Japan Diaries: Day 11

Day 11 December 29, 2014

Wakayama City Checkup


 Another great morning here in Japan. Today, we're heading to Wakayama Prefecture but this trip wouldn't be like our normal road trips because we're going to the prefecture to accompany Mr. Toshi for his regular heart check-up.

Driving to the hospital via the Kinki Expressway

Aside from Mr. Toshi and his wife, Tomato the family dog would also be joining us for this trip. The travel was quite fast because Mr. Toshi lives in an area of Osaka Prefecture that is nearest to Wakayama Prefecture. We passed through beautiful sceneries and several tunnels along the Hanwa and Kinki Expressway until we reached Seiyu Memorial Hospital in Nishitai, Wakayama City in Wakayama Prefecture.

Some tunnel along the Hanwa Express Way

Look who's enjoying the trip!

Seiyu Memorial Hospital

Little did I know that the doctors in this "normal" looking hospital were actually the best of the crop. (We can really never judge the book by its cover.)  

Team Nicerio at Seiyu Memorial Hospital in Wakayama.

After Mr. Toshi's checkup, we drove to a nearby place so that Tomato could get a chance to poop. This place, according to Mr. Toshi, is where he brings Tomato for walks during Tomato's younger days. (Tomato is very old now and is having difficulties walking.)

Great view for a walk. Can you spot me?

Mr. Toshi and Ella walking Tomato in this vast sports field

Ella doing her warm-ups

Run Ella! Run!

 The place is highly categorized by the elevated area where dog owners walk their pets. Aside from this area, there is also a lower area that serves as a sports field. My daughter and I briefly played in this area while we waited for Tomato to do his thing. After doing his business and being cleaned, we proceeded to the vicinity of Negoroji to eat lunch. I didn't take pictures though due to time constraints.  When we finished we headed back home because Mr. Toshi would still report for work. 

There are plenty of branches of this resto. Each branch uses the name of the place it's located. e.g. Kumatori Shokudo

Our dinner at Hineno-Shokudo

Ms. Taeko and KC enjoying the meal

We then spent the remainder of the day washing clothes and resting. That night Mr. Toshi and his wife brought us to Hineno-Shokudo which serves traditional Japanese food. After a hearty Japanese meal, we went home and rested because we're excited to see what tomorrow's adventure would be.

PREVIOUS: Japan Diaries: Day 10
NEXT: Japan Diaries: Day 12

Location: Wakayama, Japan

Comments

  1. NoelMarch 27, 2018 at 12:23 AM

    Hi Alvin, I google Kumatori Shokudo and found it's among the top ten restaurants in Kumatori City. And indeed, it has several branches named after their location. I'm not sure if it is still a part of their restaurant chain but there also are Shokudo branches even in Hong Kong.

    Shokudo, based on the kanji they used actually means "cafe," so it's just like saying Kumatori Cafeteria. I wise naming choice indeed.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 31, 2018 at 9:20 PM

      Hi Noel. Now that's something for the books. =) Thanks for the information. =) Would try to blog about it when I revisit. =)

      Delete
  2. MarjorieMarch 27, 2018 at 2:57 PM

    The dog is named tomato? How cute! I actually kind of expect that they have the best doctors in Japan. I saw this video that shows how they train their surgeons, it was both clever and difficult. Looks like your kid is having so much fun running around in that area. I hope you have more Japan stories, they are my favorite in your blog.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 31, 2018 at 9:22 PM

      Hi Marge. Thanks for visiting my blog. =) I do agree that Tomato is a cute name. Sadly he passed away a year after our visit. Hope to hear more from you on my next articles. =)

      Delete
  3. KristylleMarch 27, 2018 at 7:14 PM

    I guess I can call it a day well spent. Japan has always been by dream destination, and I hope I can visit the place soon. I love the food and I would like to try eating their cuisine right on their hometown. The "normal" looking hospital may be a facade, knowing Japan as a first world country, I guess medical aspect should be top notch. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 31, 2018 at 9:26 PM

