Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I woke up in my tiny apartment in Shimabara, right? The sun was shining, birds were chirping, and I thought, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I hit up the local konbini on Kōen-dōri for my morning coffee fix. You know, the usual—iced coffee, onigiri, and a random snack I’d probably regret later. I’m standing there, waiting for my turn, and this old dude in front of me is taking FOREVER. Like, c’mon man, it’s just a rice ball! I’m about to lose it, but then I catch a glimpse of the view outside. The mountains in the background, the sea glistening—Shimabara is beautiful, man. It’s like a postcard, but I’m stuck in this line.
Finally, I get my stuff and head out. I’m walking down the streets, and I can’t help but notice how vibrant everything is. The cherry blossoms are still hanging on, and I’m like, “Dude, spring is the best!” But then, BAM! I step in a puddle. My shoes are soaked. Great start, right?
So, I’m trying to shake it off, and I decide to hit up the Shimabara Castle. I mean, it’s iconic, right? I get there, and it’s packed with tourists. I’m like, “Ugh, can’t a texture artist get some peace?” But then I see this little kid running around, pretending to be a samurai. He’s got a stick and everything. I can’t help but laugh. Kids are hilarious, man.
I finally make it inside the castle, and wow, the textures! The wood, the stone, the walls—everything is just screaming for attention. I’m snapping pics like a madman. I’m thinking, “This is gonna be epic for my portfolio.” But then, I overhear this couple arguing. Like, full-on shouting. I’m trying to enjoy my moment, and they’re ruining it! I mean, c’mon, take it outside!
After that drama, I decide to stroll down to the Shimabara Onsen area. I need to relax, right? I find this cute little onsen, and I’m like, “Yes, please!” I soak in the hot springs, and it’s heavenly. But then, I realize I forgot my towel. Ugh! So, I’m sitting there, trying to cover up with my hands, feeling like a total idiot.
Once I’m done, I head to the Shimabara Fish Market. I’m starving, and the smell of fresh seafood is calling my name. I grab some sashimi, and it’s like a flavor explosion in my mouth. I’m in heaven! But then, I see this guy trying to haggle over a fish. Like, dude, it’s not a car! Just buy the fish!
By now, I’m feeling pretty good, but then I decide to take a walk along the coast. The waves are crashing, and I’m just vibing. But then, outta nowhere, a seagull swoops down and snatches my snack! I’m standing there, mouth agape, like, “Did that just happen?” I’m pretty sure I yelled something ridiculous.
As the sun starts to set, I’m walking back through the streets of Shimabara, and I can’t help but feel grateful. Yeah, it was a wild day, but it was MY wild day. I love this city, with its crazy mix of history and modern life. I mean, where else can you find a castle, an onsen, and a fish market all in one day?
So, I get home, exhausted but happy. I plop down on my couch, and I’m like, “What a ride.” Shimabara, you’ve got my heart. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!