Part 1 of 2

After climbing the Tottori sand dunes drenched in sweat, I stumble into the car and turn the air conditioner on full blast. Ahh… What an amazing feeling. I could sit here all day, but wait! I can’t forget about my destination. Let’s get going.

After driving through the many winding roads off the coast of the Sea of Japan, I see an intimidating black castle to my right staring down at me from the corner of my eye. This would be Matsue Castle, the only castle remaining in the San’in region. I’d really like to stop by, but I don’t want to be late to the small inn that I will be staying at.

After sleeping the night at a family owned inn in the middle of nowhere, I get up early the next morning to head off to my one and only destination. I drive for a couple of hours, but no sign of a Shrine anywhere. Then out of nowhere… boom! a huge Torii (A traditional gate to a Shinto Shrine) right in front of my face. I’m finally here! I felt like the Shinto Gods were smiling down from the heavens welcoming me to their home.

This is the largest Shimenawa (A sacred rope made of rice straw) in Japan. I wonder how long it took to make this?

Epilogue: Since my goal of visiting Izumo Shrine has now been fulfilled, my drive back to Kyoto was a relaxing one.  However, the last place I would like to stop by is Himeji Castle. Wow, this is one of the most beautiful castles I have ever seen in my life, and its huge! Walking up to the top floor was an exercise in itself. I tried to imagine what it would be like living in such a castle.

Thank you for coming on this journey with me!

I would like to hear all of your stories too about traveling to different exotic places.

Cheers,

Stephen Takayuki Charette