Path along the Jōgasaki Coast

September 18

After leaving the hectic capital, where there was more to see than could possibly be done in just a few days, it almost felt relaxing to have only two destinations for the day.

But before we set off, we were first called for a traditional breakfast at our accommodation. In a large room with tatami mats, several low tables were arranged where we took our seats.

The breakfast was quite unusual for our German palates, but by no means bad. Each of us received a small portable stove – for which there is surely an unknown Japanese word – on which we could prepare our own scrambled eggs. We had fried fish, miso soup, pickled vegetables, sweet beans, and a kind of marshmallow-like fish cake. Of course, we drank green tea.

Surprisingly, despite the tiny portions when considered individually, we ended up quite full.

Afterward, we took the train to the Jōgasaki Coast. There is a small hiking trail along the coast. The starting point is a fishing hut from the 17th century, which now houses a restaurant. However, since we were still quite satisfied from breakfast, we headed straight for the trail.

The path led along the rugged coastline of volcanic rock, past a lighthouse with a kiosk, and over a small suspension bridge to a museum. We took our time and frequently rested on the rocks by the beach. We really enjoyed the hiking trail, which offered impressive views of the jagged coast. So we just kept sitting on the rocks to savor the view.

Eventually, we actually reached the end of the trail, where there was a museum that wasn’t really on my bucket list. But since we were already there, we went in.

It was a lamp museum, featuring Tiffany lamps among other things, with an adjacent flower garden. We first strolled through the garden, which was admittedly quite beautiful and offered an excellent view of the sea. At several locations, you could place your camera on a pedestal and take pictures of yourself at designated photo spots. Somewhat embarrassing, but of course, we did it too!

After that, we explored the exhibition rooms with the lamps and windows. It was actually quite interesting and somewhat nice. Afterwards, we relaxed with a coffee on the terrace of the adjoining café.

Since we still had some time, we headed back to Mount Ōmuro to visit the zoo. Well, there were indeed quite a few animals to see there. However, for some of them, we got the impression that their enclosures did not provide particularly animal-friendly conditions.

To finish up, we went to a restaurant. There I could again prepare my own food on a small stove, while Isi satisfied her hunger for fries and squid.

After that, we returned to the hotel, enjoyed the hot spring one last time, and then went to bed.