Man, what a day! I’m a forester, right? So, I’m used to chillin’ in the woods, surrounded by trees and critters. But today? Oh boy, today was a whole different ball game. Hitoyoshi, Japan, you got me all twisted up!
So, I roll into Hitoyoshi early, like, way too early. The sun’s barely up, and I’m already feelin’ the buzz of the city. I’m thinkin’, “This is gonna be a breeze.” But nah, life had other plans. First stop? The famous Hitoyoshi Castle. I’m all excited, right? But it’s closed! Like, seriously? Who closes a castle? I mean, c’mon! I’m standing there like an idiot, staring at the stone walls.
Then I hit up the streets. Oh man, the streets! I’m walkin’ down Kameyama Street, and it’s packed with these cute little shops. I’m like a kid in a candy store. I see this little ramen joint, and my stomach’s like, “Feed me!” So, I go in, and the smell? Wow. I order some tonkotsu ramen, and it’s like a hug in a bowl. I’m slurpin’ away, and this old dude next to me starts chatting. He’s all about the local history, and I’m just nodding, pretending I know what he’s talking about.
But then, outta nowhere, this kid runs in, trips, and spills his drink all over me! I’m soaked! I’m like, “Dude, what’s your problem?” But he just laughs and runs out. I’m standing there, drenched in soda, and the old guy’s cracking up. I can’t help but laugh too. It’s ridiculous!
After that, I decide to check out the Hitoyoshi Onsen. I’m thinkin’, “A hot soak will fix this.” But when I get there, it’s packed! Like, where did all these people come from? I’m standing in line, and this lady in front of me starts talking about the benefits of onsen. I’m like, “Lady, I just want to relax!” Finally, I get in, and it’s heavenly. The hot water is like magic. I’m chillin’ until some dude starts splashing around. I’m like, “Bro, this ain’t a pool!”
So, I’m finally relaxed, right? I head out to the riverbank of the Kuma River. It’s beautiful! The cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and I’m just soaking it all in. I pull out my phone to snap a pic, and guess what? My battery’s dead! Ugh! I’m like, “Really?!”
But then, I see this group of kids flying kites. They’re laughing, and it’s contagious. I can’t help but smile. I start thinking about how simple life can be. Just kids, kites, and the river. It’s a good reminder, ya know?
As the sun starts to set, I’m walking down the streets again, and I stumble upon a festival! There’s food everywhere, and people are dancing. I’m like, “Heck yes!” I grab some yakitori and join in. I’m not a dancer, but who cares? I’m twirling around, laughing, and just living in the moment.
But then, I see a guy drop his phone. I pick it up, and he’s like, “Thanks, man!” But then he looks at me funny. I’m like, “What? You think I’m gonna steal it?” I mean, c’mon!
Finally, I’m heading back to my car, and I’m exhausted but happy. Hitoyoshi, you wild city! You made me laugh, you made me mad, and you made me feel alive. I’m ready to hit the woods again, but I’ll never forget this crazy day.
So, yeah, that’s my Hitoyoshi adventure. Who knew a forester could have such a wild time in the city? Life’s funny like that.