Beppu to Matsuyama

Yesterday (It seems like I run a day behind posting entries on this trip) after breakfast we checked out of our Beppu hotel and traveled to the waterfront to board a ferry to Shikoku. It was a 2 1/2 hour ride through the islands of The Inland Sea which reminded me a little of the ferry rides through the San Juan Islands back in Puget Sound.

A sister ferry to the one we were riding

The bow and stern open up on this type ferry so the vehicles are protected even though partially below wateline.

Some of the islands we passed had wind farms along ridgelines to provide electricity from the wind. On one small island I counted 25 windmills and on another 12 plus one under construction.

We had a bento box lunch and arrived at Yahatahama at 1230 for a ride to Uchiko Town for a tour of the historical district.

I could write several entries about the old town of Uchiko with its preserved buildings and crafts.  

In the old days when feudal lords demanded taxes from the local communities, Uchiko was in a difficult position because it was in a mountinous region and so didn't have the capability to grow much rice (the usual tax medium). Some resourceful person(s) developed the art of candlemaking from the wax made from the nuts of the sumac tree and thereafter they paid their taxes in candles.

A couple old grinding stones outside a coffee shop where the beans are ground quickly by electricity

One of the old houses awaiting renovation. Typical old style walls, mud mixed with straw and horsehair and plastered over a bamboo framework.

A sixth generation craftsman making candles from Sumac wax

We don't see many of these old post boxes nowadays.

After spending some time taking in the sights of the old town we went on to Matsuyama City and our Ryokan for tonight at Dogo Onsen, the oldest onsen in Japan.

Entry area with souvenier shops and front desk

There was a beautiful and well tended garden and impressive floral arrangements and artwork inside.

An ancient pine on its island in the rock sea.

We were greeted, served tea and given directions to the baths and dining area by a friendly maid.

Next entry will describe the best dinner so far on this trip and have a word about a really good bath.