      Hi Kristylle, that's true, despite being a normal looking hospital located in a little known prefecture, Seiyu is home to the best surgeons in the country. =)

      Delete
  4. Rye SantiagoMarch 28, 2018 at 5:04 AM

    I absolutely love those public eateries in Japan! I truly love the fact that Japan is able to merge both the modern and the uniquely Japanese to create an authentic Japanese atmosphere. I'm really glad that you relished your walks on that day. It wasn't exactly what normal tourists would do, and that's what has made it very personal and memorable. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 31, 2018 at 9:29 PM

      I agree Rye. Sometimes, the best adventure is when one simply stops being a tourist and learn to immerse oneself to the culture of the country visited.

      Delete
  5. Shreya SahaMarch 28, 2018 at 10:24 AM

    Beautiful pictures. Hope Toshi does great and Tomato stays healthy. Loved how you spent the time with Ella! Nice share.

    ReplyDelete
  6. leeMarch 28, 2018 at 11:05 AM

    hopefully next year my kid and I could go to Japan. we wanna experience Japan culture and theme parks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 31, 2018 at 9:32 PM

      Hope that it pushes thru and you get to enjoy your trip. =)

      Delete
  7. NehaMarch 29, 2018 at 1:16 PM

    I guess you made the most of your trip to Wakayama Prefecture along with a satisfying health checkup. The kid definitely had a wonderful time running around in the open and I see her enjoying the ride also thoroughly. The place is definitely beautiful

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 31, 2018 at 9:33 PM

      I agree Neha. The field is not even a tourist destination but when you see it, you'd fall in love with it. It's quite picturesque.

      Delete
  8. Erica JahnMarch 29, 2018 at 9:03 PM

    awww i am so hungry looking at your photos and nostalgic too.. this is the best season to go to japan ... well.. i cant go back yet.. but i really hope i can... i have been reading your posts for days now :) really love japan!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 31, 2018 at 9:23 PM

      Same here. I really do love Japan, I hope I get to revisit the country again this year. =)

      Delete

Post a Comment

Book your hotel thru KLOOK

Klook.com
Subscribe and get updated with the latest travel articles of The Backpack Adventures

Popular posts from this blog

Imus City Plaza - Cavite

Image
Located in the center of the Poblacion or town proper of Imus City in the province of Cavite, Imus City Plaza is one of the city's scenic and historical attractions. Imus City Plaza Imus City Plaza Details This plaza is located in front of the equally historical Imus Cathedral and Imus City Hall . Imus City Plaza is also the first place to greet you if you're heading to the cathedral via Sapinoso Street.  Imus City Plaza - Imus City, Cavite General Licerio Topacio The general guarding the flag Checking out each angle of the monument Imus City Plaza History Imus City Plaza is probably easily remembered because of the monument with two vintage artillery flanking it. The monument stands as an honor to the children of Imus who joined the fight for the independence of the country against Spain. As for the man standing on top of the monument, he is General Licerio Topacio . He is one of the most notable sons of Imus. He is famously known for honorably declining
Keep reading

Casa Hacienda de Tejeros - Cavite

Image
Located in Rosario in the province of Cavite, Casa Hacienda de Tejeros is famously known as the location of the historic Tejeros Convention of 1897. Casa Hacienda de Tejeros Casa Hacienda de Tejeros history Casa Hacienda de Tejeros was originally built in the 17th century. The hacienda and its surrounding lands were formerly owned by the Augustinian Recollects. The estate was once the largest and grandest estate in the country. It once covered as much as 1,125 hectares with the casa occupying 4 hectares of it. Casa Hacienda de Tejeros - Rosario, Cavite The NHI Marker of the Casa Hacienda de Tejeros The name tejeros came from the Spanish name tejer , which means "to weave". It's due to the fact that the weaving industry is one of the major industries of the municipality of Rosario. Going back to its historical importance, Casa Hacienda de Tejeros played an important role in 1897 when it hosted the assembly that the new leaders of the revolution were elected.
Keep reading

