Japan Diaries 2: Day 14

Day 14 May 30, 2018

Rainy Tsubasagaoka

It seems like all the rain that did not fall in the past few days fell today. According to the weather forecast, this will continue until the evening. With this much rain, I suddenly missed our trip to Shirahama Beach a few days back. How I wish the weather today was that nice. 


Regardless, the good thing about this weather was that it gave us no choice but to rest and prepare for our 4-day trip to Gifu and Nagano Prefectures tomorrow.  My wife and I also took this opportunity to cook for our Japanese family and clean our room. 
No outdoor adventures for us today

A rainy view from our room

Hot cocoa for breakfast

Our version of Tuna Pasta also for breakfast

 During lunch, Mr. Toshi and I got a lengthy chat about some good to know things about Japanese culture and tradition. We also discussed our itinerary for our trip tomorrow. 
Nilagang baboy for lunch

Lunchtime with our Japanese family

Hope Springs with Japanese subtitles... nice!

 That afternoon, we watched the 2012 film, Hope Springs which was surprisingly a good film. We planned to have a movie marathon but lost the drive as we have watched all other upcoming movies. Ella benefited from this decision as she binge-watched the Little Pony and Peppa Pig episodes on Youtube. 
Look who had a My Little Pony marathon after the movie!

 Overall, we might not have visited anything new today but I could safely say that each one of us had a funfilled day in the sense that we got another chance to serve our Japanese family and also spend another quality time with them.

Mr. Toshi and Ella bonding with Yomogi

That night, I got quite a challenge falling asleep as I was very excited about where we'd be going tomorrow...

Gifu and Nagano here we go!!! 😄😄

PREVIOUS: Japan Diaries 2: Day 13
NEXT: Japan Diaries 2: Day 15

Location: Kumatori, Sennan District, Osaka Prefecture, Japan

Comments

  1. Ashli FergusonFebruary 22, 2019 at 10:17 PM

    AHHH !! haha I need to know where you're going next!! Rainy days can be good but we've had them for so long where I live that I'm like NOOO I AM DONE! haha

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:26 PM

      hahaha! Thank God I live in the Philippines which is a tropic country.

      Delete
  2. SamarFebruary 22, 2019 at 10:28 PM

    Seriously, It really feels good sometimes during rain, but not all the time...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:27 PM

      I do agree with you but when you are on a travel to other countries you would surely hate it when it rains.

      Delete
  3. LISA KAELA YUFebruary 22, 2019 at 11:01 PM

    Oh my gosh, the food looks super yummy. Thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Luna SFebruary 22, 2019 at 11:45 PM

    It's been raining a lot here lately as well. It looks like you had some good food to keep you warm!

    ReplyDelete
  5. runliftcookFebruary 23, 2019 at 12:02 AM

    This looks really great! I will have to visit Japan sometime

    ReplyDelete
  6. Choogie Rocks My SocksFebruary 23, 2019 at 12:40 AM

    Looks like a great time spent with family, even if you were stuck inside. Your food pictures are making me hungry and I think I may go try my hand at some Tuna Pasta as well :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:30 PM

      Thanks for the kind comment. Come visit me and we'll make one tuna pasta for you as well.

      Delete
  7. UnknownFebruary 23, 2019 at 3:57 AM

    Japan looks amazing!! Thanks for sharing your moments and photos :)

    ReplyDelete
  8. beautyfoodymomFebruary 23, 2019 at 5:36 AM

    Yes I have heard it can get dreary and rainy - one of my future sister in laws is studying abroad there!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:32 PM

      Oh lucky her. She has a year or more to enjoy Japan.

      Delete
  9. FolabestFebruary 23, 2019 at 5:36 AM

    You really had a great time and enjoy yourself. Can't wait to read from you soon

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:33 PM

      Thank you so much. Please do subscribe to my blog. Thank you!

      Delete
  10. kellyFebruary 23, 2019 at 6:54 AM

    Sounds like you were still able to find joy in the day. I hope you enjoyed all your travels.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:34 PM

      Hello Kelly. Despite the rainy weather I'd say that I still did enjoy the day.

      Delete
  11. Stace EdohaFebruary 23, 2019 at 11:32 AM

    Japan is so wonderful. Can't wait to see where you visit next!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:35 PM

      Thank you so much Stace. Please do check out my blog every Tue and Friday. =) That's when I usually publish new content.

