Day out at Lake Shidaka

What's the one thing the Japanese love to do when spring comes? The answer is "hanami" or "flower viewing". Crowds of people flock to parks or other famous sightseeing places to enjoy the colorful flowers in full bloom. But it's the sakura that steals the show. This is my first "hanami". We didn't have that kind of thing back at home. So, I didn't really get what all this hype was about watching those flower blossoms. I mean, how beautiful can they be?

As it turned out, very beautiful indeed. Breathtakingly so. I love spring in Japan. It's a very nice change from the cold drab winter days.

The sakura blossoms don't last long. So before they all fall to the ground, I had to go see them. (And upload photos on facebook and instagram. :D) So, last weekend, I went to a place called Lake Shidaka. It's a camping site. When the lake came into view, it was like I had stepped straight into a postcard. It was that beautiful. Now, add the exceptionally nice weather to this splendid landscape. What do you get? Me in a very good mood. :P

Since it was a Saturday, the place was lively. Children laughing and playing around, groups of friends sitting idly by the lake, couples holding hands, families having BBQ. I saw ducks, swans and boats on the lake. 

It's a beautiful memory. One that makes me grateful that I am alive and could enjoy this magical show Mother Nature has put together.

I came back from this trip feeling lighter.
My purse also came back shedding a few pounds (or should I say yens?).. xD

The lake is about 30 mins away from Beppu eki. Take the No. 37 bus from Beppu Station West Exit. Get off at Shidaka Kohan stop. (NOT Shidaka stop!) The fare is 510 yen. Make sure you check the bus timetable for the return trip before you go off to get lost in nature.