319B266E.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Our Swedish Easter decorations! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747540896654-3EFMS8DVG5VZL7HO5UYF/2221B252-9F38-4578-92E2-11BCCE4FB392.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Obligatory birthday photo. Despite the Swedish flag we are in a Portuguese restaurant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747540993539-YT57ZOA48ELVCAYTDFQH/28800BC5-7EE3-485A-B92B-A9896CA0DFED.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The front of the restaurant - I love how it is customary in Sweden to light a candle and set it outside to signify a business is open. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747540900584-28Z4IWLASA2XAFL08P9G/EBCE7FC7-E019-442F-9DF7-ED63EEA6BA05.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 My napkin! Authentic for sure! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747540894614-CUK9GL9B2H3SPI6ZVSLU/707D82FB-AEAD-4FE5-866F-FFCC3A8F6549.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 My salt-dried cod (grilled, then baked and served with potato, bell pepper, fried garlic, and Portuguese olive oil: “Bacalhau à Lagareiro”). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747540903145-UAHB3VDMH2UHK90D2QY6/A57E9DDE-C986-4AFF-9853-7B0DEF1C9F88.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Justin’s veal tenderloin in mushroom sauce with homemade fries. It was REALLY good (“Lombo de Vitela Alfama”). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747540897887-LCDN3D0OQ8Q1Y4IKE0NW/A33C4960-CF82-47A7-BEE7-021E665C1794.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Dessert - Grandma’s almond cake with vanilla ice cream and fresh berries (“Tarte de Amendoa”). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/654e47d5-7a1b-4fe9-be69-38b987bffd8a/6D7D6D1D-EBA0-43A8-965F-5B5818C30190.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 - Make it stand out The building for my Swedish Language classes on the west side of town (a 30-minute bike ride on the lovely bike paths, or a 13-minute drive). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745562509126-YXESO53WWP1BHARX7PU8/F19C391F-63FF-4C25-A69F-682A27F7E570.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 My first ever “språkkafé” in Linköping. This was an earlier time (3 pm) and was during Ramadan, so I was the only “student” of seven volunteers for many weeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745562507124-429KKPBKT9D1EC51R884/CAAA18CD-020A-4181-868A-4C6BA83F28CD.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Another språkkafé - this neighborhood and language café is almost entirely Iraqi. So this language café is myself and a bunch of Iraqi grandmas. They are so goofy, kind and funny. Many have been here for 15 years or more. They quickly accepted me in their group. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745562513152-AJ9DMBKGYBE6U0PE48QI/C3488C2F-46E7-4F1E-B120-6112F5EF7EFF.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The first woman I spoke to at any language café. The irony: when she introduced herself to me in Swedish, I heard “Kanadensiska…” I told her I was born in Toronto and she immediately jumped and hugged me. She immigrated to Sweden at age 17 from Montréal in 1967. She first lived in Luleå (up north) and has ended up in Linköping. What a lovely surprise to meet “Inki” (Ingrid). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745907995194-VXY9CCRAKM8CARVNC31Q/DCCE7879-10C1-4DD0-AA19-0EDB81B5E88D.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 As Swedes go about their life, large groups of immigrants are meeting weekly at churches and libraries and speaking Swedish to one another over an evening fika. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745562543815-C3XSU4SCX1F9T3YVE62H/AF9F0E31-3115-43B4-A69B-1B685C7BE3FC.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The magazine sent to people newly moving to Linköping and a surprise to us: a cycle map as well! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1745562546060-ELIPM86YHQ86V3CEUUSV/B3EDD225-B1A9-4D89-B486-A5C7D3F9BE2D.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Justin and I testing out the ride to SFI. It takes about 30 minutes either 3.4 miles through the city with lots of stops or 5.1 miles around the city with only one stop (!!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747543785033-84NUGEEURG1Y87QG8DJS/37962E66-2E68-499F-86E0-8BFA3569ACDF.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The cycling promotional area in the City Library. Linköping has been voted the best cycling city of its size in previous years (beating out Stockholm and Gothenburg!). It’s completely well-deserving of such an award. Coming from Seattle, USA, it’s a total luxury to have dedicated and well-cared for cycling paths. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747552154694-DEH90OIOFON8235EVLEE/IMG_3812.PNG #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 A screenshot of my FlightRadar… it’s a Gripen (Saab’s fighter)! This is the typical airshow I am regularly treated to out our bedroom windows. See the video below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747539962366-NJASBA3BA9S2MD8BE9DD/IMG_2986+Large.jpeg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Gluten-free kladdkaka ingredients for the recipe from da Karla (see link in text above). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747539962374-KBIEPZJTNEAAWNPYA1CB/IMG_2990+Large.jpeg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The almost-finished product! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747539963824-H5N6M62161DAF73P8BMX/IMG_3030+Large.jpeg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Final product! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747544759789-NZ9B1FVQ0KQHR9ZXCPZH/F228143D-7F8E-4F53-AA32-4DA37B13CBF0.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Gluten version of kladdkaka ingredients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747544764074-1I4O8IV0JTQ3P0AHGJ48/8EC3E217-D2F0-4905-AA36-C91722D83703.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Before cooking - the dough is more like dry toothpaste… or icing consistency. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747544762397-RLN3VI7T7WA0CW4HD5AD/858EB6CE-4F6F-4F7A-938B-B05A2F4505C5.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Gluten version of kladdkaka. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747544765715-7EEDTXKF8X84S9MNVHMD/4A3E9340-4B90-4421-9890-DF699A9B494A.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 I’d like the middle to be less done and the edges to be more done. This was a little underdone. The benefit of refrigerating is that it is very forgiving for a wider range of doneness (it solidifies). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747544759300-IO48Y2GKEAMEYXKL1LK2/C138ED7D-3CA7-49C0-986D-024A7EC4AC4F.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Paw prints with chocolate chips. (Off-recipe :-D). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747552890039-Z89FT8IWRUZ3C95UNF78/DB3FD428-6A0D-4047-8C36-3B12B150A0F1.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The woman who bakes fika treats for Gringo Coffee suggested this book to start playing around with making Swedish treats. It’s been around for 80 years! (1945 was the first printing!!). It is actually available printed in English as “Swedish Cakes and Cookies”. I linked it to Amazon above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747552889133-F95DLZVTF3W2M92RQV1L/34791FDC-D1FF-4737-ACB5-37098CA4C5B4.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 The gluten-version of the recipe for kladdkaka. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747543586652-SKZ043J8OLLJNOE5O2JF/3DEECDAD-7BBD-4ADA-AA0E-BC91A6E8624D.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Ingredients for Swedish pancakes (sugar/vanilla sugar is optional). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747543585098-GS4HFXXLWOPMFOP5OY81/20A233D9-CF06-4AA0-880B-45E60F20D40F.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 My first pancake. This skillet wasn’t exactly flat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747543589556-SJOOK9IVC9MFS0F95S0E/72A50383-0AFE-4B51-BDAC-14135ADD2352.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 My Mauviel skillet was exactly flat and this turned out perfect! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747543587425-XXKXJESU2TN75PPGV0SR/37B055B4-6D28-40EB-920A-1AD78CE211A3.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 Cloudberry jam <3 (“hjortron” in Swedish). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747541093857-F5B2TII7DJWV0BM6CXMQ/C1183825-73A2-4B96-8C65-427D4184602E.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747541094429-OZIWB0BPTZAHLH12LN3D/F7536808-9791-4D8D-864D-01ABF0ABED7B.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1747544183520-U3HSPIBHOQKXITXJXYM6/9F857648-29A6-49CE-B47E-265A4E9886BA.jpg #kabers_sverige - March - April 2025 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2025/2/20/february-2025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742198605960-DY4BK38PVQLG7V777J26/FullSizeRender_VSCO+21.JPG #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Our last day in SFI Course C :-( From left: me, Swantje (our SFI Course C teacher whom everyone loves), Gülçin from Turkey (pronounced gool-cheen), Alla (from the Ukraine), and Svitlana (from Kharkiv, Ukraine). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742198606374-RO3W6ESG0QLVUEQ09YPV/FullSizeRender_VSCO+23.JPG #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Me, Svitlana, and Sylvia (from Poland by way of Italy to Sweden !…). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742198608509-01YAJLPMKFJUABWUCZO5/FullSizeRender_VSCO+22.JPG #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Umi (from Sri Lanka). The cold and dark weather is tough for her here ! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/50f0bf4a-6eba-4530-b88c-72dad8912794/58DECFFB-6709-4CE1-B4E0-624195B7D05F.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg - Make it stand out Me and Marina! She’s another incredible teacher at Folk University in Gothenburg. I can’t keep track of all the languages she speaks - Arabic, Russian, German, English, French, Swedish (all fluent), plus she is learning Italian and Japanese. She is full of passion and energy and was so fun to have for a short three weeks for course D. She loves what she does and it shows. I asked her where she’s from and she said “it’s a long story for another day.” Of course this only peaked my curiosity. Suffice it to say Arabic and Russian are her first languages. In the USA, almost all of us have simple backgrounds. In Sweden it isn’t so uncommon to meet people from all over. My hair dresser was born in India to Chinese parents and moved to Sweden from Pakistan and Canada. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742016280904-SX42VLY90YNTS5BUAH01/IMG_2183.jpeg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg View from the outside of the building. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742016279249-QJ6EZS5EBBTYZ85GXRIR/FullSizeRender_VSCO+20.JPG #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Had to do this once. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742016283433-79MI0OGH9DR96HNXL3ZW/A8877F8F-645F-43A1-8EAF-233CC361987D.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Seems like rocking chairs or swinging chairs are very popular in these spas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/f191ec62-a206-442d-aa4a-eb2ffcef4109/5F226161-FF06-47FC-941F-616C8F52099B.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg - Make it stand out Linda’s award ceremony with the Swedish national anthem and flags! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/02b676c8-aa26-4826-973a-4d1d8b88ddaf/B78AF64B-836E-473C-B809-6F71382DCF4F.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg - Make it stand out The horse show in Gothenburg is nearing its 50th anniversary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742197516880-SW6SD9M4GC3O6GG4UGN3/754EB398-5F95-4B9E-AC17-DBE3E24343D6.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Last breakfast and coffee with our furniture, surrounded by boxes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742197514967-8WSCU3UBGTQCNDU1DMS9/BC1887C3-EBA7-4DFA-BD30-15BEBEF3605F.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Justin’s home office. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742197967508-Z8P1AQ0ATPHF64TQYWRY/5DAE3440-942E-451C-A838-2E2FD8A0CBFA.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg These chairs and this cooler were our exact set up 9 years ago when leaving the Greenwood condo for Japan after the movers came! Here we are again for a few days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742198236612-T8WD7XV4UIYDX2L4RX4N/F5C84E96-D3E1-4984-B38A-1AC21707246C.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Empty apartment! Except for a few items. Our Japanese bikes (Equilibrium) and tenugui cloth from Japan remain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742455696226-D7I8QGAA36FKXS9AW2VO/FullSizeRender_VSCO+26.JPG #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Gringo was the first coffee we discovered in Gothenburg just after we arrived. Their Radical Brew became our go-to. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742456074808-WWAZY2LFOELMF9MJBXEG/FullSizeRender+11.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Gringo coffee on repeat! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742455692676-MOBIGJAE5P91OM0SCFSE/IMG_5761.jpeg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg A fun sunny day activity was to ride to the free ferry, pop across to Morgon and meet Justin for a coffee and ride back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742455696723-3BZI5PHE1IZNGJ4EM8GV/EE38919B-B2D2-4087-8DF4-C09CCAF1ACAA.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Also fun on a cloudy day… the roastery is right on the water in a cozy red industrial building. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742455699659-3I132MNVFJP3TGGRE4DI/CC37DA6C-67A1-4516-9719-102D2CB90A21.jpg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Last time to Morgon for awhile… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742455691813-Q0EDSFAXTQKS4IDEWQXG/IMG_3766.jpeg #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg There is no cozier spot than Da Matteo on Magasinsgatan in the Christmas season when they first open in the morning… Although this is a picture of their decor, they actually won the best roaster competition at this years Nordic Coffee Festival! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742272014979-6LH6F04LE27HER2RA8MI/FullSizeRender_VSCO+24.JPG #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg Ingredients from left to right: pärlsocker (pearl sugar), coffee (we used Radical Brew from local roasters Gringo), havregryn (rolled oats), vaniljsocker (vanilla sugar), kakao pulver (cacao powder), lakrits pulver (licorice powder - for a variation, this is not standard), and strösocker (regular old granulated sugar from what I can tell). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1742272012979-1SPN4KH47OVCUA9T0IUB/FullSizeRender_VSCO+25.JPG #kabers_sverige - February 2025 | Our Last Month in Gothenburg The finished product. Two in the back have licorice powder and blueberry powder. You can also use raspberry powder and even coconut flakes in place of the pearl sugar. http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/january-2025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737995663884-0H72T5OZJ4LXOUM4967N/IMG_9993+3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737995670303-VXVQJQJXKOSQ8LVVZAA3/IMG_9992+2.PNG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737809405394-N2IO4ZI39M1291ZHLK5P/3044D151-A18A-40A9-9066-0C133BEAECCE.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 His first day of work (and heading to Linköping for the week). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737809409585-GV1O72VLWYNW536EDXQS/FullSizeRender_VSCO+3.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737809800263-TPX74OV5YMU6MYRFTS1H/FullSizeRender_VSCO+6.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Ahlströms Konditori from the outside… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737809797069-GBDF542PNC71UASNKHXU/FullSizeRender_VSCO+7.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 A whole ‘Princess Cake.’ If you didn’t know this cake before, could you ever guess what was inside? I couldn’t! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737809801983-Z9HJLQY5AQD7BRZ44GS6/FullSizeRender_VSCO+8.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Dammsugare or punschruller at Ahlströms. Usually they are green and brown. This is some creative variation on the color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737809875252-X86YJRY8DZ09I0WIVA3I/444313A4-5603-49D9-8AC1-29687B5B6744.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Konditori Kampanilen from the outside. It’s been crammed full every time we’ve been by! No wonder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737810280020-SF0U0WOKFA1OFHO708ZH/FullSizeRender_VSCO+13.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Princess Bakelse (AKA baby Princess Cakes). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737810325110-W3IABLG1QPPS1K5I9QGB/FullSizeRender_VSCO+9.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Both konditorier (confectioneries) packages to go… ready for the taste off! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737810325529-3VSGEW2IGAGEHP5100EK/FullSizeRender_VSCO+10.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 So pretty… We did not want to take a bite as there was no way to do so without smashing the princess cake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737810329697-YN5WD9G2M47YU9AIXABT/FullSizeRender_VSCO+11.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 A very sharp knife… Innards: sponge cake, vanilla cream, whipped cream, and raspberry jam all in a sweetened marzipan shell dusted in powdered sugar. This was our favorite (Kampanilen’s). But both were amazing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737810329264-TXY4ODDC6YJBYMI7R8Z5/FullSizeRender_VSCO+12.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 A flavor of cookie dough mixed with rum and dipped in chocolate. Yes please! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654026024-HG15FPVOEBDGTKTJJYKU/IMG_5352.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Looking NE towards downtown on 6/15/23 at 2:40 am one sleepless night. You can see there is no true night even though we are south of the Arctic Circle a ways. Sunrise time at 4:11 am that day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654051069-4OSWZOKLB6NL6X3CCAZL/IMG_4078.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Looking in the same direction only in winter (Jan 27, 2023 @ 8:41 am. (Sunrise time: 8:24 am). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654045061-SOEE60N82YG4A2KVRE7T/IMG_9388+2.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Our north balcony with the glass opened at 6 pm in summer 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654041509-6SCUB3CQOVZRNZV6EKKT/IMG_8948.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 North balcony looking west northwest at the cliffside and historic buildings (June 2024). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654035017-U3BFKOYI7WE0S1NOJQ3U/IMG_7889+2.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Vardagsrummet (Our living room and furniture which followed us from USA/Japan). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654073161-M5HZMXNYYYG8IADPUCZL/IMG_0021.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Our living room looking north. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654030839-PY7QD6MCXS534WNBLZ5E/IMG_7872.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Dining room and Luna light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654069182-R9EZ0RUBNMAFXBX4ELHZ/IMG_0014+2.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Galley kitchen with two fridges! Induction stove! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654066724-QYNTKYVVLIKFLOH2DA0Q/IMG_0013.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 … kitchen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654069939-0AYMS9VCMPXDG60LW20K/IMG_0018+2.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Looking southeast from the dining room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654065709-DWCHB0FG3CZ2CGUB0LLK/IMG_0012.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Our tenugui towel and recycling sorting “dresser” from Japan … https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654062567-PUG0QJ80U085VUA5QX3N/IMG_0009.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Kontor (office) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654030151-NDIT15ZJPNVJMPSKVLZO/IMG_7878.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Our cozy entry which we spruced up with the Pond Mirror (Ferm Living), the Fritz Hansen Owl Lamp, and a bench and shelf in soaped birch from Norrgavel here in town. Scandinavian design often has longevity at the heart of its intent and so we plan to have these things forever. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654559806-TGAGQOIGLV5E6ZHZ4NQR/IMG_7858.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 The luxurious half bath which I have already begun to mourn the loss of. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654040726-6RF7058SNQ033CK1Y9Y5/IMG_9376+2.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Our ¾ bath. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654026051-C02ZVPOR398KG7S3L78F/IMG_7855.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Behold the ‘dusch cabin’ (shower stall). A common feature to bathrooms in this neck of the woods. Out of the picture is the heated towel bar also common to this area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654061881-PR06XMMB7I3ZEJ3LZQTB/IMG_0006.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 The second bedroom which we have set up for our home gym. It’s lovely to face out to the green cliffside while doing the bike trainer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654034872-PT5M060IWAA2Q7A73CI6/IMG_7880.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 South-facing master bedroom (note the black out curtains!). Those are our futons which we still use from Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654058062-ZR25ZBUV8IO1LNR5K6XJ/IMG_0002.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Our south-facing balcony off the master. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654057518-R8PHN5SR7MIABMVQQBWM/IMG_0001+2.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 South facing balcony (looking to the west southwest). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654049546-SGCHOINFL5HO68G89P6X/IMG_4073.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Sunrise looking south (~8 am Jan 2023). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1737654047956-GR65DOSHF5OLFVSFIKQE/IMG_3547.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 Our apartment (smaller balcony on the right, second from the top) Dec 10, 2022 @ 2:30 pm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/5008b63f-1507-48ab-99cb-41203461ae73/Me%2C+Maud%2C+Carolin+and+a+man+whose+name+I+failed+to+get+on+my+first+Friluftsfr%C3%A4mjandet+hike%21 #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 - Make it stand out Me, Maud, Carolin and a man whose name I failed to get after my first Friluftsfrämjandet hike! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/634e1104-3caf-49b4-9670-928cabf41a9a/FullSizeRender_VSCO+16.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 - Make it stand out Test schedule for today for Nationella Provet C Nivå. Nivå is level, läsa is reading, höra is listening, and skriva is writing. And paus is a break. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/47315497-3d94-49bc-8491-93f0e0e00fdf/FullSizeRender_VSCO+18.JPG #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 - Make it stand out Me and two of my favorite classmates on our speaking test day (Jan 28). Gülçin (center) is a special needs educational consultant for Turkish kids with a huge following online and Svitlana (right) is a professor of economics and lectures students about startups at a university in Kharkiv, Ukraine. I adore them both so much. I have been totally blown away by the super intelligent people in my Swedish language classes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/74fd3d1e-2861-4f19-a824-2b86033a8398/87B3D624-A866-4B3F-B039-13147B9F292A.jpg #kabers_sverige - Month in Review: January 2025 - Make it stand out Me and my instructor (“lärare”) from my previous SFI course, Patricia, on my last day in her class (SFI Kurs C Nybörjare Nivå - “New Beginner Level”). She came from Hungary when she was 19 years old (photo from October 10, 2024). http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2022-02-04/length-of-japan-tour-part-3 monthly 0.5 2022-02-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643786345376-0WP4F4FYRWYBZO996OEM/IMG_9993+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643786345067-9DY8SRJG878OBYN5V9WH/IMG_9992.