Bonifacio Shrine in Indang - Cavite

Image
Located in Barangay Limbon, Indang in the province of Cavite, the Bonifacio Shrine of Indang is one of the historical landmarks dedicated to the Father of the Philippine Revolution -Andres Bonifacio.  Bonifacio Shrine of Indang Bonifacio Shrine in Indang History Bonifacio Shrine in Indang marks the location of the nipa hut where Andres Bonifacio was seized and captured by the soldiers of his political rival and fellow revolutionary Emilio Aguinaldo in 1897. It was also here that Bonifacio was gravely injured after he was shot by an arresting soldier when he was being dragged to Indang town proper to be imprisoned. Bonifacio Shrine in Indang , Cavite This is how I look like pre-sneeze. The arrest of Bonifacio Philippine Historical Commission marker Presently, the historical nipa hut did not win against the tests of time. A small public park was constructed where the nipa hut was said to have once stood. The park features a statue of a seemingly very surprised Andres
Keep reading

Fukagawa Roadside Station – Hokkaido

Image
Fukagawa Roadside Station  ( 道の駅 ライスランドふかがわ ) is one of the 128 roadside stations spread across Hokkaido. It is located at 59-7 Hirosato, Otoecho in Fukagawa City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Fukagawa Roadside Station Fukagawa Roadside Station details Fukagawa Roadside Station is officially called Roadside Station Riceland Fukagawa . It follows the theme “Fukagawa, the city of rice”. It is a place where visitors can buy high-quality Fukagawa rice and also a place where visitors can learn about rice and agriculture. Fukagawa Roadside Station - Fukagawa City, Hokkaido Prefecture Fukagawa Roadside Station was registered last August 13, 2002, and was given registration number 17.  Photos outside Fukagawa Roadside Station At present the roadside station has the following amenities: General Information It is located right after you enter the front entrance of the roadside station. Motorists can get information about tourist spots, restaurants, public facilities, and even road info and we
Keep reading

Jose Rizal Shrine in Calamba - Laguna

Image
Located at Francisco Mercado Street corner Jose P. Rizal Street, Barangay 5 Poblacion, Calamba City in the province of Laguna, Jose Rizal Shrine  ( Dambana ni Rizal ) is the birthplace of Dr. Jose P. Rizal -the National Hero of the Philippines. Jose Rizal Shrine (Calamba) Jose Rizal Shrine History Jose Rizal Shrine is probably well known as the ancestral house of Rizal's family. The house serves as a museum that contains furniture and items that belong to the Rizal family. Jose Rizal Shrine - Calamba City, Laguna Young Jose Rizal with his dog I wonder what Young Rizal had in mind Rizal Shrine NHI Marker For those who don't know, the house that stood in the lot is actually only a replica of the old ancestral house which was destroyed during the Second World War. The replica was constructed right after the war. The construction was supervised by the late National Artist Juan Nakpil. It was inaugurated in 1950. The entrance to Jose Rizal Shrine
Keep reading

A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps

Image
Japan is undeniably a collector's paradise. As a matter of fact, there are a plethora of different things to collect here that are catered to every collector's unique taste and preference.  Anime fans have their usual toys, mangas, and memorabilia. Pokemon fans have numerous Pokemon Centers that sell an assortment of Pokemon merchandise. Kitkat collectors have more than 300 flavors of Kitkat to try out. Pilgrims have the temple stamps called goshuin which I wrote about last time. These are but some of the numerous possible things to collect in Japan . A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps However, since I'm promoting budget travel, my article today talks about something that you can collect for FREE . Yup, you read that right. All you need to have is a clean notebook or tickler and an ever-watchful eye. A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps Eki stamps , also called train station stamps, are rubber ink stamps that are typically found in most train stations in Japan. These stamps f
Keep reading

