Thank you for the 365 days we’ve journeyed together. It has truly been a
memorable year. Just like the one before, you brought countless blessings and
new travel adventures into my life, for which I am deeply grateful.
Let's look back and see what milestones we've crossed and
achieved this year.
1. This year, there were 377 published articles (That's 7 more articles than last year 😄😄).
2. I have reached a total of 4.8 million views (That's 800K new
views this year).
3. I got my contract renewed as an ALT under the JET
Programme. I’m officially in my 5th year as an ALT. This year is also my last
full year as an ALT for Rumoi Subprefecture.
4. I received a special mention from Japanese Ambassador to
the Philippines Endo Kazuya during his speech at the 2025 JET Programme
Fellowship Reception on July 26, 2025.
5. I passed my JLPT N5 test! This achievement has boosted my confidence. It’s my first step toward my goal, and I hope that in the future, I’ll be able to speak Japanese fluently. 😍
6. My New Kamalayang Panlipunan 4 and 6 under Abiva Publishing House was published. I now have 7 published works.
Welcome to the family, Riri
7. We bought a new car—a Nissan Serena, which we fondly named Riri. We also sold our trusted Suzuki Swift, Ruru, since we can’t manage two vehicles.
I made myself into an anime character, and this would be the "mascot" of The Backpack Adventures
8. Exactly on July 1, I launched the official Facebook page of The Backpack Adventures. At first, I felt a bit sad that fewer than a thousand of my friends followed after my initial invite. But I was pleasantly surprised when many long-time readers of my blog began to follow the page. I also promoted it across various other pages. By the end of the year, the page had grown to more than 5,000 followers.
Speaking of travels, here are the highlights of my travels
for each month last year:
January 1 - Kai was finally out of the hospital after being confined for several days
February 8- Team Nicerio visits Aizan Museum, Aibetsu
February 8 - Team Nicerio enjoys the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival in Kamikawa
February 8 - Team Nicerio enjoys the Asahikawa Winter Festival Day 1
February 9 - Asahikawa Winter Festival Day 2
February 11 - Dined at Ramen Tonta in Shintotsukawa
🌜February
March 2- Pipa no Yu Yurinkan, Bibai City
March 15 - Ella's Graduation from Midorigaoka Elementary School
March 22- Chippubetsu weekend trip
March 23 - Morinoyu Hotel Hanakagura, Higashikagura
March 30 to 31 - 2-Day Birthday Road Trip to Otaru
🌜 March
April 18 - Team Nicerio Road Trip Day 1, Chitose & Sapporo
April 19- Team Nicerio Road Trip Day 2, Sapporo
April 20 - Team Nicerio Road Trip Day 3, Sapporo & Ishikari
April 21 - Team Nicerio Road Trip Day 4, Rumoi
April 22 - Team Nicerio Road Trip Day 5, Wakkanai
April 23 - Team Nicerio Road Trip Day 6, Sapporo
April 24 - Team Nicerio Road Trip Day 7, Chitose
April 28 - Senba Park
🌜 April
May 5 - Hanami at Kitoushi Forest Park Family Travel Village
May 5 - Kitoshi Observatory
May 17 - Kamiyubetsu Tulip Festival 2025
May 17 - Black soft cream at Engaru Forest Okhotsk Roadside Station
May 18 - Gokazan Park Camping Grounds
May 18 - Monbetsu Crab Claw Statue
May 18 - Takinoue Shibazakura Festival 2025
May 18 - Side trip to Toma Roadside Station
🌜 May
June 21 - Rumoi Shrine
June 21 - Chairumo
June 22 - Asagiri port visit
June 22 - Rumoi Taishi Festival 2025
June 28 - Akabira Tokugawa Castle
June 28 - Ashibetsu Catbus
June 28 - Camping at Kanayamakohan Camping Ground
June 28 - Swimming at Mina-Mina Beach in Shimukappu
June 29 - Lake Kanayama Lavender Field
June 29 - Furano Cheese Factory
June 29 - Furano City Museum
🌜 June
July 5 - We celebrated Kai's 2nd Birthday
July 5 - I attended what would probably be my last Rumoi High School Festival
July 6 - I visited Uryu Ricefield Art for the first time
July 6 - Took my N5 JLPT test at Sapporo Convention Center
July 19 - Asahikawa Family bonding trip
July 20 - Conquered Hokkaido's highest peak - Asahidake with my friends
July 21 - Blueberry picking at Mashike
July 26 - We attended the Rumoi Dontou Festival despite the continuous rains
