Japan Diaries 4: Day 291

Day 291: August 19, 2022

Friday – From Osaka with Love Day 1

It's a splendid morning, and I'm filled with excitement. Last week, I requested and was granted a well-deserved nenkyu (paid leave), allowing me to relish this day without any work obligations. The reason behind this is that our beloved Japanese family will be flying to Hokkaido to visit us. The plan is to meet them in Sapporo today and then stay there overnight before going on a multi-day road trip. 

Off to Sapporo via Route 231

One of the many tunnels in Route 231

From Rumoi City, we set out around 11 AM, following the picturesque Route 231 along the breathtaking Ishikari coast until we reached the vibrant city of Sapporo. The grandeur of Sapporo, particularly for my wife, who is experiencing the thrill of driving in a bustling metropolis for the first time, was quite overwhelming. However, despite the initial fears of driving and navigating inside the big city, we safely arrived at our destination, the charming One's Villa Sapporo House, around 3 PM.

Sapporo Manhole Cover

One's Villa Sapporo House

Inside One's Villa Sapporo House







Once we checked in, we wasted no time unloading our belongings and making preparations for the arrival of our Japanese family. Our first task was to visit the nearby AEON Mall Asabu Store, where we purchased all the necessary ingredients and drinks for a delightful yakiniku dinner. 

Patisserie Anne Charlotte

Welcome to Hokkaido, Kameyama Family

My wife cooked jingisukan for dinner

From there, we went to Patisserie Anne Charlotte to buy a cake, specially chosen to celebrate our Japanese family's arrival.

Bonding time with our Japanese family





When our long-awaited Japanese family finally arrived, the entire night was filled with joyous moments, shared laughter, and delectable food. We had much catching up to do, as the last time I had seen them was back in early January of this year.

Team Nicerio with the Kameyama Family

Overall, the first day of our extraordinary family road trip, affectionately named "From Osaka with Love," exceeded all expectations. It was a remarkable experience that left us with indelible memories. I invite you to join us as we embark on the second day of our adventure tomorrow, eager to create even more unforgettable moments.

Read more:

Japan Diaries 4: Week 42
Japan Diaries 4: Weekend 42
Japan Diaries 4: Day 287
Japan Diaries 4: Day 288
Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan

Comments

  1. AnonymousFebruary 22, 2024 at 7:37 AM

    I envy you. You have Japanese friends who treats you like family.

    ReplyDelete

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