      Delete
  12. UnknownFebruary 23, 2019 at 12:45 PM

    Nice... the food looks tempting. I like the stew that you had for lunch. It looks so healthy. 🤗

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:36 PM

      You should try it out. Will be glad to share its ingredients with you.

      Delete
  13. Hello Draw EasyFebruary 23, 2019 at 4:40 PM

    Love this Blog!!! I always wanted to travel to Japan but never had the chance!
    Just the country itself is so cool plus the best food 🤤😭
    Such a fun blog to watch. It wasn’t too long or to short 💞

    thanks for sharing with us <3

    ReplyDelete
  14. indra kFebruary 23, 2019 at 5:52 PM

    Spending quality time with family at home is so fulfilling.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Elizabeth OFebruary 24, 2019 at 12:16 AM

    Here it is also rainy days are going and I was watching Toy Story movie. The view is so beautiful in the picture. Thanks for sharing your day's story.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:39 PM

      I do agree. Binge watching films is one of the best things to do when it's rainy. =)

      Delete
  16. MatijaFebruary 24, 2019 at 12:39 AM

    You know it's a good day when even with not visiting anything new you had a fulfilling day, and still you did something for the family that welcomed you :D that is also nice

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:40 PM

      That's true Matija. It was a perfect day to do something for our Japanese family. =)

      Delete
  17. Nina NicholsFebruary 24, 2019 at 6:43 AM

    Hey, I miss nilagang baboy. We're not having luck with our weather here as well. Another ice storm coming!

    ReplyDelete
  18. AliyaFebruary 25, 2019 at 12:48 AM

    I’m glad you got to spend some quality time with your family. Thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  19. StrongIslandSocialFebruary 25, 2019 at 2:14 AM

    Wow even though you didn’t get out to see sights in Japan it was still a pleasure to read about how you really enjoyed your Japanese family. Keshia Richmond

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:43 PM

      =) Tomorrow's adventure would surely be a blast. Please check it out. =)

      Delete
  20. danielle riceFebruary 25, 2019 at 6:10 AM

    What a great day of bonding between everyone. I especially love the pic of Mr. Toshi and Ella.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:44 PM

      Thanks so much Danie. That's my fave photo of the day as well.

      Delete
  21. vaishaliFebruary 25, 2019 at 11:41 AM

    Ha ha love the picture of my little pony marathon.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:44 PM

      hahaha. My daughter will look back at this and will be shocked to discover that she still drinks milk in her bottle at this age.

      Delete
  22. TotallymomsenseFebruary 25, 2019 at 11:43 AM

    Loved readingabiut your adventure and the food looks delicious

    ReplyDelete
  23. Carmen | Wellington World TravelsFebruary 25, 2019 at 7:28 PM

    Rain has its advantages!!! Glad you guys had a good family bonding at home. I suddenly craved for Nilaga!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 4, 2019 at 1:46 PM

      True. =) The rain really brought out a new kind of adventure. =)

      Delete
  24. Tara at Beach ExpressionsFebruary 26, 2019 at 12:55 AM

    Thanks for sharing your personal photos from your trip with your readers!

    ReplyDelete
  25. chadden2001February 26, 2019 at 11:45 PM

    That pasta looked so delicious, hope you enjoyed.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 5, 2019 at 12:48 PM

      We did Chadden. It's actually one of my favorite as well.

      Delete
  26. ChristianaFebruary 27, 2019 at 6:13 PM

    This amazing! I am glad you had a great time with your family. I love Japan and hope to pay a visit someday.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Neil Alvin NicerioMarch 5, 2019 at 12:49 PM

      I do hope you get the chance to visit Japan someday. You'd surely love it.

      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

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

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 declinin...
Keep reading

Mizuma Park - Osaka

Image
Mizuma Park ( 水間公園 ) is a large and spacious park near the historic Mizumadera . It is located at 641-1 Mizuma, Kaizuka City in Osaka Prefecture, Japan . Mizuma Park Mizuma Park Details  Mizuma Park is a serene escape nestled in the picturesque mountains behind Mizumadera in Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture. This charming park is a favorite among locals seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's embrace. Mizuma Park - Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture At the park's southern edge, you'll discover a lush forest teeming with Kojii and Arakashi trees, alongside graceful Japanese oak and Quercus, creating a beautifully maintained woodland. This verdant oasis, spanning 5.4 hectares, has been cherished since its opening in 1976, showcasing the city's dedication to preserving its natural treasures. Mizuma Park map Perched on a hill, Mizuma Park offers more than just scenic views. Nearby, Mizumadera offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Accessible via Mi...
Keep reading

