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. I found myself in Miyota, Japan. Yeah, that Miyota.
So, I roll into town, and it’s like, whoa! The streets are buzzing. I mean, I’m used to the sound of rustling leaves, not honking cars. I hit up the main drag, which is called, uh, what was it? Oh yeah, Route 18. It’s packed with shops and people. I’m like, “Where’s the forest?”
First thing that hits me? The smell. Not the fresh pine I’m used to. Nope. It’s like a mix of ramen and something sweet. I’m starving, so I follow my nose. I end up at this little joint on Chuo-dori. The sign’s all in Japanese, but I’m like, “Whatever, let’s eat!”
I order some ramen, and man, it’s like a flavor explosion! I’m slurping away, and this old dude next to me starts chatting. He’s all, “You’re a forester? You must love trees!” I’m like, “Duh, who doesn’t?” But then he goes on about how he used to climb trees as a kid. I’m thinking, “Bro, you’re like 80!”
After that, I’m feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. But then, bam! My phone buzzes. It’s my boss. He’s like, “We need you back ASAP!” I’m like, “Dude, I’m in Miyota!” But he doesn’t care. So, I’m all stressed out now.
I decide to take a walk to clear my head. I hit up the Miyota Park. It’s got this cool pond and cherry blossoms everywhere. I’m snapping pics like a tourist. I mean, who wouldn’t? But then, I see this kid throwing rocks into the pond. I’m like, “Hey, buddy, that’s not cool!” But he just laughs and throws another one. Ugh! Kids these days!
Then, I’m walking down Kurohime-dori, and I spot this little shop selling all kinds of forest-themed stuff. I’m talking wooden carvings, cute animal plushies, you name it. I’m like a kid in a candy store! I grab a little bear for my niece. She’s gonna love it!
But then, I step outside, and it starts pouring. Like, outta nowhere! I’m soaked in seconds. I’m cursing under my breath, thinking, “Great, just great!” I duck into a café to wait it out. The place is cozy, and the barista is super nice. She hands me a hot cup of matcha. I’m like, “Okay, this ain’t so bad.”
While I’m sipping, I overhear some locals talking about the Miyota River. Apparently, it’s great for fishing. I’m like, “Fishing? I could use some of that!” But then I remember my boss is waiting for me. Ugh!
Finally, the rain stops, and I’m like, “Time to head back.” I take one last stroll down the streets, soaking in the vibe. Miyota’s got this chill energy, you know? I can see why people love it here.
But then, I trip over a curb. Classic me, right? I’m sprawled out on the sidewalk, and this lady rushes over, all worried. I’m like, “I’m fine, just my dignity is gone!” She laughs, and I can’t help but chuckle too.
So, I finally make it back to my car, drenched and exhausted. But you know what? I’m kinda glad I came. Miyota’s got its quirks, but it’s got heart. I’ll be back for sure. Just maybe not on a day when my boss is blowing up my phone!