Into the mountains – Rest day

Today we re-rode the Shinkansen Route to Morioka. This time with sunshine all the way. Rain seemed to be far away.
Our goal was not the city this time though. But the mountain side instead.

Getting to Amihari Onson by public transport is impossible. That’s what the hotel bus was for. Other people just used their car. Yes, there are cars in Japan. Especially in the countryside.

The bus was a bit cramped.
And my decision to take my full luggage with me did not make it easier. But such is life.
The route leads through lush forests, passes farms and leads to our destination at about 750m.
Tatami rooms this time and a big buffet for dinner. But it’s still noon and we are hungry.  So a “small” lunch it was. Katsu curre might  not be the most exclusive meal. But it did hit the spot.

Next a short walk around the hotel, which is very much catering to winter sports activities as well. And a short visit at the local tourist information that explains the volcano, the extraction of the sulfuric water, and the hiking opportunities.

After storing our stuff in the rooms (and deciding opening the internal window shades is probably not the best idea to keep the heat out) the next stop was washing up.
Going to an onsen in Japan always follows the rules of washing before enjoying. With our whole body scrubbed clean relaxation in the 42.2 degree Celsius water was the high point of the day. Well, I could have done without the horseflies.

Being sufficiently cooked in sulfuric water, a cold shower re-enabled the circulation.

To finish off the day, we enjoyed the  buffet at the hotel. (The cook responsible for grilling the steak on order might still have nightmares. )
While we were eating, the next rain shower came in through the valleys and nixed any idea of going out.
Instead we did some socialising with beer and Shoshu.