Sagami River Koinobori Matsuri
The day before Children’s Day (May 5th), I went to Suigotana (水郷田名), in Sagamihara City (Kanagawa prefecture), to visit the Sagami River Koinobori Matsuri. Koinobori are carp-shaped wind socks traditionally used to celebrate that day. During the festival, over 1,200 koinoboris are hoisted up to blow in the wind (which fortunately was very strong that day).
Kurayami Matsuri
In May, I attended the Kurayami Matsuri (Darkness Festival) held at Okunitama Shrine in Fuchu City, Tokyo. It was one of the biggest festivals I have been to. It lasted for a few days but I only went there once. The day I attended was the day of the mantou competition (万灯大会): It is a contest between neighbourhood groups about which team can hold a decorated pole and twirl it around the longest. There were also other events involving mikoshi and children dancing to hayashi music. Unfortunately, I missed the main event, which is the carrying of mikoshi at night.
Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen at Ramen Jiro in Kabukicho
Chashu ramen with all free toppings (vegetables, abura, karame and garlic).
I finally ate at Ramen Jiro! It is a very influential chain of ramen shops, with restaurants all over Tokyo.
Tokyo Racecourse
Tokyo Racecourse (東京競馬場; Tokyo Keiba-jo) is a horse racing course located in Fuchu, Tokyo and operated by JRA.
Lake Kawaguchi in spring & Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine
After the boat ride, I walked on the north bank of Lake Kawaguchi until I reached the Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine, Mount Fuji’s oldest shrine. I then took a bus to the train station.
Boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi
After getting down from Mount Kachi Kachi, I was walking by the boat terminal near the ropeway station and there was a lake cruise just about to start. I decided to hop on board.
Mazemen at Menya Akatsuki in Komagome
Aesoba (あえそば), with all the free Jiro-style toppings (garlic, vegetables, karame, abura) and additional cheese. There is also a raw egg beneath the fat.