To Fukuoka

I failed to make a reservation for the 9:47 highway bus, but I got lucky that I was able to go on the 12:45. So I had some extra time in Beppu and figured I would get in another Onsen. I picked a very local tiny one. Just 100 yen voluntary donation in the box. Just as I enter there is another young man who also comes in. We end up having a 2-hour long conversation in broken English on very deep subjects of family life and meditation and we really reach a very constructive point for him as he is dealing with some family trouble and he went searching for answers. He lives in Fukuoka and invited me for dinner on Friday. This will be a treat and I will have to research how to prepare for a Japanese family visit. Tosi also showed up for a quick wash. All the people I know in Beppu in one room. So what is it with me missing the bus or the train I was supposed to be on? It's a theme!

Fukuoka station is The epitome of luxury as it is surrounded by stores the likes of Rolex, Louis Vuitton, Chopard van Cleef & Arpels etc etc etc. It's a shock to the system to see this lavish wealth when you come from the simplicity of the countryside. I had a nice dinner if dumplings in a restaurant with fish tanks where squid were freshly caught and sliced up into shashimi.Read more