Day 95 - 3rd of December

11:28pm　セミナーハウス
天気：曇り
Just finished watching Pirates Of The Carribean. Today was... alright. I was all ready to do my skit but unfortunately Rachael became sick, so did not come in today. So that was a little disappointing but, can't be helped. So now we're going to have to do it sometime next week. Since there were only two skits, we got out of class early, so I went with Jo and Jacinthe for lunch in the upper cafeteria, which I had never been to before. I ordered オムライス (omu-raisu - omelette rice) ~ basically rice wrapped in egg and covered with sauce; really nice. Got though all my other classes, and got home at about 5. We have a great Christmas tree in the foyer, all lit up. We also have two convection microwaves in the kitchen and some new pans. I'm very excited; get to actually cook some oven meals properly.

But not tonight. Just had leftover yaki-soba, while watching Pokemon. Then got down here, did a bit on the computer, and then watched the movie. Tomorrow will be over quickly and then weekend again; yay!!! Tomorrow night, I'm going out to karaoke with finding Jero booth members. On Saturday talking with family and hopefully getting some homework done. And Sunday going into Kyoto for the day. Dad's birthday tomorrow too. Wish him well in the morning...

Day 94 - 2nd of December

11:17pm　セミナーハウス
天気：晴れ
Just had a shower, washed my hair (it was starting to get really grotty; I hadn't washed since Saturday), and shaved, and cut my toenails. All clean and refreshed now; to much info? I felt so tired today. Hokkaido really did wipe me out. But I guess it's not just that; the stresses of exams and the end of semester are coming down hard. We had our first round of skits today; they were all so funny. After my Reading and Writing class, and lunch, Rachael and I practiced out skit for a couple of hours. We recorded it a few times, and had a good laugh at all the stuff ups. We're getting there though, and I feel ready for tomorrow. It'll be good to get it done. So afterwards, got home and had a nap. And of course, felt like crap when I woke up, just in time for the seminar house meeting at 6.

I was a little worried that Diego wasn't going to make it, but he got here just in time. The major focus of the meeting was people checking out and getting to the airport on time. I'm really glad I don't have to worry about any of that this time around. After the meeting, I went up to the kitchen and everyone was cooking. I waited to cook, and talked with Katie about my trip and other stuff. I had food coming at me from all directions; Carly's pancakes, Katie's chocolate milk, Diego's omelette (covered with the mozzarella cheese I bought him), and Jo's white chocolate mint biscuits. I almost didn't feel like any dinner afterwards. But, I made some anyway, and enjoyed it; yakisoba with pork. It was about 8:30 at that point. Spent the rest of the night practicing skit and doing homework. Now... sleep.

Day 93 - 1st of December

6:43pm　和室
天気：晴れ
In koto now; my legs are aching. Just finished lesson with sensei. I think she's teaching Midori sempai a new piece now. Wow, I really have to cut my nails when I get home. Don't know what I'm going to have for dinner. I got chicken out of the freezer so I need to use that. Maybe I'll just do yakisoba? Today is the first of December. The last month here in Japan for so many of the friends I've made. I did my grocery shopping this morning, but will probably go to Fresco and Kirindo to pick up some other stuff after koto. After Speaking, Rachael and I got to practice our skit for a while and figured out what props we're going to bring. Tomorrow more practice, then Thursday perform. In History, we're up to the Christian century, which started out promising, but ended with practically all foreigners being killed or driven out of the country; fun times.

After history, I bumped into Dan and we chatted for a short time. I told him I had to go to koto and left. Before koto though, I went to Makkas, and enjoyed a hamburger, fries and strawberry sundae. Now, I'm just listening to the girls practicing with sensei; not long left. We practiced Hanagoromo today, and are playing that, along with a piece from Totoro (hopefully), in a Christmas concert in a few weeks...

11:35pm　セミナーハウス
Trying desperately to get my blog up to date, but it's going very slow. After koto I did go to Kirindo and Fresco and got some good buys. Got back and made dinner (chicken with pasta and sauce), and watched "Liar Game" . It's a crazy drama involving gambling. It's very funny (in a disturbing way) to watch. Well, now I'm getting to bed.

