This was not the original plan. But, due to another inbound cruise ship or so we were told, our overnight in the port was cut short. When I looked at various port schedules, I could see our ship but no other cruise ships. Anyway – we moved on to another port on another of the smaller Japanese islands. This location, although obviously the administrative headquarters for the island which isn’t even in George’s Lonely Planet Guide. The ship didn’t offer any tours for this port if that gives you any idea…The other fun thing about today is clearing Japanese customs on the way out and pre-clear for Taiwan. Enough about all the administrative stuff.
We waited till close to 1000 – since not much of anything seems to open before than – and took the shuttle from the ship to the cruise terminal where it was the usual card and passport check before catching the second bus to the city center. I say city advisedly. Wifi is free at the port and in town, so I am sure that played a significant part in people interested in getting off the ship. Walking past the Post Office –
On closer look it is obvious that every business and family seems to be labeled on the map.
Unlike some of the other cities -the manhole covers here came in two sizes, were identical, and not painted or enameled. But the larger is more detailed than the smaller.
for those who like anime (or perhaps just Pokemon) – there was this bus near the elementary school –
Really the only thing we noted otherwise in our wander about town was this monument from Kaiser Wilhelm on the occasion in 1873 of the local citizens rescuing the eight men on a German freight vessel and getting them back to Germany. 
The description plates are pretty worn –
(right click on the website should get you the larger size which just might be readable). From there we wandered to the beach – mostly to say that we had been on one prior to leaving Japan. The water was cool, the tide going out and there were small shell and coral pieces scattered everywhere.
But other wise, frankly, there were only a few other passengers from our ship on this particular stretch of sand.
The Customs/Immigration deal is from 1230-1530 which is oh, so shortly so headed back to ship. Can also frankly use lunch.
(Actual posting time is 1127, 8 Nov 2023)
Since I have finished as much as planned on the Ships that Pass – I have moved back to Lady Violet Witherbottom – who is now more than 2/3 complete – having the rest of her face and her hat to complete. It is easy stitching as it is large blocks of color.
