On Sunday, we set out on a road trip to get a close up look at Mt. Fuji.
It was about a three hour drive with traffic. If you weren’t clear on why driving in Japan is challenging- check out this interchange. What?
The views of Mt. Fuji along the way were impressive. I had lots of help with pictures today. Both Dave and Sara contributed. Dave snapped this picture from the back seat.
Sara helped with road signs. Surprisingly, a couple of them started to look familiar.
Not sure what is being advertised… but, kawaii!!
The deer crossing made us laugh. The road had 30 foot walls on either side. Deer actually crossing didn’t seem possible.
My favorite. The car farting as it went up the steep hill.
Sara also did a great job capturing Mt. Fuji as we approached.
Our destination was to a cute tourist village at the base of Mt. Fuji on the northwest side. It is just over a two-hour drive.
In the village, we had a stunning view of Mt. Fuji.
The buildings were recreations of traditional Japanese structures.
Here we are at the building for napping and dozing. It was too chilly for either!
A highlight for all the girls in our group was being fitted for kimonos.
I originally selected this kimono. The lady informed me it was too short for my “jumbo” size. She selected the yellow for me instead.
The finished product was worth the effort.
James was a sport to pose with the parasol.
The highlight of the day for him was the ramen.
The hostess at the restaurant was the cutest little puppy with her pearl necklace. Only in Japan!
The other highlight was the short stop at the Wind Cave on the way home. A nerdy science teacher’s day was complete! Big mountain sighting and cave exploring followed by a walk in the woods.
The surrounding woods were so lush, despite the cool temperatures and small patches of snow.
It was a long day filled with so much discovery. We completed the night with a delicious family style Sushi dinner!
I think we all enjoyed a day packed with a variety of Japanese experiences. Next up, we take on Tokyo!