Man, what a day in Tateyama! I mean, wow. I woke up thinking it’d be chill, just another day guiding folks up the mountains. But nah, life had other plans.
So, I’m at the Tateyama Station, right? It’s like the hub of everything. I grab my coffee from this tiny shop on Kurobe Street. Best coffee ever, but the barista? Total grump. I mean, c’mon dude, it’s morning! Smile a little! Anyway, I’m hyped, ready to hit the trails.
First group of the day shows up. A bunch of tourists, all excited. They’re snapping pics like they’re at a rock concert. I’m like, “Guys, it’s just a mountain.” But whatever, I get it. Tateyama’s stunning. The views from the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route? Breathtaking. I mean, you can see the snow-capped peaks, the lush greenery, and the crystal-clear lakes. It’s like nature’s own Instagram filter.
We start hiking up the trail. It’s steep, but I’m pumped. Then, outta nowhere, it starts pouring. Like, seriously? I’m soaked, and so are my tourists. They’re whining, “What do we do?” I’m like, “Welcome to mountain life, folks!” But inside, I’m fuming. I didn’t sign up for a water park adventure.
We take shelter under a tree on the side of the road. I’m trying to keep spirits up, cracking jokes. “Hey, at least we’re not in a sauna, right?” They laugh, but I can see the disappointment. I mean, who wants to hike in the rain? But then, it clears up. Just like that! Sun’s out, and it’s like the mountains are saying, “Surprise!”
We hit the trail again, and man, the views are insane. The fresh air, the smell of wet earth, it’s all so alive. I’m feeling good again. We reach the Murodo Plateau, and it’s like a postcard. I’m snapping pics, and my group is finally vibing. They’re all smiles, and I’m like, “See? Worth it!”
But then, I spot a couple of hikers who look lost. I’m like, “Oh no, not today!” I run over, and they’re from Tokyo, totally confused. They thought they could just wing it. I’m like, “Dude, this ain’t a stroll in Yoyogi Park!” I help them out, give ‘em directions, and they’re super grateful. I’m feeling like a hero, but also kinda annoyed. Why don’t people prepare?
After that, we head down to Tateyama Onsen. I’m ready to soak my tired bones. But guess what? It’s packed! Like, I can’t even find a spot. I’m standing there, all grumpy, when this old lady offers me her seat. I’m like, “Wow, thanks!” She’s so sweet, and we start chatting. Turns out, she’s lived in Tateyama her whole life. She tells me stories about the old days, how the town’s changed. It’s fascinating.
Finally, I get to soak. Ahhh, bliss. The hot water feels amazing. I’m just chillin’, thinking about how wild today was. From rain to sunshine, lost tourists to new friends. Tateyama’s got a way of surprising you.
As I’m leaving, I bump into some locals on the street. They’re laughing, sharing food, and I can’t help but join in. They offer me some local delicacies. I’m like, “Heck yes!” I try this thing called “Tateyama Soba.” It’s delicious! I’m stuffed, but it’s worth it.
By the time I head home, I’m exhausted but happy. Tateyama, you crazy little town, you’ve got my heart. Can’t wait for tomorrow’s adventure!