Farewell to the City of Gods
It was finally time to say goodbye to Shimane Prefecture. I headed out from Izumo City, a place where even the station feels like a shrine, fully embracing the town's deeply sacred atmosphere.
From there, I began my journey further into western Japan, setting my sights on Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture.
A Four-Hour Test of Endurance
The train ride to Shimonoseki turned into a rather awkward situation. A very beautiful and cute passenger sat right next to me, but there was a uniquely tense vibe in the air.
To my surprise, we ended up stuck next to each other for four straight hours on the exact same train. I kept secretly hoping they would get off at the next stop, and I completely missed my window of opportunity to get up and use the restroom. In the end, we both rode the train all the way to the final stop in Shimonoseki together, making for a tough and slightly uncomfortable ride.
Glimpses of Hope: Traditional Kayabuki Roofs
Despite the awkward seating arrangement, the scenery outside the window was absolutely captivating. What really caught my eye were the traditional Japanese houses with "Kayabuki" (thatched) roofs.
These roofs rely on ancient craftsmanship, and because they are so difficult and expensive to maintain, the culture is slowly fading away. However, looking out the train window, I actually spotted a house where a thatched roof was actively being repaired. Seeing that maintenance in progress gave me a deep sense of relief and hope that the technology and environment to preserve this beautiful traditional culture still exist.
Kayabuki Roof
The Kayabuki roof is a masterpiece of traditional Japanese sustainable architecture, crafted from thick layers of dried pampas grass and reeds. Found atop historic farmhouses and shrines, these iconic thatched structures embody the spirit of ancient Japan, offering exceptional natural insulation and a timeless aesthetic that showcases a deep, enduring harmony between the local environment and rural community craftsmanship.
Reunion in Shimonoseki & Fresh Inspiration
After finally arriving in Shimonoseki, I headed straight to a guest house named "Bridge".
I was there to see my friend Jack, the owner, whom I've known for about two years. Jack is an absolute legend—he literally walked all the way from Vietnam to France while pulling a handcart (rearcar) behind him! Talking with someone who has seen the world in such an extraordinary way is incredibly inspiring. Listening to his stories sparked a fire in me, making me realize that I am fully capable of taking on completely new challenges myself. It was an incredibly motivating way to wrap up the day.
