Time has gone by so fast here, it is hard to believe that we are already almost halfway through our trip. At the same time, flying here feels like it was weeks ago due to how much I have seen, tasted, and experienced since. I have had the most mind blowing, incredible food for every meal, from hotel breakfast to traditional meals eaten out of thatched huts – and everything in between. We arrived at the tail end of sakura season, which has been absolutely breathtaking. Anywhere I look there is something beautiful or unusual to capture my attention. Even on the train I have seen stunning mountains, sprawling rice fields and quaint houses.
The most incredible part for me was definitely visiting the Hase Temple. It was filled with an endless variety of trees, statues, flowers and everything in between. It filled me with an awe and serenity that I will never forget. Towards the end, a friend and I climbed a series of steps built into a mountain and as we thought of the culmination of the gardens and looked out to the sea, we just couldn’t put into words how beautiful it was.
It has been wonderful experiencing such a unique culture, tasting delicious food, and bonding so much with the others on the trip and I am beyond excited for the rest of the trip.
The most incredible part for me was definitely visiting the Hase Temple. It was filled with an endless variety of trees, statues, flowers and everything in between. It filled me with an awe and serenity that I will never forget. Towards the end, a friend and I climbed a series of steps built into a mountain and as we thought of the culmination of the gardens and looked out to the sea, we just couldn’t put into words how beautiful it was.
It has been wonderful experiencing such a unique culture, tasting delicious food, and bonding so much with the others on the trip and I am beyond excited for the rest of the trip.