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  Inns With A Local Specialty (Pt 2)
15 December 2007
   
 
   
 
Head down to an inn near the harbour to try out the freshest sashimi you can find. One night’s stay which includes two meals, costs just 7,500 yen (S$99). There are nine dishes in total including the sashimi ship.

After you've satisfied your stomach, give plaster painting a go. It isn't as easy as it sounds - first, a layer of plaster is applied to the surface, then colour is added. Finally, a glass cup is used to polish the ball.

Next, move on to south Bosou in Chiba, about an hour and 50 minute train ride from Tokyo. Take in the sights of Tateyama and hop on a bus to Nojimasaki, which is famous for its lighthouse. The journey takes about 50 minutes.

Enjoy the beautiful views from atop the Nojimasaki lighthouse, the symbol of the city. It was Japan's second tallest western-style lighthouse in 1869 but it was destroyed during the Kantou earthquake. A new one has since been erected.

After that, try the green udon for lunch at a nearby restaurant. Brown seaweed is mixed with water, blended in with flour and after being boiled in hot water, the udon turns emerald green.

Carry on exploring south Bosou and be sure to try the abalone there - it is out of the world! At Sunatori Sanyo inn, a night's stay - inclusive of two meals - costs just 10,000 yen (S$133).

Give abalone and mackerel fishing a go with the owner of the inn. Fishing rods are used for mackerel fishing to minimise damage to the underwater environment. You can enjoy your freshly caught seafood at the inn. The abalone is extremely tender and sweet, and is served with locally-grown vegetables.

Carry on eating your way to Chichibu, Chiba. Begin your trip in Ikebukuro on the Seibu Express Line. Arrive in Nagatoro and head to an inn with a spectacular view.

Nagatoro is located west of Saitama prefecture and the Aragawa River is a must-see for all visitors. In summer, the sound of cicadas can be heard every where and when it’s hot, people visit the Japanese ice shop which was opened in 1938, to cool themselves down. Some of the many types of ice served are Kuro mitsu (brown sugar) ice and "Old Days Caramel" ice.

Take a boat ride along the Aragawa River where you’ll see Iwatatami, Nagatoro's most famous spot. Be sure to keep yourself covered during the ride as you’re bound to get wet!

Visit the Garden House restaurant for lunch. This Kaiten noodle shop which only opens during summer, offers "all you can eat" buffet for just 630 yen (S$8), a perfect way to cool your body and fill your stomach.

Go over to Chichibu City next and head to the most famous inn located in Saitama prefecture - Sugina. This inn is unlike any other. The beautifully designed rooms have custom made ceilings and beams and you can enjoy wonderful views all around. A night’s stay here - inclusive of two meals - only costs 8,800 yen (S$117). Be sure to try the Iwatake and edible lichen which is very rare. The inn manager only prepares seasonal food for his guests.

 
Episodes
Inns With Secret Hot Springs (Pt 1)
Inns With A Local Specialty (Pt 2)
Inns With A Local Specialty (Pt 1)
Trip To Seasides In Summer (Pt 2)
Trip To Seasides In Summer (Pt 1)
View Full Listing

 

 
 
- The best views of Tateyama can be found atop the Nojimasaki lighthouse.
       
  - There are about 200 abalone divers left in Japan and they all have their own abalone fishing spots.  
       
  - The ice from the Japanese ice shop is made from natural water from Mt. Hodo, and the brown sugar is from Okinawa.  
       
  - The lichen can only be harvested at an altitude of 2,000 metres and they only grow on the contoured surfaces of the cliffs.