Today is a little cloudy, but by noon the sun was shining bright as it has every day we have been in Japan. Keiko has decided to take us to Central Park here in Utsunomiya. We are going to see the beauty of the park along with a surprise to see the fall flower displays of Chrysanthemum. In Japanese, it is called Kiku. Some of the blossoms were the largest I have ever seen! Look at Marlon's hand next to one blossom.
Entrance to Central Park
The beauty of this park is breathtaking. The fall colors are popping of red, yellow, orange & green.
The line of tall trees along the sidewalk forming a canopy of golden beauty. 500,000 people live in Utsunomiya but the noise from the city is not heard. I think the barrier is the trees which makes an excellent sound barrier.
The bright colors of the trees seem like a bright light in this park. The beauty I cannot explain nor can my pictures faithfully portray the beauty of fall in Central Park.
Exploring Utsunomiya with the best guide Keiko. It has been a wonderful experience staying at Keiko & Yugi's house.
Strolling through Central Park.
In Central Park, there is a large pond with a fountain. A stream lined with stones, filled with koi fish with a wooden bridge that connects one little island to another. I wish everyone were here to enjoy this beautiful place with me.
Well, its time for some lunch so we are off to town. As we were walking down Union Street Keiko said there was a place she always wanted to try but only sees males going in and out and didn't want to go in by herself. We spotted the place and went in. It was a very small place with o my 2 or three tables but also provided as delivery service by scooter. I'm so glad we did try it, the ramen was so delicious. Very good broth, rich in flavor.
RAMEN LUNCH
After finishing lunch, we are off to ORION DORI, which is an outdoor covered shopping area. More shopping at Tobu department store that had a temporary display of items from Kyoto.....This shopping area is where Keiko took Marlon to shop for his knife MADE in Kyoto. Kyoto is famous for its knives. After much shopping he decided on the knife he wanted and purchased :-)
Time for a coffee break and a sweet treat. Made a pit stop for some siphon coffee and some sweets at a french bakery. Yummy!
