Camping in Hokkaido

Camping in Japan' largest national park was a blast, with live music, hot springs and spectacular views. We rented cars and were on our way early Saturday morning. Last weekend was a three day thanks to the nation with the most national holidays (so I have heard) and its respect for nature. Monday was "Sea Day". Where we in the US celebrate people of the past that made our nation better, the Japanese have set Monday away for to observe the richness of the ocean. Of course, not all national holidays observe an earthen feature, for example during Golden Week there is a day to celebrate a former Emperor’s birth. But I digress. Interesting to think about though. Is it true that you can learn some about a culture about he days it sets aside to honor? Perhaps. Can you imagine a "Great Plains Day" in the US - the breadbasket of the US, as the ocean is to Japan? I think not. Arbor Day is hardly about trees and do you know when it is? I don’t and I have degree in ecology.

After a nice evening in the Daisetsuzan National Park, just north of the belly button of Hokkaido, the 12 of us headed slowly to the beach. Three cars stuff with camping gear and foreign students. Lots of good laughs, especially from our car – the New World. Two Brazilians, two Uruguayans and me. We like to think we took the short-lived soccer game at the beach on Monday but there might be some legitimate argument with that due to its abrupt ending after India went down. Nonetheless you get the picture I think. Turkey, Jordan and India brought representatives to the game. BBQ was had by all afterwards despite the incredibly hot sand.

Speaking of BBQ, we had one Brazilian style, with chorizo and chicken hearts. Here’s Vivian woman-ing the skewers and corazons. Good eating was had by all. Lots of good stories over the BBQ and by the beach for those that did not dare enter the cold water. Great to get out of the city and spread the wings for a bit. As soon as I get my international driver’s license I am going to rent a car a drive a bit to see the island. If I stay here longer I will probably buy a car. Hokkaido has a lot to offer that is better accessed by car. Especially come winter when back country opens up the skiing. I guess I will have to put some cash down for a 4-wheel car. But I think I am getting ahead of myself.