hakone...

heard of hakone?
four years ago, all i knew is that hakone is a brand of sardines.

now, hakone is not only that sardines usually canned with tomato sauce but also a very signifant and memorable place....to me :-).

for sure i can't perfectly describe it but here's a glimpse taken in an isometric view.

hakone is a place about 80kms. from tokyo. a popular destination not only for foreigners but also to local tourists. maybe because of its various hot springs, historical spots and gardens aside from its beautiful sceneries one would not fail to appreciate. a magnificent view of mt. fuji can be established up in the mountain while enjoying the hakone ropeway ride connecting one side of the mountain to the other. there are also old fashioned-ships available that cruise through the lake which is situated between the mountains. the coldness of the water mists over the lake adds a unique feeling and charm of the place. when starvation comes in the middle of the trip, a quick stop at the popular “egg store” should not be missed. there they sell sulfur-boiled eggs that are said to prolong one’s life for seven years!

there are lots more to describe but my vocabulary is limited to describe its beauty. visit hakone sometime and see the sights.

that’s the snap shot of hakone, a beautiful place especially for nature lovers. but it’s not the beauty that makes it so special to me. it is the moments in my first trip to hakone.

[story intentionally omitted]

rish knows the whole story. yes, because she’s the reason why it’s special. :-)

few more days and i’ll be going home (for good?). as i empty my cabinet and start packing my things i couldn’t help but reminisce. i will really miss a lot of things. i'll miss japan. coming to japan was a great opportunity. full of memories. many good and not so good experiences. memories and experiences i will never forget. i can't enumerate them all. just too many to fit all the years i've been here. but i’ll miss rish the most.

okay, hold it right there... im getting too emotional [and mushy to some i know .. .hehehe]. water is starting to fill my eyes just by writing this :-). boys don't cry! [note to self]. besides i know she’ll go home and i’ll wait for her. and i’ll be as excited as my first trip to hakone.