July 27 - Solo onsen trip to Asahi Onsen in Embetsu
🌜 July
August 3 - We attended the Hokuryu Sunflower Festival in the town of Hokuryu
August 3 - We visited the Asahikawa Rice Field Art 2025 in Asahikawa City
August 10 - Rumoi Block karaoke night at Karaoke Utaya in Rumoi City
August 11 - We watched the Rumoi Fireworks Festival at Rumoi Port, Rumoi City
August 13 - Obon Road Trip D1 - We revisited the town of Yoichi
August 13 - Obon Road Trip D1 - We visited the newest roadside station of Hokkaido - Furubira Roadside Station in Furubira
August 13 - Obon Road Trip D1 - We camped at Bikuni Kodomari Campsite in Shakotan
August 14 - Obon Road Trip D2 - Onsen at Kyogoku Hot Springs and Community Center in Kyogoku
August 14 - Obon Road Trip Day 2 - We camped at Kyogoku Three U park Camping Ground for two days
August 15 - Obon Road Trip Day 3 - We visited Fukidashi Park in Kyowa
August 15 - Obon Road Trip Day 3 - Quick visit to Roadside Rest Area "Bōyō-Nakayama" in Kimobetsu
August 15 - Obon Road Trip Day 3 - We visited Hamamasu Local Museum in Ishikari City
August 24 - BBQ bonding with Matsuda-sensei and his family at Reuke Farm in Rumoi City
August 25 - The JLPT test results are out. I passed N5. It's the lowest proficiency level, but it made me more confident in learning Japanese.
August 31 - Bonding with Kai and Ella at Senba Park in Rumoi City
🌜August
September 6 - Bonding with ALTs at Karakure in the town of Obira
September 15 - Family day at Asahikawa Science Museum
September 20 - We visited the Takikawa Folk Museum in Takikawa City
September 20 - Visited Oohata Meatshop in Shintotsukawa to buy high-quality meat for our visit to Ebata-sensei
September 20 - Dinner with Ebata-sensei in Rumoi City
September 23 - Blueberry picking at Maruzen Sato Orchard in Mashike
September 23 - Family bonding in Senba Park in Rumoi City
September 23 - Transferred to Takasago Park for our afternoon family bonding in Rumoi City
September 28 - Walking along Rumoi River
🌜September
October 4 - Side trip to the Urausu Local History Museum in the town of Urausu
October 4 - Side trip to Osokinai Shrine in Urausu on my way to New Chitose Airport
October 4 - Went to New Chitose Airport in Chitose City for my flight to Kumatori in Osaka
October 5 - Stopover at Shima Cafe in Osaka City while looking for a suitable parking area for our visit to EXPO 25
October 6 - Visited the EXPO 2025 with the Kameyama Family
October 6 - Late-night ramen at Ichiran Ramen in Izumiotsu City
October 7 - Breakfast at Sakura Cafe in Izumisano City
October 7 - Quick visit to Pokémon Store New Chitose Airport in Chitose City
October 12 - Family bonding at AEON Mall West Store in Asahikawa City
October 13 - Kai's play day at Chairumo in Rumoi City
October 18 - Father and Daughter trip to Sensai no Yu-En in Chitose City after driving my wife and Kai to the airport for their vacation to the Philippines
October 18 - Dinner at Tamafuji in Chitose City
October 19 - "Car-ping" at Chitose Roadside Station
October 19 - Watched the salmon swim upriver at Chitose River
October 19 - Explored and enjoyed the Chitose Aquarium in Chitose City
October 19 - Visited the Kuriyama Town Pioneer Museum in the town of Kuriyama
October 19 - Visited Yutarikkan in the town of Yuni
October 19 - Paid respects to the guardian of the town at Hokuryu Shrine in Numata town
October 31 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D1 - Toma Town Local History Museum in the town of Toma
🌜October
November 1 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D2 - Yubetsu Shrine in Yubetsu
November 1 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D2 - Kerochikotsu Park in Yubetsu
November 1 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D2 - Saroma Roadside Station in Saroma
November 1 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D2 - Abashiri Folk Museum in Abashiri City
November 1 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D2 - Onsen and "Car-ping" at Kiyosato Roadside Station in Kiyosato
November 2 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D3 - Kiyosato Space Observatory in Kiyosato
