Hello, fellow travel lovers!
This time, I visited Miyagase Dam in Kanagawa Prefecture to enjoy the winter illumination and a hot air balloon ride! The combination of an aerial adventure and a festival of lights is absolutely unbeatable!
First, Warm Up with Soup Takoyaki
As soon as I arrived, I headed straight for the much-talked-about "Soup Takoyaki." Unlike regular takoyaki, these delightful bites float in a flavorful broth, instantly sparking my curiosity! One taste, and I was hooked—hot, delicious, and absolutely unique!
※注意：やけどの危険あり。でも帰り道にもリピートしてしまうほどの美味しさでした（笑）。
Cozy Up with Game Meat! Venison Steak Skewers
At Miyagase Dam, I discovered the "Venison Steak Skewers," and let me tell you, they were amazing! Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor—an absolute must-try.
But here’s a little mishap... I tried to carry it around to share with a friend, but the cold wind got the better of it, and it completely cooled down. I’m sure it would have tasted even better piping hot! So, I highly recommend eating it right away after purchase to enjoy it at its best!
Don't Miss the Pre-Illumination Views!
イルミネーションが点灯する前の宮ケ瀬ダムは、実はちょっとした穴場時間。 昼間の景色がシンプルで美しく、晴れた空の下で広がる湖やダムの壮大さが際立ちます。
One highlight not to miss is the "Sky Walk Bridge" that spans over the dam. During the daytime, you can cross it for free, making it perfect for a pre-illumination stroll! The view from the bridge, set against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, is absolutely breathtaking.
As evening approaches, preparations for the illumination begin, and by the time the bridge lights up with dazzling displays, it becomes a paid attraction. Being able to enjoy both the serene daytime scenery and the sparkling nighttime view feels like such a luxury, doesn’t it?
A Thrilling Turn of Events with the Hot Air Balloon Ride
Heading to the much-anticipated hot air balloon experience, I was met with an unexpected announcement from the staff: "It might not fly today because of strong winds." What a bummer! Disappointed, I left my phone number and waited, hoping for a positive update if the weather allowed it.
In the meantime, I strolled along the illuminated path, soaking in the sights, when an exciting call came through: "Looks like we can fly! Please head to the meeting point." Thrilled, I hurried back without a moment’s hesitation!
I waited with excitement, watching the balloon slowly inflate before my eyes.
Getting on board was quite a challenge! Climbing into the basket with a hearty "Here we go!" felt a lot like squeezing into a cramped bathtub (haha).
While I was busy climbing in… wait, are we already floating!?
I was amazed by how smoothly we ascended—it had me thinking, "Wait, when did we start floating?"
The view of the illumination from the night sky was enchanting, a series of breathtaking moments one after another!
After the balloon ride, it was time to relax with a bath at Ryokan Miharu!
Still buzzing with excitement from the hot air balloon experience, I headed to Ryokan Miharu for a day-use bath. Eager to warm up my chilled body, I made my way straight to the bathhouse.
But then, a little hiccup! Some of the faucets were broken, limiting where we could sit. On top of that, the changing area only had baskets—leaving us wondering where to safely stash our valuables.
But hey, this is Japan—we trusted in the safety of this country and left our belongings as they were! Plus, the bath area had a clear view of the changing room, so if anyone attempted to take our stuff, we could immediately chase them down (though the thought of doing so in bath attire is hilariously awkward!).
The bathwater was a bit on the hot side, but the view from the window was absolutely breathtaking—you could see both the hot air balloons and the illumination in one stunning panorama! I soaked in the scenery while relaxing, completely mesmerized. Luckily, it was during the dinner party rush, so I had the entire bath to myself. Zero awkwardness, 100% perfection!
And Finally, Wrapping Up with Soup Takoyaki Again!
After enjoying the bath, I planned to dine at the ryokan's attached restaurant, but it was unexpectedly packed! The place was swarming with year-end party groups, leaving me no choice but to give up on placing an order.
"What's the plan? Should we just head home?" After some deliberation, I ended up buying soup takoyaki again (haha). The day started with soup takoyaki and ended with it—truly a takoyaki-filled adventure!
I left Miyagase Dam, vowing to return and finally try the restaurant's Dam Curry next time. Be sure to visit and enjoy the soup takoyaki, hot air balloon ride, and stunning illumination for yourself!
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip!
＊＊TabiJun＊＊
