On January 1, Don and I set off for home by local train. We got as far as Atami before deciding to ride the bullet train the rest of the way. So we de-boarded for lunch...
We expected another of the dying tourist traps you find in rural areas. Instead, we saw a geyser, a flower garden, and color everywhere.
Here's the geyser in front of the station. Look at the barefoot people in the pool!
Atami means "a sea of heat," and it's a hot springs town. Kids were dressed as though they were off to the beach, eating ice cream and begging their parents for toys.
There were a lot of markets like this...
...and like this.
Displays of steam were everywhere. Here's a steaming teacup.
And here's a very Japanese thing: Tanuki, or raccoon dogs.
oh oh ! i know i know! :D it'e the god/spirit of eating a lot, getting hammered, and resteraunts...akin to BACCUSS from greek/roman mythology, god of wine and parties! :D
Is that a real-honest-to-goodness geyser right in the middle of the city? That is cool beyond words. I am so used to geysers to be out in the middle of wilderness here in the states.
And the real claim to fame for Tanuki is that Marion can wear a Tanuki Suit that helps him fly! :)
