Mt Takao Hike & Dinner at Ukai Toriyama — May 2008
It was under a threatening weather forecast that we optimistically gathered outside Takao-sanguchi Station for a midday start to our hike on 24 May. A few latecomers — namely Charlotte Lewis and myself — were delayed after being lured into the nearby Trick Art Museum (strongly encouraged by Tim Minton!). After finally escaping its maze of optical illusions, we rejoined the group and set off.
As the first drops of rain began to fall, those of us without rain gear were reassured by Phil’s miraculous backpack, which seemed to contain an infinite supply of jumpers and emergency provisions. Fortunately the rain soon stopped, and the weather settled into perfect hiking conditions — cool, fresh, and ideal for the climb.
The group divided, with some choosing the cable car while the rest continued on foot. The walk was delightful, taking us through dense greenery, along mountain streams, and over uneven roots that demanded occasional concentration.
Conversation flowed easily, shifting naturally as we paused or picked up the pace. From time to time we encountered Chris Parry running energetically up and down the mountain, putting us all to shame with his stamina.
We reached the summit in good time and celebrated with soba and beer — the latter mostly enjoyed by Tim and Terry. This may or may not have influenced our group inadvertently following the wrong path on the descent, though the error was quickly caught.
A thigh-testing descent brought us back to the foot of the mountain, where buses waited to take us to Ukai Toriyama. As if on cue, the rain began again the moment we boarded.
The gardens of Ukai Toriyama looked especially beautiful in the rain. From our second-floor dining room overlooking the pond and waterwheel, we enjoyed a series of exquisite dishes — including their famous yakitori, grilled using a technique that required explanation. I had the pleasure of dining with Mr and Mrs Imai and Chris Parry, who entertained us with stories and practical advice (including earthquake preparedness).
Many accompanied the meal with sake served in bamboo vessels. Meanwhile, Huw’s daughter contributed a burst of energy to the table and kept everyone amused.
After dinner, still in the rain, we wandered around the garden and paused at a small hut for tea while frogs croaked in the surrounding ponds.
Finally, we boarded the bus and then the train back to Tokyo, bringing to a close what had been a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable outing.
— Philomena Keet, Magdalen Oxford