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/8c5ed800-c72b-4e7c-af01-aaa5dc7991d1/image+%285%29.png #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out This blog post covers Hyogo to Sata Misaki - the southernmost point of the four major islands of Japan. The last ~700 miles (and 55,000 ft of elevation) of riding. April 11 - May 9, 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623429215-ABJZF99ZYIK0QID9JC47/photo3+3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 View of the Iya Valley River from the hotel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623417445-YK8DDK7TT04WSHRU9TYG/photo7.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Room #505 - Kumo No Ue Suite - “Cloud Top Suite” at Iya Onsen Hotel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623394488-BZVTY6OA183AS32SPHTA/photo11.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 I live for finding quiet places with a view to have my coffee or wine/whisky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623435155-E9EQHG4OMYO0R28UUQL8/photo2+4.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 View of the lounge area which is inside (to the left) and the outdoor shower and bathing area (to the right). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623354369-FOS978O533YJST004QPP/photo1+4.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Private outdoor bath - great if you have tattoos or just want some guaranteed privacy and quiet. (95% of onsen have rules banning you if you have tattoos. I believe this is because, historically only the yakuza (Japanese organized crime) had tattoos. Even though many non-Japanese people have tattoos - still very rare on Japanese - this rule banning tattoos is mostly still in place). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623401417-H2FXOWUDCVF87G8CJYEK/photo6.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 There is a footbath adjacent to the large soaking tub. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623370238-BP29FARNPKCQR4D7AZUH/EEC1DA6E-5BFB-43DA-AD01-03D48FDE7930.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 View from the bed over the river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623368921-ZQTDZQ2MC7BW32QP4ZXS/EF4BF365-5852-46CA-B657-74C21A7A757D.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Looking back the other way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623376957-I7PV5AIF18VRL6882SSC/920880D1-CDAC-4559-B0CC-F00CBD392244.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Vanity has windows which open and also look over the mountains. Ideal way to get ready in the morning or just to brush your teeth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636623389496-TY2GB85OLT9FP96WLHSM/832F0769-B657-448B-9875-D7801D6FC6C9.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 I could stay here all day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1641911576979-01VIIN1KWXTDU4F6Y3QK/8C98C6B9-20DD-47E6-B46D-DD24A2A9FEE0.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 This is a hot pot. The food was surprisingly just OK here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1641911592694-8D0PQPP2Z6VS2CWCXBME/155066FE-6B8F-4376-9FA1-6B2536690387.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 This is what a Japanese breakfast looks like. This is a bit of a fancier breakfast - so more dishes than usual. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1641911586904-OF8HWCIQ0H6JZDPSMSRY/33A71980-F421-4784-9900-C6416B9643B0.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 View from the cable car landing down by the river side open air baths looking back up to the hotel at the top of the gorge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1641911587228-IMU16G24VEAH3S6CIKHY/3240BAF5-3872-40E3-A195-F643CF8FA5B8.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Me in the cable car. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1641911593933-GLIKSB0DS18H8IHX0GD8/56335756-D3D4-4C0B-98C9-98B99E1B89FD.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Gorgeous views no matter the weather. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1641911598950-7AKRGCN8Z38PYBQPA3II/D3E12151-64E1-476F-AADD-17D822C9E07A.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 This statue is a tourist attraction a short walk from the hotel. Don’t know why it is so famous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1641912047507-LQ7JRMX72RPTIPUYHHPX/3E0E5995-B02F-4124-BBC4-E6D1733328C9.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 “Sora no yu” means “sky bath” in Japanese. The hotel also has a bath which overlooks the mountainside as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/5191452a-256b-4a39-a1e6-68ea538d8e62/8E91A8B7-7A46-4B8F-99D2-80C9A7F0D6AF.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Justin cooking our lunch. Japanese food can be lightning fast or a huge production. This was the latter. We’d been in Japan long enough to know better. We didn’t have the time to spare this day as we had a massive pass to climb and uncertain weather. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/63e872da-fdd9-40df-8c71-4ad2b2cc709c/531E3B08-19BB-43C0-B876-261039B8118E.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out The views from the top of the UFO Line in Shikoku, Japan are some of the best we’ve seen if not THE best. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636626156782-JCXAHSDFFKT073L764N8/087696C6-3562-46CC-8537-2835EA260A7F.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 We rode along the Yoshino River for the morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636626161774-23EGBWA7DWLPPGDI2FJH/567E0AAE-C26E-42F5-B99B-117A8504308C.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 The entrance to the UFO Line - here we go! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636626120514-MIT3NZ4LGS1H4UL5SA91/8E53FFC9-F742-4D41-A647-F83EE4B38387.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 We began hitting more snow… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636626164301-MAUMSKZ3FJ60IFW722XQ/C8FE9FA7-C91C-4170-AFD6-C2200896A4FD.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Breathtaking views. Also cold and lonely - there were no people here at this point. We still weren’t even sure if it were passable by bike… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636626149295-DRBPGHT1Q6DVUYCUWV7B/F2C5DDB6-0B41-4FBB-B2A1-A453167312B3.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 The verdict: passable by bike. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636626121724-MFLJT1MZHZI1EOOK0UT6/778E870E-7E78-4242-BD87-567F10889148+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 We were the only guests at this massive hotel - The National Lodge Ishizuchi. The hotel had started our kerosene heater and the room was toasty warm and cozy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636626155579-HM93W643UCR01MR8TCH0/IMG_4988.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Japanese hospitality (‘omotenashi’) is unlike anything you’ll ever experience. We received many little gifts. This gift was from the woman working at the hotel whom we’d spoken to at dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636626129632-8RM492NGWITSRGKVFMLF/131A8C3B-1887-41A4-9093-B8026ECBEC57.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 This is the hotel owner who drove up the UFO line to find us and yelled Justin’s name out the window and asked me about my food sensitivities mid-ride LOL! He is a character. His name is Shiraishi-san but he goes by Super Mario. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636634801090-GMLUGQRH7YEQOF8Z06M1/IMG_5013.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Coziness. Our kerosene heater at the foot of our futons in an electricity-less cabin in the Shikoku mountainside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636634795364-7ZKS75HL84RCGCXL8YF9/IMG_5003.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 The town of Niyodogawa in Shikoku where Zoé and Hiro live. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636634778839-3ML3YX2DWRGKG1ZQSH2O/F2E5E422-259C-49D0-B8DD-B86D6A099AAE.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Something I’d always wanted to do - a breakfast set at a local joint in the Japanese inaka (country side). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636634798712-NJA41X4BUHPSKMN9QE5W/IMG_5007.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 A breakfast set. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636634790426-D2X243WU9TIA0SPFXJGO/84381CEA-49B7-4016-B91C-A11273CC9199.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Zoé and Hiro - a quick photo as we get ready to continue on our way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636634782780-CJ25FYNP7BZV9LMZ8BSE/2E7EBBD2-2988-44A8-9599-F8AEDC36B9A1.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Zoé took us out to show us where they take their clients canyoning - hiking down into a very deep canyon with a river at the bottom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/a09cc940-9561-4a10-8ed8-d16803095925/Screen+Shot+2021-11-11+at+1.51.18+PM.png #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Post raft-packing vibes. :-D https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/bf543a7c-70c3-4eca-b6cc-7069d7e36779/ED01DC09-A239-49CF-92C7-ACFF4A4A65B7.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Justin and I outside the who-knows-how-old main building of Dogo Onsen. Sadly it was closed for renovations. We bathed at the Annex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636637212034-6WM2PFABIIVSTIZS9S5B/933BBABF-3751-4AE5-ABBD-28115B566B55.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 While staying in the hotel in Nagoya waiting for our flight leaving Japan in June I bought a Wilkinson brand highball. Not as good. I can’t believe I never tried these until right when we were leaving Japan?!?!? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636637213737-T4OKDF4UKBH1YKC7D6I9/IMG_9175.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 THIS is the one. For your next trip to Japan. Make sure it says “9%” and not “7%.” Dang it’s good. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636637215834-FGP988A52HGXZRKN66PL/D85CF29D-A193-41EC-97C6-539DE11A6B53.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 My massage chair settings. I just referenced this photo after figuring it out the first time… Maybe you can use this photo to help you on your settings when you visit Dormy Inn Matsuyama. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/97951e11-be59-4b4e-af11-9fabfa7f55a3/6F0E8FE3-DF2B-4F08-B6CA-BCF9C8D6A24E.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out I was smiling because I thought I’d be eating dinner soon… or at least part of a dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636730685409-AZZMXS85VXNV41VAWXF1/IMG_2436.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Tuesday, May 2, 2017 - 1 week shy of exactly 4 years TO THE DAY we started our very first bike tour in Shikoku, Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636730687035-AOT4S6BTRXD6Y210VF61/IMG_5088.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Sunday, April 25, 2021 - Purposely recreated the photos from our very first bike tour 4 years prior. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636730813951-BX3HSLZYV0JDKHDRD5HD/IMG_3491.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 May 2, 2017 - Heading into the beautiful Aso-Kuju National Park 4 years ago. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636730818987-VS7HIYK608I3X03KUHIJ/2B15A8FF-B861-418F-AFD3-34A0D9A4AAD9.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 April 25, 2021 - Heading into Aso Kuju National Park. This time we left MUCH earlier so we’d have ample time to enjoy the scenery and stops. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636731131841-XSIZ8C5IVFY63KSYC0FK/IMG_4937.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 May 2, 2017 - Asking a motorcyclist to snap ouur photo @ Maninoto Toge Pass before racing to get to Yamamizuki Ryokan before sunset! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636731140352-2YPN26E9NKXB0VACN1DN/photo1+5.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 April 25, 2021 - In the COVID era we are snapping our own photos. Years of bike touring under our belts = better planning and plenty of daylight left to enjoy all of the nostalgia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636731137094-B3QO0MA8XNSSSKXGY2K9/C82F7EAC-AD3F-4958-B602-AD33434E82CC+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Watashi desu! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1637598614632-Y7O2YH5NIR39SAG1F5FW/AE1A0FD0-5B1C-4277-96D2-813290BB744D.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 May 3, 2017 - the morning after our very first stay at a ryokan. One of the most special memories for us in Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1637598613934-I5SDJD7DNYWFKZ62IFWT/AF815793-C42E-4340-9294-B9EAA3BFF2B0.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 April 25, 2021 - countless ryokan stays under our belts and this is one of our favorite of anywhere we’ve been in Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1637598617750-IONMFT4II8XRZE8QSODA/C836C79A-C93B-4E41-AF4D-B157461BC72B.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 May 3, 2017 - we enjoy coffee outdoors on our balcony over looking the Tanoharu River. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1637598618961-DLXZ85ELDTM9DGX0C1LG/1CBB1A3C-EE73-4923-9CF8-BCF24331DA92.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 April 28, 2021 - Justin reviews his offer from Heart Aerospace. Four years prior we had no idea we’d be in Japan for almost five years! This time, we knew we were between life chapters and we didn’t know where in the world we’d be in a few short weeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643372604624-WASFAWKCQUQMMRQJPNLE/8AFE1FDF-D27E-49CB-85AB-4C5488B9EDB4.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 May 3, 2017 - Totally shocked to find grilled corn on the road side in rural Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643372609545-5ZES6MX7Q89TXY6OFCHW/12B54CC3-B78E-44CA-95C0-89B23D69B49B.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 April 28, 2021 - Now that we know Japan, we are not shocked at all the family which runs this little ‘grilled corn stand’ is still there! This time we were ushered into their ‘dining trailer’ as it was a bit cold out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/c6dd4c6e-da5a-4818-b112-78fd6b428715/D3D68CA8-FE7E-4A6B-8944-69CD538EC984.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Day 66 - April 30, 2021 - Instead of heading west to Kumamoto City as we did in 2017, we’d follow the Ogawa River from Takachiho Town to Hyuga on the eastern coast of Kyushu. It was a beautiful, sparkling and lazy river winding all the way out to the sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643711534126-8BU1BRIKRTDRBPOD6ARG/F6055637-3C83-4AE2-B925-6BA3B5C227B2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 I think this is where we thought we had passed the road closure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643711545888-BGH26KI5OULL972RWQT4/IMG_5455.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Around the bend, we’d realized we hadn’t passed the whole thing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643711518399-F96RL0STYELO1LC8ZFPL/9F67E0ED-C3E3-4BB5-B2EB-9F76C82AEE77.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 You can’t plan this stuff. Road work is going on here but we showed up on a national holiday. Otherwise we’d have been turned around. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643711506602-6BRHAZGVB8IZ4FZQPTV7/3E8FFD30-3D73-464C-8C87-140F8ED186E4.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 The tunnel had just been completed in March of 2021 but was not yet open to the public. 886.1 m long… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/2073a388-0227-4c85-872f-225398f1e65a/C980E454-A361-4E9B-8C2E-BAE7DD9E7132.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Day 69 - And just like that we were on our way having christened the new tunnel! I wonder if we were the first? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/6cfb26ef-97ab-4b75-ab1c-9684d0c0f7ba/B2EAF9E8-D823-4704-82C3-EB90C318CD93.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Cape Toi in Kushima, Miyazaki - the wild horses are so tame you can pretty much walk right up to them… The hub on my bike sounds like a loud hornet and the pony was unphased. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643718509578-GML07H25X0J7PWV6T836/264D18CF-32A5-4158-AB39-FE3E9249BD08.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Who knew a country like Japan would have wild horses? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643718509027-HBXL2BMSHVLLXT0HUS5N/71AA59F8-F1D0-4FD6-BA2D-DF1004561D0B.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Gorgeous ocean views for most of the rest of the trip. Southeastern Kyushu has a small town surfer vibe and it is really nice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/5e691f44-e76d-4821-b51f-7acd6215ff9a/DBC5F860-6E34-4735-9D1D-6C21A94B4BAD.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Day 70 - the site of the crime. I was about to put quotations around the word crime and then I realized it was actually a crime… A low point in our time in Japan, for sure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643719539509-RX5593XDXK04FOYMSIRG/29EA69EE-DFF8-4DA8-B486-F815DC4678FC.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 LOVE the decor at the Kotobuki Hotel. Yet another completely unexpected find. Small town Japan is full of surprises. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643719558884-4P3YYWZU3XAWYQQCJGML/photo3+4.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 More windows in this room than an entire business hotel in a big city combined! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643719558780-6SUA0931SMJ62T7S5ICT/photo1+7.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Giant bathroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643719539603-7E1X64XJDKUSZU77G1R8/photo2+5.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Hot water kettle and tea - just like any hotel in Japan. Mini fridge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643719533388-UWOKVJD8P20YNZG0H18G/C99828DD-8600-4F29-8D69-95EE194FC908.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 The tea mugs and wooden tray have such a funky/cool design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643719526978-RV0MKZKK4BZ3G9FRN6AT/9A20A95E-1B48-4812-9EB8-5F8E9C2F279F.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Day 70 - we crossed the 2000 mile mark and celebrated at the bar adjacent to the Kotobuki with a little Yamazaki whisky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/238a5788-080e-460e-b47a-e22aff7ee271/050BD84B-BFE0-4094-B05B-2069F9A75F85.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Kotobuki Hotel in Kanoya, Miyazaki Japan served one of our three favorite breakfasts of the whole trip. The other two were in Shosanbetsu Onsen Hotel in Hokkaido and Uguisi Restaurant (breakfast included while staying at the Daiwa Roynet Business Hotel in Aomori City). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643722339678-UBT1W6FJ12NTOPK1Q12Y/801B5060-7696-455E-9D62-4DA6704A18E3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 A stop off at the 31 N Parallel Monument (a short distance north of Sata Misaki). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643722079915-V2WXYFHEHL8TFBSOE77O/899FD477-F80D-4C5D-B84C-8A22C36B2327.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 No bikes allowed. Could not believe it was over just like that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643722076140-NA3SLQKY9RGDQ7695ZZX/E48236F9-EF9D-43B1-BE17-587679F922BE.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 A selfie with the North Pacific behind us. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643722050894-LFG1FLHAPV3BV6480W9J/4F4800BE-9DB0-4342-86D1-E2296A98EE7A.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 A view of my bike looking south at Sata Misaki with the light house in the distance. A beautiful view, near and far. We had our bikes hand made in Tokyo by Vlad Balahovskis of Equilibrium Cycle Works. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643722059276-V60V9DV5F0AKV4ZKGFZQ/75F83858-CB51-4978-B0C1-5A91CE8F71F6.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 A monument depicting the surrounding bodies of water and distances to the nearest points of interest, including Yakushima (where we ended our 2017 Kyushu bike trip). Kinda reminds me of the moon door from Game of Thrones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643722069403-1K38YCR85G9L16YA9I2O/B063CF02-A8BE-482F-A4EF-AFB61DFDA22B.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 If you know us, you know we celebrated everything we could with either Japanese whisky, mochi (really the name is ‘daifuku’ in Japanese) or both. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643722059314-TPJKT70AC8VZNFF60GA3/9970EDCA-4DFA-4AAC-A154-E2E4A80FD447.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Victory mochi (daifuku) with Sata Misaki in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643722025585-QHVFH70CIYBTPAGI3MQ0/BE40C064-6478-440B-BF5C-948A1329F5F7+2.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Even looking at the map - it’s hard to believe we really did ride our bikes the entire way from Cape Soya to Sata Misaki. The tires of our bikes rolled over every inch of ground from the north to the south. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/30f4ba4e-32e0-4302-ad7c-3e6e9de3923e/EE3AEACA-4290-47B1-9541-AC8D7D5EE8AB+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Day 72 - Thursday, May 6, 2021 at about 3:30 pm, arriving at Sata Misaki, Kagoshima, Japan we completed our Length of Japan Tour. It officially began on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at 2 pm at the northernmost point - Soya Misaki in Hokkaido. November 21 - April 2, 2021 we’d have an ‘intermission’ for the healing of my broken pubic bone due to a crash in Fukui. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643723413828-ZJBFC1WFO2UHK1KR8MEZ/5F05B991-9B1D-4799-AC99-6FB8B93CBB9F.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Kotobuki Hotel, Rooftop Suite #601 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643723399324-SNVQWECK9AQMOZXLJUWA/photo4+3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Shower and bath ~ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643723404243-G11IS5Y8X8KU8QR6JRMB/photo3+5.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Separate vanity and toilet room… something I miss so much about Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643723423820-5MKII0ZYBAQ0NRFH6RES/114CB646-AA29-4A54-9584-9F5D4839D79A.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 I bet this is nice when it isn’t rainy… coffee in the morning or wine in the twilight on a warm summer evening. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643723407834-GX2FBR0N37M1GODHZVNK/photo1+8.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Awesome mirror and vanity in the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643723397483-R0Z1N1NB2CM8D7WQDLR5/photo2+6.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 View towards looking towards the bathroom/door. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643723437235-TMQ9BK8GRH1GH5WI91IC/B4487679-2A5A-4CA0-BBBF-C7195AC5A8E2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Sometimes the tea cups were used for other beverages. More celebrations before heading back home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643723424012-TO0AJQZAV2W31L8EYX06/E36CAA5E-E5C3-4922-BB12-43E1A223B5C7.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 The celebration continues. This size Chita whisky (Japanese spelling is without the ‘e’) was available at most convenience marts for around 1100 JPY ($10). It came in so handy on bike trips!! A 700 ml bottle of Chita is $65 (598 SEK). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/3ea608b9-0292-468a-9270-025dea91394c/photo2+7.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Haluka-san from the Kotobuki Hotel and her husband drove 30 min to surprise us and say goodbye at the ferry. We were so happy to see them and completely surprised! The best people! I hope one day they visit us in the US or Europe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643724493679-2KAC6DEJACSZRGKS64E5/E678B160-6148-4BB9-8477-789B67A1B624.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Like a baw$$ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1643724494061-BB06MCQJN0AABHATHCKA/EC81D8C2-EF89-4767-A5B4-7DE9D73041B0.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 Good weather for the last little ride through the industrial/port area in Osaka to the rental car place… About 2 hours on the expressway and back in Nagoya. Japan’s transit system is unrivaled. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/d7e00569-2b44-46ad-b71d-ec696ac1734f/IMG_0565.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Day 75 - En route from Osaka to Nagoya via Hiace rental! Look at the size of this thing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/3cbd665a-05fc-446e-8230-c9e8ba30e592/photo1+9.