Other things we did in Japan

Poppin’ Tags!

If you know me, then you know I can’t resist a thrift shop or vintage store! Needless to say, when we pulled up to a thrift shop named Risaikuru Shoppu 2 Suteppu (which translates literally to Recycle Shop 2 Steps), I was stoked! Located in Oirase, Kamikita District, Aomori, it’s was tiny and absolutely filled to the brim with precious items like giant tea kettles, statues, record players, clothing, and numerous other goodies. A few things stood out to us, and I wanted to purchase EVERYTHING I touched!

One of those items was a beautiful cast iron kettle. It was massive, and priced to fit! The exchange rate was 111.411 JPY (Japanese Yen) to $1US so this piece was $3000.00US! Besides the price, it was too heavy to put in our luggage, so it didn’t come home with me!

Of course there were other cool things

Another antique kettle.
Kettles.
More kettles!
A sweet lamp with a cool element.
Have you ever seen a spider fitter like this?
A creepy martian, that my friends loved.
Cool phonograph with storage.

There was a room full of vintage clothes, so you know I went in and looked around! I picked up two purses to style up. Aren’t they the sweetest?

If you’re in Aomori, swing by for a peek into this tiny gem!

Address: 4 Chome-50-901 Sumiyoshi, Oirase, Kamikita District, Aomori 039-2180, Japan

Phone: +81 176-51-6227

Miss Veedol Beach

Miss Veedol Beach is close to Misawa Air Base. The history of the aircraft that the beach is named for can be found here. There’s a replica of the aircraft and a tower to climb for taking panoramic photos. Although swimming is not allowed (due to the strong riptides) it is a beautiful place for picnicking, and shell collecting. One of the most stunning views is at the entrance to the beach. Towering trees seem to reach across the road to touch boughs, creating a triangular shape, and drawing the eye to the end of the road. Beyond that, are the beach, low dunes, and tower. It’s truly a beautiful sight to behold.

We spent a short time on the beach, but it was well worth the drive to walk onto the beach, search for sand dollars and shells, and touch the waters of the Pacific ocean.

Chilly and beautiful!

Miss Veedol replica.
Alan looking for my sand dollar.
The braids have it!

Such a beautiful day to stop for a moment and take in some fresh, beach air!

Find out more here. Then, go visit!

Japanese vending machines are AWESOME!

First, let me say that they’re EVERYWHERE! Whether you’re driving on a deserted road on the outskirts of town or in a major city, in Japan, vending machines a huge part of life!

Inside you’ll find anything from fresh cigarettes, eggs, hot coffee, cold coffee, and tea, to ramen, clothing, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While we didn’t make it to Tokyo (the best machines are there, in my opinion), Misawa had quite a few interesting ones to offer.

The thing I love most in the machines is the coffee! Always hot (or cold if you prefer), and super delicious! Although there are many to choose from, our favorite brand is Georgia. We love it so much we divided a case, and shipped some to both our sons, and kept a few for ourselves to send home! YUM!