Typically, each year there are 25-26 named storms in the western Pacific. This year, there have been 32 named storms, with at least 9 approaching Japan and three making direct landfall.
What has this meant for our trip? We’ve kept a close eye on the weather, considering itinerary changes if needed.
For our Nakasendō hike, we contemplated not going. Ultimately, we decided to keep moving to the next stage (next train, next bus, next tourist information center). At each decision point, we chose to move onto the following step.
I am so glad we did!
Yes, it rained. A LOT!
Yet, we hiked.
Eight kilometers in the rain on mostly muddy trails.
What do I LOVE though? Hiking in a forest to a waterfall! Okay, I would prefer 72 degree sunny weather, but…I’ll take what I can get!
Along the way, we met Brits Liz and Greg, with whom we enjoyed slogging through the mud and sharing stories.
The hike was not only wet but also BEAUTIFUL!
Ready for the weather
Cloud skies adding layers of color to the scenery
Forest trail to a waterfall!!! ❤️
Laundry: a necessity everywhere
Weathered wooden water trough filled with rainwater and fallen autumn leaves
Muddy forest – green, wet, beautiful
Tsumago
Tsumago
Rest spot set up for hikers by the Tsumago tourist board
Wet conditions create mossy beauty
