I decided that our group (aka Carnival of Idiots) required to expand our collective consciences and make the obligatory pilgrimage to Hiroshima City and Miyajima. (My brother George will remember when we did this 24 years ago... am I really that old??)
The Shinkansen (Bullet train) ride was a treat for the whole group ('fast trains...aaaaah...!!') and our first stop was Itsuku-shima Island, commonly known as Miyajima. For the uninitiated, this is the island which is famous for the shrine with the huge red gate rising out of the water. Classed as one of the 'Top 3 sights to see in Japan', it is truly an inspiring sight, and provided the perfect backdrop for Frank and David to begin in earnest their Duel of the Cameras (Nikon 600 vs Nikon D4. Because one freaking expensive camera per group is just not enough..).
A spectacular 20-minute cable car ascent up Mount Misen culminated in an awe-inspiring view over the bay and islands (more Camera Duelling). Our first glimpse of snow on the trip led to a snowball fight amongst the younger members of our group... but alas, James was left slightly disappointed that the monkeys didn't show their faces. Probably because it was SO BLOODY COLD!
Frank and Tessa tried the local oysters grilled with lemon. By all accounts the resolution was very good. The local dear wanted to eat the box of chocolates in Tessa's pocket and was being very persistent...
A boat ride back to the mainland dropped us off at the Hiroshima Peace Park and Memorial. In my travels over the years, let me say that this destination should be on every person's bucket list. I think even the Carnival of Idiots came away deep in thought... maybe there is hope for them yet...
Back in Osaka, I took the group to taste the local delicacy of Okonomiyake - a kind of savoury pancake made with eggs, cabbage, flour, and your choice of meat. Another resounding success - although I am starting to think that the local beers that accompany the meals have something to do with the smiles on my group members' faces... *sigh*.
A tiring day ended for most of us then... except James, my intrepid cultural protege, who decided to utilise the alcohol still flowing through his veins to continue his Japanese experience on his own. Now, the details of this eventful evening are sketchy at best, as we only have James' dubious alcohol-induced memory on which to rely. However, we are led to believe that in Osaka is a group of Japanese office workers who spent an entertaining evening in a Karaoke box with Crocodile Dundee singing Cold Chisel.... Apparently, he is now an Osaka Facebook star..
James, you are a legend. My work here is done.
Rest day tomorrow but here are some more photos.
Gidday mate. Seriously though, is he not a dead ringer for Karl Pilkington!
But I do have a reservation so let us in!
Luke, use the force and heat this place up for crying out loud...
Polite to wash your hands before entering shrine. Water was bloody ice cold!
Model material :)
Help me, I'm stuck....
A-Bomb dome 150 metres from hypocentre.
Peace museum in peace park.
This is what a selfie with a Nikon D4 looks like!
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