Shizuoka

A few weekends ago, it had hit me that I hadn't yet bothered to see much of what my own prefecture has to offer, so I took a trip into Shizuoka City and did some sightseeing. I was actually pretty surprised too - there is some cool stuff around here, minus the throngs of tourists! Sometimes you just have to look in your own backyard ....

Sengen Jinja, Shizuoka City

Bride and Groom, Shizuoka City

There always seem to be wedding ceremonies at Japanese temples, at least when I go. This couple was more than happy to pose for me - gotta love that about Japanese people. I dig the traditional wedding wear - especially the bride's -- so colorful and elaborate. Although the groom definitely gets the better deal in the comfort department! Is it just me, or does he look waaaaay younger than her?

Purification Basin, Sengen Jinja, Shizuoka City

Toilet with a View, Shizuoka City

Further evidence that straying off the beaten track is worth it - I came across this old toilet on the hillside. Shizuoka actually means "Peaceful Hill" in Japanese. What a nice place to take a leak!

Mt. Fuji, Lesser Known View

Here's a shot that never makes the postcards. Can you see Mt. Fuji in the back? A little hazy, but it's there. You wouldn't know it unless you come to Japan, but much of the area around the base of Fuji is ugly, ugly, ugly. It's mostly industrial factory area. Fuji City has something like 350 smoke-stacks and the whole area stinks most of the time.