Hiking to Happiness!

I have always enjoyed hiking, but recently I have come to all out adore it. Especially when it’s a steep hike up a mountain with the possibility of danger looming ahead.

On Sunday, Jenny, Kayoko, Fumi and I went to Mount Unzen. I had climbed it before but there are many trails in the area that I had not explored, and there are more than 5 peaks so you can traipse around up there for a good long time. Sunday’s hike took us to the highest point in the area, and also as close to the volcano as you can legally get (no one is allowed to scale the volcano itself….I have asked numerous times). We hiked for about 4 hours in total, and it was somewhat strenuous, but there were frequent stops as we were with a large group and encountered some traffic on the way up. We had to put special spikes on our shoes to be able to climb through the ice and snow during the last part of the climb. It was so much fun! In retrospect, I wish I had gone with a smaller group because I like to enjoy things like that in a more solitary way, but there is always a next time I guess!

To entertain ourselves on the way down, Jenny and I exchanged lines and/or insults loudly and using as much vulgarity as possible. I just love yelling things like “titties!” with people all around me who cannot understand a single thing I’m saying. There is something so liberating about it. One of the best lines of the day was unintentional though, but thanks to my dirty mind almost made me loose my footing as I we made our way down the mountain side; it was Jenny exclaiming “I love going down!” (in reference to descending the mountain). I loved explaining to Kayoko why I was laughing at that, while Jenny fixed me with a decidedly dirty look, no doubt wishing some unfortune would befall me.

All together it was a great day, full of beautiful natural scenery, stunning views and good company. Next month, I hope to go to Mount Aso for another great hike and the Fire festival….should be amazing!