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 3 of 3 - Make it stand out Mementos to enjoy back in Nagoya from Haluka-san in Kanoya. Kotobuki Cheese is made next door to the hotel and they serve it at the Kotobuki Hotel for breakfast. Best yogurt we’ve ever had in our lives! Delicious asaBAKE Coffee from Miyazaki, Japan. <3 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2021/11/12/length-of-japan-tour-part-2 monthly 0.5 2022-02-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/506dc449-9298-40c1-8e10-cb8d81b29879/Screen+Shot+2021-11-12+at+7.28.09+AM.png #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 - Make it stand out This Part 2 blog post covers from Nagoya City to Hyogo Prefecture… Part 3 will cover the remainder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863119101-A5WJ44JG7GVI0UE8CGD9/736768E1-3450-4CF4-A866-EBF8B2D7D77E.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863121373-YQQ9GV8QRZMLHI52MSS1/20642112-4653-40DB-B4AD-94BF298780EB.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863242117-3XZA0OM77LG51ASTNVJA/322fb866-937b-4473-962f-7c1ad6b1f1c9.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863372150-QRP7XOQ36BWPKE0ZLK7S/393DF697-6C23-4028-8AB0-59A60EA35672.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863372411-1HS2FQ8EAMO0VZ789YMM/C9AAD189-8334-457B-9592-ABAFFD697BB5.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863546976-O7PO7ZKWCBG5WSFRBDJT/1E9A437D-F1FF-48FB-B695-D159C5D713DB.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863546698-2IRQ86DYQOK15E01G0MW/83FF9B4D-F9BB-43C5-98AC-AB8BEED2A50F.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863553372-2OUAZ9E0ED9W7WYZ25O3/64539BFA-B16D-4E06-80D8-50F15CA8F563.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863558064-NNTAFOAFM65KI2BFTY6J/BA4B398A-67B2-4BC1-B2A3-EDDDCE899441.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863553565-UF7K3A1G0BL72UABEEGQ/24A06A3F-D363-4531-AC57-ACAC7B643770.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863858529-E126Q33VGT8CBLBNQVSQ/918D963E-30CF-4600-808D-308CF301AFF5.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 A new woman after this shower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863859591-N0TX3AT1TJE5G1I3B1QJ/photo4.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Hatamori-san - the awesomest physical therapy guy! He was a human cartoon! So animated and funny. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863969727-XHFLHMH4NA1HN2EAV9P2/photo1.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Kanazawa-san - the nurse who received me in the ER and who took care of me all weekend until Monday evening. She came by before leaving to say goodbye. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863941136-YP1PA9ICER400W42LXA9/50D815F5-3851-4F27-A738-F5C177198C40.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Kamitani-sensei, the specialist to review my MRI and x-rays and Nakano-san who replaced Kanazawa-san on Tuesday morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635863940507-PKAF2UANRBI2QNLLAY1Q/B6941AD8-41E2-4A31-BCC6-91AA34728C70.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Through the MRI I learned I had not one, but two fractures in the pubic bone (the circle part of the hip bones). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635864338211-C1K09Q6492Q9ZFF706XK/F78F5D59-D59D-4CC6-9391-B2282267B245.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 The Kawabatas with Kuro-chan - the most delightful of humans <3. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635864334501-CXLVCSQZ18GXI9KHSBL3/photo2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 This is IT. The site of the crash and where I forlornly contemplated the end of our epic journey out of nowhere... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636617229392-7DQGVRFA10R89SWC0LF1/F5A3BC18-F499-4665-90DC-AC5430D485B3+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636617228635-QKBT4G1EUHVQJE3117FC/IMG_9144.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636617226718-YY4XEQ8QGH2JEDM6K87M/IMG_9143.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636617224504-PKOQNWF1ZLN4J71U1LAV/07AB89C5-CF7B-46A4-9BA7-A03C40A6F195.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636617223625-T2ZS24KUEWSPWV7REEMO/103AEAD9-AB7E-4C64-9D37-41D352C13A18.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636617216667-HNK4Y7X8607GZX0VAY0J/1F99EF2A-B928-490E-A332-85B8ACD6EF05.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635922862773-FBRFX75NVNQW62JERPFE/4D404129-7C3D-4AE3-8F46-D5BC07E65C75+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1635922862755-TK0EHLZ187PJ3EDJJCX2/4F852C4E-0C11-4E9E-92D5-621738EA8104.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636015221895-RCQ811PN0RJEJDSFY5BP/B052A988-C613-4F62-B312-72BA2BEC6A5F.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636015219525-8KTEK71CFFFCJRD38DT1/F9C0D80A-D598-4566-875E-B389181CCB54.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636015225830-WLZFTIGQKA50IGUDOGAP/D09A76CE-6D8B-4C95-846C-1BC613E214B1.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636015423950-3UJJ35V8RA8GM6UP0MRK/4B647225-BBA8-4D61-8821-B11FAC6016D1.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636015428957-RFYG7SVBQJMPOXP6T8TE/9ECD382D-2DC8-41A8-87C1-C377E5D025E2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636015445997-LJIZYO0NQJ9M808YET3G/6861F7A2-A121-47FC-B241-376BF89227C2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636110748088-0KTYEGPWIXNPPIIWOBGE/FF92D734-4C6C-48E5-B01E-8617A416918C.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636110752695-Y117SCYO2WB2BFVX3YU2/FullSizeRender+3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636110768137-01EJKTONBC608GKH0IYD/photo1+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636110774651-CEG5P4986TSLXQ4EN8U1/photo2+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/38e349f8-ba7a-4cd8-866c-35e5a019416b/F33DCED4-B49C-400F-A83A-52755AF4A0EA.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636112729861-AX730V5SKDFD3IW8T64S/2646B56B-06DF-4249-82D7-B23D20B8AA7D.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636112721836-5LZE9EI331XT024X6KUK/3CDE9FBC-4F68-4FD1-B753-12386B24BD8F.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636112722440-NYBXS9XVJ72F4QIAII07/1946BD6F-A644-4DEA-A157-7FEC9BD95D00.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636112668309-S89OTEWKMQPJ8ZYZN2PZ/photo1+3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636112663284-3GL3M76W9PV0SP82B6MI/photo2+3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636112661791-JZRZX0ZLWLUOCB4DAJAK/photo3+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636112732425-TP5U8TMY7IHEZCJU5L45/A0413009-7161-4361-A226-9E39F3DDBCDC.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636112734911-Q44J3EQ1JW0IFE5JFABF/95E2A9BB-A669-4EB6-9402-B8557C9A652E.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636445301402-DTGGL03AG4M2LV0XL8A3/B930F699-C5F0-4CB8-ADA9-A3001D89976D.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636445292306-X5M4JF44I8BC2WVNQE20/D9A7548B-76DE-4E63-8319-8744D6CF971F.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444732500-3DC1V7IBSOB0UYMYPGTP/9C41CD55-3626-4DC6-ADC5-453B8ED4569E.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444765364-TAV3HY9DIKM64QEYPTAL/A9973ED9-7658-4BA2-93B1-78768523612B+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444816463-4OVI915R48VVB96JFBYH/IMG_4138.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444819560-ZQG4W179QGL7G2D29X8N/IMG_4139.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444754569-9OQFUB5K94HQ6JH8HQY0/9889D981-73C5-4955-AEAB-B4D8D335EF06.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444734905-W1TM0T562ENH070C57U8/9F31F669-EBB8-40E2-916D-B51A6DED8100+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444758889-YTA7VIR4VY1PPKF8664W/061226E5-5BDA-4035-8DA7-C2CFA72374AE.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444713907-9HYBWLL0M1LBRNW9W68Y/0F8528D6-178A-46B8-90D8-2B6223BF2CC3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444714416-U5WQ35D1M6K0FKKZOK6O/3A09656F-57EC-403A-935B-2CAD6FAA311C.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444744310-1U9ARJLH36UTPXU722IY/93D075C1-5368-46C8-9447-0DCC31A0C831.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636445293364-6HVCOYQXK0X5AC9NVY51/87DDD19A-C2C2-4E52-A75B-68B32DFB5A1C.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444758684-TOJC1CPWWE7ZDXBNPJLO/1729465A-AB81-4DB9-9309-0BDFA8D78462.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444789483-WWXWQ1BZUTQ76EEOGGDK/F6E30CC0-2755-406F-A5BA-6424F763C2D0+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444812183-D1592A5Z6DZDDP8M8OWX/FullSizeRender+5.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444824204-PO0CGQFN9V1TFQECP72T/IMG_4174.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636444727101-QMY2DNONQY7Y1AXC3VHL/9A795B4F-4077-4347-B550-9F4C967C5F6D.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441656480-PTTTGSH7FURF62AJ631R/IMG_4236.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 "Shogetsu" - THE #1 Wagashi spot in Kyoto as rated by Japanese people on Tabelog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441655132-1MUH2F7OJRKKO8QWXJTC/IMG_4241.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Shogetsu's reception room - any orders are taken 24 hours in advance minimum via telephone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441691448-1F58EFV5PLP4TZXLFIED/IMG_4253.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Shogetsu is a few miles north of downtown Kyoto. We trekked up there on our bikes just to pickup our order! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441691941-WG7SKB6KUK8HR59LSFMH/IMG_4272.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 The Shogetsu bag in our Sowaka suite, ready to be enjoyed! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441698230-505SZ7AVH4YQJ41UYXVH/IMG_4274.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 The daifuku come in a box with two wooden sticks for eating the mochi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441620372-T7QY3JW91IZ878F1AX5R/FullSizeRender+4.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 The most beautiful dessert I have ever eaten in my life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441624751-WOKMMDUU8MJ7A9W1PIRS/IMG_4185.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Hon Warabi Mochi from Gion Tokuya in Kyoto. This is the foie gras of mochi - it has a texture between that of butter and jelly and it melts in your mouth. It must be served with shaved ice so it doesn’t liquify before you can eat it. It has an incredibly light sweetness and you dip it in kuromitsu (literally black honey, similar to molasses) and top with kinako (roasted soybean powder). Mind blowing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441628091-J0UBXDXXKB7RX4ZJRWEA/IMG_4189.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Just don't inhale with kinako powder in your mouth - it will go into your lungs and make you choke in a quiet restaurant! Embarrassing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441633477-ZFM3GGIZF9HIW1GUEJNG/IMG_4223.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 A famous daifuku shop in Kyoto called Daimachi Futaba. If Shogetsu is like wedding cake, daimachi futaba is the favorite family bakery where you get your birthday cakes every year or your favorite weekend pastries. Every day of the week they have a line. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441636685-RDUGB06QUHQGQGKCGK3R/IMG_4229.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 The offerings are listed on hand painted signs and reflect the seasons and holidays of Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441662621-NDS67GY6YBOWLP405RGL/IMG_4245.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Our paper-wrapped box from Daimachi Futaba https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441665951-N1LS7M48V461PIA6KU5V/IMG_4247.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 "Mame Daifuku" (mah-may dī-foo-k). “Nadai mame daifuku” (“famous beans rice cake”) has azuki beans (darker) and the “Fuku Mame Daifuku (“good fortune beans rice cake”) has soybeans (lighter) in the rice cake. The nadai is filled with azukian (red bean paste) and the fuku one is filled with sweet potato filling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441670778-M02N8QKGN665T62BIBLZ/IMG_4249.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Kashiwa mochi - literally "oak leaf mochi". It is filled with a sweet white miso paste and it was the recommendation of the staff. Probably our favorite flavor of all the wagashi we bought in Kyoto. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441678213-EONMYWQ3QX2Z1M5PAI0T/IMG_4250.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Chimaki - a glutinous sweet rice dumpling wrapped in bamboo which originated in China. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441680853-OHYZK05MGC1SN1BEVM2Q/IMG_4251.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Chimaki out of the wrapper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441645503-RXYW4BBGYEBAPQDBDNKU/IMG_4233.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 "Taiyaki" a very standard and common treat. It is cooked in a form and the outside is a slightly thicker than cake texture - like that of cornbread only with a more graham cracker taste. This one is filled with azukian (red bean paste). Served warm/fresh! Maybe only 100 yen/$1 USD. Very cheap and tasty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636441645040-PCJAUMQOTZJMMJ4A1QQ4/IMG_4234.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636443570136-BM5PHND814SITGDHU0SV/57D866F2-FF07-4A34-A5D0-48B215262B50.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 Daifuku Tenugui. We love daifuku so much that our Japanese friend Mayumi got us this amazing farewell gift - it is a cloth with the design of daifuku and daifuku cross sections showing the red bean paste. I love that to the untrained eye it is just abstract. Only someone who is familiar with daifuku and Japan will really know what it is. We immediately hung it in our Swedish apartment! The perfect kind of artwork for me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636447425626-KGP5GKQQZL01DB9PVCR4/854DFEF4-B62D-445D-828D-879538FFB002.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1636447425453-68GEAQICP68CK2FV8C42/ED01CF16-43E0-44F1-B9E0-AE5DE0B24BB0.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 2 of 3 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2021/10/19/length-of-japan-tour-part-1 monthly 0.5 2021-11-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634624084729-AXI6L7AD3FHIORBMCNBZ/IMG_8761+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634624081106-4JU78HSYPZ88D9YAPUH3/IMG_8741+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634624064185-RM5OJC2PBFIGX66NYFRL/IMG_8760.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634624070433-AQY9BR1WF7BGHY0QOH7U/IMG_8762+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634624072583-IM0E8YHIKP1X322IV8NA/IMG_8731+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634624066151-TLGJBNSVVC30GD9CMJSP/IMG_8743+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634624067440-2EE8S8HLOULWFDS9I89J/IMG_8728+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634583020590-MTGPET2YS37WVE457WZD/Screen+Shot+2021-10-18+at+6.48.21+PM.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 - Make it stand out This Part 1 blog post covers from Rebun, Hokkaido roughly to Toyama / Ishikawa prefectures… Parts 2 and 3 will cover the remainder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634539551373-HJ0GO4MRB9Q4TS3ES8P0/E1FCFEB7-AFB7-42E6-B204-CFB8F4200177.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634538737241-06TXQ6PTI4HG5SJE7QNA/IMG_0654.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634538736292-DF5AUQSPSXQMTJJ1FELH/IMG_0651.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634539918500-R2CWLELBISLMHNTGT3QW/IMG_0360+3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634540037197-EKGHZEECF0HDZQLSUNR3/IMG_0684+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634540616721-P34O6V4BLHGMFJSGX2JD/784ADBB8-63D5-4082-800A-40FB7F114CDB.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634540699138-83RG4MPZQZOK568YR3GO/58A7C3AA-4044-4F8B-8550-060C1675ADFE-0E83DBC7-BC88-4C15-B768-1A40B27935B8.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634540723368-A6HCWB7Z266UTK2FR8ZN/IMG_0689.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546993854-DRCU96I8I05HNYNLIFZM/IMG_0155.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546993564-2GZV8YH4ZQG80QDAGH9Q/IMG_0034.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634540741579-YQWXYO2IG0OZ27NVILAH/IMG_0678.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634540826570-UNPRY6TM1LVQCVJT7AZJ/IMG_2031.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634540827475-ZS8DUHJ3HHUKNKP251S6/IMG_2032.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541183370-YPD8QLSFY83867BJNBIB/IMG_0888.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541054233-Z39JIMUXXUO1Z0YRI495/IMG_2123.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541055733-GVV69BB4I74Z2OR06JR3/IMG_2124.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541060250-DJK741RLRDVSZF30QG6B/IMG_2125.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541291967-ZNGMESR6ANXWUW628D49/IMG_2127.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541391835-MXY3PDW9KNCUV46EN7AB/IMG_2132.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541291358-8SI3X2PDWS8RF0WIC0K7/IMG_2131.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634542207273-KYXXJKJGF40GOOCGM41O/IMG_2133.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634542116974-XVW4Y7AYRY91CMA4T49E/IMG_2135.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634560286911-AS2V95DL2FI8WVBSF0LC/D570E616-4E33-4D55-9D84-3F5AFA1E7492-65C743E6-F33A-4011-8FDF-9DF5A5057127.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541966018-HGYCLXAMIARDFATFEJKI/828d6086-8767-4046-8c9e-a575fd285762.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634541963942-KO3Z92QLMVSWSKDF4BT0/9A20E348-62CF-48D6-B114-762978C73784.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634560344519-0V8WY5RLHC4OOKAAAJTW/8983FEF9-4232-43D6-9D4B-2151A65DE2A6-03B5D63C-2551-452A-AD5C-0E86064F7B85.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634542731448-E1QKJ9NTS8YM90JWNE5R/C773DCD3-A24C-4955-AA93-24789BF4E05D-5B5EC12C-92A0-413A-8D8D-86B9CDBAF04A+2.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634579925051-30EVRUO6F60ZFUA3X136/E955F825-8668-4A42-87DE-C831D875C7DF.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634579932433-EGFSV0DVW3OJ3E6WEW33/2EEAAFA2-93E4-40B3-A968-D2595E73DE7F.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634579942882-3BUSNJY8QKYJ8K03TXUT/D720FF96-1CD9-42AE-AC17-8642241667AC.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634543099618-VIVGOROVO1VS7RK1IYYA/IMG_2366.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634543116801-UOY835QCKOP6Z9QE9POX/IMG_2367.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634543115197-RQK6LHPTHJ57EJDOE04T/IMG_2371.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634543119258-O5315EP2HAOAXFSFE8GV/IMG_1110.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634543099104-PUXKNNV6I64SFF71UMYE/IMG_2372.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634578686938-6DOWUAZGLSUES1HY08PA/D744BC9A-AB37-49A9-B6C6-43D4E33FEAFA.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634578693107-GICB1NXN6PHOM6TEMD0O/2AB62156-E236-4A8A-8337-8A8088C09B8D.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634578692718-SCGELRK8LYJSHJ7CDLA1/IMG_0535+2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634577046483-V4ZF07NKGMSIXJXTTDS7/E240FDC7-47CF-4C23-8EAB-EA897F1287D4.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634561471900-QAQKPFQPLPW0721YLQGA/IMG_2249.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634544278404-407R6PLP7YID5FDI9LP5/8E8DC7AB-2F21-4203-9907-D2DF95D90BEE.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634544278202-DMM43OFR2EVPZVQCFDRP/E0C234ED-1429-4187-890B-50798FFCA8F3.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634544715280-V1LM4HEBYDGTZATFJI42/112BC5FA-3485-43F1-85B8-76A3B1EA7A71.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634544708734-9QRKX4OR8KIYHM4M6MDX/IMG_2836.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634544716510-K4RN2SL5R87NO6B2F3WG/IMG_2834.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634544719875-OY1WGYV14JSOT4G0Q18E/7E0108C1-B40E-4AB1-9DC1-2C45C5191B36.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546421385-7DV62MSHZAKQK8AUTYPW/44950054-F274-493C-B872-9D50B95B1F5B.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546151861-95WL5UK8C3O9GUSQMH8K/A19F1428-8158-4E51-9892-97969B702DDC.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546153934-75E96AH2ZY9NEG0ZWCCQ/7B00E7A3-D4B8-4425-8B2D-A5F804FA5A66.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546161008-B9PE6685EBOFY4JDYFAL/5902625E-C23A-4ABD-A0CE-A29A6F1F0C9F.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546170729-JHOF1QHHQK5KBXYTECDU/FF78E297-7F1C-459E-801B-092EFB033FAA.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546174026-Y4QAV9OFOVOMIT97XZB0/76879A5D-078E-4432-B49E-30AC87D18E9B.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634546342875-CGR1MDGV93LRANWN0L2Z/86379E46-E1C4-4939-9DDA-34FA45182A3B-B9B1EFB9-765C-4409-83BA-AAF6E4B1FD8D+3.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634561216331-7O7AA81A68HUI5ZJDTP4/A3CFE21D-A8A5-472F-8A90-E8041E26FC4B-9061FDDE-EBED-45A0-A7CD-DD14EE473D5B%2B2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634561245263-IU9ZGUOMXCQU8VGQ8X8L/D80284F7-AAF6-43B6-8F09-9200E501B74B-6E9A932D-21F1-4624-8C46-9D367D84DF91%2B2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634578026836-INMWBG5ZTZPZHDLQCLRG/3BDC55CC-6724-4DE6-BBEA-03B6C74499D2.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634578031564-BKONG8VSCRNHQWSN0LOF/1549CF11-0895-4A10-ABE0-170B91F6CA57.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634578141470-1T0MR15DWQDD2H6JKFKV/2903d0c0-515e-4217-9506-3326c831f55f.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634578028414-FXK1DYX59ZW00MVSTHJC/654F8512-D501-46A4-9698-36CB0D3B1DF8.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634563961704-VPD4FEX85GVMDD4Q1BQE/D827F4C3-BC18-408D-BFE5-A94AC8CE9843.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634563925683-2EU8WXIFGH27WX9NIVW5/49F134F1-A25A-4FCC-B51E-114264720D85.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634564044411-4WMU9RMRJ9IT3XOYMLFD/E375EF11-EE75-4ED0-ABD6-7AA391CCAAB1.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634564035256-BFUOR2XYC5W6QQGJD455/86C147F9-B787-434E-8249-1715B45665B0.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634561905673-GNBV05P32M9EZXZA9RSG/FA045538-3FAF-4A61-BFB5-5E7511E5694F.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634561906084-JMNI17LWJ97CC47EVDZG/E1CB01F2-333D-4598-B35C-4FE21C385824.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634561906590-IPX0TRDY70L76316661X/1BBF2355-4B90-465E-8707-9B464A1A1887.JPG #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634562010992-ATP2SZTG2NHUF6G59HNQ/IMG_0949.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634562006728-WBSC3L3EXZHR1EHB1C7L/IMG_0945.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634562360874-DHWF5S0ECCTD77D1BNMS/30A9B850-B415-4CE0-818B-83D7DA7C1245.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634562360450-KROWSGL5LTF6Y489JSV0/3CD38EED-2CFF-41B3-8740-C7C5B432D25A.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634562006073-HXO932O6GSACRXCE75UG/IMG_0951.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1634563189835-P1KSZHJPCW6UOJBR3CRC/C432CA8E-27A7-40BB-91AA-2D5A9B8F1B9C.jpg #kabers_sverige - Length of Japan Cycling Tour - Part 1 of 3 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2020/9/11/our-japanese-house monthly 0.5 2020-11-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600582524802-FBJAI9KJJ1HO0QL6PYBG/IMG_9723.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1606345904155-AOZKJHJ2XLBC8OR01GUB/IMG_7204+%281%29.png #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Tap the little white circle in the bottom right corner to view captions on your phone. Tap again to toggle captions off. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600572317700-JHMQPNBNKFLZI7T7HBNF/IMG_7742.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House All non-furniture items moved by hand in a “Serena” van we rented. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316224652-YQQVTOR2DY55FBHD63LZ/IMG_7730.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The moving truck (barely) fits! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316361948-QCJ3W03276QD0KWD7SOI/IMG_7727.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Every entrance, no matter how heavy a thing they are carrying, the shoes come off! It’s a dream! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316236335-IB8CKH4MIHFLOTYWHYWW/IMG_7729.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600572315479-RB51D195WBI9ROED2SSU/IMG_7739.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The crane lowered things to the movers on each balcony who angled each item in around the electrical wires. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316240355-V8J64UBLLK0F8BKO1S07/IMG_7733.