kenleewrites in 日本

After visiting Odawara Castle, I spent the rest of that weekend at a Japanese inn (ryokan) and hot spring (onsen) in Hakone. Yukata, obi, towels and hand towels. Just some of the things you’ll definitely see at every ryokan and onsen.

Yukatas are provided for guests and it’s expected that while you’re there, you put that on. Easy to get in and out of when you go for a dip in the hot springs. I used to think nothing special of changing into yukata at onsens. But recently, the process of getting out of my everyday wear at onsens is becoming quite relaxing. Something almost ritualistic.

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Ever wondered how vending machines appear where they are? These delights are transported upright by truck. ^^.

I’m having internet flashbacks from my students days again! It’s not very accurate though. I don’t take naps. I take POWER naps! ^^.

I’m surrounded by Japanese samurai and I’m holding a centuries old pistol. I don’t know why, but that samurai in red standing right behind me handled it to me just before the photo was taken. Spoke with a few of them and found out that most of the home-made prop armor you see are made from cardboard! Each set took about 6 months to make.

These guys appear every Sunday at Odawara Castle. You know, to add some color and entertain the tourists, people like myself. ^^.

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