A Train Station in Spring

Cherry Blossoms line a rarely used train station decorated with stuffed characters so that travelers feel less alone.

Hamaotsu Station 浜大津駅 in Otsu Shiga Japan

A train leaves Hamaotsu station in city of Otsu

Otsu city located on the southern end of Lake Biwa briefly served as the capital of Japan from 667 to 672 AD during the Asuka period (538 – 710).  The area of the city has an old historical feel to it as you roam the neighborhoods.  I visited a local bar that is still running for over 50 years unchanged.

Okayama Station during Halloween night

Okayama Station at Halloween night becomes a major destination for viewing cosplay.  Locals go all out with some amazing costumes.  Taking a close up look one can see the time put in to get the details of eyeballs falling out and scars on faces. It happens around 6-9pm before everyone calls it a night.