Did I forget to mention? Sendai -> Hon-Shiogama (¥380).
After exiting Hon-Shiogama, a quick look at the map and I knew where to go. Walked around 10 minutes and found myself at Marine Gate, where the ferry tours of Matsushima Bay take place. Bought a ticket for ¥1400 and hopped on the ferry.
The announcements are in Japanese, and the young female tour guide was very cute and kept cracking jokes. Plus, legend has it that Matsuo Basho loved Matsushima so much because the sights and sounds were so beautiful; I am really inclined to agree. The different islands are pretty interesting, if that’s your sort of thing.
After the full 50 minutes (which actually flew by!), you will find yourself at Matsushima Kaigan area, where you can explore the temples or stalls, or just head back to the closest JR Station. I had a walk through the small bamboo forest leading to Zuihoji Temple, but I decided not to enter (as it cost money). Went for a stroll around, looking at the souvenir stores, then headed back to the station.
I’d already drank the Soukenbicha, so it was time for another drink! I went with Morning Cafe au Lait, for ¥130. Those vending machines are so handy!
I got on the train and tried to charge my iPhone with the batteries I bought the evening before, from Don Quijote, but to no avail. So with only an hour and forty minutes until overnight bus check-in time, I decided to find somewhere to waste that time whilst charging my phone.
Yep, I’m almost ashamed to say it. That place is generally McDonalds, for most people. I ordered a Juicy Chicken Fillet-O set (¥660) and ate slowly, whilst letting my phone charge. Finally it was check-in time, so I walked back to the pickup point and stopped by the Family Mart there, to pick up some snacks for the journey. I spotted these and knew I had to try them.
That’s Pretz in cheese and edamame flavours; they’re supposed to go well with beer. Will try it tomorrow!
Also, I picked up a small pack of “hand-separated” umeboshi, and a 1L bottle of Aquarius (low calorie sports drink, similar to Pocari Sweat). Time to board the bus!
P.S. My legs are killing me, my feet are completely blistered; I’m ridiculously exhausted. I reckon I’ll get some good sleep on this bus tonight!!!