Golden Week Begins: Reunited in Akita ✈️🌸

 

I finally made it to Akita today—a few days behind my wife, but here at last! I couldn’t take time off earlier, so today officially marks the beginning of my Golden Week break. And believe me, I’m ready to make the most of it.

The day started bright and early at 4 a.m. so I could catch a 7:45 flight. I was bracing for chaos at the airport, expecting it to be packed with Tokyoites heading out for the holidays. Surprisingly, it was much calmer than I imagined. I could have taken the Shinkansen, but with Akita being over five hours from Yokohama by train, flying was the smarter (and faster) choice.

A Beautiful Arrival

Flying into Akita was nothing short of stunning—snow still dusted the mountain tops! My first thought?

“Here we go... Northern Japan. It's going to be freezing.”

But to my surprise, the weather was actually really pleasant today. Crisp, but not cold.

Reunited with Kai 💙

The best part of the day? Seeing my son Kai waiting for me at the airport. That cheeky grin of his melted me on the spot. I’ve missed him more than words can say.

We kept things low-key this afternoon. After I dropped off my bags, we went out for yaki niku (Japanese BBQ)—one of my all-time favorites. Although... eating BBQ indoors with no air conditioning on a warm day? Let’s just say, we earned our food sweat!

Park Shenanigans & Gaijin Stares 😅

Later, we took Kai to the local park. Let me tell you, it was hilarious—I was getting so many stares.
I guess not too many gaijin show up in these parts of Akita, so I was unintentionally the park’s main attraction.

But watching Kai go down the slide over and over, laughing his head off, made it all worth it. We even spent some time in the sandpit—though now I’m still finding sand in my pants... the joys of parenthood!

What’s Next?

Tomorrow we’re thinking of heading out on a little adventure—maybe to Akita Fuji. I’ll be blogging more then, and I’ll be sure to share some stories and photos from the day.

For now, it’s time to wind down and soak in the quiet countryside air.
Good night from Akita! 🌙

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