Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I wake up in Niihama, right? The sun’s blaring through my window on Kōtō Street. I’m like, “Ugh, another day in this crazy city.” But little did I know, it was gonna be a wild ride.
First off, I hit up my fave spot, the local konbini on Kōtō. I grab my usual—onigiri and a can of iced coffee. I’m standing there, half-asleep, when this old dude starts chatting me up. He’s like, “You know, Niihama has the best festivals!” I’m thinking, “Yeah, buddy, but I just want my breakfast.” But he goes on about the Niihama Taiko Festival. Apparently, it’s a big deal. I’m like, “Cool, cool,” but inside, I’m just trying to wake up.
So, I finally get my food and head out. I’m walking down the street, and bam! I trip over a crack in the sidewalk. Like, seriously? Who’s in charge of this? I’m about to lose it. I look around, and it’s like no one even noticed. Just another day in Niihama, I guess.
Then, I decide to take a stroll by the river. The Yoshino River is so pretty, man. I’m just chilling, enjoying the view, when I see this group of kids playing. They’re laughing and splashing water everywhere. I can’t help but smile. It’s those little moments, ya know? But then, outta nowhere, one of them throws a water balloon, and it hits me! I’m soaked! I’m like, “Really, kids?!” But I can’t stay mad. I just laugh it off.
After that, I’m feeling kinda good, so I head over to the Niihama City Hall area. I’m thinking about checking out the local art scene. I stroll down Kōtō Street again, and I see this mural. It’s massive and colorful, depicting the city’s history. I’m standing there, admiring it, when this lady comes up to me. She’s like, “Isn’t it beautiful?” I’m like, “Yeah, but I’m more of a ‘stick figure’ art kinda guy.” She laughs, and we start chatting. Turns out, she’s an artist! We talk about the Niihama art scene, and she invites me to an exhibit later. I’m like, “Sure, why not?”
But then, the day takes a turn. I’m walking back, and I see this guy on the corner of Kōtō and Shōwa Street. He’s yelling about something. I’m thinking, “Oh great, another street performer.” But no, he’s actually ranting about the city’s traffic. I mean, I get it. Niihama’s traffic can be a nightmare. But dude, chill! I’m just trying to enjoy my day.
Finally, I make it to the exhibit. It’s in this cute little gallery on Kōtō. The vibe is chill, and the art is dope. I’m checking out this piece that’s all about the city’s industrial past. It’s kinda haunting, but in a good way. I’m lost in thought when the artist shows up. She’s super passionate and starts explaining her work. I’m nodding along, but inside, I’m like, “Wow, I’m way outta my league here.”
As the night rolls in, I’m feeling a mix of emotions. Happy, surprised, a bit angry about the water balloon incident, but mostly just grateful for the day. Niihama’s got this weird charm, ya know? It’s chaotic, but in a good way. I head home, thinking about all the unexpected moments.
So yeah, that was my day in Niihama. Full of ups and downs, but that’s life, right? Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!