Previous Day

These slideshows are in Quicktime

- A free player is available here

Our first day of rain failed to whet our opportunity to head through the mountains (not around as happens in Canada) to the lavender fields near Furano with Mr. Sakurai. Our first stop was a cheese factory followed by a visit to a gallery where we saw pictures of the fields that had been taken over 25 years. We had a little problem not getting lost despite an elaborate GPS system but eventually arrived at the Tomita Lavender Farm where we observed the spring flowers and had a lunch of Japanese curry to warm us up.

Following another farm we stopped at a sake winery where following another tasting as foreigners we were presented with souvenir sake cups.

Back in Sapporo Mrs. Sakurai had been busy preparing another delicious Japanese feast fit for the appetites of previous Canadian guests but much more than we could possibly devour. Joan was showered with gifts — 2 necklaces made by Mr. Sakurai, cherry tea, a dried flower picture made by Mrs. Sakurai, slippers for each of us along with 10 chop stick sets. To top it off we were presented with the gourmet leftovers. Again, it was quite a night.

Previous Day

Northern Japan — Eastern Russia — Bering Sea — Index

Great Adventures