{"id":2564,"date":"2024-01-25T14:02:48","date_gmt":"2024-01-25T06:02:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/?p=2564"},"modified":"2024-10-29T17:44:35","modified_gmt":"2024-10-29T09:44:35","slug":"japan-2023-zenkoji-temple-nagano-happo-pond-hakuba","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-zenkoji-temple-nagano-happo-pond-hakuba\/","title":{"rendered":"Japan 2023 : Zenkoji Temple, Nagano &#038; Happo Pond, Hakuba"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<ul class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#8dd2fc45;font-size:15px\">\n<li><strong><em><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Japan 2023 Trip Itinerary<\/span><\/em><\/strong> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 1 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-introduction-and-arrival\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arrival at Nagoya, around Nagano Station<\/a>, Stay : Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano-Zenkojiguchi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 2 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-jigokudani-snow-monkey-park-nagano\/\" data-type=\"URL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bus trip to visit the famous Snow Monkey Park, Nagano<\/a>, Stay : Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano-Zenkojiguchi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 3 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-togakushi-taisha-shrines-nagano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Easy trek at Togakushi 5-shrines, Nagano<\/a>, Stay : Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano-Zenkojiguchi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 4 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-zenkoji-temple-nagano-happo-pond-hakuba\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Visite to Zenkoji Temple and hiking at Hakuba Happo Pond<\/a>, Stay : Hotel Hakuba<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 5 &#8211; <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-hakuba-mountain-harbour-hakuba\/\" target=\"_blank\">Relax at Hakuba Mountain Harbour and Oide Park,<\/a> Stay : Hotel Hakuba<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 6 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-drive-to-sea-of-japan-benten-iwa-rock\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Drive to Sea of Japan, Ben-ten Iwa rock<\/a>, Stay : APA Hotel &amp; Resort Joetsu Myoko<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 7 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-kiyotsu-gorge-naena-waterfall-niigata\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Drive to Kiyotsu Gorge and Naena Waterfall<\/a>, Stay : APA Hotel &amp; Resort Joetsu Myoko<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 8 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-lake-suwa-nagano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Drive around Lake Nojiri, train ride to Lake Suwa and Tateishi Park<\/a>, Stay : Beni-ya Hotel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 9, 10 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-shizuoka-city-shizuoka\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Train ride to Shizuoka and Nihondaira Terrace<\/a> sunset, Stay : Nippondaira Hotel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 11 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-atami-shizuoka\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Walk around Atami City<\/a>, Stay : Super Hotel JR Fujiekimae Kinenkan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 12 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-numazu-shizuoka\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mount Fuji, fresh seafood at Co-op and Numazu City festival<\/a>, Stay : Super Hotel JR Fujiekimae Kinenkan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 13 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-numazu-shizuoka\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mount Fuji, Shira-Ito Falls, Fujisan Sengan Shrine, Mount Fuji World Heritage Center<\/a>, Stay : Super Hotel JR Fujiekimae Kinenkan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nov 14 &#8211; <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-mount-fuji-shizuoka\/\" target=\"_blank\">Mount Fuji, Hamamatsu Station and Overall Experienc<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-mount-fuji-shizuoka\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">e<\/a>, Stay : Hotel Route-Inn Tokoname Ekimae<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ninjawifi.com\/?pr_vmaf=nDepktvWNv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"https:\/\/ninjawifi.com\/?pr_vmaf=nDepktvWNv noopener\"><img data-attachment-id=\"2464\" data-permalink=\"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/northern-hokkaido-2018-day-1\/banner-copy-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1.jpg?fit=1280%2C270\" data-orig-size=\"1280,270\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;1&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"banner-copy-1\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1.jpg?fit=300%2C63\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1.jpg?fit=780%2C165\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"780\" height=\"165\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1-1024x216.jpg?resize=780%2C165&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2464\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C216 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1.jpg?resize=300%2C63 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1.jpg?resize=768%2C162 