Man, what a day! I’m still buzzing from all the craziness in Yanagawa. Seriously, this place is wild. I woke up thinking it’d be just another day of fishy business, ya know? But nah, the universe had other plans.
First off, I hit up the Yanagawa River. It’s like the lifeblood of this city. The canals are everywhere, and they’re just so picturesque. I mean, who doesn’t love a good boat ride? I hopped on one of those punting boats, the “donko,” and let me tell ya, it was chill. The guy steering it was a total character. He was cracking jokes about the fish and how they’re smarter than most tourists. I laughed, but honestly, I was like, “Dude, I’m an ichthyologist. I know fish!”
But then, outta nowhere, it started pouring. I mean, like, monsoon-level rain. I was soaked in seconds. I was like, “Great, just great. I came to study fish, not swim with ‘em!” So, I ducked into this little café on Chuo-dori. Best decision ever. They had this matcha latte that was like a hug in a cup. Seriously, I could’ve bathed in it.
While I was sipping, I overheard this convo about the local fish market. Apparently, they had some rare catch today. My ichthyologist instincts kicked in. I had to check it out! So, I dashed over to the Yanagawa Fish Market. It was a total madhouse. Fish everywhere! I was in heaven. But then, I saw this dude trying to haggle over a fish that looked like it had seen better days. I mean, come on, bro! You really think you’re gonna get a deal on that?
I was getting all fired up, thinking about how some people just don’t appreciate the beauty of aquatic life. Like, dude, that fish has a story! But whatever, I let it go. I found this amazing stall selling fresh unagi. I couldn’t resist. I bought a piece, and it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. I was practically dancing in the street.
After that, I wandered down to the Yanagawa Castle ruins. It’s a bit of a trek, but the view is worth it. I was standing there, looking out over the river, and it hit me. This place is steeped in history. I mean, samurai walked these grounds! I felt like I was channeling my inner warrior or something.
But then, I got a bit lost. I took a wrong turn on Nishikata Street. I ended up in this quiet neighborhood, and it was like stepping into a time machine. Old houses, narrow streets, and the smell of something delicious wafting through the air. I followed my nose and found this tiny ramen shop. I swear, the best ramen I’ve ever had. I was slurping like a madman.
Then, just when I thought the day couldn’t get any weirder, I bumped into a local festival. They were celebrating something, and everyone was dressed in these colorful yukatas. I felt like I was in a movie. I joined in, dancing like a fool. I mean, who cares, right? Life’s too short to not dance in the streets of Yanagawa!
But then, I got a bit too into it and tripped over my own feet. Classic me. I landed right in front of this old lady. She looked at me like I was a total idiot, but then she burst out laughing. I couldn’t help but laugh too. It was one of those moments that just makes you feel alive.
As the sun started to set, I made my way back to the river. The light was hitting the water just right, and I felt this wave of gratitude wash over me. Yanagawa, you’ve been a wild ride. I came here to study fish, but I ended up finding so much more.
So yeah, that was my day. Full of fish, food, and a whole lotta fun. I can’t wait to come back and do it all over again. Who knows what other surprises this city has in store for me?