Hey, everyone!

This week, I will tell you briefly about the place I used to live in Japan. Before I moved to Osaka over two years ago, I lived in a town called Ikuno for five years. It's in the city of Asago in Hyogo Prefecture. It's just over an hour north of Himeji, and you can take the JR Bantan Train Line to reach Ikuno.

It is a small, quiet town where the Ichi River flows through. However, the people in the community are friendly and wonderful! Its most well-known local attraction is Ikuno Ginzan, or silver mine. Silver was extracted from the mine until the later half of the 1900's. Now, tourists can go through the mine and learn about its history. Also, the town's local dish is hayashi rice, which is a tomato-based stew with beef and vegetables.

I hope I can make another return trip soon!

Next week, I'll write about Asago City's most recent attraction - the Takeda Castle Ruins.

Until next time!

- Patrick