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House A view of the house from the parking lot in front of the house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316246641-GB2QWI83FYZF832B56TS/IMG_7755.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House A quick selfie after completing the walk-through of our Yagoto apartment. Bittersweet to leave that place behind! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316226892-1LWBBX7ZV66IUGSQAMAH/IMG_7721.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Arriving to stay the night for the first time in our new house, just inside the front door. A long day of moving! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600572297811-1IGIIIRJWZ16SHP5XH2T/IMG_7753.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Mayumi, our friend and relocation agent, with us in our old apartment just before we walked out the door for the last time. She coordinated everything with us when we first moved to Japan and also helped us get into the house. She was amazing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1606347438082-RMZOZ5GQJ1WP4G3LXN5W/Screen+Shot+2020-11-26+at+8.34.45+AM.png #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1606347464907-259B8G3NLOXKS434UJL4/Screen+Shot+2020-11-26+at+8.33.31+AM.png #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House A 3% chance that both the day we’d receive the keys (Dec 3) and the day we’d move in (Dec 7) would both be Tai-an days in the Japanese calendar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316897322-XK2NB94H9G3HHFEE57ZH/IMG_9400.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House A view of our house from the hill behind - that is my office window at the top! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316930785-PWU1KDSNL49CDQC8SU20/IMG_9723.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House A more recent view of our house at the end of the street with our X1 tucked into the parking spot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317251915-A45VEFHXRLCRKOCDQOBJ/IMG_0408.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The view out our front door. The angle of the stairs to the front door is a little treacherous… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316939122-5PALT7QST0LRGEK9T3ZN/IMG_0413.JPEG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Mailbox and video intercom! There are no house numbers posted on any house in Japan. How they find individual houses without being familiar with the neighborhood remains one of the mysteries of living here… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317251585-ZDFIFAZTUWCRSYQPWCX7/IMG_0410.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Our treacherous steps… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316949945-75IUR2HGUUEK2VTCQX2E/IMG_9720.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The day we brought our much more road trip friendly auction car home! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316964600-NLZHJ24A88ID7IMJHY42/IMG_9716.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House We are the only car on our ‘street’ that can pull straight out (barely) without a multi-point turn because of that post… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316981761-1XGWSP2XMDG5M4T32D7T/IMG_9721.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Parking like this is 1000% normal in Japan. We have to fold the mirrors up before we can back the rest of the way in (if we don’t want the driver door to open into the wall). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316999063-QHW7YMKO3AZC1QRXI80F/IMG_9009.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The stairway to the shrine out back of our house. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600316899063-O69XSULNU4KM0Z85XRPQ/IMG_9008.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The torii gate less than 2 feet from our house. We tell the Domino’s pizza guys where our house is by referencing this gate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317781353-TPGCFXKPQ7DA1VBMTPLT/IMG_0390.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Our front door, complete with “genkan” (the step which delineates the shoe area from the non-shoe area in a Japanese home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317782837-WAOSCJI485A0ZETPWGEJ/IMG_0389.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Front door area shoe cabinets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317775911-A4YWUN8YZZ7N4VPRQEX5/IMG_0392.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Our vanity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317776136-M49PSTBW0BZH8MWLD0TA/IMG_0393.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Our washer/dryer combo around the corner from the vanity (this area forms an “L” shape around the parking space). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317769935-UCE468BEIR3ZZ1HIOMA8/IMG_0406.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Shower/tub combo room with adjustable shower height. We don’t have the seat and bucket that Japanese people use to shower. (They shower sitting down!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317763971-24FOY67M1HJMWMCIXA4X/IMG_0400.JPEG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House I love, love, love our deep soaking tub! Electronically fills to a specified level and temperature and then shuts off automatically. Also reheats at the touch of a button. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317763475-XZ48ZRPYJWZOLIR5Y4ZO/IMG_0401.JPEG #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317786589-VD6715CU2Q7FK1PU3DFI/IMG_0383.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House What happens when you go from 3 full size closets to 2 half-size closets. We have managed to get rid of most of this since this photo was taken. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317788658-7W9RFPH30C5ITCI9UR60/IMG_0382.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317790782-H69RX7IFP3V2PVPDXXL1/IMG_0380.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The snuggest toilet closet! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600317769594-MX8R596XZC7PGKL414L4/IMG_0416.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House It took me a couple months to walk up and down these stairs without stubbing my toes several times/week. Gradually I am even able to walk up/down without gripping the rails. They are more akin to the steepness of a ladder than stairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318294683-OMJDHFF25JWVX5SQ2B9O/IMG_0339.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Our furniture fit perfectly into the tiny living room and dining room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318294998-SHGNFNRC54FZS91P9JHV/IMG_0335.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318319839-LGCL9FZHJ6I6Z5924M05/IMG_0295.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318319835-FNI1U43E5D7IERFPY0MF/IMG_0293.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The living room with the north balcony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318334155-H618I6R6ABS1UD8CO4UR/IMG_0282.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House A BBQ was not allowed in our old apartment! Our dinners took a MAJOR upgrade when we smuggled this back as a carry-on! It is an incredible little BBQ! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318328403-UGX4LOD25LE9MWYUM69I/IMG_0285.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Once again, our fridge and pantry fit perfectly into the smaller kitchen! And the tiny drawer near the stove is a dishwasher! Not big enough to hold a full size plate upright, but a major relief not having to wash every single utensil! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318311499-2KP8LF2FG1AUOR0LQJRU/IMG_0298.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Second floor toilet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318311823-S9P4ENOJPFHMZ4EL1S6I/IMG_0296.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Complete with washlet (“butt sprayer”) and heated toilet seat. I just learned you aren’t supposed to use soap on these back-of-the-toilet sinks - it clogs the inside up (it isn’t the standard tank like the US). Somehow they seem to not value soap as much here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318328733-Y7Q94JV5WC3MF869HVD7/IMG_0377.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Looking down from the second floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318333829-HTUNEA8HFIX23ASQGWOF/IMG_0274.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House My attempt to convey the nature of the stairs… nothing quite does it justice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318703458-SITEEF6CVLPFXN36BYAM/IMG_0272.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Third floor landing - as seen from the master. Stairs are to the right, workout room to the left, and office straight across. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318707037-VU3OPPRXTST8GPBKEH57/IMG_0303.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House My tiny, slanted-roof, third-floor-with-a-view office! I LOVE it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318693115-4379PE9DXEFO0NEL29AM/IMG_0266.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House The smallest workout room! It works for 98% of stuff - I just need to do standing shoulder presses away from the light. I can even jump rope in here with inches to spare, front, back, and above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318697106-39QTROONEVXCQ3QLGWR7/IMG_0267.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318714226-FLM47BNFBG97X8WOBFBD/IMG_0355.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Flat-footed ceiling touching. This was one of the major factors that I didn’t like upon the first viewing, however it is really no problem and I don’t feel clausterphobic at all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318698527-7IRC555ZPSCME8FEFA1W/IMG_0268.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Cozy room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318701513-TUBU2HX9F9KQO1SE7XJF/IMG_0271.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House More cozy room with a full balcony off the north side. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1600318705873-XWHF8QIB8CYY2ZNIIV9T/IMG_0273.jpg #kabers_sverige - Our Little, Unwitting Japanese Dream House Stairs looking down from the third floor. http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2018/8/13/tour-de-hokkaido-PzUYJ-6FTI4 monthly 0.5 2018-10-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1539067272256-WZ5IBQYJQ38GC2GHG1O6/IMG_7204.PNG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535099198135-LJAHBW2M5OZIL8HS7P4S/IMG_3672.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido - #5 - The Food Salt & Sun Cafe in Abashiri - Justin and I discussed whether or not to end our ride early while eating the BEST chocolate cake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535155155473-YITN3QLQWFBPSWBSCMRK/IMG_3449.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido King crab legs at Kihachi Restaurant in Abashiri. So good we went straight back there on our second round through Abashiri. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535155155476-P69ND7Z4LTFC27PB5Q3X/IMG_3454.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido ‘Ice Drift’ beer (the blue beer on the left) at the place near our Dormy Inn accommodation. Makes for better photos than for drinking… Tourist attraction. Although we did go here in pursuit of bilk - beer with milk - out of our Lonely Planet. No longer in production… hmmm wonder why. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096807051-BOFH7XASME480IWZBL55/IMG_6265.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido A cozy kissaten on the Sea of Okhotsk headed towards Shiretoko run by two sweet older Japanese ladies. I felt like I was at my Grandma’s house - the decor was like a time capsule from 1970. Click photo for Google Maps link. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535097456540-58Q3ZUEIQVVP6FV8EKG2/IMG_6259.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Who knew the VERY first riding day would be capped by a great Italian restaurant with incredible red wine in a teeny town in north Hokkaido? “Polaris” in Shari Town. (Click image for link in Google maps.) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096811039-2DW59172OKHVV681GN9G/IMG_6274.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Homey joint serving yakitori (grilled meat on a stick) and seafood rice bowls in Utoro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096811647-15TQP14904LC8LYOZVDH/IMG_6296.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido I used our laundry washing bag as a beer chiller - filling it with ice and water - so we could ride to the campsite, set up the tent, and clean up and have our beer last. Justin doesn’t mind warm beer, but I DO. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096816817-5P8TV45W3SLWFU036PA7/IMG_6326.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Lawson is a convenience mart chain in Japan. I developed a love affair with their karaage kun (chicken nuggets) within days of arriving in Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096816671-JB63KY9WHOUR3S0YYTSH/IMG_6377.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Delicious ramen! Everywhere in Japan has different types of broth and ingredients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096821348-SRJTADBQIAK86VB1T2ZE/IMG_6403.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Nakamuraya Ryokan is an eclectic and homey traditional Japanese Inn. We thought it was a bit pricey for the appearance when we checked in. At dinner we came to understand that it was a very good value - the food was unreal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096822274-DG79M9P6OK77RI4FUD8S/IMG_6445.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido 7 Eleven in Japan has the BEST chocolate chip cookies! We got them DAILY on the ride… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096788359-A2XIVOHPPHJ01R673KKU/IMG_3798.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The owner of Furano Delice who is also a cyclist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096941582-T7UAQTPKYGK9O2EDZU5R/IMG_3794-2.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido A quick stop at a bakery listed in a Hokkaido cycling guide - “Furano Delice.” The cheese cake was OFF the charts. It’s hard to tell, but the ice in the iced coffee was made of coffee (and heart shaped). Only in Japan are the details mastered to this level. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096788355-HDFHFG4JQI1QBJF60VIW/IMG_3872.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido My favorite energy bar of all time - Honey Stinger Peanut Butta Pro. We bought these in the US, packed them inside our sleeping bags in the trailer so they wouldn’t melt and managed to carry them all the way through the ride saving them for a special place which turned out to be Blue Pond on the last day of riding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096824255-0RY7UGWDMWXY27R7L757/IMG_6467.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Our victory dinner at a tiny izakaya in Asahikawa (our final destination) - cold draft beer and yakitori (grilled chicken on sticks) after riding was just what the doctor ordered. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096805984-EGXYFTOMF672B9HI7HUP/IMG_3978.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Lavender ice cream, a lavender cream puff, and lavender custard at “Farm Tomita” a famous lavender farm in Nakafurano. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535096794650-0UXT18C38QMM9I547ZHK/IMG_3957.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Eating breakfast in the comfort of our air-conditioned rental car in Asahikawa after completing the ride. 7 Eleven has the BEST chocolate dipped old fashions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535177792480-ARSKOID868XGJ4L9FC9G/IMG_3740.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido - #4 - Nakamuraya In a land that never ceases to surprise me, Nakamuraya Ryokan in Nukabira Town was a magic find... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157018386-13NP7VHOLP6QTXD7KYGV/IMG_6383.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The only ryokan I have ever stayed at that had so many delightful, unexpected features that it really did need a book to explain them all. The book itself was a delight! Hand drawn images with unique narrative - zoom in and read for yourself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157018676-WJQVBJN8B388MH28OUMD/IMG_6384.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido For example, I would've never known our room key chain was a bird caller! So cool! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157038402-1QVH10ZWNAI3FSYCW14W/IMG_6382.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido An introvert’s dream! I laughed out loud upon seeing this. They literally have a room where you can have alone/quiet time. Japan as a whole appreciates solitude and stillness far more than the west (where I am only just starting to not feel like a leper for being an introvert). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157042641-RX968MLIG4HP2NG7VXBU/IMG_6379.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The “Squirrel’s Nest” is a little room where you can get ANYTHING you might have forgotten. It is also like an adult and children’s toy box. Aromatherapy sets for borrowing, snow shoes, laundry racks to hang dry your clothing, drawing kits, spare yukata and towels. All free. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157043081-LV93ID92TEJBPUVNEE1K/IMG_6389.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido About the fresh milk delivered each morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157047668-62542QFHTNKX0CIS4IET/IMG_6390.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The ice drifts on the north coast of Hokkaido may APPEAR to be the coldest place in Hokkaido, however this area (more central) actually takes that title. I didn’t know! BRR!!!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157028503-5STYIMBNFAE5NQVJHI83/IMG_6391.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The hotel staff is introduced in the guide book - drawn as cartoon faces! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157023052-MKUEZS1TLSE1CBD652FW/IMG_3735.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The ryokan infuses their own fruit wine and each dinner you get a chance to try a new one… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157023203-JQMKQPTR0VAIXRD5K2BK/IMG_6388.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The essence of the ryokan is captured here. A mixture of funky and eclectic (the wear gave the place character) with fresh milk delivered to our door each morning from Shinmura Dairy farm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157027924-QD5QXD4A3QYUBMO7MKHQ/IMG_6395.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The lobby is a funky lounge with jazz music and tea kept warm over little coal pits, a collection of vintage furniture and bowls of snacks and fresh Hokkaido potato potato chips. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157031842-4AGL6BOIB2MRX3MPN3PD/IMG_6386.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Our room door with the little blue canvas bag holding the freshly delivered milk in the morning… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157038268-SZ6687E1R188AHM88EWW/IMG_3736.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Beautiful and artistic warm touches are throughout the ryokan. I am rocking my yukata on the way into dinner… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157050771-8HICW9YSIXYO85ZMRDDB/IMG_3738.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Thus far, the ryokan had been a funky, eclectic place that seemed slightly overpriced. Then we had dinner. Food like this isn’t created by a ‘good chef.’ Is it created with heart and soul and passion and life long dedication and sits with the top meals in my life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157051801-GOWN5H58OG5UW0K796F8/IMG_6403.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Dinner #2. We hadn’t planned on staying a second night. My one complaint on our trip plan was that our route hadn’t allowed us a rest day. Serendipitously the road we intended to ride had been closed 2 years back and our reroute allowed us another night at the best place we would stay the entire trip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157055654-SWJKGDT6JDND2I91M5OL/IMG_6397.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Buffet breakfast. I am not a buffet person. This was a buffet unlike any other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535157056234-YOVSBWCJDBXOBMR62T2H/IMG_6404.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido We were the only westerners at the ryokan - given the location and the overall obscurity of the place I understand Takeda-san’s curiosity in what we were doing here. Takeda-san spent 7 years at Colorado State University. He is a HIGHLY educated veterinarian (DVM, MS, Ph.D) specializing in IVF reproduction of dairy cattle - a booming industry in Hokkaido. I shared with him it was nearly my career as well. Small world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535178875916-SPAYUS6YLSB8EWSHUBK5/IMG_6208.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido - #3 - Sugimoto-san AKA "Cleats Angel" Abashiri CSS Cycle Shop Owner and his shop. Sugimoto-san is one of the kindest humans around... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535179062453-OTDUM35TRA42AC15UXIU/IMG_6207.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Sugimoto-san received shipment of our bikes and assembled them for us to pick up on July 12 in Abashiri. We had no plans to revisit the shop passing back through Abashiri on July 18… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535179283761-PTYMU99VOO70T5BOA3TK/IMG_6209.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido A sunny, cool, summer evening in downtown Abashiri. Our bikes hang out front of CSS Cycle Shop while I chat a little with Sugimoto-san before we head back to the hotel to assemble our trailer and pack up to head out the next morning… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535179063071-RKC5CQ45K57V1W5M3D7R/IMG_6341.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Hey! Here we are, back at CSS Cycle Shop on July 18 after not one but BOTH of Justin’s cleats break due to wear, meeting Sugimoto-san to pick them up. WHAT A KIND GUY. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535179068238-9ZTWEP3W1YOX4V0TOGB4/IMG_6344.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Cleats shouldn’t look like this… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535179622480-19NUVEFT8FZQFHXR2APE/IMG_6342.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Striking a pose with the new and old cleats… Riding on the old cleats would have been dangerous and really annoying. Sugimoto-san saved our trip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535179699220-78TUJFNKDXN7UKSHSKQI/IMG_6348.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Our campsite at Lake Abashiri and Justin installing his cleats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535180297027-58ZTFEPL0AUVX4TNCM30/IMG_3673.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido - #2 - Salt & Sun Cafe Serendipitous incident recommitting us to our finish out our original journey as we had planned it. Here I am pictured with the amazing ladies running this awesome little spot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535180647204-H8NVHDHNQWXCVDZSFJS9/IMG_3672.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido We literally came to this cafe to have lunch and a serious conversation about how we would proceed from Abashiri - shipping our bikes home early vs. continuing on at risk with some fairly serious pains and a daunting pass to conquer the second to the last day of the ride… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535180689031-O6TKMZGGDIQCPXEHIFUT/IMG_3671.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The chocolate cake of serious decisions… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535180486743-2FWIJNGLUMXAQHAPI7DH/IMG_3675.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Tanabata Festival is celebrated in Japan by writing wishes on colored paper and hanging them in sasatake (small bamboo trees). The rustling of the bamboo leaves in the wind is said to call the attention of the ancestors. You can guess what Justin and I wished for on this day… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611294531-PH2SHOEJM9FWTJ0K6PXW/IMG_6374.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido - #1 - The Challenge... (Mental and physical) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611412912-UVTMEJEXN4VEQWPALHOL/IMG_3838.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Asahi Super Dry tastes best after ascending Tokachi Pass in 90 degree weather with no wind and almost no shade… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611420494-UJ6EYVAIG5YGBO2YMLPP/IMG_6374.