I am in a sort of resort hotel in the hills above Fukui. I had not realized how isolated it was from any other diversion. Last night I was considering what to do today. This morning, as a nice gray and drizzle has taken over the sky, I realized (duh!) that taking a day of rest would be not only a good idea but a needed idea.
Travel can be exhausting, especially when adding in the complications of language barriers and cultural differences. Therefore, I resolve today to do as most people here do.
During the day, including at breakfast and dinner, they wear their yukata (long and light cotton robe) and slippers. For warmth or style, the haori is added. I will feel self-conscious wearing these as if to think that everyone will be looking at me. Vanity of vanities.
So, here I am with T-Rex as dinosaurs seem to be a REALLY BIG Fukui thing. He has given me the ferocious courage to step out of my room into the world where people will see me. Aghast!
After today, trains and buses will begin again. All good destinations await but today is, for me, a pause, an interlude, a rest.
Autumn In Japan 