I love Takamatsu! To get here we took the limited express to Shin-Osaka, the Shinkansen to Okayama, and the Marine Liner to Takamatsu. The limited express leg is a quirk in how the Kansai West pass works, as “West” starts in Osaka. We arrived at Kyoto station pretty early to eat and get our bearings. While we had breakfast at Mister Donut we were surrounded by students hanging out before school. The view from the roof was great.
The Marine Liner gives vibes of the train that Chihiro rides in Spirited Away, but high up. My whole being relaxed as we traveled over the water watching the islands pass.
We had lunch at a noodle place inside Takamatsu station, then tried to work out the bus logistics. We weren’t sure if the Suica card would work so I tried asking one of the people working at the restaurant. I failed; I’m not sure if my formulation of the sentence was way off or if they weren’t familiar with Suica (a different IC card is standard here). I tried again at the info counter. Between my brain coming up with correct verb conjugation and the person’s ability to decipher my Japanese I got the response needed. Yes, Suica works.
The AirBnb hosts offered early check-in based on our timetable. The place is really cute, with bedrooms upstairs and room to spread out downstairs. I am wary of using AirBnb internationally so I’m happy it worked out. I also checked on Street View and felt reassured by the “AirBnb” placard prominently displayed outside, setting some expectations with the neighbors. We all enjoyed some time to sit and do nothing.
Refreshed, we ventured out for a ride on the vintage electric railway. It was absolutely charming, and for the first time on this trip it appeared we were the only tourists.
Our destination was Ritsurin Garden, a vast space of green upon green upon green. Completed in 1745, it invites quiet and relaxation. Being here is a welcome change from Kyoto. I expect the garden truly shines in autumn and cherry blossom season, but the absence of mixed color lets the texture and shape stand out.
Since we had a kitchen, we picked up some food at a grocery store. I found it interesting that the microwave door opened down, like a toaster oven. The microwave required a combination of my beginner Japanese and the Translate app to operate.
Already I wish we had more nights here and fewer in Kyoto.
(15 954 steps)
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