Man, what a day! I’m still buzzing from all the craziness in Itako. Like, seriously, this city is wild. I woke up thinking it’d be just another chill dive day. Nope! Not even close.
So, I hit the streets of Itako, right? First stop, the famous Itako River. I mean, this place is known for its beautiful views and all, but today? Ugh. The weather was all over the place. One minute, sunny vibes, next minute, rain pouring like it’s trying to drown me. I’m like, “C’mon, Mother Nature, pick a side!”
I was supposed to meet up with my buddy Kenji at the Itako Fish Market. Dude’s always late, but today? He was like, “I’m on my way!” for an hour. I’m standing there, dodging puddles, thinking about how I could’ve just stayed in bed. But then, I see this old lady selling the freshest eel. I’m talking, like, “I just swam in the river and caught this myself” fresh. I couldn’t resist. I bought one, and it was so good, I almost forgot about Kenji. Almost.
Finally, he shows up, all out of breath. “Sorry, man! Got caught in the rain!” I’m like, “Dude, we’re in Itako. It’s like, the rain capital of Japan!” We laugh it off, grab some eel, and head to the waterfront. The view of the river is insane. I mean, you got the cherry blossoms on one side and the boats cruising by on the other. It’s postcard material, for real.
But then, outta nowhere, this group of tourists shows up. They’re loud, taking selfies, and blocking the whole path. I’m like, “Yo, can we not?” I mean, I get it, Itako is beautiful, but c’mon! I’m trying to enjoy my eel here!
After that, we decide to hit up the Itako Shrine. It’s supposed to be this peaceful spot, right? Wrong! There’s a festival going on. Drums pounding, people dancing, and I’m just trying to find some zen. I’m standing there, trying to meditate, and this kid runs by, almost knocks me over. I’m like, “Dude, chill!” But then I see him laughing, and I can’t help but smile. Kids have that magic, ya know?
So, we finally make it to the shrine. It’s beautiful, all those lanterns and the vibe is just right. I toss a coin in, make a wish, and boom! I feel good. But then, I hear this loud crash. Some guy drops his whole tray of food. I’m talking, like, a disaster zone. Food everywhere! I’m laughing so hard, I almost choke on my eel.
After all that, we decide to chill by the river again. The sun’s setting, and it’s like the sky is on fire. I’m feeling all the feels. Itako, man, it’s got this energy. I’m thinking about how lucky I am to dive in these waters, to experience this city.
But then, just when I thought the day couldn’t get crazier, we see this boat race starting up. I’m like, “No way!” We rush over, and it’s wild! These guys are paddling like their lives depend on it. I’m yelling, “Go, go, go!” like I’m part of the crew. It’s so intense, I’m sweating, and I’m not even in the race!
By the end of the day, I’m exhausted but happy. Itako, you’ve got my heart. I can’t wait to dive again tomorrow. Who knows what’s gonna happen next? But whatever it is, I’m ready for it. Bring it on!