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1.jpg?resize=284%2C60 284w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/banner-copy-1.jpg?w=1280 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><figcaption>advertisement<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>We woke up early, bought our breakfast at the nearest convenience store (konbini), and took a morning exercise walk to <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/McxuKqG14ZyiNTGWA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/McxuKqG14ZyiNTGWA\" target=\"_blank\">Zenkoji Temple<\/a> since it was within walking distance from our hotel, <a href=\"https:\/\/sotetsu-hotels.com\/en\/fresa-inn\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano<\/a> &#8211; about 2km away or 30mins walk one-way. The streets were quite empty with only a few cars on the road and senior citizens tending to roadside planting making it a very enjoyable stroll. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-H2BkSFp\/0\/ef8767cb\/X3\/i-H2BkSFp-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Our breakfast is 70% konbini. Japan&#8217;s convenient store food selections are the best<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-Lzv8NzP\/0\/f9f113d9\/X3\/i-Lzv8NzP-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Quiet old Chuo Dori (street) leading to Zenkoji and uphill<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-NKpwJNR\/0\/dfd56765\/X3\/i-NKpwJNR-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">They sure don&#8217;t look like horticultural workers<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-vDdt49T\/0\/b8c2774c\/X3\/i-vDdt49T-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Apa ni? Cute Daihatsu car&#8230; with a radar dish?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Zenkoji Temple is mainly composed of two gates (Niomon and Sammon) with the Hondo Main Hall as the main temple. The first gate is a beautiful structure, resembling an entrance to a sacred world. From the opening of the first gate, we could see the second Sammon Gate, flanked by shops along Nakamise shopping street. That view from the second gate looking directly at Zenkoji is really a sight to behold with majestic mountains as the backdrop. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-dNt37LH\/0\/ce697615\/X3\/i-dNt37LH-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Here we are at the Niomon Gate at 630am<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-DVvxMpS\/0\/267c4dc2\/X3\/i-DVvxMpS-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Peering through Niomon Gate, we could see Nakamise Street with Sammon Gate surrounded by hills<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travels\/Japan-2023\/Blog-Japan-2023\/n-FcDkS4\/i-ZtB6q8J\/0\/f7162432\/X2\/i-ZtB6q8J-X2.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Nakamise Shopping Street &#8211; abit too early for shopping<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As we approached the main temple, we were fortunate to witness a rosary blessing called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zenkoji.jp\/en\/guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">O-Juzu Chodai<\/a> at exactly 7 am. As the Abbot and Abbess were walking out from the Hondo Main temple, they blessed kneeling devotees along the street by touching their heads. Interesting <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-gbSxmPr\/0\/5b53fa9c\/X3\/i-gbSxmPr-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An arch with lanterns before entering Sammon Gate<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travels\/Japan-2023\/Blog-Japan-2023\/n-FcDkS4\/i-TcBJ32C\/0\/93577df1\/X2\/i-TcBJ32C-X2.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The O-Juzu Chodai ceremony in session just after 7am <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-T4WWtL4\/0\/59c61c65\/X4\/i-T4WWtL4-X4.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Hondo Main Hall &#8211; spectacular <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Hondo Main Hall is the grand temple surrounded by mountains, and to me, this temple exudes a certain &#8220;air.&#8221; Everything blends perfectly with the architecture, surrounding buildings, and natural elements. (Personally, it is one of the most aesthetically pleasing temples I&#8217;ve the honour to visit in Japan)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travels\/Japan-2023\/Blog-Japan-2023\/n-FcDkS4\/i-W87LD5L\/0\/78bf6e74\/X2\/i-W87LD5L-X2.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Zenkoji Hondo Main Temple &#8211; pet friendly and so beautiful<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-xLBqCV5\/0\/1debe9cb\/X3\/i-xLBqCV5-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Even the toilet design is in respect of the surroundings<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>On the way out from the temple we stopped by at <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/BWeRDfVw4W6aXhVx5\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/BWeRDfVw4W6aXhVx5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Starbucks Zenkoji <\/a>@ Nakamise shopping street for a quick coffee break. As with all japanese Starbucks in heritage enclave, the building&#8217;s color blends with the surroundings in muted tones. We also bought some bread and melon pan from <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/S2YT4WmdMYm1XEBJA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arteria Bakery<\/a> and some apples from a pop-up stall for our forthcoming road trip, renting a car and driving to Hakuba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-8ZvRZ7n\/0\/f9811025\/X3\/i-8ZvRZ7n-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Starbucks Zenkoji &#8211; Not overwhelming and respectfully obeyed the surrounding texture<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-cJ92fnm\/0\/db635208\/X3\/i-cJ92fnm-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Simple zen interior <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-ThLjSBC\/0\/75228da8\/X3\/i-ThLjSBC-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Arteria Bakery &#8211; cushy design and great bread too!