Mizumadera - Osaka

Image
Mizumadera ( 水間寺 ) is the head temple of the Tendai sect, nestled on the Ryukokusan mountain. It is located at 638 Mizuma, Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan . Mizumadera Mizumadera details According to temple lore, Mizumadera was established by Gyoki during the Tenpyo era (729-749) at the behest of Emperor Shomu . Gyoki, responding to Emperor Shomu's vision of Kannon Bodhisattva during illness, embarked southwest guided by a swan, which mysteriously vanished, leaving only feathers in Izumi Province. Heading northeast, Gyoki encountered 16 children believed to be manifestations of Kannon Bodhisattva . Led by one of these children, Gyoki reached Mizuma, where two rivers converge. There, as he followed the child's guidance toward a waterfall, a dragon god appeared, presenting a statue of Holy Kannon. The site of this miraculous encounter is marked by a board inscribed with " Waterfall of the Appearance of St. Kannon Bodhisattva ." Mizumadera - Kaizuka City, Osaka...
Keep reading

10 Things to Do in Kaizuka City

Image
10 Things to Do in Kaizuka City Kaizuka ( 貝塚市 ) is a city in Osaka Prefecture, Japan . Kaizuka City was established on April 1, 1889, and became a city on October 1, 1943. The city is historically known for its production of wooden combs made from boxwood. The kanji used for its name kai ( 貝 ) means shellfish and zuka ( 塚 ) means mound.  For those planning to visit the city to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Kaizuka City : Kaizuka City manhole cover 1. Take a picture of the manhole cover of Kaizuka City . So far, I have seen 1 unique manhole cover. It is common around the city.  Kanda Shrine 2. Visit the Kanda Shrine ( 感田神社 ). It’s located near Kaizuka Station and can easily be reached on foot. It’s a popular shrine among locals so please make sure to keep the peace or the place. This shrine also celebrates the Taikodai Festival so if you time your visit in July then you might be able to witness it. You can also pay your respects and offer praye...
Keep reading

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum - Hiroshima

Image
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum ( 広島平和記念資料館 ) is a museum dedicated to preserving the memories of Hiroshima City and also remembering the horrors of using atomic bombs. It is located inside Peace Memorial Park at 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan . Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum details In the wake of the devastating atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945, the city embarked on a journey of remembrance, resilience, and peace-building. The seeds of this endeavor took root in the early 1950s, marking the beginning of the construction of what is now known as the Peace Memorial Exhibition Hall, the cornerstone of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum . Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum - Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture Fast forward to 1955, a pivotal year in Hiroshima's history, as it saw the promulgation of the " Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Ordinance ," laying the legal groundwork for the establishme...
Keep reading

The Best Places to Ski in Hokkaido: Your Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Powder Paradise

Image
The Best Places to Ski in Hokkaido: Your Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Powder Paradise Hokkaido, Japan 's northernmost island, is a world-renowned destination for skiers and snowboarders, offering some of the best powder snow in the world. Each winter, the island attracts visitors from all over the globe, drawn by its famous light, fluffy snow that creates ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Whether you're a beginner looking for gentle slopes or an expert seeking challenging backcountry terrain, Hokkaido has a ski resort for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to ski in Hokkaido , each offering unique experiences and unforgettable snowy adventures. From the bustling slopes of Niseko to the serene beauty of Furano , here’s everything you need to know about the top ski resorts in Hokkaido. Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Ski Area 1. Niseko and Kutchan: The World-Famous Powder Snow Paradise Location: Niseko Town and Kutchan Town, Hokkaido Best for: ...
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

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 And...
Keep reading

Japan Diaries 4: Day 425

Image
Day 425: December 31, 2022 Saturday – New Year’s Eve with our Japanese Family It's a beautiful day here in Kumatori, Osaka Mr. Toshi prepared breakfast for everyone and of course I helped him 😜 It’s a beautiful morning. It’s also the last day of 2022. Since most establishments are closed today, we spent the morning at home resting and helping our Japanese family with the household chores. My wife and I also made some dishes for them. First stop: Eiraku Yumenomori Park The view from the top of the giant slide The walking course around the park The view from the hill in Eiraku Yumenomori Park One of the interesting play equipment in the park Time to head back home We just got some important things and then headed out again right after That afternoon, we drove to Eiraku Yumenomori Park so that the kids would have playtime together. The park is located in Kumatori in Osaka Prefecture. The last time we visited this park was last May 28, 2018 , which was the 12th day of our 2018 Japa...
Keep reading