Enoshima Beach

Last Sunday we were invited to a beach BBQ at a seaside location about 1 hour from our apartment, a place called Enoshima. In fact, many of you have probably seen this famous woodblock print by the Japanese artist, Hokusai, at one time or another. Well, this is the view from Enoshima looking northwest towards Mt. Fuji. Circa 1820 of course!

Anyway, the BBQ was a special event because earlier that day a group of fisherman motored far out to sea and dropped a massive net. As the day progressed the net was slowly winched in, inches at a time. About 4 hours after casting, we were all called down to the waters' edge to help reel in the catch. About 100 people gathered for a chance to grab the lines and pull in the poisson du jour. Sardines, mackerel, jellyfish, and even a 2 foot shark (which they later released). Fun for all.

It was a brutally hot day but the ocean was cool. Miki enjoyed splashing a bit in the waves and Sam soaked up all the cooing and fussing there was to be had over the blonde baby with blue eyes.

For the return train ride home we booked a seat on the Romance Car, something Miki has been talking about since we arrived. Basically a luxury express train that runs between Tokyo city centre a few distant locations west. Miki was so excited she didn't even change into her street clothes, opting instead to wear her one-piece bathing suit the whole way. A much needed bath for all and a quick bit to eat was all we had energy for and 3 minutes after putting her head on the pillow, Miki was asleep.