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We used the convenient self-checkout with a machine at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/sunroute-nagano.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1DCAsodUIPc3Vucm91dGUtbmFnYW5vSDNYA2ihAYgBAZgBCbgBF8gBD9gBA-gBAYgCAagCA7gC9OrHrQbAAgHSAiRjY2E1MjdkZi04MTYwLTQyYTctODhjYS0wNjg2MjdlZWM3OWPYAgTgAgE&amp;sid=0b6a72f1513a43c481c823ce48a8f71d&amp;dist=0&amp;keep_landing=1&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;type=total&amp;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano-Zenkojiguchi<\/a> making the checking out process even faster. The <a href=\"https:\/\/sotetsu-hotels.com\/en\/fresa-inn\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sotetsu Fresa Inn group<\/a> is one of our preferred business hotel chains to stay in Japan although it is a bit pricier than other business hotels. Best part is always clean, free of smoke smell and provides unlimited amenities. Our favorite is the array of instant tea and coffee choices just beside the lifts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-7fh47G4\/0\/0b796b16\/X3\/i-7fh47G4-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Self check in and self check out &#8211; We love Sotetsu Fresa!!! <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-DPQxfjH\/0\/797fd471\/X3\/i-DPQxfjH-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Only in Japan this is considered normal<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We arrived at <a href=\"https:\/\/rent.toyota.co.jp\/eng\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Toyota-Rent-A-Car Nagano<\/a> too early from the booked time and they were still preparing our car for usage. So we walked to a nearby river for some R&amp;R and purchased some grapes from a local fruit store. <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/n4aoF93qa4Tj7gGd8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sitting by a river<\/a> with swimming ducks, we enjoyed our bread and melon pan bought earlier. Before we knew it, it was time to collect our Toyota Roomy kei-car and GPS our way to Hakuba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-Pn6PPSp\/0\/0bd4bf01\/X3\/i-Pn6PPSp-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The little oba-chan fruit and vegetable shop <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/FhZseWos5XTER4Lh7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u65b0\u5c0f\u677e<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-rkbV79B\/0\/2ce07544\/X3\/i-rkbV79B-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Taking it slow &#8211; we explored Japan and found interesting neighbourhood<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-kZF7BVr\/0\/6bc397df\/X3\/i-kZF7BVr-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Waiting pose<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-N47cwFt\/0\/a0186165\/X3\/i-N47cwFt-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The melon pan that saved my life in the mountains <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-jVVwtKd\/0\/5222f194\/X3\/i-jVVwtKd-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Let&#8217;s walking ! <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Using only free public roads, we drove at a leisurely speed with the only stop at a rest station overlooking the mighty Northern Alps of Japan. It had been nine years since we laid eyes on the northern alps and what a welcoming view it was. Since it was only mid-day, we decided to climb to Hakuba Happo Pond on Karamatsu-san in a hasty decision. However, we had to do it quickly because the Happo Alpen Line chair-lift or quad-lift services terminate at 4:30 pm during the green season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-LTHCr4b\/0\/2e80b1aa\/X3\/i-LTHCr4b-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Our comfy but underpowered Toyota Roomy at some roadside station<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Happo Alpen Line (Mapcode: 535 100 804) consists of one gondola (Adam Gondola) and two quad-lifts (Alpen and Grad), and it opens from 8 am to 4:40 pm. The return trip from the foot of the mountain to the starting point of the hike costs 3,300 yen each. I have a fear of heights, so the ride was quite harrowing for me, but enjoyable for most. Fifteen scary minutes later, we reached the end of the gondola at Usagidaira (1,400m) before proceeding to the two quad lifts. I liked the the quad lifts as the height is not that high from the ground below. Be aware because it is open air, it can get quite chilly &#8211; do wear something appropriate. Before we knew it, we&#8217;ve reached the hiking starting point at Happo Sanso Lodge (1,830m). