Onsen, Sumo, Golf and too much Tokyo

[Noel Mugavin]

Recently returned for 2 weeks in Japan. Trip was booked and most planning done around May/June. Than a hiccup when due to new and unsociable neighbours moving in, sold up and moved after about 23 years in my humble abode. Fairly stressful time, even more so with very few housing options around, however all worked out in the end. Needless to say, very much looking forward to getting away.
Departure was just after midnight Sunday morning, Cathay Pacific, up the front.
Saturday was the dog's birthday, turned 10. She got pretty spoiled, couple of runs/walks, new toys, sausages from Bunnings and a visit to my old man.


Not so happy a little later on in the night


Flight took off on time, I slept a god 4 or 5 hours before arriving in Hong Kong.


Breakfast prior to arrival,

After arrival a visit to the Bridge for a shower and a coffee, then a wander.






Time to board and unfortunately was a regional configuration.


Lunch and the starter was amazing. Eel, octopus, fish cake and Japanese jellies. I'm not a big seafood eater, but would happily eat this any time.


Mains was a beef that was cooked medium rare.



Arrived into Narita, quickly through immigration and customs. Downstairs to the trains however is an absolute cough show. Little while to get the JR Pass, then a longer line up and wait to get the Skyliner ticket and a train that wasn't full. Haneda is so much calmer.
Into Ueno about 6.30pm, freezing cold and a 10 minute trek to the APA. Got rid of the shorts, thermals and long pants on and off I went looking for something to eat.

 

[Noel Mugavin]

Was in the mood for a deep, rich, black Go go curry, Unfortunately, my sim card kept dropping out, so unable to locate a store. Eventually found a hole in the wall place, did the job.

Skyliner station, across the road from Ueno Station





Stopped at a 711 on the way back to the hotel to stock up on some hand warmers in preparation for the next days journey into Yamagata.
To the hotel and pretty much nodded off straight away.

 

[Noel Mugavin]

Early start, down to the front desk to get my bags forwarded to Wednesday' hotel. Breakfast included, so a quick bite before heading off to Ueno Station

Crisp, but clear morning

My favourite convenience store coffee, non-sweet latte from New Days, then into the station proper


Down into the basement floors for the shinkansen platforms

The 8.13 Tsubasa for me. Detaches from the Yamabiko at Fukushima which then heads off to Sendai, while the Tsubasa will continue on to Yamagata.



Fujisan showing itself


Eventually arrived at Yamagata Station




Only about 20 minutes here, enough time to grab a zunda shake and a quick walk around