Takayama

After five days of hectic Tokyo, it was my plan to visit the countryside in the Japanese Alps- Takayama, for a change of pace. I figured this was a good opportunity to stay at a traditional Japanese Ryokan. The place I picked was perfect for what I was looking for. It was located in the center of town, had a lovely old lady as a host and best of all it was on a river, so i could hear the gentle flow of water at all times. I had the pleasure of sleeping on a tatami mat, wear a yukata, but best of all were my two meals a day, served in my room of course. Each evening I received something like 15 dishes of different goodness including; pickled veggies, steamed tofu, sashimi, salted fish, tempura and much more. Some of the dishes were delicious, others less so, but everything was different and fun to try. I twas a real feast.

On the way to Takayma, I hooked up with a young (18) year old Finish fellow traveling for the on his own. This was a his first solo trip, so as you can imagine he was quite excited. This enthusiasm was heightened by his experience in Tokyo where he picked up/or was picked up by a Japanese girl (and an older one at that!). Apparently, his mother was so shocked by the new that she didn't write to him for several days and when the response came, she simply asked, 'are we to understand that you have a girlfriend now?' Girlfriend, Ha!

I pulled my Fin away from staring at the women and we spent the next day strolling through town. Takayma is extremely charming, with historical houses and a very pleasant country feel to it. I've heard much about the natural host spring in Japan (onsen) and I decided to dip my toes it. We took a short train to an onsen town called Gero, which i believe translates to vomit. We then stumbled into the nearest onsen and after stripping down (totally) we confidently strode into the baths, holding only a small towel-big enough for the front, the back but not both. There were warm baths, hot baths, jacuzzi baths, cold baths and even a little sauna box. This place was heaven. My feet were finally happy and while i'm sure they still don't understand what they did to warrant the constant abuse, I think we've reached an understanding for the time being. Aside from soaking in the waters, I was also amused at the reaction from several children. I'm sure they repeatedly asked their fathers about teh funny looking white man, and why he has hair on his chest. Since this experience, i've been to several other public baths. They are always enjoyable, and despite the nakedness, i don't feel at all uncomfortable. There are time, like yesterday, where i catch Japanese guys staring at my junk (I can promise you it's nothing that interesting) and I don't don't really care. I've seen more naked Japanese men then i was expecting (the expectation for this trip was 1- surely a random crazy) and I hope to see more!

What's a Momosexual?

The Fin and I decided to meet up for drinks that nigh and rock the tow, as best we could before our respective curfews. The first place we went was a bizarre western bar, filed with photos of Hollywood in the 50's and blasting crappy western music. One drink and we were out, resolving to find a cooler place.

After wandering the street for 10 minutes, two random guys took pity on us/took advantage of finding two awesome companions for the night. Both were about forty, one spoke pretty good english, his name was Momo. Momo as in momosexual. I never caught the other guys' name since his english skills were weak, let's just call him Dave.

Momo quickly learned that were were clueless foreigners and had never even tried Qudo. What's qudo you ask? it's Japanese archery, old school, think sumurai style with a three foot bow and everything. momo insisted we try at his expense. I think the last time I shot a bow and arrow was about 20 years ago at camp. My goal here was three fold, not to get shot by the beginner next to me, not shoot anyone and not embarrass myself. Success on all accounts!The target was only about 20 feet away but the bow tension was pretty taught and i didn't know how to aim. The first round (10 arrows?) was a progression and everyone went nuts when I hit the target- high fives all around. By the second round, I was almost read to go pro, I got more than half the arrows on target, it makes a very nice twamp sound, and i even got a bulls eye. Clear, I advance quickly in my samurai training. Step two I believe is enslaving a village.

After shooting we went to grab a drink, isn't it usually the other way around? Naturally this went together with karaoke and since Momo is a total clown, it was fun singing with him. The best song of the night, was 'We are the World' (clearly his request). Momo and I are struggling through the lyrics and when we finally got to the chorus, Dave just erupts in full voice. Very funny, and a fun night for sure.

I've actually just finished my time in Kyoto and I'll be headed to Okayama today. Next time I sit down at a computer, I'll pull my thoughts together.