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-9HKtRF8\/0\/09f9b931\/X3\/i-9HKtRF8-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Oh no&#8230; i&#8217;m coming in on a wing and a prayer<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-VdH68s3\/0\/b211c693\/X3\/i-VdH68s3-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Scary sh!t<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-Dqx6nWk\/0\/5a0d0d75\/X3\/i-Dqx6nWk-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Usagidaira &#8211; Right building is the Alpen Quad Lift<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-S32j6MX\/0\/d49e87a1\/X3\/i-S32j6MX-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Directions are very clear<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-NNHPwRR\/0\/02e6bded\/X3\/i-NNHPwRR-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Quad Lift #2 Grat Lift &#8211; open air goodness<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two paths to take from the start of the hike: the left is a boardwalk type (easier), and the right is the natural way with lots of rock skipping (harder). Our plan was to take the harder path up and the easier path down. So, off we went on the rocky path. It was challenging but fun, as the views were simply breathtaking, even though it was overcast. We started at quite a fast pace but forgot that we were in a higher altitude, so breathing was a bit harder. LOL. First timers. We slowed down to a good pace to counter the effects but I forgot that the only food I had was one melon pan many hours ago. I dug into my backpack to find anything edible and luckily found some Fisherman Friend sweets. This &#8220;fisherman&#8221; became my &#8220;friend,&#8221; giving me a glucose boost for the rest of the climb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-sLZdHGV\/0\/22201d2c\/X3\/i-sLZdHGV-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hakuba Sanso Lodge &#8211; the starting point for the hike <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-ZKbhLmN\/0\/66bb5f56\/X4\/i-ZKbhLmN-X4.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Up the stone path we go!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-gkhXfkW\/0\/ffc78220\/X3\/i-gkhXfkW-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The stone path converging to the boardwalk eventually<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Soon the paths converged and the rest of the hike was on boardwalks, making it easier. In fact, this hike can be classified as beginner level and anyone can make it to Happo Pond just start earlier (and eat first). We made many photo stops during the climb as the views of the Japanese Northern Alps were breathtakingly fantastic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-n7GDNTQ\/0\/65077711\/X3\/i-n7GDNTQ-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Boardwalk course &#8211; easy on the knees<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-rnR32W9\/0\/584c43b1\/X3\/i-rnR32W9-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Cairn #2. There are a few cairns along the way as a guide for hikers<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-qXFnxnL\/0\/2ca06f8b\/X3\/i-qXFnxnL-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Japanese Northern Alps &#8211; so beautiful even with overcast sky<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>After an hour of hiking, we finally reached Happo Pond. It is a pond with a reflection of the mountains when viewed from a photography spot. How to find that spot? Don&#8217;t worry; there will be a lot of photographers at any time of the day. After taking photographs, we just sat and enjoyed the magnificent views that is front of us with our own eyes. No camera can ever replaced it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-4PwGCt2\/0\/566da7a7\/X3\/i-4PwGCt2-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A small shrine<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-JzSwsMS\/0\/47d7d8d0\/X3\/i-JzSwsMS-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The hero shot that everyone takes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-nzRm6hN\/0\/1821f3f5\/X3\/i-nzRm6hN-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hungry Malaysians at Happo Pond<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>With limited time left, we had to make our way down. Saying goodbye to the mountains, we made a hasty hike down the boardwalk, but alas, we took the wrong fork and ended up going down the rocky path again! Haha. Nevertheless, it took 50 minutes to reach the quad lift that would ferry us down to road level. Karamatsu-san will be a target to hike in the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-j3FnjVT\/0\/458f0de9\/X3\/i-j3FnjVT-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Good idea to have a picnic here <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-jftbRtz\/0\/688d7c48\/X2\/i-jftbRtz-X2.jpghttps:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-jftbRtz\/0\/688d7c48\/X4\/i-jftbRtz-X4.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Amazing lines<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-4nDkH6B\/0\/143b4c02\/X3\/i-4nDkH6B-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Not exactly recommended footwear .. please wear proper sneakers \/ hiking shoes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-HpwsBCJ\/0\/e274df90\/X3\/i-HpwsBCJ-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Zig zaggy<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-NVBVscV\/0\/b5f9816a\/X3\/i-NVBVscV-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Finally reach the Hakuba Sanso Lodge and the quad lift down<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-gJZHqW2\/0\/693d5bf4\/X3\/i-gJZHqW2-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Japan trademark<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-fTPPbGk\/0\/a75b8d85\/X3\/i-fTPPbGk-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">I was scared but happy to see the beautiful autumn shades<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-TNR2TDx\/0\/e55feaea\/X3\/i-TNR2TDx-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Life saver on the mountains!! <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Thank goodness our hotel was not far, and we freshened up after checking in at <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/jp\/hotel-hakuba.