I have noticed that autumn is a time of mists, rain and wind. This may not surprise those of my friends who are familiar with the four seasons. But for me this is a new realisation. Many days since we have been here have met that description.
We have had a few evenings in which it is best to stay inside the vehicle. Too windy or rainy for the awning and best spent reading, blogging, or watching videos. Mostly we are not in Internet reception areas so surfing is not an option.
These misty days convey a feeling of softness, of pastel shades, or of sadness somehow.
Then there is the odd bright sunny day which changes everything.
We have been visiting mountain temples and scenic spots.
Last night we found another rotemburro. These baths are aesthetically very pleasing, as well as being places to get warm and clean. I'm not sure of the claimed health effects of the sulphurous waters on the skin, but it sure feels good. Last night's onsen was Zao -Dai-Rottemburro. There were at least 15 women in the women's pools, including two pregnant women, two children, some middle aged and mostly young women. I was the only geigin (westerner).
After a good soak we decided that the parking area was as good a place as any to camp so we put out our chairs and started cooking dinner. An hour or so later after the car park had cleared of cars the last car was the employees of the rotemburro. They approached us and said we couldn't stay there because they had to lock the gate. We said we didn't mind if they locked the gate but would go if they insisted. They then backed down and as a special "service" said we could stay as long as we left in the morning! OK! That's just what we wanted. So we had a quiet night behind a locked gate with no need to worry about being disturbed.
Today we found the gallery of Takashi Amano. He is a renowned photographer and Nature Aquarist. He makes aquariums which are inspired by nature, with planted scenes. The plants and the scenery evoked are the focus rather than the fish.
In his gallery photography is forbidden. The aquariums are truely inspiring and the effect is something I have been aspiring to in my own aquarium at home. Today I found that I have a lot if work to do and a distance to go before Inhave come near his artistry.
If you don't already know his work and if you are interested in aquariums Google "Takashi Amano Gallery" and have a look at what he does.
3/11/14
Last night was so windy the vehicle was buffeted all night. It was raining and quite miserable. When we reached the coast we saw just how windy it has been!
Today we must look for a new fridge. It is running but not getting cold. Joe has rolled it over but that made no difference. The problem is finding not only a 12 V fridge but one that fits the space. We finally found out that Waeco is made in Japan, and that Dometic also has a Japanese office. So we may be able to get what we want in Tokyo. In the meantime -thank goodness it is cool weather. So we have spent the day in Niigata.
Here is our progress so far...
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