Wow, what a day in Ujiie! Seriously, I’m still buzzing from it. 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? Yeah, that one. I grab my usual—salmon, of course. But guess what? They were out! Like, how do you run out of onigiri? I was ready to throw a fit. I mean, c’mon, Ujiie! Get your act together!
So, I settle for some weird tuna mayo thing. Not the same, but whatever. I’m walking down the street, and I see this cute little cat chilling by the river. I’m like, “Aww, look at you!” But then it just stares at me like I’m the weird one. Cats, man. They have no chill.
Then I decide to stroll along the Uji River. It’s beautiful, right? Cherry blossoms everywhere, and I’m feeling all poetic. But then, BAM! A group of tourists comes through, loud as heck. They’re taking selfies, blocking the path. I’m like, “Excuse me, can I just walk?” But nope, they’re too busy posing. Ugh, I was so annoyed!
After that, I head over to the Ujiie Castle ruins. I mean, I’ve seen better ruins, but hey, it’s history, right? I’m trying to soak it all in, but my phone buzzes. It’s work. Of course. They need a report ASAP. I’m like, “Can’t a writer enjoy some peace?” But nooo, I gotta be the responsible adult.
So, I’m sitting on a bench, typing away. And guess what? My battery dies! I’m like, “Are you kidding me?” I just wanted to enjoy the view! I look around, and there’s this old dude feeding the pigeons. He’s got this whole vibe going on, like he’s the king of Ujiie or something. I’m low-key jealous.
Finally, I decide to grab some coffee at this cute café on Kōen-dōri. It’s called “Kawaii Café” or something. I walk in, and it’s all pastel colors and cutesy stuff. I order a matcha latte, and the barista is super friendly. Like, way too friendly. I’m just trying to get my caffeine fix, not make a new best friend. But she’s chatting me up about the best spots in Ujiie. I’m like, “Lady, I’m just here for the coffee!”
But then, she mentions this hidden temple nearby. I’m intrigued. So, I ask for directions, and she gives me this long-winded explanation. I’m nodding, but inside I’m like, “Just give me the Google Maps link!”
I finally find the temple, and it’s stunning. Seriously, the vibe is so peaceful. I’m taking it all in when suddenly, a group of school kids runs by, laughing and shouting. They’re playing tag or something. I can’t help but smile. It’s like, even in the chaos, there’s joy.
But then, I trip over a rock. Classic me, right? I’m sprawled out on the ground, and the kids stop. They’re staring at me like I’m a total weirdo. I laugh it off, but inside, I’m dying. “Great, now I’m the clumsy foreigner.”
As the sun starts to set, I make my way back to the river. The sky is all pink and orange, and I’m feeling a bit reflective. Ujiie, you’ve been a rollercoaster today. From onigiri drama to tripping in front of kids, it’s been wild.
I finally head home, exhausted but happy. I think about how even the frustrating moments make the day memorable. Ujiie, you’ve got my heart. Just maybe keep the onigiri stocked next time, okay?