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1DCAsodUIMaG90ZWwtaGFrdWJhSDNYA2ihAYgBAZgBCbgBF8gBD9gBA-gBAYgCAagCA7gCmPHHrQbAAgHSAiRkYzY2NzBkZi1lMjgxLTRjZTUtYTAzMi0yZGQ5MDI3MjdjYjjYAgTgAgE&amp;sid=0b6a72f1513a43c481c823ce48a8f71d&amp;dist=0&amp;keep_landing=1&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;type=total&amp;\" target=\"_blank\">Hotel Hakuba<\/a> for a two-night stay. We decided for take-away dinner and instead of the usual konbini, we found <a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/5B8FCr4HgGpKLSKM8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JA A-Coop Hakuba<\/a> supermarket to buy our dinner. With that, we had an in-room sumptuous dinner with grapes and apples to cap the day off. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-JsxQh2J\/0\/b23497a9\/X3\/i-JsxQh2J-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A-Coop &#8211; recommended to have a look around<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-zgFbwX5\/0\/e10b0643\/X3\/i-zgFbwX5-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Price was very reasonable<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Oh, we bought a small knife and fruit peeler so that we could purchase fresh fruits and cut them up in our hotel. Throughout our trip, we always had fresh fruits. Clever move by my wife. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-4NSm2rR\/0\/345072c8\/X3\/i-4NSm2rR-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">50yen (RM1.60) apple we bought at a pop-up apple stall. Big juicy bugger.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photos.smugmug.com\/photos\/i-CXgJnL4\/0\/6be84e66\/X3\/i-CXgJnL4-X3.jpg?w=780&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Our dinner (and a breakfast for tomorrow)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f6dede\">\n<ul class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f6dede\">\n<li>Useful links:\n<ul>\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.zenkoji.jp\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\">Zenkoji <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zenkoji.jp\/en\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.zenkoji.jp\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Temple<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.happo-one.jp\/wp2019\/wp-content\/themes\/happo-one2020\/img\/info\/pamphlet\/eng2020-2021\/route_guide.pdf?20210618\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hakuba Happo One Trail Map<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.happo-one.jp\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hakuba Happo One Official<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From our experiences :\n<ul>\n<li>Arrive early to Zenkoji Temple (7am-ish) and enjoy the serene atmosphere<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mapcodes are codes you can enter to your car&#8217;s GPS unit sort of Google maps but needn&#8217;t key in the words. I prefer using mapcodes. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get the earliest tickets to the Happo Alpen Line to fully make use of the 3,300yen lift charges. They open at 8am. The hike was well worth it though. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wear hiking or jogging shoes for the hike and eat sufficiently <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring some sweets for the hike for glucose boost<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>We got a small knife and peeler for cheaps at Donki so can have fresh and affordable regional fruits. Nagano is mainly apples and it shows with some as cheap as 50yen an apple. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>We woke up early, bought our breakfast at the nearest convenience store (konbini), and took a morning exercise walk to Zenkoji Temple since it was within walking distance from our hotel, Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nagano &#8211; about 2km away or 30mins walk one-way. The streets were quite empty with only a few cars on the &hellip; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2719,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_is_tweetstorm":false,"jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","enabled":false}}},"categories":[4],"tags":[467,459,468,460,464,112,463,382,465,446,466,462,355,448,461],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov4-title.jpg?fit=2440%2C1408","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pc0No-Fm","jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":2547,"url":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-togakushi-taisha-shrines-nagano\/","url_meta":{"origin":2564,"position":0},"title":"Japan 2023 : Togakushi Taisha Shrines, Nagano","author":"Teetoo","date":"January 15, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"It is Cultural Day, and the local crowd was expected to be large as it is a national holiday. We arrived early at the Alpico office to purchase our Zenkoji & Togakushi 1-Day Ticket Pass. It was the most affordable and convenient option at a price of 3,000yen each. Prior\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/category\/travels\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov3-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov3-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov3-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov3-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov3-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2589,"url":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-hakuba-mountain-harbour-hakuba\/","url_meta":{"origin":2564,"position":1},"title":"Japan 2023 : Hakuba Mountain Harbour, Hakuba","author":"Teetoo","date":"February 23, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"Hotel Hakuba has got to be one of our favourite hotel as it has a partial view of the Japanese Northern Alps. As the sun rose above the mountains, it casted a brilliant orange glow on the tip of the Alps summit - it was really a sight to behold.