Went to Kamakura to celebrate Christmas (?!)

(Oops the photo quality sucks)

Had Soba for Christmas dinner

Michi's room in Kichijoji, Tokyo

Michi and I spent New Year's Day in my hometown. This is Nakayama Temple where my family often visit for a walk.

 

My parents took us to Himeji Castle

In memory of "Musashi," who is said to have spent a couple of years studying in Himeji Castle

 

View from the top of the castle

"Musashi Training Place"

The riverside where Musashi had his first battle

 

Ako Castle remains

"Uchiiri soba" you are a geek if you know what it is.

Chushin-gura (47 ronins) sake barrels

Oishi Shrine

Yes, Oishi is the leader of the 47 ronins

Old small street in Ako

Random WWII stuff that we found in the Chushin-gura sake place (hehe)

a pretty temple (forgot the name) on the way home

Michi and I went to visit Mat's place in Kyoto. He took us to Ohara Sanzen-yin, which has a beautiful Japanese garden...but freakin cold.

 

Mt. Fuji from Shinkansen

Went to Ueno Zoo

Shibuya Station

The ad says "High School Kids, Go home and Study!"