Island Villages and Fields

The first two days of my break were spend cycling the Shimanmani Kaido.  It was lovely cycling through small villages and fields of rice and vegetables.  It was almost like Laos - but no dust, mud or corrugations.  Beautiful countryside, with a hint of the autumn colours to come.

Autumn Treats - More Chestnut Treats

First treat of the break was at lovely cafe in a Bicycle Hub in Onomichi.  Autumn was the theme and Stanley residents would be happy to see the Chestnut bread, Chestnut Danish and Chestnut Brioche.  No Chestnut muffins though for Dave Mac the muffin man!

Sculpture in the City

Sculpture is not just found in galleries, but in public places too, such as this strange piece near the United Nations University in Shibuya.

Onomichi Castle

Back from a 5 day break on the Inland Sea.  My first night was in Onomichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture.  It is a hilly port town with a history of shipbuilding.  I stayed in a hotel at the top of the hill next to this spectacular building.  It is a replica of Onomichi Castle, so a fake - but it looked good and the views over the sea were spectacular.

Itoya Rose

Itoya White

As with paint, whites are not white. Itoya had a wall of white samples.

Itoya Colours

Itoya is a store of beautiful things - absolutely nothing you need- but beautiful things to enjoy.  Paper, paper, and paper wonderful colours, textures and displayed with true Japanese organisation like paint swatches.