Day 635: July 29, 2023
Saturday – Sibling Road Trip 5
 |
| Sibling Road Trip 5 |
 |
| Former Mashike Station |
 |
| The old railway of the Former Rumoi Line |
 |
| Inside the Former Mashike Station |
 |
| Just across the street from the station is the Former Tomidaya Ryokan |
 |
| Inside the Former Tomidaya Ryokan |
Mashike turned out to be a delightful destination filled with fascinating sites and a rich history. Each stop on our road trip offered something unique to explore and admire. Our first stop was the Former Mashike Station, a beautifully preserved relic of Japan’s railway history. Once a bustling hub for travelers, the station now stands as a nostalgic symbol of Mashike’s past.
 |
| Inside Kazemachishokudo Information Center |
Next, we visited the Kazemachishokudo Information Center, famously known as a filming location for Ken Takakura's 1981 movie Station. The site has been well-preserved, and the area where his scenes were shot remains intact, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the film's setting.
 |
| Former Merchant Maruichi Honma Residence |
 |
| Inside the Former Merchant Maruichi Honma Residence |
 |
| One of the preserved rooms of the Former Merchant Maruichi Honma Residence |
The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the Former Merchant Maruichi Honma Residence. This historic building, once home to a prominent merchant family, showcased stunning architecture and intricate design elements that spoke of a bygone era. Walking through its halls and rooms felt like stepping back in time, and we were captivated by the stories of the Honma family and their influence on the local economy.
 |
| We tried the fresh water spring outside Kunimare Sake Brewery |
 |
| We tried the milk x sake ice cream sold inside the sake brewery |
 |
| There was also a sake free tasting, which we didn't miss |
Our journey continued to the historic Kunimare Sake Brewery, a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Mashike. As Hokkaido’s oldest sake brewery, Kunimare is renowned for its high-quality sake, crafted using pure spring water and locally grown rice. During our visit, we learned about the traditional brewing process and had the opportunity to sample some of their finest sake. Each sip reflected the craftsmanship and dedication that have defined the brewery for generations.
Next, we made our way to the tranquil Mashike Itsukushima Shrine. Walking through its sacred grounds, we took a moment to reflect and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. The intricate architecture and cultural significance of the shrine added a spiritual dimension to our road trip, leaving us feeling refreshed and centered.
 |
| Maruzen Sato Orchard |
 |
| We tried the blueberry picking... |
 |
| ...and cherry-picking activity |
To cap off our adventure, we visited the Maruzen Sato Orchard, a charming spot where we indulged in fruit picking. The orchard was brimming with ripe blueberries and cherries, and we eagerly filled our baskets with the freshest fruits of the season. The experience of picking our own fruit, surrounded by the scenic countryside, was both enjoyable and rewarding. Tasting the sweet, juicy berries right off the branch was a perfect way to end the day.
 |
| Team Nicerio attends the Rumoi Donto Festival for the first time |
 |
| My favorite andon during the Rumoi Donto Festival |
As the afternoon came to a close, we drove back to Rumoi City, reaching home at around 4 PM. It was just a short drive back, and we took the opportunity to rest and freshen up before our next adventure. Our feet led us to the Honcho 2 District, where the much-awaited Rumoi Donto Festival was taking place.
The festival, which had been postponed for four years due to the pandemic restrictions, was a spectacle of colors and excitement. My siblings were lucky to experience this grand celebration during their brief stay. We watched in awe as the magnificent floats paraded through the streets, marveling at the artistry and the energy of the performers. |
| Aya's treat at Sukiya Rumoi Branch |
After a captivating evening at the festival, we headed back home, feeling weary from the day's activities. Deciding to skip cooking, we opted to dine out instead. My generous sister Aya treated us to a delicious dinner at Sukiya, and we couldn't have been more grateful for her kind gesture.Finally, back at home, the reality of my siblings' departure sank in as they finalized their luggage for their journey tomorrow. Although we had such a fantastic time together, it's always hard to say goodbye. I'll cherish the memories we created during this road trip and festival experience, grateful for the time we spent together.Tomorrow will be bittersweet as I bid farewell to my dear siblings. But I'm thankful for the unforgettable moments we shared during their visit. Until next time.Read more:
Japan Diaries 4: Week 91
Japan Diaries 4: Weekend 91
Japan Diaries 4: Day 636
Former Mashike Station
Kazemachishokudo Information Center
Comments
Post a Comment