We have arrived to Japan
We arrived in Shizuoka two days ago. I haven't had the chance to write earlier because I have been dealing with some of the after-effects of the post-surgery antibiotics. Honestly, it has not been fun. I had two or three complications that followed the antibiotics, but thankfully I am over them now.
We have been walking a lot in Shizuoka. Unlike Vietnam, the weather in Japan (and more specifically in Shizuoka) is so cool and comfortable that we actually enjoy leaving the hotel and wandering around to discover the area.
We were so hungry when we arrived in Japan that we bought a pickled plum snack. I loved it, but Gab was only so-so about it. I love pickles.
Shizuoka
Even though Japan is generally very safe, Shizuoka is considered one of the safest cities in the country. We definitely felt that when we went for a walk at 2 AM. The streets were quiet, incredibly clean, and so peaceful.
Of course we needed to try real Japanese sushi :)
At this time of year, daytime temperatures range between 22 and 25°C, while at night they drop to around 18°C. All in all, it is very comfortable and lovely.
We have also been visiting some of the malls here, and I am surprised by how easily I can find gorgeous clothes in my size. I am a big fan of sturdy hiking pants, but for heaven's sake, every pair I find in Canada is too big for me, especially if they come from Switzerland! Here in Japan, however, I can easily find beautiful, high-quality outdoor gear that actually fits.
I found what may become my favorite pair of hiking pants and was ready to pay for them. But I have to wait until tomorrow because I didn't have my passport with me. To receive the tourist tax exemption, stores need to see your physical passport.
Fire alarm at the hotel
Last night, at around 3 AM, a loud announcement warned of a fire in the hotel building. Everyone headed outside. Three police cars and a fire truck arrived within minutes.
Gab and I took the emergency exit, but I was surprised to see many people using the elevators and the regular indoor exits instead! Because we used the emergency stairs, we ended up outside in a quieter area. Two police cars heading toward the hotel spotted us and stopped to ask about the fire alarm.
The officers looked at Gab and immediately concluded there was no chance he spoke Japanese, so they started talking to me instead. I had absolutely no idea what they were saying. I apologized several times and explained that I didn't understand, but they kept trying to communicate with me anyway. I felt quite embarrassed that I couldn't help.
Then, as if sent by the universe, a Japanese hotel guest emerged from the emergency exit and answered all of the officers' questions. Phew!
After about twenty minutes outside, we were informed that it had been a false alarm. The hotel apologized, and that was that.
But let me tell you this: in all the countries I have visited, I have never seen so many smiling police officers and smiling firefighters. It was a unique experience :)
Well, have a good night
June 16, 2026
Shizuoka, Japan