Day 8 Tsumago - Ena

 We are visiting this part of Japan to explore the Nakasendo trail which was the main route between Tokyo and Kyoto back in the day. There are parts of the path and villages that are preserved and we had intended to walk between two villages. However our host advised against it due to the heavy rain in Japan recently the risk of land slides or simply falling over on the slippery moss was too great. So he took us out in his car to see the villages and to see parts of the path.  We are extremely thankful that we had our host Koda to show us around.  He showed us great places to eat and explained many Japanese traditions. As an added bonus there is currently a Shrine and Children's festival happening in this town this weekend. So when we visited the local shrine there were groups of children all dressed in their "happy" who were there to be blessed before parading into town with their mini shrines. The celebrations went on into the evening with street stalls and what looked like a competition of who had the best mini shrine and performance.  Amazing to see. During the day we explored the villages of Magome and Tsumago. It is incredible how well preserved they are and everywhere we go we are amazed by the beautiful gardens and greenery. All that rain is good fo something! 

Our pod 

Some locals offered us their "happy" to take a photo.

Part of Nakasendo road.

Soba noodles!

Tsumago