My first full day in Japan, I visited a university friend who’s been teaching English since 2002. He lives in Shizuoka Prefecture, and we met up in Kategawa, 90 minutes south of Tokyo by train.
This is what Japan’s “countryside” looks like, and this area grows mostly buckwheat. However, industry is never far away – my friend teaches Yamaha employees at the local plant.
Entrance to the castle grounds.
The tower, donjon, of Kategawa Castle. The original fell into ruin in the 19th century. This is a complete reconstruction.
The view!
Looking down onto the ORIGINAL Palace – a separate building from the donjon.
Entrance to the Palace.
Not a great photo, but still, samurai swords on a rack of antlers!!
The inside of the Palace. The floors are entirely tatami. When it was in use, the doors would’ve all been closed.
A courtyard in the palace.
Another courtyard, partly for the greenery, partly for air circulation – it’s hot and humid here.
What is there to say. !!!
The Garden.
Is this cool or creepy?
On the way to Shuzennji Izu shrine.
I decided not to take a picture closer up, as there were worshippers visiting.
Cool tree!
The restaurant where we had lunch – the only time I sat on the floor.
We had the soba (buckwheat noodles and fresh tempura. SO good.
