Could have been a nice rest day, especially as it was hot again. But seems we couldn’t resist clear blue skies and going up a mountain. Rest later I guess. But first a leisurely breakfast with Seiko – even had some Vegemite, different treat to those we were used to in Japan.

Couldn’t believe we’d found a microwave even older than Rachel’s back in NZ.

Loving the old appliances, still going strong.

Top cover.

After nine o’clock was enough of a late start, especially as it was soon over thirty degrees – back across the end of yesterday’s route before turning into the mountains.

Still a little way to go.

Seems squirrels like hot springs too.

Didn’t stop for long, except to get cold drinks and supplies at the konbini.

750 metres of climbing took us close to two hours all up, at least it was shaded in parts and we were unloaded. We had to stop for more cold drinks before catching the ropeway (cable car) another 400 metres higher up the mountain.

Back where we came from.

Wasn’t expecting to see these animals up here.

What this doesn’t show is the 400 m more to climb…

Bit of a plod up the mountain due to the heat and residual tiredness (did I mention a rest day would be nice?). But beautiful walking and we finally got clear skies and views from a summit! The crater was particularly impressive, with a good whiff of sulfur. To the south we could see Lake Inawashiro – tomorrow’s destination.

(Rachel’s photo)

(Rachel’s photo)

It was an amble down, while ensuring we did not miss the last cable car.

A fun whizz down the hill, besides returning to the cauldron of the valley. We passed some of the same people working the same rice fields as earlier in the day – much to their bemusement.

Back to Seiko’s house for a tasty homemade chicken curry with rice from her own fields. It was interesting to learn a bit more of what it was like for Seiko growing up here and spending time in a good example of the type of house we’d been passing so often. Thanks for having us, Seiko.

(Rachel’s photo)