The other day, after Japanese class, I found myself in need of rest. I took a nap and, before I knew it, it was 8 PM. Part of me felt a twinge of guilt for not making the most of the day, while another part found humor in how comfortable I’ve become, almost as if I’m living here rather than just traveling.

Strawberry Picking Adventure on Awaji Island

Today was filled with excitement. Our after-class activity was strawberry picking! Winter is peak strawberry season in Japan, which is why the classic Christmas cake in anime often features strawberries. February is an ideal month for strawberry picking, as the fields are abundant with perfectly ripe berries.

Our class ventured to Awaji Island, known for its fertile soil and favorable climate, making it ideal for fruit cultivation. The picking took place inside a greenhouse set up in a picnic style, complete with blankets, chairs, and tables. We could pick strawberries and pay by the gram before returning to our spots. At approximately 300 yen per 100 grams, it was a great deal, especially considering I had previously purchased strawberries at a grocery store for 1,000 yen per 200 grams. I ended up picking around 1,300 yen worth of strawberries, enjoying half during the picnic and saving the rest for the next day.

After our strawberry feast, we explored the fields and greeted the resident goats, which help maintain the land by grazing on grass and weeds.

Exploring Awaji Island

Following our time at the greenhouse, we set out to explore more of Awaji Island. One of the students, a Godzilla enthusiast, suggested visiting a nearby park featuring a large Godzilla structure. To our surprise, it was a zipline attraction! While part of me wanted to try it, I was also hoping to visit an onsen on the island, so I decided to pass this time. Unfortunately, the zipline’s schedule and the time it took to organize meant I missed both the zipline and the onsen. However, I plan to return when I have the campervan to experience both, as well as a ropes course I spotted in the distance!

Before heading back, we stopped at a service area on Awaji Island. Japan’s service areas are impressive, often featuring restaurants, shops, gas stations, restrooms, and scenic viewpoints. This one even offered free overnight parking with 24/7 restroom access, making it a great option for campervanning. I browsed the shop and purchased some incense, as Awaji Island is renowned for its incense production, accounting for about 70% of Japan’s incense. The island’s favorable climate and winds make it ideal for incense making.

A Rushed Return and Evening Routine

After gathering souvenirs, we headed back to Nishi-Akashi Station. The day had been busier than anticipated, and I had a massage appointment at 8 PM, thinking we’d return much earlier. We arrived around 7:30 PM, giving me just enough time to hop on the train, grab my clothes from the hostel to start laundry, and make it to the massage, albeit three minutes late.

Post-massage, I retrieved my laundry and made a quick stop at Lawson’s for shampoo and conditioner. For the first time since arriving in Japan, I took a shower. Up until now I had been visiting onsens for all my bathing needs. To my pleasant surprise, they provided shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. The water pressure was excellent, and the temperature remained consistent. Feeling refreshed with clean clothes and a relaxed body, I settled in for the night, ready for the adventures the next day would bring.