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Heading up Sekihoku Pass… I have read about how your physical form can alter your emotional state. This guns’ show helped power us up the rest of the hill… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611413079-Y282JZ1J01W7ZQP7J83J/IMG_3691.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido A SUPER quick photo at Sekihoku Pass - bumble bees love sweaty people… the little ones didn’t bother me, but there were some BIG BEES here… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611420286-UWH8UGHXJBITJSK9WBGY/IMG_3628.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Biceps or bunny ears… two poses that we can alter back and forth on this vacation… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611427607-UTCRG2P2IG1X61P2TRZU/IMG_6449.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Or a third - ‘miserable face’ hahaha. Although in most miserable situations I was in such a hurry no photos were taken… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611433661-I8HLRA6PJWZRLWPI6TMV/IMG_6355.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido In Kyushu we went to GREAT lengths to cross ‘road closed’ barriers to save ourselves rerouting time… Although this trail closure was a HUGE disappointment (it the only dedicated cycling road along waterfront on our route) AND exceptionally easy to get around we did not. The sign translated says grizzly sightings were the reason it was closed. Give me heavy truck traffic on the adjacent national highway any day!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611440095-M4AQCDGM88TF9CO173J6/IMG_3722.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido The breathtaking view from atop Mikuni Pass - our final huge pass where the weather turned out to be great. There were a lot of people out catching butterflies along the side of the road that day. I can still hear a man near the top who, likely seeing my very tired, very focused facial expression and the amount of gear we had, turned to me and said very sincerely “Mou chotto…” (“only a little longer.”). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611445983-545MMHXFK5MHQWTMAQQX/IMG_3469.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido In case you are the last person on the planet to consider feeding the cute grizzlies… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611448513-QSS95JV4GBMSAJ5QTMET/IMG_3498.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Great views heading up Shiretoko towards the nature center, bear mace in my chest holster, bear bells being jingled hanging from our brake cables… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611452081-IWKY390KY208PKBZDKQ2/IMG_6281.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Oh hey! This is fun!! (Shiretoko Pass in the pouring rain)… One hour later I was crying… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611453927-78T011ZP6OGHPIL48YHC/IMG_6284.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Nothing says rushed photo like not noticing a ziploc is taking up 1/3 of the shot… Freezing and not wanting to stand in the driving wind and rain for long at the top of Shiretoko Pass… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611458313-NH66GOZH3NTH5Z0YZW1S/IMG_6353.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido Having just decided this day at Salt and Sun in Abashiri to continue on in the face of potentially insurmountable odds, Justin is assessing his knee pain situation before hopping back on the bike… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1535611461223-Y25UFQLULLWDYGGMYBDG/IMG_3595.JPG #kabers_sverige - Tour de Hokkaido View from Lake Mashu 3rd Observatory - hey nice weather! Great view! Rewards of our efforts… http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2018/9/25/tour-de-hokkaido-route-details-for-cyclists monthly 0.5 2018-10-06 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2018/1/5/one-year-japanniversary monthly 0.5 2018-02-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1516504324980-06N93GDSWB79NC3399RP/IMG_4265.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II Not an uncommon sight - just out front of our apartment. Beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517096567047-TFJDHQRNQZCZME77HE6U/IMG_4633.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II Kanpai! We busted out the Yamazaki 12 year for the occasion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518220042125-S1PZU98VBO64DXC76D7O/IMG_3136.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II Justin and I in front of the neighborhood castle. The original was destroyed in an air raid by the Americans in May 1945. 1959 it was rebuilt. Strange to be standing in a building destroyed by the very country I came from in a time of peace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518220616795-LOES4QKHH3LZPQL9WGLJ/Nagoya_municipal_subway_mascot_hatchii.gif #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II "Hatchii" is the Nagoya city mascot - a "shachihoko". See below for explanation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518220403203-LBQA07MCNHD89XAJ5T67/IMG_5017.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II A "shachihoko" (half tiger, half fish) statue which adorns the top of the Nagoya Castle - it is to protect the wooden structure from fire by spitting water out of its mouth. Only after we visited the castle did we understand our cities mascot (see above). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517006713539-25OJ0QC1TX9VT6J4HM6W/IMG_2836.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II I love buying chicken in bulk! ... Seriously. My life is not an Anthony Bourdain show everyday. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517006878738-7YW0DQCZI3XDL83A7OHT/IMG_4372.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II Dear Peacock Hot Water Dispenser, I love you. Til death do us part. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517007202484-ANRUTQBYYZJ1EN7HXJNL/IMG_5213.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II Japan Domino's is better than American Domino's. You can take the American's out of America but we refuse to part with our Sunday pizza. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517007444111-NS82BJIDRKCC1DID17QB/IMG_2810.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II KAWAI!! (Cute!) @ the local grocery store. Cute things are every where in Japan. This grocery also has a small tasting counter. Some of the older locals will be sitting here sipping wine looking like everyday royalty. They will turn around with their Asian red-cheeks-a-flaming and try out their best boisterous "HELLO, HOW ARE YOU?!" when they see us on our way in to do grocery shopping. The windows of local "serious" businesses are lined with stuffed animals. It is just how they do here. Stuffed animals and cartoon characters don't stop when you reach a certain age. I don't have to hide my stuffed animals when friends come over here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518221010607-XAA9FNL1HSO5EHIS9BX3/IMG_5210.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II Outlet malls ain't my thang. They are the same everywhere apparently. However, we can get our wine here easily and so we go. Free shipping to our house so we don't have to lug it to the parking lot. Rainy day discount of 5%. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518219871761-X7O4MNWV26IAJBBVTBDP/IMG_5279.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II Nothing says "bank here" like a bunch of stuffed animals!! (Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi - UFJ) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517007817782-NVDRVJYK8YMDH6EU3EXB/IMG_4635.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II 'Ikea' is pronounced "ee-KAY-ah" here. My Japanese teacher didn't understand what I said when I pronounced it "eye-KEE-uh". The small space furniture has an exceptional market here in Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517007993391-8ZKF4GOE7UAEEAQE0BP4/IMG_4649.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II Look how happy he is with his "hotto doggu"! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098034858-OX78KV7HO97ESUZLUHXE/IMG_20180110_143951428_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Justin and I - Mt. Isola (Rusutsu) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098022442-8OWZIJP7GRTD2HAX6CYB/IMG_20180110_125037955_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Rusutsu Trees https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098013720-Q28MK4GNGSG7QS06L3HP/IMG_20180110_132007077_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Mt. Isola (Rusutsu) View Towards Lake Toya https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098642679-RCTHUDMWQXHPHNM2K3XE/IMG_20180110_132237803.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Greg, Jenny, me (Mary), Justin - Lake Toya in the distance & Uchiura Bay/Pacific in the far distance https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098036228-LTIRJFYYDFEFK4DJHFG3/IMG_20180110_132352405_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Mount Yotei hidden in the clouds as viewed from Mt. Isola (Rusutsu Resort) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098045832-PCZ8X133XGZNA2I7JBS2/IMG_20180111_105558863_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Mt. Yotei from Niseko Annapuri https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518219266145-V6EECD82VD7CD5MYUO1W/IMG_20180110_132344458_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - How 6'3" Greg counterbalances being stuffed into tiny Japanese bar counters and bus seats ;-) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517102451689-0FZ0HVE9SCGP2J44Q3N5/IMG_5050.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Rakuichi Soba 20 Bowls are served for lunch daily... Our bus dropped us off at the Ryokan and we ran to the shop. Last 4 bowls for the day!! Soba at Rakuichi and Sushi Donburi/Ramen bookended the trip with some of the best food of my life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517102441594-IJWTTNDXOLTQTA79JOTR/IMG_5053.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Rakuichi Soba They flipped the sign to "closed" right behind us. One of the best meals of my life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098902083-N11N8KH6CZIYO0PXX698/IMG_3158.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098902546-768HWNZO5URTEUWV23PE/IMG_3160.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Cold noodles with Warm "duck" soup and tempura I always go with the staff's "osusume" (recommendation). It never disappoints. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098921106-LKZJ4VQVUCOVUFA74W9U/IMG_3161.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517101917788-45CYSDH94KYDPN8I23SU/IMG_20180113_104931979_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Otaru Glass Souvenir Shops We all picked up some hand made Otaru glass high ball glasses here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517102150275-76BYPW6S3QNFOB9D832I/IMG_20180113_114453674_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Japanese Snow Man! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517101920590-D7UYTI4PL5S6WKTANROF/IMG_20180113_121040836_HDR.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Sushikou in Otaru - Returning for the MOST incredible sushi don buri Another #RiceNoodleFish Feature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098941545-FRTPQ2VFSQ609N60YUXQ/IMG_5126.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - "Okechirashi" Justin's massive(ly) delicious lunch https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098947504-SS6DZL3HML65EZP64NUO/IMG_5127.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Group at Sushikou https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517102100062-BM47TBQHJ8GZWEGKT36U/IMG_5128.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - "Hokkaidon" Bowl @ Sushikou https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098927822-MTVFJ7QVHGYGUGMIDVNW/IMG_5100.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Greg (6'3") and Jenny @ Yoichi Distillery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517098981388-M6S9LYO5R7YO7F3QJYYC/IMG_5142.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1517102208084-YU3AYASFBUI98U3R577J/IMG_5141.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518221846283-VDH77MW5WAK03ZLZPGSN/IMG_5086.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Our Room #212 @ Ikoina Yuyoda Iroha (Niseko Annapuri) Not bad Hibiki-sippin views in heeyah. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218545384-694S738I74HAPLRBCKRI/IMG_20180107_190319182.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Ramen Row in Sapporo My travels wisdom keeps me from eating in the touristy places knowing the best food is elsewhere. We walked down the sidewalk on the way to eat soup curry elsewhere. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218551995-X8DZDKS2YK4DY2LQ1PAT/IMG_20180108_193732757.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Justin and Jenny Rockin the Yukatta at Ikoino (Niseko Annapuri) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218558786-IPYEBGIN0T9THIA77SBC/IMG_20180109_181908095.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Bar Gyu There is nothing for size reference but the door is about 4 feet tall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218566603-HSRCDSSKD7F229QGXVD5/IMG_20180108_203750321_BURST000_COVER_TOP.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Yukatta and the most geriatric slippers on the planet https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218594004-H4KNSZHNTXA8T3GA9J3H/IMG_20180108_193724961.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Yukattas at Dinner @ Ikoino https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218592961-33U683OQSVCNA55QYX06/IMG_20180108_193800650.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Dinner @ Ikoino again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218575486-OCGTMZ9OC0L1N46F6T5F/IMG_20180110_190723102_LL.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Bar Gyu - Night 2 I love finding bar tenders with a passion for excellent drinks. Having had a few of Robert's drinks at Oliver's Twist in Seattle, it is so fascinating watching how Japanese bar tenders take to making drinks with their own dedication to artistry, perfection, etc. Bar Gyu is the most popular establishment in Niseko - I don't care. I had to check it out. And then check it out again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218586970-OXUTSX7BZQVD79UK1G4L/IMG_20180109_171459892_LL.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Bar Gyu - Night 1 We crowded at the tiniest bar space ever and loved every second of it. Front row seats on our first night to watch the Japanese bar tenders do their thing. "Local Old Fashioneds" (Japanese whiskey) were incredible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218603323-08K5YEF4RWZB2N309GK4/IMG_20180109_174209856_LL.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - View from Bar @ Bar Gyu Cocktails and this view - snow falling in the trees at night. Could not tire of this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518218597908-0YIL5KV9XD7RKYHHUWK9/IMG_20180109_162403097.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Apres Ski Niseko Tap Room IPAs In places like this we aren't really in Japan. It feels good to mix it up. IPAs were good. Atmosphere was meh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518221630412-7Z81W9HABLJLT3A6IR6O/IMG_20180109_172010676_LL.jpg #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Local Old Fashioneds @ tiny bar space in Bar Gyu We stuffed our lanky gaijin legs under the miniature bar counter and lapped up the old fashioneds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518221570884-VOL7VU15CTZT1OF4UUF0/IMG_5059.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Bobby Burns a la Nihon Maybe second place in the world to Robert's Bobby Burns (Robert is our Seattle cocktail creator to which all of the others are unfortunately compared ;-) ). Not a fair competition but I can't help what I love. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518222179459-JLEFOAM1M70PZ8ZR7VQI/IMG_5110.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - I gasped outloud when I saw an image of my favorite cocktail's namesake hanging on the wall in Yoichi (Robert Burns) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518222012187-DU1IK4O4PP6ZKXBI3UHP/IMG_5102.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II - Masataka, founder of Nikka Whiskey, and his Scottish Wife, Rita https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1518222738544-YPEXG2R3UJJX81KBZED2/IMG_5108.JPG #kabers_sverige - One Year Japanniversary - Daily Life, Doctor Visits, Ikea Opening, Hokkaido Part II I'll leave you with this. The West corners the market on badassery for the most part. However, as tiny as they are, whenever I see them, samurai suits and gear in museums gives me the "heebeejeebees." It is just scary. So, just like everything else, Japan yet again manages to "bookend" the rest of the world. Japan is more conservative AND more wacky, more innocent AND more terrifying than anything we can do in the West. $100 says you'll never find a cooler bottle of whisky. http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2017/5/15/a-vending-machine-and-a-volcano-tour-de-kyushu monthly 0.5 2017-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826302850-TTIH76VR3AEMO4KMVC6B/IMG_2408.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Yagoto Station - Bikes are Bagged Bikes can be transported via subway and Shinkansen as long as they are in bags. I remember being perplexed by the necessity of a bag when I first heard about it... No structural protection to your bike, but ensuring the trains/ferries you travel on remain clean. I think you have to have experienced the cleanliness of Japanese public transit to really appreciate this one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826311412-MXR0Q25N8CT8UXYBIS2D/IMG_2409.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Road Bikes Properly Bagged Awaiting the Tsurumai Subway line My bike has been affectionately referred to as the "tank." I remove the front wheel, strap it to the crank/pedal, top tube, and rear wheel stay in the back, loosen and angel the handle bars downwards, loop a strap around the handle bars and seat post which comes out of the bag and goes over your shoulder... I was able to use my down puffy in its stuff sack as padding on my shoulder to avoid bruising due to the bike's weight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826363680-DS1NNLVZL05TMUNI4RQW/IMG_3408.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - On the Shinkansen (Bullet train) Pro tip: the rear seats in each Shinkansen car or regular train car have space behind them for luggage/larger bags. Reserving the rear seats enables you to keep an eye on your bikes and their "upright" status throughout the ride and also ensure the only one not able to fully recline the seat is yourself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826322407-FG745335XOO5APHU290O/IMG_2414.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Ramen Theater @ Mengekijo Genei in Fukuoka - A "Rice Noodle Fish" Feature Hideki Irie is the owner of this "ramen theater" in Fukuoka (and the man behind the camera in our photo here). He has perfected his ramen with the passion of a shokunin or a master chemist by creating his own top secret $200/liter soy sauce and refusing to sell it to a famous French chef (Joel Robuchon). (Rice Noodle Fish, Deep Travels Through Japan's Food Culture by Roads & Kingdoms, p. 166). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826320762-IX8GBBWZM6Q863U6HWDB/IMG_2423.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Fukuoka is BEAUTIFUL Only after arriving in Fukuoka were we faced with our misconceptions we had formed about the whole of Japan based on our experiences in Nagoya. Fukuoka is a wide-open, beautiful city with a very homey feel. The view from our AirBnb in Fukuoka was the most spacious and expansive we've enjoyed since... Port Townsend in Washington State? Fukuoka is rated in the top ten most livable cities in the WORLD according to Monocle's Quality of Life Survey in 2016. We understood after visiting. According to Rice, Noodle, Fish: Deep Travels Through Japan's Food Culture, "Just 3% of American tourists ever make it to Kyushu, something that will feel like a gross oversight to anyone who has spent time in the region." I would agree - the big hitters in history/popular tourist destinations are the other big cities. Fukuoka has food, ease, and beauty. So if you are looking to experience a whole other side of Japan little known to outsiders, Kyushu's your spot. If you like to go where others don't go and THAT is the experience you seek, look no further. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826372242-TBEXC68UW7OY9AAEOYPL/IMG_3435.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Scenic train from Fukuoka to Yufuin Freshly pickled in shochu and stuffed with food from a yatai (street stall) from the night before - we rattled and chugged along the interior of the island towards Yufuin, a quaint touristy spot in the northern central area of Kyushu and the beginning of our ride. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826329586-8PZLSK5IUUJKMGSI7TPB/IMG_2436.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Allons-y! Yufuin Station, Beginning of Our Ride Our bikes are unbagged, loaded with our panniers and we are freshly suited up... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826345030-BMUKOCKKOO4LQD157GL7/IMG_2437.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Our Bikes & Gear They were shockingly heavy with all of our food, clothes, toiletries.... We remarked through the whole ride that the heavy load didn't feel as bad when we were actually riding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497423423672-X19SWYPZIPCIJFKZP80Z/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+3.55.49+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Day 1 - Yufuin to Kurokawa 33.5 miles, +5144 ft / -4108 ft - Image is linked to RidewithGPS route if you'd like to do the ride yourself! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826390331-AL7SYC5D587CMR5X7I92/IMG_3475.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - THE BEGINNING! It was all uphill from here (literally) on the first day... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826338565-FH256TV0K7F4CPDMTMNP/IMG_2443.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Cyborg/Dorkborg Mirror in Place ... I had a lot of resistance getting pushed to wear spandex and what I thought looked like a diaper (the bike shorts/chamois) at when I first got into road cycling 10+ years ago... After many years of riding in traffic and the narrow nature of Japanese roads I had zero resistance of getting a mirror to wear on my glasses. It enables us to see behind us without constantly having to physically do an owl-head look to see any approaching cars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826348321-DPX4147BX9IV8YKNHNUN/IMG_2447.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Civilization to Rice Field in 0 to 5 minutes or so This is what we were looking for... it came at the very beginning of the ride. We were in JAPAN. There are no rice fields in Seattle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826401262-0PN24C50QNI1Q9VJP8RE/IMG_2565.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Dreamscapes just rolling by... Wide open skies, roads, sunshine and lakes... medicine for the soul. The ultimate meditation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826400061-7VDS1C3N2R6Z6U4D9VQ9/IMG_3491.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Asokuju National Park - Mountains and quiet open country roads I half expected to see some buffalo here - it reminded me of Colorado or somewhere besides Japan. Empty wide open roads, sun, mountains. Ideal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826416306-58RVD6AFBSR736IBBVDD/IMG_3494.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Makinoto Pass - 1330 m We only saw 2 or 3 other cyclists on the road the entire day. It was also a lot of climbing to start at about 5000 ft over 30 miles or so. We had a Japanese motorcycle rider take this picture at the pass. His parting words for us were "気をつけて" (ki o tsukete) and I couldn't tell if he was worried about us, thought we were nuts or both hahaha. He wouldn't be the last to look at us like that or say that to us in that particular tone. Next object is to arrive at the ryokan that awaited us before dinner and before dark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494826409859-KTR7OBR4QMVJ1ZZS6ZFO/IMG_3498.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - The view from the other side of Makinoto Pass The expanse is never quite captured in the photos. It was breathtaking. It was also obvious that the spare brake pads we had packed provided peace of mind and were a good idea. Jackets were on as the only thing to be tired during the remainder of today's ride was our braking muscles in our hands - no peddling essentially the rest of the ride into Kurokawa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827335407-Q1BDVJQBPXHNYXKLJK3E/IMG_3506.