There was a traditional Japanese landscape located two hours from the city center.
Just a few kilometers off the road to Katsuura, this place is like a different world where time flows quietly amidst picturesque Japanese rural landscapes and bamboo groves.
Yet, in the morning, there is a vegetable garden and a small garden where you can pick not only Japanese vegetables but also rosemary, basil, spearmint, orange mint, nasturtiums, and berries.
The mojito made with a large amount of mint was delicious.
Here, I think the best thing to do is nothing, just spend time reading or listening to music.
A must-do is an early morning walk.
Perhaps the villagers are very conscious, as the paths, ridges, bamboo groves, and irrigation channels flowing through the rice fields are all neatly mowed, conveying the villagers' care for their lifestyle and scenery, making for a pleasant walk.
There are only rice fields and traditional farmhouses scattered here and there, with no shops, signs, or unnecessary things. It's a village that seems like the scenery hasn't changed in 200 years. It seems only the roofs have changed from thatched to something else.
Along the way, there were the sounds of frogs and cicadas, a damselfly, and a momentary glimpse of a blue bird flying by, which might have been a kingfisher.
You are enveloped by the nature of the satoyama.
I can't believe such a wonderful place exists less than two hours from Tokyo.
Next time, I want to bring my grandchildren, who were born and raised in Tokyo, and take it slow. I want to teach them traditional games, make stilts, create lanterns, and go see fireflies at night, giving them such rural experiences.
I'm excited at the thought that it might become the countryside they visit every year.
Lastly, I want to highlight the wonderful managers. Thanks to them, I feel like my satisfaction with the stay doubled.
The morning porridge, with its delicious broth carefully prepared, generous salmon flakes, and fresh eggs, was so tasty I could eat it every day.
I will definitely visit again.