Today was a day I’d been eagerly anticipating—the Rumoi Moekko Haru Matsuri! This year’s festival felt extra special, as it’s the first one held in four years, making it a big moment for everyone in Rumoi. I’m part of the Rumoi High School Team, and we’re competing in the Moekko Banba Race, the festival’s main event.
We set off early, and my family and I drove over to Rumoi Roadside Station. Once there, I joined up with the 10-man Rumoi High School Team composed of me, my co-teachers, and our school staff Sekiguchi-san. We enjoyed a little pre-race bonding. My wife took on the role of event photographer, while my daughter wandered the festival grounds with her best friend from Midorigaoka Elementary School, soaking in the festivities.
The Moekko Banba Race was the highlight of today's festival, and it was held at Senba Park, which was just behind the Rumoi Roadside Station. During the race, our team managed to score two wins before fatigue set in during our third match against the Firefighter Team. Although we didn’t secure a final victory, the experience was unforgettable—it brought us closer as colleagues, friends, and a team.
Group photo with the Rumoi High School Faculty Team
Next year, we’re determined to come back stronger and give it our all to win. With winter slowly fading, our family is back to resuming our #Hokkaido179 road trips, revisiting nearby spots, and planning new adventures. Hopefully, I’ll get my driver’s license next month, which will open up even more destinations for us to explore together.
Updated: October 30, 2020 Our adventure today will take us 46.11 kilometers south from kilometer 0 in Manila. The historic atmosphere still lingers due to the historical landmarks that you can see all around this place. One of the most famous landmarks this city has to offer is the Rizal Shine or more popularly known as Rizal's house. However I'm not here to give you a history adventure but instead, I will tell you the different side of this city. 88 Hotspring Resort and Spa Calamba City in the province of Laguna is a city that has more resorts than the number of days in a year. Because of the fast-growing number of resorts (661 and counting), this city earned the nickname Resort Capital of the Philippines. 88 Hotspring Resort and Spa - Calamba, Laguna Travelers and resort seekers who didn't read my blog The Adventurer's List would surely be unprepared for what's to come. It would surely take a day for you to choose and pick the most suitable reso...
Utashinai Roadside Station , officially known as Roadside Station Utashinai Tyrol ( 道の駅 うたしないチロルの湯 ) , is one of the roadside stations around Hokkaido. Located at 72-2 Nakamura, Utashinai City , this station is more than just a stopover—it’s a gateway to discovering the charm of Hokkaido's Central, Northern, and Eastern regions. Utashinai Roadside Station Revisited 2023 My family and I first visited Utashinai Roadside Station on September 11, 2022 , during a memorable road trip spanning from September 9 to 11. At the time, it marked my 314th day in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) under the JET Programme . The visit was part of a cherished tradition: my daughter and I collect roadside station stamps for the Hokkaido Stamp Rally , a popular activity for locals and travelers alike. Utashinai Roadside Station - Utashinai City, Hokkaido Prefecture We returned on August 13, 2023 , my 650th day in Japan , making it the first stop on an exciting day trip through Mi...
Located in the vicinity of Mt. Nagpatong in Maragondon in the province of Cavite, Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park mark the supposed place where Andres Bonifacio and his brothers Procopio were executed in 1897. Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park History We learned from the previous post about Bonifacio Trial House the story of the trail leading up to the last days of Andres Bonifacio . Since I did not fully elaborate on his death, I think it is very relevant to talk about it now in relation to our featured destination - The Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park . Check out the images on the BAYANI Check out the images on the KKK A perfect angle to see the KKK and Bayani I'm wondering if that face is scared, shocked, or excited... The statue of Andres Bonifacio wearing a very fashionable camisa de chino Our local guide showed us the way to the peak of Mt. Nagpatong After his...
Minamifurano Roadside Station ( 道の駅 南ふらの ) is one of the roadside stations spread around Hokkaido Prefecture. It is located along National Route 38 at 687 Ikutora in the town of Minamifurano, Sorachi District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Minamifurano Roadside Station Minamifurano Roadside Station Details Minamifurano Roadside Station is one of Hokkaido’s outstanding roadside stations, combining convenience, culture, and natural beauty in one remarkable location. Officially registered on April 22, 1993 , as Registration Number 3 , this popular stop is more than just a roadside station—it’s an experience that celebrates the charm and uniqueness of Minamifurano. Minamifurano Roadside Station - Minamifurano town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Landmark with Iconic Architecture One of the station’s standout features is its architecture, inspired by the town’s connection to canoeing on Lake Kanayama and the Sorachi River. The building’s design, shaped like the tip of a canoe’s axle, i...
