RocketJim's

I wish there is a Master's Program in a subject call 'Train Journeys'. I'm pretty good at it. I'm especially good at sitting by the window and watching the scenery unfold and go by. I hate my job but I love being a traveller. I do feel very lucky to have experienced what I had these recent years. Really now, nothing beats having a couple of hours to spare in a train and having scenes of autumn flash past you.

I had a lovely time during my short trip to Japan. I was introduced to several wonderful places and uh, we stayed at pretty hotels. There were a couple of hiccups on the first night though...not only did I accidentally locked Tokyo Spy out of the room (haha), I also broke a very expensive plate. I can't believe the idiots who put fruit-tables so near a bed (I have long legs you know)!! That aside, the room did offer a spectacular and romantic night view of Shinagawa.


The offending table in the background

The next day, after an hour's journey from Tokyo Station, I arrived at a small hot spring town called Atami and I felt like a little girl all over again. The charming little town made me so excited with its old houses, traditional Japanese grocery stores and hot springs. The hotel room was especially pretty with its huge balcony and mood lighting. Such a huge pity we had only a night. After dinner, I immediately checked out the connecting hot spring facility. It WAS FANTASTIC. And it was a huge bonus I was the only naked body there. Yay~no awkward moments. (As an aside, 5 years back when I last soaked in one, a voluptous girl walked in and I couldn't help checking out her huge boobs every 10 seconds. Nice. But very awkward. For her.) Anyway my skin felt so soft after the soak and I slept like I haven't slept in years.


The entrance. Doesn't it look like something from Spirited Away?

Unfortunately, I woke up around 3am and started panicking when I noticed that my friend wasn't back from his business meetings. I was so worried he drove off a hill-cliff because he did complain about being sleepy earlier in the evening. I kept flipping news channels for his name. Can you believe it? Again, how many idiots go to work after a hot spring soak?! Hot springs make everyone sleepy. Couldn't help but tear when he came back safe. Yes, I feel very stupid.



So all good things had to end. It was a very short holiday but it was precious to me. Thank you Tokyo Spy, who made everything possible and so easy for me. Also, the chef at Azveil Hotel for the lovely breakfast. And the trees which grew such lovely red leaves along the JR lines. Oh, and the conductor at Shinagawa station for his lovely smile.

I wish I can do this again soon. So so soon. I do feel lucky. So yeah, I am thankful.

Next, I must aim for this:


15 minutes. In 42 degrees water and bath salts.