Man, what a day in Izu! Like, seriously, I’m still buzzing from all the craziness. So, I wake up, right? Sun’s shining, birds chirping, and I’m like, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I hit up the local market on Matsuzaki Street. You know, the one with all the fresh seafood? I’m talking about fish so fresh, they practically wink at ya. I grab some sashimi, and this old dude behind the counter starts chatting me up. He’s all like, “You gotta try the wasabi!” I’m like, “Dude, I’m not trying to breathe fire today.” But he insists, so I’m like, “Fine, let’s do this.” I take a bite, and WHOA, my sinuses are clear! But then I’m coughing like a maniac. Thanks, old man.
After that, I stroll down to the Izu Peninsula. The views are insane! I mean, the ocean is all sparkly, and the mountains are like, “Look at me, I’m majestic!” I’m snapping pics like a tourist, and then BAM! I trip over a rock. Classic me, right? I’m sprawled out on the ground, and this couple walks by, trying not to laugh. I’m like, “Yeah, just practicing my yoga.”
Then I decide to hit up the Izu Shaboten Zoo. I know, I know, it’s a bit cheesy, but hear me out. They got capybaras! Those little guys are the chillest. I’m watching them, and one of them just flops over like, “Life’s too short, man.” I feel that. But then, outta nowhere, a kid runs up and starts yelling. I’m like, “Dude, chill! You’re scaring the capybaras!”
So, I’m feeling all zen, right? But then I get hungry again. I head over to this ramen joint on Izu’s main street. The smell hits me like a freight train. I order the spicy miso ramen, and it’s like a flavor explosion in my mouth. I’m slurping away, and this guy next to me is giving me the side-eye. I’m like, “Bro, you ever had ramen? It’s a whole experience!”
After lunch, I decide to check out the Izu Granpal Park. It’s got this giant Ferris wheel, and I’m like, “Why not?” I hop on, and as we’re going up, I’m thinking, “This is gonna be epic!” But then, the wheel stops at the top. I’m stuck, man! I’m looking down, and my stomach drops. I’m like, “What if I’m stuck here forever?”
Finally, after what feels like an eternity, we start moving again. I’m sweating bullets, but the view is worth it. I can see the whole city, the ocean, everything! I’m feeling on top of the world. But then, I realize I gotta get back down.
So, I head back to the streets, and it’s getting dark. I’m wandering around, and I stumble upon this little izakaya. The vibe is perfect. I grab a seat, and the owner’s like, “You gotta try the yakitori.” I’m like, “You had me at chicken on a stick.”
As I’m munching away, I overhear this group talking about the Izu Onsen. I’m like, “Wait, what? Hot springs? I’m in!” So, I finish my food, and I’m off to find one. I finally find a spot, and let me tell you, soaking in that hot water after a long day is pure bliss. I’m just chilling, thinking about how wild today was.
But then, I realize I left my phone at the izakaya! I’m like, “No way!” I sprint back, and thankfully, the owner saved it for me. I’m so relieved, I almost hug him.
Finally, I make it back to my place, and I’m just sitting there, reflecting on the day. Izu, you crazy little city, you’ve got my heart. From the fish markets to the capybaras, to the ramen and hot springs, I’m exhausted but happy. Can’t wait to do it all again tomorrow!