Jigokudani - Hokkaido

Image
Jigokudani ( 登別地獄谷 ) or Hell Valley in English is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Noboribetsu City. It is located at Noboribetsuonsencho/Noboribetsu Onsen Town in Noboribetsu City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Jigokudani Jigokudani details Nestled at the western foot of the active volcano "Katataraku" lies Jigokudani , a geothermal wonderland that forms a part of the "Noboribetsu Volcano" along with Oyunuma and Hiyoriyama . With a diameter of approximately 450 meters and covering an area of around 11 hectares, Jigokudani serves as the source of Noboribetsu Onsen , a renowned hot spring town where high-temperature fumaroles and hydrothermal activity continue to mesmerize visitors. In recognition of its unique ecological importance, Jigokudani has been designated as a "Special Protection Area" within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park . Jigokudani - Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido Prefecture The formation of Jigokudani can be traced back to vo
Keep reading

Daisetsuzan National Park - Hokkaido

Image
Daisetsuzan National Park ( 大雪山国立公園 ) spans 2,267 square kilometers and encompasses 16 peaks, offering diverse trails, abundant wildlife, and alpine flora. This is the largest national park in Hokkaido, Japan . This vast park covers parts of Kitami City, Asahikawa City, Furano City, and the towns of Higashikawa, Kamifurano, Minamifurano, and Kamishihoro. However, a large part of the park is inside the town of Kamikawa but for this article, I will write about my experience in the Higashikawa part of the Daisetsuzan National Park . Daisetsuzan National Park  Daisetsuzan National Park details Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan 's northernmost prefecture, lies the breathtaking Daisetsuzan National Park . Known affectionately as the "roof of Hokkaido," this expansive park is a haven for nature lovers, adventurers, and seekers of tranquility. Daisetsuzan National Park - Hokkaido Spanning an impressive 2,267 square kilometers, Daisetsuzan National Park is home to the awe
Keep reading

Agusan Del Sur: Bunawan Ecopark and Wildlife Reservation Center

Image
Found in Barangay Consuelo, Bunawan in the province of Agusan Del Sur, Bunawan Ecopark and Wildlife Reservation Center became famous for its world known centerpiece exhibit. Bunawan arc That exhibit is named Lolong , the world's longest salt water crocodile ever caught. Lolong was captured in Bunawan Creek, a part of the vast Agusan Marsh on September 3, 2011. Lolong In November of the same year, an Australian crocodile expert from the National geographic measured Lolong and confirmed that the crocodile was indeed the longest ever caught. the enormous Lolong measured 20 feet and 24 inches from snout to tail beating the Australian croc named Cassius which formerly holds the said title. A young kid views the croc 5 times his size Six months later, Lolong was officially certified by the Guinness Book of World records as the " World's Biggest Crocodile in Captivity ". Bunawan Mayor Elorde with some foreign guests Bunawan Mayor Cox Elorde t
Keep reading

Kamay ni Hesus Shrine - Quezon

Image
Kamay ni Hesus Shrine,  or simply Kamay ni Hesus   is a famous religious shrine and grotto. It is l ocated in Barangay Tinamnan, Lucban in the province of Quezon. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine Kamay ni Hesus Shrine History Also known as  Via Dolorosa Grotto , Kamay ni Hesus Shrine was built under the initiative of Fr. Joseph "Joey" Faller in 2003. He is known as a gifted healing priest. Due to Fr. Faller's healing masses, Kamay ni Hesus Shrine became one of the country's most visited healing centers. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine - Lucban, Quezon Statues of saints can be seen in different areas of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine A replica of Pieta by Michelangelo Pilgrims look like ants from a distance. Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church Inside the Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church One of the highlights of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is the 50-foot statue of Christ with his arm wide open found on the top of a hill. This statue is often referred to as the Risen Christ or Ascending
Keep reading