Japan Diaries 4: Day 636

Day 636: July 30, 2023

Sunday – Farewell, Pat & Aya; Hello, KC & Kai

Last day of Patrick and Aya in Hokkaido

Today was a bittersweet day as it marked the departure of my beloved siblings back to the Philippines. It was a cloudy morning when we left Rumoi City at the crack of dawn, around 5:50 AM, heading towards New Chitose Airport in Chitose City. Although their flight was at 10:50 AM, we decided to take the longer and more scenic coastal route via Mashike and Ishikari City to make the journey memorable.

Shirogane Falls

Along the coastal drive, we made a brief stop at the enchanting Shirogane Falls in Ishikari City (石狩市), surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. Despite the temptation to explore more, we knew time was of the essence and continued our journey to New Chitose Airport in Chitose City (千歳市).

New Chitose Airport Parking Area

Pokémon Store New Chitose Airport

Saw these store-exclusive CTS Pilot Pikachu

Arriving at the airport at around 9:50 AM, my siblings checked in their baggage, and then we decided to make the most of the remaining time together. My sister was thrilled to find the Pokémon Store at Chitose Airport, where she added a store-exclusive Pikachu to her cherished collection. 

While waiting for the boarding time, we did the New Chitose Airport Stamp Rally

The first stamp is just beside this iconic Hokkaido Love photo spot.

Royce Chocolate World 

Doraemon Wakuwaku Sky Park Shop

We also enjoyed the New Chitose Airport Stamp Rally and were elated to complete it in less than 20 minutes, receiving delightful prizes as souvenirs. While doing so, we were also able to explore different areas of New Chitose Airport.

See you in the Philippines, Patrick and Aya! Have a great flight!

Bye, Patrick and Aya!

As the clock ticked, the moment of farewell finally arrived, and my sister and brother bid us their goodbyes as they embarked on their homeward journey. Ella and I decided to stay at the airport, eagerly awaiting the arrival of my wife, KC, and our newest family member, Leonne Hokkaido "Kai."

Lunch time at the food court of New Chitose Airport

I ordered this spicy miso ramen

Exploring New Chitose Airport with Ella

While waiting, Ella and I had plenty of time to kill, so we decided to have lunch at the airport food court and then explore the airport once again. 

The plane carrying my wife and son finally arrived.

Team Nicerio has finally completed

Welcome to Hokkaido, Kai!

KC and Kai's flight experienced a delay, but at last, they arrived around 2:50 PM. Our hearts overflowed with joy as we reunited, and we wasted no time in bonding over snacks at the airport's Starbucks. Months of separation had left us with so much to talk about, and we cherished every moment of togetherness.

Hotel Mystays Sapporo Station

Our home for the day is Room 414

Inside Room 414

Afterward, we made our way to our accommodation for the day - the cozy Hotel Mystays Sapporo Station in Sapporo City. It was a wise decision by my wife to book a room since I was feeling quite exhausted. The long day of traveling and emotions had taken their toll, and I was grateful for the chance to rest.

Time to rest and bond with the family

Reflecting on the weekend, I couldn't help but feel immensely fulfilled. The time spent with my siblings, rekindling our bond after years apart, was precious. However, the absolute highlight of the week was when I laid eyes on my son, Kai, for the very first time. That moment was priceless and filled our hearts with overwhelming love and happiness.

As the day draws to a close, I find comfort in knowing that the memories we created will forever be etched in our hearts. The weekend might be over, but a new one is about to begin.

Read more:

Japan Diaries 4: Week 91
Japan Diaries 4: Weekend 91
Japan Diaries 4: Day 635

Shirogane Falls
Pokémon Store Chitose Airport

10 Things to Do in Ishikari City
10 Things to Do in Chitose City
10 Things to Do in Sapporo City

10 More Things to Do in Sapporo City

Hokkaido 179

Japan Diaries 4: Summary