I just returned from a trip!
Went to Tokyo and Kyoto, and some other places nearby. My Japanese definitely leveled up while I was there and I got to do a lot. I agree with the other roll, would definitely prefer countryside stuff to these big cities usually, but they have some wonderful things to offer too!
Went to the National Art Center Tokyo, which was doing a CLAMP exhibit. They had framed originals from manga where you could see the small marks from edits, the text cut out and glued on separate, etc. Gave a better impression of how their manga is made and overall just impressed me. Lots of people were taking pictures so I'm sure you can find good stuff if you search through Japanese twitter, if you're curious.
Went to Mt. Takao, which is usually an easy family-friendly walk, but I took a back way there which made it a proper nature hike. Takao is featured in Yama no Susume and it was great seeing the same things they showcase in the show.
Went to Tobu Zoo and saw the place Grape-kun once stood. Surprisingly there was still a bit of Kemofure merchandise in the gift shop, and even a bit of specific grape-kun stuff. Also lots of other cute animals of course! I never get sick of zoos.
I went with someone whos a big cooking nerd. We took a little cooking class, if any sushis visit me I'll make good tempura!
We also went to get some professional (and stylish) old fashion knives. I really enjoyed seeing the small family multi-generation blacksmith, they showed us their forge and were very hospitable. That was in Osaka, not exactly rural, but it definitely gave me a taste of an older lifestyle.
Aside from those particular things, I got to experience some good cultural things I hadn't yet. Internet cafes are very cozy, yukatas are wonderful in the summer, and of course- there was tons of wonderful sights and food. Saw monkeys, bamboo forests, shrines, even festival floats, all the nice Japanese things. For food, it was my first time having Hitsumabushi, first time having Torisashi, first time dumping matcha on random foods (thanks, Uji). Spent most of the trip exploring places and eating. And of course I bought lots of cute things, it was really great seeing cute 2d girl cut outs and posters so often.
My favorite part of the trip was a particular hidden place where it was very intimate with the chef/owner, he was surprised I even found the place. He made whatever he wanted, drank sake with us, chatted an
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