Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still buzzing from all the craziness in Kikuchi. 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 konbini on Kōen-dōri. You know, the one with the best onigiri? I grab a couple, and boom! I spill soy sauce all over my shirt. Great start, huh? I’m standing there, looking like a walking sushi disaster. But whatever, I’m hungry.
So, I’m munching on my onigiri, walking down the street, and I see this cute little park, Kikuchi Park, I think? It’s got these cherry blossoms that are just chef’s kiss. I’m snapping pics like a tourist. I mean, who wouldn’t? But then, outta nowhere, this kid runs by, and I swear he almost knocks me over. I’m like, “Dude, chill!” But he just laughs and keeps running. Kids these days, right?
Then I decide to check out the Kikuchi River. It’s supposed to be peaceful, but nah, not today. There’s this group of people having a picnic, and they’re blasting music. Like, come on! I’m trying to enjoy nature here! But then, I hear this old dude start singing along. And he’s got a voice! I’m talking karaoke champion level. I can’t help but laugh.
After that, I stroll over to the Kikuchi City Museum. I’m thinking, “Let’s get some culture.” But it’s closed! Like, seriously? I’m standing there, staring at the locked doors, feeling all kinds of betrayed. I mean, who closes a museum on a Saturday?
So, I’m wandering around, trying to find something to do. I end up on Shōwa-dōri, and there’s this little shop selling handmade crafts. I’m checking out these cool pottery pieces, and the shop owner starts chatting me up. She’s super nice, but her English is like, real limited. We’re playing charades, and I’m trying to explain that I’m just browsing. It’s hilarious. I end up buying this weird-looking cup. I have no idea what I’ll do with it, but it’s a memory, right?
Then, I hit up a local ramen joint. Oh man, the ramen! It’s like a hug in a bowl. I’m slurping away, and this guy next to me starts talking about the best spots in Kikuchi. He’s all hyped about the hot springs. I’m like, “Dude, I need to check that out!” But then he goes on about how it’s super crowded on weekends. Ugh, typical.
By now, I’m feeling a mix of happy and annoyed. I mean, this city is full of surprises! I decide to head back to the park. Maybe I’ll catch that kid again and challenge him to a race. But as I’m walking, I trip over a crack in the sidewalk. Classic me, right? I’m on the ground, laughing at my own clumsiness.
Finally, I plop down on a bench in the park, just soaking it all in. The sun’s setting, and the sky is this beautiful orange. I’m thinking, “Kikuchi, you wild little city, you’ve got my heart.” I pull out my phone to text my friends about the day, but then I realize I’ve got no signal. Of course!
So, I sit there, just me and my thoughts. I’m grateful for the chaos, the laughter, and the weirdness. Kikuchi, you’ve been a trip. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!