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Yamamizuki Ryokan - Our First Ryokan Stay Japanese futon mattresses with plush and delightful duvets and sobakawa pillows. The dining table and chairs where you are served tea and a sweet treat when you arrived are moved and your beds are spread out while you eat dinner. My image above is linked to the English website for the ryokan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827355067-5KYTPQTFTP7WXUSBCX1P/IMG_3508.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Yukatas, Coffee, and the River The best way to wake up in the morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827345629-ZO86SIEHWXKU66X2WAQV/IMG_3524.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Journaling About the Day Before on Our Balcony During our training rides for the Ride from Seattle to Vancouver and Party ride hosted by Cascade in Seattle we began the habit of journaling about the highlights and challenges of the day so as to remember each ride we went on. I wrote about how the first 36 hours of this vacation had been one of the best days of my life. And... how had I gone so long without discovering ryokan?!?!?! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827375553-THLOZIHP0JI25IPM3ABW/IMG_3509.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Justin Enjoying His Coffee ... he declined each time I asked him to write his parts in the journal due to his bad handwriting. So, he just sat and looked pretty next to me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827375539-XMTK4WERKUFNVSLRX184/IMG_3526.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Yukatas on! Each ryokan had different fabrics and belts for the yukata. The ones at Yamamizuki were the most beautiful patters and the belts had a deep blue and a bright, vibrant blue part. They provided a fresh yukata for the next day but I liked the pattern from the first night so much I just left that one on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827364681-JFMMFMH6ZUDU7J7W841P/IMG_3530.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Spandex on! Some photos out front before we hit the pavement and our next day of climbing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497423861616-CWOUSNV3DKGVFFVZ0S8B/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+4.03.11+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Day 2 - Kurokawa to Takamori 30.2 mi, +3072 ft / -3808 ft - image above is linked to RidewithGPS route. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497425393919-T8TETIEBRGX5GSC2OI06/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+4.29.26+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kyushu Day 3 - South Aso and Takamori 8.4 miles, +390 ft / -388 ft, onsen, soba, sake, ice cream, izakaya - OH MY! Image above is linked to RidewithGPS route which includes the locations of each of the above points of interest on the map! Enjoy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828407054-UZLRG9XHXORME8B0NR7Y/IMG_3666.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Beautiful Country Town - Takamori Yeah - I know this is a sunny picture of the same area we rode in around Takamori town the next day when we rode out. I promise it was rainy and cloudy out! We didn't just want to eat tempura and drink sake ;-) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828374584-HEYVNKLVV3X5ZGPLU126/IMG_2463.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Myojin Soba Restaurant - My Hot Soba with Tempura Dish Second up on the list from Keishi-san of highlights of Takamori Town was the soba shop... We rode up and saw lots of cars and were informed sorry, they are full. Then a second Japanese customer came out and informed us in a strangely near perfect American English accent they could take us and to wait. It was busy because it had been recently featured on tv. It appeared they were turning away Japanese clients and I suspect we looked like we were from "not around these parts" and were also on bikes. It was delicious and it was the first time we were able to practice eating soba the proper way. Without chewing the noodles. You read that correctly! You swallow the noodles without chewing them as it changes the experience of the flavor of the broth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828222564-6BOG9Z62H9HA5OTKO4HJ/IMG_2462.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - More Myojin Soba - Justin's Cold Soba Dish https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828241977-9BXY6B1OW6LV9VA1RR2R/IMG_2473.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Soy Sauce Ice Cream @ Marukichi Yap - you read that correctly. It tasted mostly like butter pecan. Marukichi ships the soy sauce to an ice cream maker and sell the ice cream at the shop. This little shop makes and sells soy sauce and miso that it is known for for over 100 years. The prices are the same prices you'd find at the grocery store despite it being a local tourist / boutique attraction in Kyushu (one bottle is less than 500 yen). This is just one of the pleasant aspects of Japan. There are expensive things but there is rarely gouging for the sake of gouging like the west (at local Japanese establishments). We were surprised to find the lady in the shop, Yumi Matsumura ("Matsumura-san") has lived and worked in London, Tokyo and has settled in Takamori. Her English was fabulous and the only way were able to understand and appreciate the offerings of the store. Click on the picture above as I have linked it to the Google Maps location for the restaurant. Or, search for "合名会社豊前屋本店" on Google Maps to find the shop (not a direct translation of the name above in Romanji). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497405696771-125OIVC9I6F8O54C4HIP/IMG_2477.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - One of Best Dining Experiences in Japan so far! Sandwiched between a grocery store and a Pachinko parlor lies this unassuming restaurant you wouldn't even notice if you walked past it to go to your car. "お食事処 千木良（ちぎら)" which translates to "Meal Disposal Chikara (Chira)" is where our AirBnb host Keishi-san works. The first night we were turned away as it was booked solid. The second night, Keishi-san took a list of what we'd like to eat and made us reservations. We walked into the shoebox-size place and were immediately served sake from the distillery we visited earlier in the day (Yamamura Sake Brewery) and several courses of INCREDIBLE food. Keishi-san wore Crocs - the best food in Japan is served in Crocs (see our post on Hokkaido). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828233365-HBKTW7252K3GG5IZWJND/IMG_2478.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - First dish at Keishi-san's restaurant - "sakuraniku" 桜肉 or sakuraniku - horse meat. It is considered a delicacy and is a normal thing to eat in Japan among other places. It was delicious but not my favorite part of the meal. Pictured adjacent is the sake from Yamamura Sake Brewery Company (山村酒造合名会社). Image is linked to Google Maps for the Yamamura Sake Brewery! Enjoy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828241360-62WNNYBCVO8Q5C2XRMGK/IMG_2483.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Delicious - sashimi slices on warm rice bowl https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828374832-W7FNZCA5FZJVGA7M0M44/IMG_2481.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Some of the Best Tempura I've Ever eaten https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828390070-8D9VT24PFBLPEGF22NBV/IMG_2484.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Some more of the best tempura I've eaten Oishiikatta desu!!! (It was delicious!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497405589330-9LRFPGWLWY5BIWBWIGNU/IMG_2485.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Justin vs. Izakaya https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828397080-KO584VQ3IJGZ782OCU1Y/IMG_2486.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Keishi-san in the flesh The overseer of the Takamori AirBnb, the man in the crocs responsible for hooking us up with the most amazing locations we'd have never found in Takamori town. We had a longer chat on the couch about cultural differences and I forget what I said that surprised him so much but it was hilarious the way he he would say "OHMYGODFUCK!" (as one syllable) out of nowhere. A good guy working at three tourist industry jobs and one of the few English speakers in the area - he was torn in multiple directions in Japanese Golden Week. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1495173672903-LJPWVZ0B49ERPL6GT2TP/IMG_3642.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Random Japanese Ad Hanging on the Wall @ Takamori AirBnb Not sure where this is or what it says but I like the insight it gives into another culture. What they portray as relaxing and attractive in an ad. It makes me want to don flip flops, hang out at the river and drink whatever they are drinking. The interesting thing in another culture is that I couldn't pick out which decade this originated in - yesterday or in the 60s. I both like and feel lost in that lack of context. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497406003636-AJ1LS2S7QE5AGYKCN8ME/IMG_3660.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - About to leave Takamori - all smiles thinking it would be such a sunny easy day ... punchline disclosed above - no further comment needed here... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827844332-950FTO4S4BT6QWH97SLZ/IMG_3666.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Sunshine, downhill and smiles - a beautiful patch on the way out of town https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827912050-ZPVI1NWEV2ZYM2YZWOYH/IMG_3675.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Justin sliding under the road closure barrier after we had admitted defeat and rerouted ourselves over another pass Yes - he is totally fine. We had to lift our bikes and gear over the fence and slide ourselves underneath it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827890213-FD75A52L8YUWGY52BMYN/IMG_3677.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Justin on the "reroute side" of the barrier. Some of the earthquake damage can be seen in the hillside in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827906450-Z8QWDVWQO3BJH2LMR0XC/IMG_3674.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Earthquake Damage Just last year there was an onsen at the bottom of the hill - this year the building still stands with varying chunks of the hill side road just gone around it. It is a small ghost town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494827834488-2BMRCQ9OR0EPQ6XYB5D7/IMG_3678.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Earthquake Detour Map A nice sign indicating what roads are passable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497405835613-FTUFSP87DX6EYAJAYZ16/IMG_2513.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - "Surprise" Pass It was definitely a beautiful and interesting day of riding! Not one that we had deliberately chosen, but it was great anyway. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1495255475474-FMAWXT1FSH13A0VPUMLH/Screen+Shot+2017-05-20+at+1.42.43+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kyushu Day 4 - Earthquake Detour Route Used from Aso to Kumamoto City 37.3 mi, +2208 ft / -3958 ft. Click the photo image for a link to our RideWithGPS Route Map & Cue Sheet for the ride through the pass around the earthquake damage. Zooming in, you can see the point where we had to turn around near "Tochinoki Hot Spring" at about mile 9.5. From there we went up 299 to 149 to 23, over the pass, and continued on 339. We used 202 & 30 & met back up with our original route at the Shirakawa River just after mile 26/39. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1495255467120-NT6A0TSQMWUKP3WU4Y4R/Screen+Shot+2017-05-20+at+1.42.54+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Reroute in RideWithGPS Image above is linked to reroute you may use from Justin's RideWithGPS account. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497405913832-PV5V3VSJ2FM5WM070RXF/IMG_3680.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - End of third day of touring 3 passes and 110.33 miles & 10,814 ft of elevation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497426815122-9MUSL07UAD733DTTDSA3/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+4.53.09+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kyushu Day 5 - Kumamoto to Amakusa 67.1 mi, +4975 ft / -5084 ft - image above is linked to route in RidewithGPS! The first 15 miles we would consider "where NOT to ride." We HIGHLY suggest finding an alternate route getting out of the city. It was pretty yucky (busy traffic / no shoulder / trucks). The rest was okay and started to improve really around maybe mile 35 or so. The sea is there but there are many high concrete barriers (tsunami) so you cannot see as much of the sea as you'd like / it is not as scenic period. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1495256188093-CR56FMAUVQ886X6Z8WKY/IMG_3747.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Earthquake Damage to Kumamoto Castle The castle was closed to all visitors except a view from far away from the outside. Pictures on the barriers show more clearly the damage if you are seeing the castle for the first time. An entire section of the back side had collapsed. See orange circle in the photo above and photo Justin and I took below to see the collapsed portion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497406097420-4F3J5C39R9GALJZW74R9/IMG_3748.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kumamoto Castle as it stands in 2017 after earthquake damage - the back portion is gone - https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828833776-GL7AHF8JY2VQ3RZWDKRB/IMG_2542.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Sea Side Stretch Approaching Amakusa Notice this is the first photo I am posting after those of the castle in the city... This is where the riding finally started to get really enjoyable again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828815893-0VMM6O27Y11XZ7XQB4A3/IMG_2533.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Snack Break with a View https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497406235983-HVTIJBPTID2FXT81KAGC/IMG_3783.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - There REALLY are vending machines EVERYWHERE in this country! Riding along... nothing but miles of trees/jungle, out of nowhere a vending machine, more miles of trees/jungle... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828892296-72AOFFZOOY1KIWWQ0MBQ/IMG_2514.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - View Looking South Towards Nagaura Island on 266 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828806355-8YBH9P5CSH6O4NGLDOMF/IMG_2520.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Heading over the 266 bridge towards Nagaura Island https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497406220502-LHO41W500PKFO9OOUXT5/IMG_2564.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - "Unexpected Hilly Section" On your first time long-ish bike tour you might do things like map the entire route onto one continuous day. It sounds cool until you realize the 5K ft passes at the beginning of the ride make it difficult to see any elevation gain remaining on the map. We believed it to be more flat. After this we remapped each day by iPhone before the ride. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494828857593-SG8RGIJBBC8VTINVWMEL/IMG_2557.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Bike Photo Op at Crest of Hill Break https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497408868722-19TUAMVB42TTMPXUWDHQ/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+11.52.06+AM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kyushu Day 6 (Part 1 / 3) - Amakusa to Kushikino - Best Stretch of Road of the Entire Trip 37.1 mi, +2375 ft / -2364 ft, Ride the route yourself by copying the route from Justin's RideWithGPS account to yours. Includes elevation, very nice! The route is split for this day into 3 pieces due to a ferry and a train ride along the way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497407695106-DCGEKJ6TVH8AOLY6WZ7F/IMG_2572.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - "Relaxed Hotel and Open Air Bath" Click on the image above for a link to the location in Google (栖本温泉 河童ロマン館 or Kumado Romante House, Sumoto Onsen) if you'd like to stay here. It was one of the gems of the trip. Incredible food, beautiful location. We spoke to the gardener while we loaded our bikes back up. He was astonished where we were riding to and from. At one point he ran off to his shed and came back with three oranges for us. A kind hearted gesture of a stranger warmed our hearts before we set off on our ride for the day - why we were smiling so big in this picture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497407600258-PERQRH33CJCPJJN20X39/IMG_3798.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Most Beautiful Stretch of Riding in the Trip Winding, carless roads through a sleepy sea side towns and empty sea side country. A cyclists dream! Hands down our favorite. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497409049191-38B99S7HAM2PJL4C6KFO/IMG_3815.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Nagoshima to Ushibuka Ferry The questions for us are always - will we need to put our bikes in bike bags (about a 25 minute process)? Is the time table we found in English accurate and up to date? How long will the wait be? Timing on this day was a big deal as we also had a train we were trying to make to shorten the overall distance (by about ~30 miles) of the ride to make it in time for the onsen and dinner at the next Ryokan. We were delighted to find no wait, no bags necessary, and the time table we found was accurate. Image above is linked to the time table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494829568368-Z5OBGVWJ0G7737R8QD5O/IMG_3813.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - This cracked me up a bit This is the same bike I bought in college over 10 years ago. She has been called a "tank." With gear loaded she is not as light as some bikes. The ferry attendant dutifully took our bikes and secured them to the wall and chocked my wheel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494829801454-7OJEA9YOZ6A8H7VSGPK9/IMG_3799.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Fast Food with a View I know enough Japanese to read things like "takoyaki" (dough balls with octopus in the center). There are also French fries. After jamming out 36 or so miles to get here we had worked up an appetite and this was DELISH. The stand with the men sitting in it looked like it had been operating for decades, so if you see this post in 2030 and are planning a bike trip you can likely count on those guys being there to serve you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494829528816-JHF1S4ZGGVM9CZHHFFUW/IMG_3807.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Feels like home (Seattle) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494829816727-DLO18EJDKVX2ZGTDEMTL/IMG_3812.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - View from Ferry - Southeast Towards East China Sea https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497427388062-4DS9PPE8ZA91Z0W2MR6Q/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+5.02.45+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kyushu Day 6 - Part 2 / 3 - Kuranomoto Port to Origuchi Train Station 15.6 mi, +1311 / -1333 ft, from the Kuranomoto Port side of the ferry to the Origuchi Station where we bagged our bikes and hopped on the train to save ourselves some time and energy in hopes of arriving earlier to enjoy the onsen and dinner at the next ryokan! Link to route at RidewithGPS is embedded in image! Enjoy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494829624295-6XMQ5JN9XLWM7DBPRGKK/IMG_2580.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - A Beach Near Seto, Nagashima Island This isn't what I think of when I think of Japan - but there are beaches! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494829855463-969QVGYFYJ6DGO4ME8FC/IMG_2590.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - View Crossing 389 Bridge from Nagashima Island to Kyushu (Main Island) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494829634725-7HIGUNUJE5UCASQODNCC/IMG_2589.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - The "pedestrian" pathway was um. Narrow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497427845855-B1WZ3VE9A7IENZR3V83W/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+5.10.18+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kyushu Day 6 - Part 3 of 3 - Kushikino Train Station to Kushikino Shirahama Onsen 3.9 mi, +254 ft / -240 ft https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494829829404-XWNY1MXTBPA4N60FDZ2C/IMG_3817.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Our Running Total as of Kushikino (4 Days of Riding) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497411547612-7N5L1DVHIDOPET48WQBG/IMG_3822.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - A Homey Ryokan There is something special about staying somewhere that people do not travel the world over to visit. There is no big highway to get here. There ARE people likely from nearby driving distance who want to kick their feet up, soak in an onsen (with a GORGEOUS sweeping sea view), and have dinner cooked for them. The image above is linked to the Google Maps Location for the Kushikino Shirahama Onsen. Check it out! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830349757-Y13KKQM6JE5VY4DNVPEL/IMG_3827.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kushikino Shirahama Onsen - Image Above Linked to Google Maps Location They have: an outdoor (and indoor) onsen with sweeping sea views, a patio where you can enjoy beers or dinner with the same views, an indoor snack shop. Unlike some onsen, the hours were fairly early - 5 or 6 am it was opening. I was able to enjoy it entirely to myself. And indoor, fairly nice little coffee shop that opens at 8 am. A gem! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497428178051-RQ6AYREIGB53XB4T5EB4/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+5.15.51+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Day 7 - Kushikino to Makurazaki 43.0 mi, +3308 ft / -3194 ft - link to route in image above! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830624980-TXWZS4TRK6J3RETRAZEF/IMG_3919.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Greetings, Friend Another local, budget ryokan find of ours. This creature (is it a raccoon?) in a hat and a cape with a lantern stands eternally greeting customers with a dusty tea cup. Along with his friend who appears to be the (former) family cat. Picture-worthy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830574881-OSLEA649TJ88CGXEPLU2/IMG_2598.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Green Hotel Fukuzumi (グリーンホテル福住) - Image Linked to Google Maps Location A family operation. A friendly older woman and her son operated this hotel. They greeted us warmly and invited us to use their hotel laundry machine for free to wash our clothes. Splendid! The budget places like this had a family feel which we enjoyed. Here we were before heading out in an attempt to beat the only rain we might encounter the whole trip on our way to Ibusuki. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830588977-XEG8WJ9G89UKP3FWJX5V/IMG_2605.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - A View of Kaimondake Volcano En Route to Ibusuki the only rain forecasted of the trip was still holding off somehow!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830588979-RX5M1OR6NUJZSA474MOB/IMG_3926.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Views near Kaimondake Volcano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830616094-WIW1Z3TA2I7MJJ57EUON/IMG_2607.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Views near Kaimondake Volcano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830667241-579G4FEAKJRNDZ2EHXPT/IMG_3950.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Justin's first drone flight Kyushu has wide open maps on DJI's "no fly zone" because the population density is far lower than where we live (Nagoya). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830675757-6BOQU4KIGZHBL1VECJB5/IMG_2624.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Ibusuki's Famous Hot Sand Baths at Tamatebako Onsen Hands down one of the best experiences of the trip. The rain had begun to POUR. It is about a 5 minute walk down many stairs to the hot sand baths by the ocean. They are covered with tarps so you can enjoy them no matter the weather. Here we watched and listened to the torrential rains while gazing out over the beautiful ocean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830688902-FS25862OBU9WJKMIFD7N/IMG_2627.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - More Hot Sand Baths Not pictured here is the experience of a life time. Following the hot sand bath we went to the onsen which had 270 degree views of the ocean - open air. The rain was still coming down like crazy and being in the open air in the onsen was incredible. I barely minded putting my sopping bike shoes and clothes on for the taxi ride back to the hotel it was such a blissful experience. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830635226-4FAKK6M883M1DLA6IX85/IMG_3925.