If you know me or Spencer, you know that we bask in the glory of finding each other in this big world every single day. I always say that we don't really do anything special for Valentine's Day...because every day is a celebration of our love and marriage.
Here are a few especially memorable moments from our trip to Japan.
Osaka Castle
I absolutely adored the look of the Osaka Castle. The history of this building is intense and stranger than fiction. After we walked around and soaked it all in, threw a few ninja stars, and bought some souvenirs, we were ready to cop a squat.
We found a lovely restaurant on the top floor of the welcome building. It was a bit hot out, so no other patrons opted for the outdoor seating area. Living in Arizona, especially this year, prepared me for some heat. So, we found ourselves alone, with a few glasses of some sparkling orange drink, and a perfect view of the Osaka Castle. Magical.
Love Shrine
One day we toured Nara, famous because it was the capital in the 8th century and the Sitka deer was considered sacred. Today, it boasts temples and shrines and many, many fat and friendly deer.
We happened upon a shrine for love, where we were able to purchase an ema (small wooden plaque on which worshippers write prayers or wishes) and hang it alongside other hearts.
This was very reminiscent of the Pont des Arts with the locks in Paris.
Kyoto Famous
We are always on the hunt for unique foodie experiences. We did so much research before our epic trip to Japan. Late in the game we discovered Willer Express, a company offering a delicious Japanese lunch on a bus whilst driving around to see different city highlights. Sign me up!
As per the confirmation email, we arrived about 15 minutes early. We didn't see the bus in the designated area, but we had time so we waited. Right before the departure time, the bus pulled in and it was a sight to behold! The driver, the tour guide, and the server all came out to greet us...and to inform us that we were the only people that booked for that particular day.
Wait, what?!
We had a received a warning that if less than 4 people booked, they had the right to cancel. So, I expected a refund, but they said that they were happy to take us. Awkward, but we still wanted to go.
A traditional kaiseki meal was served. A plethora of shrines, temples, torii gates, and the Kyoto Tower were seen. After the second course, we started noticing that people were waving at us. Not just a few people...a lot of folks. We asked the tour guide to elucidate; with a serious demeanor she explained that since we were but two people on a giant bus, we must 'be' somebody. She strongly encouraged us to start waving back.
Well. We could not stop laughing. Is there anything more romantic than sharing a giggle at a very specific, once in a lifetime shared experience? I not only perfected my polite bow on this trip, I also am now a master waver.
Ryokan
Between bustling Tokyo and non-stop Osaka, we stayed for two nights at a ryokan called Suiun in Gora. This was exactly the reprieve I had imagined. We checked our shoes at the door and spent 48 hours in the warm embrace of tradition and romance.
We were the only Americans in the place, but we quickly adopted the culture. Wear your
p-jams (they provided jinbei) and socks to breakfast? Wear your beautiful and comfy yukata to dinner? I was all in. (Not wearing shoes anywhere in the hotel prompted Spencer to call this place 'Socks'...as opposed to Sandals Resorts. The man makes me laugh every day.)
The very best part about the stay was the private onsen on our balcony. Simply incredible.
Do you embrace the romance when you travel?
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