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Caption: Travel Day The #Edventure Begins
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Caption: I woke up early and started planning out my itinerary. I walked to Manu Cafe to get my day started with a jolt of caffeine.
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Caption: I got the cappuccino, which is poured table-side by the barista, and watched as he masterfully flicked his wrist to create the perfect foam art. All aesthetics aside, the coffee itself was wonderfully bold and smooth, filling my nose and mouth with its full-bodied aroma.
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Caption: EAT & DRINK Daichi no Udon
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Caption: This udon shop was recommended to me by my friend, Kohei. It has two branches. This branch is located in front of Hakata Station, in the underground shopping arcade. I honestly didn’t know what to order. There were no English menus. Luckily, the machine I ordered from marked and ranked the most popular items. The shop's #1 menu item was the Burdock Tempura Udon. When I placed my order, I was asked whether I wanted the burdock fried whole or separately. I got it whole and was amazed by the large chunk of burdock tempura that was served! The tempura was freshly fried and crispy. The noodles were thin and translucent with a firm texture. It was the perfect meal right before I got on the train to my next destination. I’m always amazed at how good the food is in these subway stations.
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Caption: Fukuoka to Nara
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Caption: 13:15 Shinkansen from Hakata to Shin Osaka 15:48 Transfer from Shin Osaka to Osaka 16:13 Transfer from Osaka to Nara 17:03 Arrive at my Hostel in Nara
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Caption: I love train travel in Japan. It’s fast and super convenient.
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Caption: Shin Osaka Station
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Caption: Nara Station
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Caption: Nara, Japan G is Good Hostel
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Caption: This hostel is more of what I’m used to. For $10 a night, it’s got basic accommodations, very friendly staff, and a fun atmosphere. The hostel offers a free drink every night at 6PM for all their guests as a way for everyone to get to know each other. Met a fellow American named Joe. He quit his job in New York and is at the end of his 3 month backpacking trip in Asia. As luck would have it, he’s originally from Santa Rosa and we’re both looking forward to cheering for the 49ers tomorrow!
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Caption: FINAL THOUGHTS Decided to try out some local sake and beer before heading out to dinner. I’m still pretty jet lagged and crashed at the hostel early. Looking forward to seeing what Nara has to offer!