November 2 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D3 - Memorial Hall of Sister Cities in Shari
November 2 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D3 - Betsukari Roadside Station in Betsukari
November 2 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D3 - Mt. Io in Teshikaga
November 2 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D3 - Tsubetsu Wood Craft Museum Kinos in Tsubetsu
November 2 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D3 - "Car-ping" at Kitami Roadside Station in Kitami City
November 3 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D4 - Sounkyo in Kamikawa
November 3 - Culture Day 2025 Road Trip D4 - Osamunai Shrine in Fukagawa City
November 8 - Iemanja Concert in Rumoi City
November 15 - Sunagawa City Local Reference Room in Sunagawa City
November 15 - 711 series EMU (Red Train) in Iwamizawa City
November 15 - Yuni Town Cultural Exchange Center in Yuni
November 15 - Team Nicerio Reunited at New Chitose Airport in Chitose City
🌜 November
December 16 - Rumoi English Conversation Club bounenkai in Rumoi City
December 19 - Overnight stay at Teshio Onsen Yubae in Teshio
🌜December
It is with a heavy heart that I share the sorrowful truth that this year has not ended without loss. We said goodbye to two remarkable souls who inspired me and embodied the values I hold dear—Judge Frank Caprio and Charlie Kirk. I also lost a dear friend, Mate Hart, who tragically passed away in a boating accident in Europe. May he rest in peace.
As we reflect on their lives, may we cherish the joy they brought, the lessons they taught, and the love they shared so generously. Though their absence leaves a deep ache, their legacy will continue to guide and uplift us. Let us honor them by carrying forward the kindness and strength they embodied.
With a heart still heavy but filled with hope, I now look toward 2026. May it bring brighter days, renewed strength, and fresh opportunities. Farewell, 2025—thank you for the memories, both joyous and bittersweet.
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...
Located in Puerto Princesa City in the province of Palawan, Plaza Cuartel is one of the historical sites in the capital of the province. Plaza Cuartel Plaza Cuartel History Originally built by the Spaniards as a garrison for their troops during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines, Plaza Cuartel has been converted into a plaza today where one can leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful view of the blue seas of Palawan. Plaza Cuartel - Puerto Princesa City, Palawan Plaza Cuartel NHI Marker: Tagalog Version \ Plaza Cuartel NHI Marker: English Version Its serene and peaceful ambiance today is a far cry from the tragic events that happened there during the Second World War. During the last few months of the said war, the Japanese Imperial army, realizing their imminent defeat, decided to round up their American prisoners of war or POW and bring them to Plaza Cuartel . The prisoners were then asked to go in the air raid shelters where they were barricaded and drums o...
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...
Esashi Itsukushima Shrine ( 枝幸厳島神社 ) is the main shrine of the town of Esashi. It is located at 536-1 Shineicho in the town of Esashi, Esashi District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Esashi Itsukushima Shrine Esashi Itsukushima Shrine Details Esashi Itsukushima Shrine traces its beginnings to 1829 when Fujino Shirobei , a fishing contractor from Aomori Prefecture, enshrined a branch of the spirit of Itsukushima. This act was deeply connected to the faith of his master, the Fujino family, and led to the establishment of a small shrine, laying the foundation for Esashi's spiritual legacy. Esashi Itsukushima Shrine - Esashi town, Hokkaido Prefecture Growth and Recognition as a Village Shrine In 1894, volunteers solidified the shrine's location and appointed Hoshino Jukuichi as the shrine manager. By 1895, after repairs and the addition of a shrine office, Esashi Itsukushima Shrine gained official recognition as a village shrine , cementing its role as a community pillar. ...