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Dinner à la Kombini (Lawson!!) If I could buy a shirt that says "I heart Lawson" I would. I began a love affair with their chicken nuggets when we first arrived in Japan and there was a Lawson across from our hotel. Here you see some sake, three different flavors of karaage kun (chicken nuggets of the 40 year old famous Lawson recipe) - "red", "cheese", and some flavor created in honor of marketing something (a movie?), a typical "sando" (sandwich), an onigiri (rice ball - or truly a triangle). I delighted in the fact that Justin missed the nuggets enough to want to eat them on vacation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830603927-KSPOKPF69T7WCU3HDO4C/IMG_3928.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Mileage of the Day ...with some view in the background of the empty hotel pool and palm trees curiously lit in a very bright neon green color at night... Didn't seem to go with the semi-luxury motif of the "Royal Ibusuki Hotel" but that is Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494830612829-WBIHK9B9WCW3KPLUDGR7/IMG_2632.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Goodbye to the Ibusuki Royal Hotel (Image Linked to Hotel Location) Here we realized Japanese style rooms offered more comfort than Western style rooms (which have two rock hard, separate twin beds) and from here forward this is what we will request in Japan. I would call the Ibusuki Royal midrange. We arrived early to beat the rain storm rolling in. We planned to sit around the lobby until we could check in. We were dryly refused this despite the hotel being ghost-town empty. Family places are cheaper, more friendly and willing to accommodate. Mid range has staff that must follow procedures without regard to whether It makes sense or not. Upper range is back to accommodating anything you might request. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497428402015-SOQ84HXL4ZX8KXIRHOAY/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+5.19.41+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kyushu Day 8 - Makurazaki to Ibusuki 24.1 mi, +1683 ft / -1779 ft. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497428626875-AO62RHB06FI3YANCV4YY/Screen+Shot+2017-06-14+at+5.23.21+PM.png #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Kyushu Day 9 - Ibusuki to Kagoshima 34.6 mi, +1621 ft / -1664 ft. Another section of the ride we could have done without. Not as bad as riding in and out of Kumamoto City but nothing in particular to make it worth riding especially towards Kagoshima which is a decent-sized city. Link to route in image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831124283-GLRHTDE6M21L8D4454I6/IMG_2636.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Heavy Rain in the Forecast = Storing Bikes in Kagoshima The plan was to ride around Yakushima on our bikes. As this would have been an all day affair, we weren't tempted to do it in a lightning storm. We left our bikes at this covered bike parking for 300 yen each. The hotel staff helped us to find it, call them to make sure 3 days was okay and this picture was to show someone incase they were not there when we returned. Thankfully it was not needed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497416221438-UB7XYIPLBW45ORB07H38/IMG_3955.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Downtown Kagoshima has a Warm Feeling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497416329957-672Y1W6VI6Z4V7H0NYD8/IMG_3959.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Ishizue Shochu Bar in Kagoshima Justin found this shochu bar online - a blogger claimed it to be maybe the best shochu bar in the world with 520 shochus from Kagoshima prefecture alone. We are here with the owner Yoichi Ikehata. He spoke excellent English and so we were able to get detailed information on everything we tried. Incredible! My absolute favorite is "Imo shochu" (shochu made from sweet potatoes). Link to bar info in picture above! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497416986705-E6MEJ6HEHL3BPW3VXTW4/IMG_3961.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Aboard the Jetfoil heading to Yakushima There was no place on the jetfoil for bikes - a passenger only boat. It took about 2.5 hours to reach Yakushima instead of 4 this way. Because we weren't planning to ride Yakushima due to the weather, we opted to take the jetfoil so on the return to Nagoya we could make the entire trip in one day before the Shinkansen stopped running. No seasickness for Justin (thank goodness!!), especially after the shochu escapades of last night in Kagoshima. Link to website with information on transport to and from Yakushima by clicking on the image above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497417047007-OPHPC61QKZIFTYAQCVXV/IMG_2640.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Justin and I upon our arrival on Yakushima - Jetfoil in the Background Image above is linked to Yakumonkey - a great website with information in English on Yakushima. Those planning to cycle the roughly 67 miles around the island should plan to book the slower ferry from Kagoshima which can accommodate bicycles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497417283586-Y1UO0DGL7WQWSDZCPOV2/IMG_2706.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Entrance to Sankara Resort on Yakushima https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831158164-KVO4WH56URDLA4ZP79HQ/IMG_2692.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Villa 22! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497417500836-4KEAFOSI7AJK1XPITL6Q/IMG_2641.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Happy 1 Year Wedding Anniversary! The staff picked us up from the jetfoil dock and we walk into the hotel lobby and are bowled over by this sweeping view and a silent and empty pool deck overlooking the ocean. Not another soul around. They whipped us up a burger and salad for sharing for lunch. I had NO IDEA it would be this gorgeous and silent. My idea of heaven! A fitting place to ring in one year of marriage after having been married on an empty beach on Lummi Island (Washington State) and followed by dinner at Willows Inn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831402993-Z9FIJND4UGYOZ4DUXOCK/IMG_3967.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Justin relaxing on the empty pool deck PRO TIP: Any non-bike/non-athletic clothes we are wearing from here forward on Yakushima were shipped in our suitcase from Nagoya before we left with our bikes for 1500 yen (less than $15). You can ship your suitcase from almost any convenience mart for an incredible cheap price to alleviate the burden of transporting unnecessary items if you do not need them the whole trip. Unlike the US, you get to specify on which day you'd like it delivered. It seems too good to be true, I know. Japan has incredibly efficient and cheap shipping for just about anything. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831093354-TKSBQITNON8BJCJLDSB3/IMG_2644.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831279042-5SOBCON9CC9RBPWH25EV/IMG_2643.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831075099-IYY37NJNVJNR6O73U7GX/IMG_3970.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831009381-T85WI58E34W9M9XYHRJA/IMG_2642.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831354790-VM2BCY9KGR38WU9CEW15/IMG_2696.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Lunch at Yakushima Vita Kitchen (屋久島ヴィータ キッチン) The island is pretty quiet, but a steep walk downhill about 15 minutes away from the resort on foot and we had lunch at this cute little spot. Mustard orange chicken for me and curry rice for Justin. Delicious. No children allowed - there is literally a sign on the front door with the "forbidden" symbol over a child. We like quiet lunches and appreciated this. Link to the location in the image above! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497418049752-Y9VES064NY3XPAE75JL5/IMG_2645.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Our Villa (#22) at Sankara Resort Spending all day reading and relaxing here in stretchy terrycloth pajamas while a storm rolled in was a welcome way for us to spend the day! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831335732-5OKL8V6ZI191QLALTYXF/IMG_2656.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - The view from our balcony https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831357869-4DO2H2WNS32NN39G3CLA/IMG_2648.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Looking away from the bed to the large bathroom and seating area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497418239815-I99B8OMSR1WYT09QI46Y/IMG_3964.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Second Floor Villas Have Vaulted Ceilings! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497418406191-M7WHRSTBCPIYIXWES73Z/IMG_3971.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - The biggest spider I've ever seen I found a spider in the shower from which I recoiled and sicked Justin on. When he grabbed the sun umbrella from the shelf, this furry beast leapt out of it. So two roommates. Justin approached this with the wine glass we had in the room only to see it would not fit in the wine glass. We called the hotel staff keeping our unblinking eyes on it the entire 5 minutes until a visibly nervous young woman arrived. She had likely been "rewarded" the duty because she spoke the best English. She had some sort of a dust bin with a collapsible flap and a broom perfect for catching spiders about 8 inches in diameter. YIKES!!!!! My only wish was that I could have observed my sister Leah's reaction to it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831020063-TJ11U0MVQ1JMRU6S05J4/IMG_2702.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Old Subaru Van This one's for my dad. We are in the land of Subaru and my dad LOVES Subarus! Here you go, Dad! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831054739-U3TEZEYLQLS5314ZQ1F6/IMG_2705.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831087247-B53KWHYSYC4FS6VNDR50/IMG_2660.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Enjoying the empty pool deck at Sankara before the rain storm https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831170791-O8U15XI2694P70Q5XMF1/IMG_2657.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - There was imo shochu on tap in the coffee room adjacent to the pool A little imo shochu, a gorgeous view, silence, my husband, and my kindle. Heaven! Oh and free cookies for snacking on with the shochu. Also they had free beer on tap and any coffees and soft drinks you could want. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831099362-UEQCP1408IPXU2ZVPFPB/IMG_2663.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Heaven Part Deux Pleasure reading - The Book of Joy - a compilation of the discussions between the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu on finding joy in a life and world filled with suffering. Excellent reading for my vacation. The irony of this is only now hitting me. I love this book for the connected view it encourages one to take in the midst of suffering. Second irony, is the solitude and disconnection I am currently enjoying… I think I could find 20 ironies here so I will stop now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831224650-LUO9L8KBRYN13N9XJ6PS/IMG_2668.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Dinner on the first floor - night one (May 11) (Not pictured: breakfast in the mornings here absolutely blew me away... Something I was not expecting - the pastries they prepared for breakfast beat Bakery Nouveau's in Seattle with ease. You have to try both to understand how incredulous I was. I am not a pastry eater and they put out maybe 7 or 8 types each morning... If you visit Sankara, do not pass up the pastries at the breakfast buffet!!!! I looked her up online and was surprised to find only another reviewer saying the same thing - no mention of awards or news articles.) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497419062984-UR25WD3WDFRTFS8JBFC7/IMG_2675.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Sunrise on our Wedding Anniversary Happy 1 Year Anniversary! A silent pool deck, a sunrise, coffees, and my husband. Nothing else. Excellent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497419174152-J171UNUBZYUXQS994EFM/IMG_2666.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - There was no getting enough of this And at night, frogs so loud we didn't believe they were frogs (until we asked the hotel staff) filled the fountains in the foreground of this photo! The last time I had heard frogs was at night in the pool we had growing up in Missouri. I love frogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831142046-8D8YTYPKRO41GPVXM5AO/IMG_2691.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Sunset - completely unfiltered image https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831157715-N8DBGAUW8X88Q3BT40JM/IMG_2734.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - The storm is rolling in finally - gorgeous clouds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497419364608-RNA919KA5TNXD2PRP34Q/IMG_2719.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - One Year Anniversary Dinner Overlooking the Ocean at Okas Restaurant, Sankara We were seated facing the kitchen - I was surprised. In America you would be seated immediately at the table with the best view of the ocean. I like to watch the chef prepare things but tonight I just wanted the private, high-backed table looking at the storm rolling in over the water. So we asked for it and it was heaven. The closest we have come to the Willows Inn experience since our wedding - also an ocean view, also very uncrowded kitchen, also with incredible fresh dishes in a kaiseki style. French cuisine. Link to restaurant in image. It. was. perfect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831267893-P0H7ZLT7QM4H3HO6EUXD/IMG_2725.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - This is a very Japanese thing Especially with the way the man is holding his arm back instead of putting it on the waist of the woman. This is THE romantic stance you see everywhere in Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831420595-IZRJ3W1OYZNM4YFIF8KH/IMG_2730.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - IS IT CAKE?! IS IT CAKE? Enough wine and I was REALLY hoping this was real cake waiting for us on our bed. Alas, it was towels. In hindsight, I am glad it was towels. If it had been real cake we'd have cockroaches the size of monkeys on our hands. Neither appetizing nor romantic. Towel cake is great! ;-) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1497419854861-6M49MTYH33XQIO4LSF7S/IMG_3972.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Homie be TIRED One of the few times it is this way... Usually it is the other way around. On the jetfoil for the long journey home. The ride from Sankara by car, the jetfoil to Kagoshima, riding our bikes to the station from their parking space, a Shinkansen to Hakata, another Shinkansen to Nagoya, two subway rides home. By far the largest variety of transport in a single day of my life!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831283754-LK4AIOJUFNJK27A810ZC/IMG_2743.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - A final celebratory drink on the Shinkansen ... and to finally understand what I had been eating and loving for a long time is called "kaki no tane." Soy-flavored rice crackers and peanuts. YUMMMM. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831300966-CL5ULRQ5FU4XDLMJDXK6/IMG_2745.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - An empty Shinkansen - a delight when you are dragging two bikes and 5-6 bags around A little strategery in purchasing Shinkansen tickets when you have bikes can be helpful. Get on the train before the busy stops if you have a connecting choice. Also, choose the seats at the back of the car on the side with 3 seats. You can store your bikes behind your seat this way. It still works on the side with 2 seats but they must be stored upright on a wheel and are less stable. Plus, my seat protruded into the aisle a fair amount in the 2 seat side. No one complained to me but it could be a problem depending on who is running the train. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1494831304651-D9CTB5GF86N4ZRSDDX1T/IMG_3977.JPG #kabers_sverige - A Vending Machine and a Volcano - Tour de Kyushu - Bike Storage at the Back of the Car on the Shinkansen Our bikes fit nicely here. Note: not all Shinkansen trains are equal! (notice the seats in this train from Hakata/Fukuoka to Nagoya are different than the last image from Kagoshima to Hakata/Fukuoka). Some are quite a bit more plush than others. The Japanese know which have the newest and nicest cars when picking out the tickets on the machine. I am not yet skilled at this. http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2017/4/19/love-of-my-life-happy-one-year-anniversary monthly 0.5 2017-05-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492659450863-OGMAOVTFXVT8OBXQQX6F/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary Sunday, March 8, 2015 - on a beautiful empty beach that I call heaven on earth, Justin proposed to me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492659960293-YQI37YUDCO68WBOPHWCO/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary Heaven. May 12, 2016 - our wedding day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492660155320-LOZE8YRSQVN6ZWVXS221/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary I always loved the ocean as a girl growing up in Missouri. To be fortunate enough to have my wedding here... I have no words. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492660465033-842PPRHIFVZLMWR95X8V/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary The way down to the beautiful, beautiful beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492660792884-E4KJM9UX5KD7LR2RR0RW/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary Michele (the photographer) and Shannon (our officiant) told us to "hold on a sec" while they picked out the twigs and leaves that stuck like velcro to my tulle skirt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492661116591-EEI1DLHM6XV1T77AJMQ7/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary You, the man I love, reading your vows to me on our deserted beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492661342448-RUA0SED67SH58YLQCGYL/MaryJustin168.jpg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary I told you how my life had changed profoundly for you in it. You bring immeasurable color, love, light, joy, and meaning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492661547748-8XSXJACSBJ2ER0BHE7KU/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary Second of three comic reliefs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492661679731-KSS20PWDCLJK72EDWLFK/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492661783330-CPKM5OIA73I3MUOB96QJ/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary Cuddling on cue ;-) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492661955128-RDFEUVGYCCS24HSSTP3A/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary One of my faves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492662171254-FMTO52X8A102TM27RYHM/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary Am I lucky or am I lucky? I am lucky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492662278019-MC1DNW7JSJI22EUKF8CC/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary Forever and for always. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492662384250-NXT4T3Q5UDW0NO58JBAU/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary The knowing look from you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492662648873-YS70I8N1DNBLIUDU44XT/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary The flower one goes to him... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1492662794537-52QBZ96IRGCWUIZLMUD7/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Love of My Life, Happy One Year Anniversary Justin, I love you. http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2017/4/7/highlights monthly 0.5 2017-04-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491541777896-ESBH21KIRU963TI33BMY/IMG_1313.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Tickets to the Lounge and some Yen We were a little self conscious taking this but who cares. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491541796757-FK5W09L1Q3RNOW7F76TL/IMG_1314.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Enjoying a little pre-flight beverage In the KAL lounge! No better way to get on a flight than having spent the time before hand in a quiet lounge with free adult beverages. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491541760045-H94H40764U1B5RUW0OMA/IMG_1317.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Peace Out, Seattle! My first time being served before the plane even leaves the gate. You KNOW you fancy when you get drinks while people are still boarding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491541766463-M5W8RZO28E90L9X149AQ/IMG_1639.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - More of the same https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491541789273-9U3QTYX5SJIZMU1SX5YD/IMG_1640.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - I'll get used to this quickly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491541795516-B2JU25SKCIDM0IA3P4ZK/IMG_1329.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Ice cream, cheese & cracker plate, & Bordeaux https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491541804152-7D3ZCERDIX85J06UP4W3/IMG_1351.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491542566322-QTJHM9TYUWFRI2A6629D/IMG_1886.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - First ride on the Shinkansen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491542584054-8RFWES6HX48AS6XGJ2AF/IMG_1879.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - The conductor The conductor always watches out on the train platform as the train is approaching and departing the station. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491542586886-GGYB59SZ8API3OKTI4G1/IMG_1883.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - An iconic Japanese image for me The shape of the face of these trains is something synonymous with Japan in my mind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539463778-VY9S13OPNCG0G628408N/IMG_1887.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Otaru, Hokkaido - small port town on the Sea of Japan There is a lot of snow in Otaru. We spent the day walking around the beautiful little artsy coastal town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539454659-SAU7WAWKV2Z27ZUA0FJW/IMG_1896.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Canal in Otaru https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539474000-E40YSAKYN37MTB4GOG39/IMG_1899.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Uni, Ikura Donburi Lunch @ Sushiya Ko-Dai, Otaru Of all of Japan this town and this particular restaurant was featured in "Rice Noodle Fish: Deep Travels Through Japan's Food. Culture." The uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe) on a warm bowl of rice (donburi) is one of the best meals of our lives. The uni is cool and buttery and the roe is slightly salty and cool and the combination with the warm rice is heavenly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539483471-13A0DJTKDNIMKCSLTKQP/IMG_1902.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Uni, Ikura Don Buri The uni is the orange, tongue-looking shapes, the roe is the obvious in the center. I believe the red fish is tuna and I do not remember what the white fish is. Scallops maybe. Wasabi and soy is mixed and poured over top. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539489971-6QPUH7FAP1R9YABAXNYX/IMG_2435.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - View landing in Sapporo Reminds us of Qunicy, Washington (a small farming town where Justin's sister lives on the east side of the Cascade range). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539496977-SJMR837ZCLK4O5DPFTUR/IMG_2459.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - The Sea of Japan as seen from the Sapporo - Otaru train One of the most beautiful and lonely seascapes I have ever seen. Completely enchanting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539519271-QCCGCOKPZIMXVAI0U8MI/IMG_2469.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Ice Cream Shop - Closed!?!?! We made a sincere effort to find this ice cream shop. If you had tasted a jar of Hokkaido milk, you would understand why. The milk was the most delicious, creamy, and sweet milk I have ever had. I cannot imagine what the ice cream must be like. Yes, we were tramping through huge piles of snow with cold feet to find it in Otaru. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539515318-IU6GMS20BZJDPRVBMKD6/IMG_2500.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Soup Curry Another meal to go down in the annals of our food adventures. Justin found some place known for their soup curry. It is curry flavored soup, with chicken and the most perfectly cooked vegetables. You eat it with a spoon and a plate of rice. Future Japan travelers take note that we use www.tabelog.com to find all restaurants here. Only the Japanese reviews can lead you to places like this. Trip advisor/tourist reviews cannot! There is an English version. