The Miyashita's home in Kawena is on a hill overlooking the ocean. They have lived in Kawena for three generations. My room had an ocean view. A picture of Yoshi's dad, who is 95 years young!
We took to the mountains to visit Hakone Checkpoint, where travelers from Kyoto to Edo (old Tokyo) were checked to make sure they weren't infiltrating to cause trouble. The checkpoint was on one of only four routes between the cities, due to the need to go around Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashino.
Traveling back in time, tourist style ...
Miki and I then went for a cruise across the lake, while Yoshi drove ahead to meet us. We traveled on a replica of a tall ship as we enjoyed the pristine mountain views. On a clear day here you can see Mt. Fuji ...
After lunch, we traveled on to see Odawara Castle, a reconstructed castle that is based on the original that was built in 1580, and was, along with many other Shogun castles, "deconstructed" at the end of the Feudal period by the Emperor Meiji, in order to strip the warrior class of their power and most of their lands. Although it was a recreation, the attention to detail was amazing. It truly looked and felt like walking through a Shogun's castle.
After the tour, it was time to go back to my hotel and pack for the next day's adventure. Although we were only together for less than 33 hours, it was hard to say goodbye. Domo Arigato, Miki and Yoshi, for all of the kindness and generosity you bestowed on me!