Kunimare Sake Brewery ( 国稀酒造㈱ ) , located in the charming town of Mashike in Hokkaido, is the northernmost sake brewery in Japan . With a history spanning over a century, this iconic brewery has preserved its traditional sake-making techniques while earning its status as an important cultural property designated by the Japanese government. Kunimare Sake Brewery Revisited 2023 My journey to Kunimare has become a cherished tradition, with each visit offering a unique perspective and deepening my appreciation for Japanese culture. Kunimare Sake Brewery - Mashike town, Hokkaido Prefecture First Visit: A Memorable Introduction My first encounter with Kunimare Sake Brewery was on April 10, 2022 , my 160th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme . Accompanied by my ALT friends, we were awestruck by the sheer historical significance of the brewery. Exploring its informative exhibits and indulging in a free sake tasting session made for an unforgettable cultural experience. Sec...
10 Things to Do in Kitahiroshima City Kitahiroshima ( 北広島市 ) is a city located in the Ishikari Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan . It is the place where Dr. Clark left his famous words in "Boys Be Ambitious." The name " Kitahiroshima " literally means " North Hiroshima City ." On September 1, 1996, the town of Hiroshima was upgraded to city status. However, since there was already a city named Hiroshima in Hiroshima Prefecture, the municipality was renamed Kitahiroshima to avoid having two cities with the same name. For those planning to visit this vibrant city to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Kitahiroshima City : Kitahiroshima City manhole cover 1. Take a picture of the manhole cover of Kitahiroshima . So far, I have seen 1 unique manhole cover. It is commonly found around the city. Hiroshima Shrine 2. Visit the Hiroshima Shrine ( 廣島神社 ) , the main shrine of Kitahiroshima City. You can visit at any time of day to o...
Hagoromo-tei Memuro Branch ( 回転ずし 羽衣亭 芽室店 ) is one of the two conveyor belt sushi restaurants of Ankai Co., Ltd. It is located at 1-42 Higashi 8-jo 9-chome in the town of Memuro, Kasai District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Hagoromo-tei Memuro Branch Hagoromo-tei Memuro Branch Details Established in 1983, Hagoromo-Tei proudly represents the Tokachi region, renowned for its high food self-sufficiency rate and natural abundance. This area, blessed with fertile fields, dairy farms, and rich fishing waters, provides the fresh, high-quality ingredients that define Hagoromo-Tei ’s menu. Hagoromo-tei Memuro Branch - Memuro town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Unique Sushi Experience The Hagoromo-Tei Memuro Branch offers a sushi experience that combines quality, variety, and affordability. The rotating conveyor features an enticing selection of beautifully crafted sushi, catering to both traditional tastes and adventurous foodies. Seasonal specials add an exciting touch, ensuring eve...
Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” ( 道の駅 マリーンアイランド岡島 ) is one of the roadside stations scattered all over Hokkaido. It is located along National Route 238 in 1978-13 Okashima, in the town of Esashi, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” Details Registered as an official roadside station on April 16, 1996, with Registration Number 28, Roadside Station "Marine Island Okajima" is a must-visit destination along National Route 238. Designed to mimic a ship sailing through the majestic Sea of Okhotsk, this roadside station is a favorite stop for travelers exploring Esashi Town and its scenic coastline. Roadside Station "Marine Island Okashima" - Esashi town, Hokkaido Prefecture Discover Esashi’s Seafood Treasures At the Esashi Town Specialty Products Direct Sales Shop , visitors can indulge in the best seafood the town has to offer. Highlights include: Hairy Crabs : Esa...
My family and I had the opportunity to explore Asahiyama Zoo ( 旭川市旭山動物園 ) for the first time on November 20, 2022 , marking my 384th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme . It was the highlight of our day trip to Asahikawa City. We all enjoyed the numerous facilities in the zoo. Asahiyama Zoo Revisited 2023 That didn’t stop me from bringing my siblings there during our Sibling Roadtrip #3 when they visited Hokkaido last July 27, 2023 . It was the highlight of the day, and we spent the whole day exploring the vast zoo. Asahiyama Zoo - Asahikawa City, Hokkaido Prefecture A Brief History of Asahiyama Zoo Located at the northernmost part of Japan, Asahiyama Zoo was inaugurated on July 1, 1967, under the visionary leadership of then- Mayor Kōzō Igarashi . The zoo initially showcased 75 animal species, and despite challenges like dwindling attendance, it reinvented itself into a leading wildlife conservation center. Innovative exhibits introduced since the late 1990...
Akabira Tokugawa Castle ( 赤平徳川城 ) also called Akabira Castle or wrongly as Hokkaido Castle is a replica castle located along National Route 38 at 174 Horookacho, Akabira City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Akabira Tokugawa Castle Akabira Tokugawa Castle details Akabira Tokugawa Castle may not be a real historical site, but its story is just as fascinating. Built in 1991 by Matsuzawa Yoroi Co., Ltd , a manufacturer of festival dolls, Akabira Tokugawa Castle has served as a showroom and manufacturing factory. It boasts four floors of unique and interesting attractions, including a souvenir and doll-making demonstration area on the first floor, an impressive doll display and sales area on the second and third floors, a Hina doll display and Japanese restaurant on the fourth floor, and an armored helmet exhibit on the fifth floor. The castle also has a sixth floor, which once served as an observatory tower. Akabira Tokugawa Castle - Akabira City, Hokkaido Prefecture Although the cast...
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