Day 92 - 30th of November

10:20pm　セミナーハウス
天気：晴れ
Wow, the last day of November; it was an okay day. Still wiped out from Hokkaido, and had a bit of a headache in the day. We finished all our vocab quizzes in Speaking as of Friday (I obviously wasn't there, but I'm able to drop it so the 0 doesn't count toward my final grade). We're still learning new grammar though, from the wedding simulation movie. I had my writing composition in Reading and Writing, and was a little bummed out that I didn't write as much as a wanted. CEL was good. We had a short discussion about Koreans in Japan, as a continuation of our previous classes, and then watched a documentary for the rest of the class; "Sour Strawberries" - foreign workers in Japan. It shed a whole new light on Japan, telling of the struggles immigrants have getting into the workplace, especially those without qualifications, and some of the horror stories from the workers and people fighting against racial discrimination. One particular story hit hard - an activist went to negotiate with a boss of a worker from Bangladesh, over refusing to pay the employee their 5000円 wage (a very small amount), and the boss poured gasoline over him, and burnt him, almost killing him. It's really scary.

Japan's facing a crisis (declining population) which means less people for jobs and yet, there are no measures in place to protect the rights of the foreign immigrants they so desperately need. Anyway, it was certainly and eye-opener. Afterwards, my head throbbing, I decided not to go to koto, and walked home. Talked with my parents, and bro for most of the afternoon, then had dinner (udon with veggies). I'm feeling fine now, just really tired. Got the skit coming up on Thursday, so gotta practice hard for that. This weekend we're hopefully going into Kyoto again, to the Toji flea market, and then to see another of the temples lit up. Also on Friday, I'm going to the after party for my singing booth which should be fun. Got my suitcase all unpacked today, and my Christmas box is coming together nicely. Well, time for bed.

Day 91 - 29th of November

3:37am　ホテル
天気：晴れ
Just finished having a shower, and getting packed for today, after getting back from karaoke. It was so much fun. I was Eddy’s first time and he really enjoyed himself. A fitting end to a day of new experiences… Today is the last day of our holiday and I’m kinda sad about that. I do of course feel blessed to have seen snow, especially since the weather forecast had predicted only 20% chance of it. We check out at 11 so we’re going to get up at about 9, and do some souvenir shopping. I don’t think we’ll have time to go the chocolate factory, but that’s okay since they sell the biscuits around here anyway. Better get some sleep now…

1:48pm　バス
We’re on the bus now, back to the airport. This morning was good. While we never ended up going to the chocolate factory, we bought the biscuits at this great souvenir place, claiming to be the best in the central Sapporo area; I would have to agree. Let’s just say that everyone will be receiving a lot of Christmas presents. We checked out of the room at about 10 and they graciously held onto our luggage. We had a modest breakfast of salad and eggs, toast and coffee! Yes, I drank coffee, and I still hate it; it's given me a bit of a headache. Then we went to the 1050円 shop connected to the hotel; all I got was a shirt though. We tried once more to see if they had found Eddy’s camera, but no luck. We went into the German market one last time, and I got an apple pancake; really good. Before going back to 狸小路 (tanuki kouji – racoon-dog alley ~ the shopping street next to our hotel), we stopped a kiosk and got ドナッツ串 (Donattsu kushi – Donut on skewer). Sonia and Katie had already gone off separately again, I was with Carly and Eddy. He soon left us for the lobby, as he didn’t want to spend any more money. Carly and I on the other hand, went on a shopping spree for about an hour. Well, I think I’m going to get some sleep…

4:06pm　飛行機
Well, I didn’t get any sleep on the bus; I was too excited about seeing the scenery for the last time. We’ve just gotten on the plane now. Oh my gosh, my present was about to be squished by someone shoving their bag into the overhead compartment. Luckily, I quickly let them know, and they moved it. Now it has a compartment all to itself. We’re moving now… before getting on the plane, Carly and I had one last ice cream. After going through security, we found the pokemon plane model, took some photos, then it was time to board. This holiday has been amazing; so many new experiences. I can't believe it’s already dark out. Here we go… Goodbye Hokkaido. I will return one day!

7:42pm　特急電車
Carly and I are on the train to Tennoji, waiting for it to go. The flight back was uneventful, expect for just before we landed… I felt a sharp pain in my temple, above my left eye. It was like “instant migraine!!!” and it wasn’t pleasant at all. I was worried I would pass out, but I kept breathing and got through it. We got our bags, and feeling hungry, I decided I wanted dinner in the airport. It was about 6:20, and the others needed to return to their host families. So, we parted ways. Carly and I had ramen for dinner, which was really tasty, and then got going ourselves… we’re moving now rapidly, back to reality. My head is still throbbing a bit (just a dull ache), so I think I’ll rest…

Day 90 - 28th of November

7:12am　ホテル
天気：雪
It snowed in the night!!! This is officially the first time I’ve ever seen snow, and while it’s not much and probably going to be melted away by the end of the day, it’s something. Now, off to Jozankei…

8:21am　地下鉄
We’re on the subway now to 真駒内 (Makomanai)... After getting out of the hotel, we walked down a couple of blocks looking for “Cheese Please”. It was lightly snowing, and there was already a bit on the ground. It felt crunchy under my feet. We found an entrance to the subway; “Pole Town”. We got some breakfast from a bakery, found Cheese Please, and walked to the 薄野 (Susukino) station. Since everything was closed, we’re going to come back this way later. This train is going really fast and we’re only 2 stops away. We’ve just spotted a beautiful white mountain. I’m so excited; this area has heaps more snow!

