Japan Diaries 4: Weekend 78

Weekend 78: April 29 – 30, 2023

Weekend 78: April 29 – 30, 2023

Day 544: April 29, 2023

Saturday – Showa Day x PTA in Rumoi High School

It's a delightful Saturday with clear skies and abundant sunshine. Today holds special significance as it is Showa Day, a revered national holiday in Japan. Despite the holiday, we were called upon to attend the PTA meeting at Rumoi High School.

Rumoi High School 4.29.23
Rumoi High School 4.29.23

Sakura blossoms in Rumoi High School grounds
The sakura tree of Rumoi High School is in full bloom today

Although it may seem unfortunate to have work obligations on a holiday, there is a silver lining. As compensation for our dedication today, we will be granted a well-deserved day off on Monday. Moreover, since today is a holiday, we also receive an additional day off that can only be utilized in May.

PTA Meeting in Rumoi High School

PTA Meeting in Rumoi High School

PTA Meeting in Rumoi High School

PTA Meeting in Rumoi High School


This unique arrangement allows us to make the most of our time and find solace in the fact that we will have an extended weekend to relax, recharge, and pursue personal endeavors. The vibrant weather and the promise of an extra day off lend an air of anticipation and excitement to this sunny Saturday.


Day 545: April 30, 2023

Sunday – Rumoi x Sakura Blossoms

As April soon ends, we're grateful for the surprise of sunny weather instead of rain. We made the most of it by having a productive and fun Sunday. Today is officially my first time using my iPhone. We took this beautiful weather as an opportunity to head to Kamuiwa Park to try my new phone's camera, and all I can say is that it was as good (maybe better) as my old DSLR camera.

First stop: MaxValu
First stop: MaxValu

Photos in Kamuiwa Park

Next stop: Kamuiwa Park
Next stop: Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park

Kamuiwa Park



First, we went to MaxValu and DCM to get groceries and cleaning supplies for our cleaning day. But the best part was going to Kamuiwa Park to see the beautiful cherry blossoms. We were mesmerized by the flowers and enjoyed listening to the birds while strolling through the vast park.

Rumoi City Library
Rumoi City Library

Bumped into Hasegawa-sensei at COOP
Bumped into Hasegawa-sensei at COOP

Afterwards, we went to Rumoi City Library for some peace and quiet. We stayed there until closing time. From there, we headed to COOP to buy the other set of groceries that we weren't able to buy earlier. There, we bumped into Hasegawa-sensei, my former JTE from Tomamae Commercial High School. It was lovely catching up with him and reminiscing about the past.

Ella and I biked around the neighborhood
Ella and I biked around the neighborhood

One of our stops was Ella's school - Midorigaoka Elementary School
One of our stops was Ella's school, Midorigaoka Elementary School

When we got home, we were still in high spirits, so Ella and I went biking around the neighborhood.

Looking back, even though we did chores on Saturday, the weekend was really fulfilling. Monday was a special day off, so we took the chance to explore more of Rumoi City and enjoy the cherry blossoms at Kamuiwa Park with our family and friends.

Read more:

Japan Diaries 4: Week 78
Location: WMWH+3P Rumoi, Hokkaido, Japan

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