Man, what a day! I’m tellin’ ya, being a Master of the Forest ain’t always chill vibes. So, I roll into Itoigawa, right? This city is like a hidden gem in Japan. Seriously, it’s got mountains, rivers, and the sea all in one place. I mean, who wouldn’t wanna chill here? But today? Ugh, today was a rollercoaster.
First off, I hit up the Itoigawa Seaside Park. It’s this massive stretch of green by the coast. I’m talkin’ picnic spots, playgrounds, and a killer view of the Sea of Japan. I’m just vibin’, ya know? Then BAM! Outta nowhere, a seagull swoops down and snatches my onigiri! Like, dude, that was my lunch! I’m standin’ there, mouth agape, like, “Did that just happen?” I swear, that bird had the audacity of a king.
So, I’m fuming, right? I decide to stroll down to the main street, Nishi-cho. It’s got all these cute shops and cafes. I’m hopin’ to find something to munch on. I pop into this little joint called “Katsuya.” Best katsu I’ve ever had! I’m talkin’ crispy, juicy, and just the right amount of sauce. I’m in heaven! But then, I spill my drink all over the table. Classic me. I’m like, “Great, now I’m a mess.”
After that, I’m feelin’ a bit better, so I wander over to the Itoigawa History Museum. It’s pretty cool, actually. They’ve got all this stuff about the area’s history, like how it was a key spot during the Edo period. I’m readin’ about the ancient trade routes and thinkin’, “Man, these folks had it rough.” But then, I see this exhibit about local legends. There’s this story about a giant snake that protects the mountains. I’m like, “Yo, I need to meet this snake!”
But then, I get a text from my buddy. He’s like, “Dude, meet me at the Itoigawa Station.” I’m thinkin’, “Ugh, fine.” So, I hustle over there. The station’s kinda cute, with its wooden architecture and all. But when I get there, he’s late. Like, seriously? I’m standin’ there, watchin’ the trains come and go, and I’m just like, “Where is this guy?”
Finally, he shows up, all outta breath. He’s like, “Sorry, man! Got caught up in traffic.” I’m like, “Traffic? In a small city?” But whatever, we decide to hit up the local izakaya. It’s called “Yamato.” The vibe is chill, and the food is bomb. We’re laughin’, drinkin’ sake, and I’m feelin’ all warm and fuzzy inside.
But then, outta nowhere, this guy at the next table starts yellin’. He’s all worked up about something. Turns out, he’s mad about the price of beer. I’m like, “Dude, it’s not that serious.” But he’s on a rant, and I’m just tryin’ to enjoy my grilled fish.
After that, we head back outside. The streets are lit up, and it’s kinda magical. I’m walkin’ down Otemachi Street, and the lights are twinklin’. I can hear the waves crashin’ nearby. It’s peaceful, ya know? But then, I trip over a curb. Classic! I’m like, “Really? I can’t even walk straight?”
As the night winds down, I’m thinkin’ about how wild today was. From seagulls to snakes, and everything in between. Itoigawa, you’ve got my heart. I’m exhausted but happy. I can’t wait to come back and explore more. Just gotta watch out for those sneaky birds next time!