9:08am　バス
We’re on the bus to Jozankei now, waiting for it to go. It’s snowing heavily now… Here we go…

12:20pm　湯の花
We’ve just gotten out of the onsen and wow… no words to describe it. But, I guess since I couldn’t take photos, I’ll have to... Stepping back a bit, we got to Jozankei at about 10. The ride here was wonderful; so much to see. And the snow got heavier. We’re surrounded by mountains now. Got off the bus, and walked up a hill, passing the 湯の滝 (yu no taki – hot spring waterfalls), to the information centre. The lady there recommended this onsen to us 湯の花 (Yu no hana); it was very close by. Before getting here though, we had a snow ball fight and I made a snow angel in an open field; it was so much fun.

So the onsen… There were a number of facilities inside and out. Yes, that’s right, we were sitting in the snow, in an onsen; most amazing experience ever. The onsen was partially sheltered by a gazebo-type structure. With the face of a mountain, covered in pines and gnarled trees as a backdrop, and the snow and steam spiralling in an intimate dance, sitting in the onsen was magical.

1:01pm　湯の花
Just finished lunch 豚丼 (tondon – rice covered with pork and veggies). I’m feeling so warm now… After sitting in the outside section, trying the waterfall cavern, and steam room, we went and enjoyed a massage from pounding water, and a bubble bath. We spent about an hour in there, going outside one last time to take in the view… We’re figuring out our next move now, it’s still snowing, but I’ve found that walking in the snow is quite pleasant. It makes the world look so calm. I think it’s because it falls so slowly, making time seem to slow down. So many people are just on the floor napping in this cafeteria, it’s so nice and warm and the floor is carpeted. I think I’ll lie down for a bit also…

4:33pm　バス
Finally on the bus back to Makomanai. It’s already dark and my hands are cold. After leaving the onsen, we walked around the town a bit, through the snow. The last thing we did was warm our feet up in the kappa friendship pool. It was very nice though, it smelt of rotten eggs. Then we all huddled together in a giggling pile, waiting for the bus to arrive. We’ll probably get back to Sapporo at about 6. We’re going to get to the German market again and get something to eat.

5:46pm　地下鉄
On the subway back to Susukino. The high school girls we met on the bus this morning were also on the return trip. One sat next to Katie, and they chatted. All the girls thought I was 格好いい (kakkoi – cool). One of them said イケメン (ikemen) which I later found out to mean hunk!!!

10:45pm　ホテル
Just about to go out to karaoke. We’re stocked up on heaps of munchies; cheese, crackers, biscuits. Free time karaoke is cheap here... After getting back to Susukino, we walked around Pole Town for a while, went to Cheese Please, and then went into a shopping mall. Before entering though, an unfortunate event occurred. Sonia and Katie had decided to go off separately, so we were going to meet back with them at the hotel. This reminded Eddy of the need for a key, and failing to find it immediately, he panicked a bit and rummaged through his bag, taking items out, and found it. So, we went on our merry way through the mall; everything was so expensive. We exited out onto the street, and then walked back to the hotel.

Eddy wanted to upload photos onto his laptop and asked Carly for a cord to borrow. The cord was easily found but, the camera wasn’t – we think he might have left it when he was looking through his bag. Extremely panicky now, Eddy rushed back with Carly and I in tow, to try to find it. After a number of attempts, he was unsuccessful. I feel so bummed out about it; what a way to end a great day. So, disheartened, we came back to the room once more, to find that Sonia and Katie had already left for the German market. We soon followed. Ate dinner there (I got ravioli). Unfortunately, the portions were rather small, and left us feeling unsatisfied. Did some shopping, and walked over to the TV Tower. By this time, sleet was coming down heavily. We noticed a purikura machine in the lobby, but since it was occupied, we decided to go up the tower first; Sonia and Katie opted out. It was a little pricey I guess, but it was worth it.