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539534051-AG0SAWVFN9SIN0GKFJA7/IMG_2501.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Me and my soup curry Sigh.... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539534205-4UV8HYU4MZS0XRJE1JPJ/IMG_2516.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Bus ride - Sapporo to Furano Again, this reminded me a little of the drive from Seattle on I-90 east. Beautiful snow-covered hillsides and blue skies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539554859-RRHLJHJE7XVHCURNT4VT/IMG_2528.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - View out of our Furano hotel https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539552467-8M1XBBD5N4LZL28AL04J/IMG_2574.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Slopeside chow In Hokkaido, curry and tonkatsu (deep fried breaded pork cutlet) is the mountain hut ski lunch. So. Good. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491539561959-R63AJ94I95RTUCQCWSKI/IMG_2578.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Hotto Wino I spent about 18 seconds laughing at the thought of "hotto wino" and then I tried it. Of course I liked it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491541049937-GXGCGOWVWG8K2QMGBMLS/IMG_1943.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Furano Ski Resort Furano is a beautiful, quiet ski resort. For Justin it was the best powder of his life. For me, it was comparable to Breckenridge, Colorado. Only here we had the lifts and slopes almost entirely to ourselves. Imagine when you crash you don't have to also worry about immediately getting run over. Japanese are so polite and they are no different on the slopes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491543506248-EDY3OMM7K19261GYJ4HG/IMG_2989.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Lost in Translation Recognize the lampshade? This is where Bill Murray sat with Scarlett Johansson in Lost in Translation. Kinda cool. This was our first seat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491543508369-EGOVAWA67Q8XJJB00AMB/IMG_2997.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Best Seat in the House Overlooking the city of Tokyo from the 52nd floor with cocktails and live jazz. The life! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491543514895-DOPC0FGJE3O4EB3TVNCQ/IMG_3002.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Gorgeous View, Delicious Drinks https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491544313442-CS862AQIIR1S8WQV3QRU/IMG_2828.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Fishmongers inspect the tuna prior to the auction The fishmongers use hooks, flashlights, and their fingers to assess the texture and quality of the fish before bidding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491544432361-BP20Q3LL6T1MOHU7SZ8Q/IMG_2820.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - The Tsukiji Indoor Auction Area This market was built in 1935 and is the oldest market in Tokyo. It is completely analogue - the bidders and the auction manager do the bidding completely by hand signals and visually. The new market is held for health concerns by the government and will include digital auctions. We felt lucky to see the old way of conducting the tuna auctions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491544370784-1NL3L5RCAWL1BMRRGR8F/IMG_2837.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - A large and beautiful fish in the market https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491544437389-N5J4UBCUO4SWLWFR3PED/IMG_2839.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Random tuna head in the outdoor market https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491544528337-0BAKDS1KFY8PO754NHRX/IMG_2840.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - View of the outdoor market https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491544499933-91E9R2TA13ODT8UF48GG/IMG_2838.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - Fresh tuna being cut Our tour guides asked this man if we could sample some of the tuna meat straight out of the ribs of the tuna. He was scraping it out with a spoon and plopped some on a plate and handed it straight to Justin and I. Incredible! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491544370794-CVQEECKM5TMX9W70EYEZ/IMG_2835.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - 波除稲荷神社 (Namiyoke Inari Jinja or Shrine) The name of the temple means literally "protection from waves." This is where the fisherman go to pray for safe passage on the seas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491544427729-JNDVD1KNQ475T1GU6662/IMG_2836.JPG #kabers_sverige - Highlights - 波除稲荷神社 (Namiyoke Inari Jinja) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1491546742535-ZZ6VCT8B8F2QTSIIMWMU/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Highlights I figured out it will take me a little less than 7 kanji per day to learn about 2200 kanji in one year. This is just a single English translation - there are a few usages for each kanji in actual grammar (read: more than one way to read it depending on the context). So, for most days so far this year I have memorized 7 per day. I read a description in my book "Remembering the Kanji" and then write it according to the proper stroke order/direction 10 times on graph paper. I then use the Anki app to review the flashcards for the kanji I have learned to date. It is really fun and meditative and takes about 30 minutes per day. http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2017/2/3/our-japanese-apartment monthly 0.5 2017-02-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486105305294-33DQSSOYSP0IZ8NLSM07/IMG_1797.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Grand View Yagoto Our unit is the ground floor closest to the camera. Having come from America & being a light sleeper, being immediately adjacent to both the road and the parking lot was NOT ideal. Japan is also NOT America. Most cars never leave the lot (public transit is better than driving) and they are either hybrids or electric and are completely silent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486105297651-1MKS13BPZOV6JQTK9YLC/IMG_1801.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - From the front... Stalking the apartment while we waited to move in. (We were in the hotel for 6 weeks while the rental furniture was being readied and while our furniture from America was traveling over by sea and going through customs.) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104689850-7JG3HQWDYAK11SM8H74J/IMG_2714.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Entry way All homes in Japan have a dedicated entry way shelf (see on the left). Most have a shoe storage closet. All have a delineation in the type of flooring where shoes are not allowed. We have a second trash can near the door as garbage is divided into 9 types that I can count off the top of my head... The smaller compartments fill up in our divided bin and we keep them near the door to go out on the specific days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104556259-VNFE8MJKX5472B8OHXYZ/IMG_2726.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Shoe closet I still can't believe all of our shoes, boots (including outdoor gear) fits in here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104691109-3YKKRSN6DCUDVSDHFJWH/IMG_2712.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Vanity / Laundry Room On the left after entering is our vanity/laundry. Items of interest - the washer and dryer are one unit. It takes upwards of 4 to 5 hours to do a load with drying because of the lower wattage here. The vanity is in a separate room from the shower and the toilet is still another room... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104322565-WFQ4YY6G3SF7MSS49P3H/IMG_2612.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - The Shower / Tub Typical protocol here is to shower yourself completely clean, then bathe. Many family members can re-use the same bath water this way. The electronic controls fill the water to a specified level and temperature and will reheat it to any temperature you choose. It also has an intercom for communicating with the interface in the kitchen. This is normal and not a feature of a high-end apartment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104314284-D0BC0PWND20K6LHY4MDW/IMG_2611.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Bathtub Japanese bathe regularly for relaxation after showers. The cover is to keep water between baths without draining. I can submerge myself AND my legs up to my ears in here. There is a control on the ceiling to blow cold air as well as directional slats on the window so that you don't instantly overheat. I laugh thinking about the great lengths I would go to with a box fan and ice water to stay comfortable in the bath back home.. and then 20 minutes later climb out of cold water. CHILDS PLAY! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104331954-QC0HQG9AVGECSIKWYDJI/IMG_2613.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Tub water controls This also allows you to set priority to the shower, unlike in the US, so when someone turns on the water somewhere else in the house you aren't either scalded or frozen. Also controls the water level it fills, the temperature of the water, and the reheating temperature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104605646-DUR7ANXOWX7AXFQHO26S/IMG_2715.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Japanese Toilet Two words: HEATED SEAT. I remember my first experience of one of these at the Boeing Concept Center in Seattle. There is something slightly terrifying about it the first time you do it. Jumping up is not really an option... And once you are used to it, western toilets seem so primitive, I wonder how Japanese survive on trips to America or how I will survive when I return. The first time I saw a "toilet sink" in a restaurant bathroom I was really confused. I didn't know how I was supposed to turn it off... was it for washing hands or just white noise? Where was the soap? Derp. It is genius - the water fills the tank for the next flush. Even the toilet paper holder is superior. I can change toilet paper with one hand. No more of those spring loaded devices launching itself across the bathroom while on the throne trying to change paper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104461940-ECSLPGBIRETMD9L71R9Y/IMG_2733.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104676825-DEG6BELN9BPQ9RCUPHI0/IMG_2710.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Zee boudoir Fun fact: many of our friends have this identical furniture in their bedrooms. We picked it out of a rental furniture catalogue. Our bed actually lifts up - we have bedding and our snowboards stored underneath. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104675930-19CMEU7IPA5SCZTJD8RX/IMG_2711.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Zee Boudoir Part II All of the windows are frosted glass except the balcony and the office in the back. I kind of like the privacy and not having to rush to close the curtains when it gets dark or for a quick change. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104478568-T5DPB0E9ZPOQDTRLVW12/IMG_2730.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Kitchen Featuring... A GAS STOVE!!!! THANK YOU GOD! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104541805-B46MICUF8DCXOSUQJT0O/IMG_2723.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Kitchen Part II Our microwave AND oven combined, toaster, and rice cooker. Rice cookers are available up to and beyond $1000 USD. This is a cool machine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104501433-CGUH8137WFGPW9ZJD43W/IMG_2732.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Water controller in the kitchen Hot water is generally off when not being used. Flip it on and it is on-demand. You can also fill the bath tub from the kitchen. I just about fell over when our relocation specialist showed us this. This is also where your spouse can be reached in the event of an emergency (such as... running out of wine or whiskey while bathing). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104642835-VMIFMAP0QNJ4YMR0B142/IMG_2707.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Workout room / Guest Room My dedicated workout space. I LOVE IT! I no longer have to work out next to a counter height breakfast table which also served as my desk. The ceiling fixtures here are controllable for color of light and brightness by remote. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104578414-0RON93R36J0EKIXZFD6Q/IMG_2699.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - View looking towards the front of the apartment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104458984-W3XWVIC6WHW9EMVIHHJF/IMG_2729.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Dining room / Bar cabinet https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104660529-22BJIUYCCMPPOO4N85NY/IMG_2706.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - More of the same... The workout room has one sliding door and two sliding frosted glass panels to shut if off from the living room and kitchen when desired. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104595736-458XVN16PKVWS1L3IQ6R/IMG_2704.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Living Room This couch has traveled more than the average American! Also, our Japanese TV. Purchased and delivered literally the day we moved in JUST in time to catch the PAC-12 Championship (Huskies vs. Buffaloes) on Friday December 2. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486109383847-E85QYYFNC0CAA2R2OC92/IMG_2211.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Huskies vs. Buffs in PAC-12 Championship - JAPAN VISION We did all of our tailgating this year from our hotel bed or from our living room. This involved coffee AND beer. A little cultural fusion here - American football in our Japanese living room. Japanese beer in my American mug and American coffee in my Japanese Nagatani-en mug. #RiceNoodleFish in its glory front and centa on the coffee table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104589884-Q2LGLM5J9C6MW29T4PM8/IMG_2702.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104531938-RQF6ZS6R9TCUKOBF4RI3/IMG_2719.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104492124-EB72931DF1UVT7I8CHTU/IMG_2720.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Balcony The balcony is quite large and has a sink. No BBQs allowed though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104540956-07FEJFK6THGSQX39NPVO/IMG_2722.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104642789-1BU8N07AS4XKAZZYPFRT/IMG_2703.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104248683-MKGRJQW2IZ3MXR0RE47P/IMG_2203.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - My first morning in the Apartment The view of the neighbors maple in the fall and the sunrise out the window is lovely. I have a thing for corner windows... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104512891-OF48YKAMNPUB8Q98YB6Y/IMG_2734.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - My Office <3 The same 11 in MacBook I drug around Southeast Asia, an Ikea adjustable height desk, an ergo chair from the Portland Ergo Depot store (I have a bad back), and my monitors. The only thing it is missing is a bar cart a la Mad Men. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104624591-G33CQVCVDO9H7TCB01X7/IMG_2697.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Home Office Part II https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104269086-CINI05OKU2OYVJCPQLPT/IMG_2406-2.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Christmas in Japan! In the whirlwind that was our trip over here and just being oriented to the city and not where to buy things and how to order online, Christmas presents between Justin and I fell sadly by the wayside this year. My heart was warmed receiving these gifts from my family back in the US. It made it feel like Christmas again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104299320-FT9ZSQM64FSF2P0QXIY1/IMG_2416.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Home Made Egg Nog! I don't go around looking for egg nog back in the US at the holidays. Probably for the best that the Pacific Ocean separates me from the nearest shop selling it... But for some reason here, I was really craving it. I always wonder what I will miss and not be able to find abroad and this year, egg nog was one of them. A woman suggested I make it at home... Off the bat I scoffed at the suggestion but in the end I did it. A success! I can control the sugar (always too much) and the rum levels (always WAY too low)! I shall never buy egg nog again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104335127-4QZA6KL71KXXLM5S8S34/IMG_2749.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Our Seattle Family - Nagoya Dance Team French Toast, Mimosas, and Johnsonville Brats cooked up for our friends. We all come from Seattle but Justin is the only one born in the US in this photo! Countries represented are Mexico, Panama, Japan, Canada, Malaysia, and Romania (if you count the absent wife of Muhammad), https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104239053-7TKCD0OPYUIZNVKTIKGD/IMG_2193.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Sunrise from my office window I have a SE facing corner window and can watch the sun rise and set every day form my office.. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104374753-AT7CP0NO6P455LYZJCBS/IMG_2755.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - The first snow in our apartment! January 15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104385774-7L8RO8K0FYXI5ARDVJNT/IMG_2756.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486173445518-IVY3126V6U5BVJFDHHBA/IMG_1500.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Our Favorite Soba Shop - Sinshu Oraga Soba This is their summer special with sweet potato tempura and costs about $6 USD. The key to eating soba with chopsticks is to pull the noodles over the height of your head to separate them from the massive noodle clump. Otherwise you are stuck with a noodle chain which you cannot pick up easily with chopsticks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486173448910-YB9PL548ETPOHE1M1O53/IMG_1451.PNG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Front of Kajiken The front of Kajiken - the abura soba shop in our Tempaku / Yagoto neighborhood. This is what it looks like when it is closed for the New Year. We just walked by each day sadly until it was open again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486173893452-IKNX8D3CP4RGN65SKGWT/IMG_1998.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Justin's Typical Abura Soba Lunch Noodles with pork slices, a side of rice topped with kimchi, the lightly cooked egg. Delicious. Each item is available separately in the vending machine by the door. You top the noodles with chili oil, vinegar and optional garlic and hot pepper flakes, stir and enjoy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104243272-QP3YEHD89BN7824CIG8U/IMG_1735.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Kajiken - Our Neighborhood Noodle Shop!! We love this place. It was our first experience of willy nilly ducking into a kanji covered establishment with no clue as to what is inside. This is abura soba (soupless noodles). You order your size of noodles and each topping from the vending machine before sitting around the counter. It is frequented by mostly college-age guys as it is cheap, quick and not fancy enough for the college girls (or so I've been told). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486104626616-OPUUMFEI2EB29WUU0N72/IMG_2680.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment - Neighborhood French Bakery I was heart warmed to see the "Gallette des Rois" sandwich board out front of this bakery. It brought back very fond memories from high school French class with Ms. Wright and our Mardi Gras celebrations. The world is indeed a small place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1486173860720-BTW3XQ2XQT88RWCXBX34/IMG_1998.JPG #kabers_sverige - Our Japanese Apartment http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2016/11/8/land-of-oz monthly 0.5 2017-02-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478661786823-5YTFI6MGKVLJ0N80BZZ4/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478662027922-E5KAERZO5C65IZDTAIEY/IMG_1657.JPG #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1479977861398-2IQ06FIURNYX04EMB9H1/IMG_1394.JPG #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1479977885290-6YV8LQ3UJGS9V852BRU9/IMG_1392.JPG #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478662258532-4L1OJEF5SG4VKKRIOOCY/IMG_1466.JPG #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478662255172-3VU0S7H15CJBRNJ23LN6/IMG_1468.JPG #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478662271919-Z5CK8OFDNXRIYH3V6JD1/IMG_1470.JPG #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478662273778-E2LNPKYHC44WDDBYL21H/IMG_1471.JPG #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1479977463413-1GOAOTW76CKACY6EJJAG/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Land of Oz A "Baby Kitty" delivery truck... http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/2016/11/1/saikin-nihon-ni-kimashita-i-recently-came-to-japan monthly 0.5 2016-11-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478487624426-AYWGKDVU7WG2XFYHTUO4/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Saikin Nihon ni kimashita (I recently came to Japan) A very rushed selfie in our empty condo before going to the airport. This was our first home together and I felt really sentimental leaving it - all empty and running out the door felt so weird. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478487904646-XJ0070V9AHP9CH6KERM9/Justin+driving+us+to+SeaTac+-+the+smile+that+has+said%2C+%22Are+we+really+doing+this%3F%22+now+says%2C+%22We+are+really+doing+this.++Holy+shit.%22 #kabers_sverige - Saikin Nihon ni kimashita (I recently came to Japan) Justin driving us to SeaTac on the morning of October 18th. For the past few months we'd exchange wide-eyed smiles periodically thinking, "Are we really doing this?" This is the day the smiles say, "We ARE really doing this. HOLY shit..." "Life is a highway! ..." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478488239757-OI7C4IKPL6XTOKF6V20C/IMG_1313.JPG #kabers_sverige - Saikin Nihon ni kimashita (I recently came to Japan) - Ballers with a posse ;-) You're never too old or mature to fan yourself with money. And tickets to the lounge at the airport. First time either of us have held or seen Yen. Same for the lounge tickets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478488240251-WY0T304QD2KCMU5YDFWT/IMG_1343.JPG #kabers_sverige - Saikin Nihon ni kimashita (I recently came to Japan) - Kampai! Just boarded... Lots of selfies on this trip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478488243342-6RF0Y16NVH0YRLNDFALW/IMG_1324.JPG #kabers_sverige - Saikin Nihon ni kimashita (I recently came to Japan) - View from KE 020 Seat 8D Linen on a fold out tray needed a photo. Bordeaux all flight long! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478488241985-7WFHSVIJQIPOX2YRL4MB/IMG_1345.JPG #kabers_sverige - Saikin Nihon ni kimashita (I recently came to Japan) - Almost to Nagoya! We don't look or feel like we have been flying for almost 14 hours. We are about to land! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478488246826-JXPS5SWBTG4G55RIH7QY/IMG_1352.JPG #kabers_sverige - Saikin Nihon ni kimashita (I recently came to Japan) - Less than an hour left. Justin may look a teensy bit tired. We wormholed through Wednesday October 19th and emerged with only small bags under our eyes ;-) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/581010c59de4bb7cf17ddbce/1478488865381-TCN469UKFTEZDMJ9A5KU/image-asset.jpeg #kabers_sverige - Saikin Nihon ni kimashita (I recently came to Japan) This is the very first sight I have EVER had of Japan out the window. The second place I have moved sight unseen! (The first was Seattle in 2009). http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/category/Living+Abroad monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/category/Swedish+Food monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/category/Sweden monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/category/Length+of+Japan+Cycle monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/category/Japan monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/category/Expats monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/category/Housing+Abroad monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/category/Cycle+Touring monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/tag/%23forever monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/tag/Japanese+House monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/tag/thisis42 monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/tag/%23gaijin monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/tag/%23aerospaceabroad monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/tag/%23wedding monthly 0.5 http://www.mkjpexpat.com/post1/tag/%23dreamitdoit monthly 0.5 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