\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/category\/travels\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Nov5-Title-1.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Nov5-Title-1.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Nov5-Title-1.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Nov5-Title-1.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Nov5-Title-1.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2478,"url":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-introduction-and-arrival\/","url_meta":{"origin":2564,"position":2},"title":"Japan 2023 &#8211; Nagano, Niigata &#038; Shizuoka : Introduction and Arrival","author":"Teetoo","date":"December 22, 2023","format":false,"excerpt":"It's our first trip back to Japan since 2019, and we were incredibly excited for this long-awaited journey. As always, we opted for the ever-reliable Singapore Airlines to travel from Penang to Nagoya's Chubu Centrair Airport via a short layover at Singapore's Changi Airport. Since I can't sleep on airplanes,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/category\/travels\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Japan-Blog2023-0025-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Japan-Blog2023-0025-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Japan-Blog2023-0025-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Japan-Blog2023-0025-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Japan-Blog2023-0025-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2686,"url":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-atami-shizuoka\/","url_meta":{"origin":2564,"position":3},"title":"Japan 2023 : Atami, Shizuoka","author":"Teetoo","date":"October 21, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"After 2 nights at the most expensive hotel in our trip, it is time to to head to our least expensive hotel at Fuji City. Again, Mount Fuji was a no-show as we bade goodbye to the hotel. We made our way to Shizuoka Station with the free hotel van.\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/category\/travels\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Nov11-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Nov11-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Nov11-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Nov11-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Nov11-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2612,"url":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-drive-to-sea-of-japan-benten-iwa-rock\/","url_meta":{"origin":2564,"position":4},"title":"Japan 2023 : Sea of Japan, Benten-Iwa Rock, Niigata","author":"Teetoo","date":"March 22, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"The 3 days 2 nights flew by so fast as it is time to shift towns again. It's hard to say goodbye to the mountains of Hakuba. We will make for a longer stay in the future as the view is perpetually breathtaking. \"Never can say goodbye\" - song version\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/category\/travels\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Nov6-Title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Nov6-Title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Nov6-Title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Nov6-Title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Nov6-Title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2507,"url":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/japan-2023-jigokudani-snow-monkey-park-nagano\/","url_meta":{"origin":2564,"position":5},"title":"Japan 2023 : Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Nagano","author":"Teetoo","date":"January 9, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"I peeked at the weather forecast on my phone at 5 am\u2014it was clear! After an ice bath, I found myself outside, wandering the quiet streets of Nagano City, hoping to catch a glimpse of the sunrise. However, Nagano is surrounded by tall mountains, so the sun only makes an\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/category\/travels\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov2-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov2-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov2-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov2-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Nov2-title.jpg?fit=1200%2C692&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2564"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2564"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2564\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2578,"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2564\/revisions\/2578"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2719"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2564"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2564"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/tee-too.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2564"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}