We were treated to an amazing view from the top; the lights were spectacular. I got some more pins from a machine – my goal to cover the front of my bag is getting there. I have 7 badges and pins so far. So yeah, got down, and had fun in the purikura machine. After that, we walked underground to Aurora Town (which connects the subways and Pole Town). Everything was shut though, except Makkas; everyone bought something. I was satisfied with a soft serve. Karaoke time…

Day 89 - 27th of November

9:35am 枚方駅 天気：曇り
Start off our journey with a photo... of the luggage.

9:38am　特急電車
We're all here - Carly, Katie, Sonia, Eddy, and I, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. We have so much luggage, so hopefully we can get to the airport without any dramas. Got to get to Kyobashi first...

10:05am　大阪環状線
We're on the Osaka loop line, switching over at Tennoji and then Hineno. I'm so excited; it feels like we're going to another country.

10:20am 天王寺
We're in Tennoji and have less than 10 minutes before the rapid express to the airport.

10:30am　特急電車
Apparently, we're on a train that will "uncouple" - the front 4 cars are going to disconnect from the last 4, and continue from Hineno to the airport. Luckily, we got in the 4th car so we get to see how it disconnects; so cool...

11:37am　関西国際空港
We're in the aeroplaza now, enjoying Sonia's Okaasan's sandwiches, and kitkats; it's a very flashy place. It's really quite at the moment. The plane flies out at 1:10, so we're going to go check in shortly.

1:26pm　飛行機
We're about to take off... the TV's are displaying a camera at the front of the plane, so we get to watch the take off. The weather is warm and sunny. We're right at the back of the plane and I got the window seat, Carly's sitting next to me. Here we go...

3:38pm　バス
We're on the coach to Susukino station, and then we have to walk from there to the hotel. It's raining and, wow, it's cold. As soon as we got out of the airport, it hit us and our breath was clearly visible. A whole new adventure is about to begin...

4:33pm　バス
We've been on the bus for over an hour and we're still at least 30 mins away. It's such a change of scenery here, and not just because all the trees are brown or leafless. I have but one word to describe Hokkaido; spacious. In this way, it reminds me a lot of Australia. We're in 札幌 (Sapporo) and yet, it doesn't feel like a Japanese city. Things are spread out, the roads are wide, and people are driving regular sized cars. It's not as built up as you'd expect a Japanese capital city to be. The buildings are of modest proportions; no skyscrapers in sight. It's kinda cool though; it's nice to have a change. We've only got three stops left. That's another thing; taking the bus, rather than the train. There's just not enough infrastructure in place; all the trains are underground. I think the bus is pretty cheap though considering how far we've come.

4:52pm　札幌
Okay, now I feel like I'm in Japan again; the buildings have grown tall. We're here, and it's raining. I'm warm in my jacket though.

9:23pm　ホテル
Tonight was great... we found the hotel easily enough; it was only a couple of block down from the bus stop. After checking in we dropped our stuff off in the rooms and planned what to do next. Eddy and I are sharing a twin bed room, and the girls have three beds; we got a couch and sink, they didn't! We're right next to each other on the 5th floor. We decided that, even though it was raining, we'd go out and find the illuminations.

10:20pm　ホテル
We just went out hoping to do some karaoke. However, since free time didn't start till 11, we decided it would be better to go tomorrow night and make the most of it. We want to try to get up early tomorrow and get out to 定山渓 (Jozankei) for hot springs and hiking. The trip was not completely wasted however; we stopped at a sushi bar for ice cream. So yeah, back at the hotel now just chilling. Earlier on though… We found the Sapporo White Illumination a couple of blocks down in Odori park and it was spectacular; shame it was raining. We’re going to go again tomorrow night. The TV tower is all lit up at the end of the park, there are a number of displays, and heaps of the trees were covered in lights. Near the tower, there is a German market set up for the event. There are some great items there. So since it was raining, and we were hungry, we walked over to the shopping street and got dinner and this great ramen place. The broth was… amazing!

With warm and happy stomachs, we had a good look around the street and stopped by some great souvenir shops. Among the memorable products were – beautiful wooden carvings of bears, owls, foxes, and wolves; so many different flavours of caramel, including lavender; a species of ball-shaped algae that you can keep as a pet and best of all; まりもっこり (Marimokkori). This is a portmanteau of marimo (the algae) and mokkori, a slang word meaning the “tent” an erection makes against pants or bed sheets; no joke. This green character sports a sizeable bulge in his pants, and has a very naughty expression on his face. Only in Japan, or more correctly, only in Hokkaido; I think it’s hilarious. So yeah, that was a heap of fun. We’re going to figure out how to get to Jozankei, watch some vids, and then get some sleep…