Seabird Observation House ( 海鳥観察舎 ) is an observatory on the northwestern coast of Teuri Island. It is located on Teuri Island of the town of Haboro, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Seabird Observation House Seabird Observation House Details Located approximately 700 meters from Akaiwa Observatory , the Seabird Observation House on Teuri Island offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe seabird life in its natural habitat. Located at the heart of the island’s seabird breeding grounds, this observation house allows visitors to watch the seabirds in one of Japan's most important wildlife sanctuaries. Seabird Observation House - Teuri Island, Haboro town, Hokkaido Prefecture Teuri Island is known for its rugged beauty and rich birdlife, and the Seabird Observation House is positioned in one of the island’s most captivating locations. The House sits near the island’s highest point, making it a prime spot to observe the seabird colonies below. Experience Nature Up Close: Fr...
Cape Hinode Observatory La Luna ( 日の出岬展望台 ラ・ルーナ ) is an observation deck near the tip of Cape Hinode. It is located at 346 Sawaki, Omu, Mombetsu District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Cape Hinode Observatory La Luna Cape Hinode Observatory La Luna Details Perched near the edge of Cape Hinode , the all-glass Cape Hinode Observatory La Luna offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sea of Okhotsk. This stunning glass observation deck is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking tranquility amidst unparalleled beauty. Cape Hinode Observatory La Luna - Omu town, Hokkaido Prefecture Unmatched Views and Modern Comforts Cape Hinode Observatory La Luna is renowned for its sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can immerse themselves in the endless expanse of the ocean, while the observatory's design ensures unobstructed views from every angle. On clear days, the sunrise over the horizon is a sight to behold, painting the...
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...
Nakatombetsu Kotobuki Park ( 中頓別寿公園 ) is a vast public park on the outskirts of Nakatombetsu. It’s located at 64-1 Kotobuki in the town of Nakatombetsu, Esashi District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Nakatombetsu Kotobuki Park Nakatombetsu Kotobuki Park Details Nakatombetsu Kotobuki Park is a vast public park on the outskirts of Nakatombetsu that offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Combining historical exhibits, recreational facilities, and family-friendly attractions, this park is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Nakatombetsu Kotobuki Park - Nakatombetsu town, Hokkaido Prefecture Step Back in Time with Historical Exhibits One of the standout features of Nakatombetsu Kotobuki Park is its impressive display of historical artifacts. The park is home to the preserved 9600-type steam locomotive "49648," the last steam locomotive used in service by the Japanese National Railways, excluding those preserved for tourism. Whil...
Tenpoku Line Memorial Park ( 天北線メモリアルパーク ) is a part that includes the Former Nakatombetsu Station. It is located at 951 Nakatonbetsu in the town of Nakatonbetsu, Esashi District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Tenpoku Line Memorial Park Tenpoku Line Memorial Park Details Nestled halfway between Otoineppu and Hamatonbetsu on the Sea of Okhotsk side, the Tenpoku Line Memorial Park , also referred to as the Nakatonbetsu Railway Park , offers a fascinating glimpse into Hokkaido's railway history. This charming site, located on the former Nakatonbetsu Station grounds, is a must-visit for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike. Tenpoku Line Memorial Park - Nakatombetsu town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Legacy of the Tenpoku Line The Tenpoku Line once connected Otoineppu and Wakkanai via Hamatonbetsu, serving as a vital transportation link in northern Hokkaido. Although the line was abolished in 1989, its legacy lives on through railway museums established at several former station ...
Usutaibe Senjoiwa Rocks ( ウスタイベ千畳岩 ) is a popular destination for viewing sunrises and drift ice, located on the northern outskirts of Esashi. It is situated in Misakicho, within the town of Esashi, Esashi District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Usutaibe Senjoiwa Rocks Usutaibe Senjoiwa Rocks Details Located on the northern outskirts of Esashi, Usutaibe Senjoiwa Rocks are a stunning natural landmark and a designated part of the North Okhotsk Prefectural Natural Park . Known for its unique rock formations that resemble stacked tatami mats, this picturesque site offers visitors a rare glimpse into the serene beauty of Hokkaido’s coastline. Usutaibe Senjoiwa Rocks - Esashi town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Landscape Like No Other The striking rock formations at Usutaibe Senjoiwa Rocks are a natural masterpiece, shaped by centuries of weathering and erosion. Appearing like a cape jutting out into the Sea of Okhotsk , the area provides a tranquil escape, perfect for those seek...
.jpg "November 15 - 711 series EMU (Red Train) in Iwamizawa City")
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