What would you say is the best view in Japan?

Kitadake.

Yeah, I would agree with you about Kitadake, though the view from almost unknown Kurodake just north of Ashitakayama (a small range right south of Mt. Fuji) has got to have the most humbling view. Like sitting at a giant's doorstep as the giant stands over you looking down.

By the way, did you have a chance to meet the proprietor of Nabewari hut? He's famous both for being in his 70's and twice daily carrying a 100 kg load of supplies from the bottom of the mountain to the hut, and supposedly making one of the best bowls of ramen in all of the mountains of Japan. For "play" he likes to RUN down and then back up the mountain with his daughter. Kind of makes you feel old, doesn't it?

Have you ever tried Kenashiyama Butuki? I hear good things about it too. Must have a look at Kurodake too sometime.

The Nabewari Hut was doing a roaring trade on Sunday. I had the Nabeyakiudon and it was worthy of its reputation (one of the reasons I went there was to try it). But then I'm a big fan of udon anyway, so I'm biased. Didn't get a chance to meet the owner, though, but he sounds like a character.

Luke, what's the best view you've seen in Japan? Are there any treasures up your way that you'd recommend?

Kenashi... I think I've looked at it in THE book quite a few times and often considered going there. But wasn't that the one where you need to take a taxi to get to the trailhead? Too expensive if I go it alone. Maybe this is one mountain we might consider doing together or with some others so as to bring the price down?

I'm sorry I've not contacted you earlier about going hiking together. I haven't been too well, physically. My diabetes has been bad lately and the extra insulin is causing me to gain weight and everything is weak. Slowly I'm getting myself back in shape, but I really wouldn't want to hold you back during a walk, so I've been waiting until I can manage it. Very frustrating as spring brings on more and more places to get out to. Right now I'm starting with easy mountains and hopefully I'll be ready for the big ones this summer.

But it really would be great if we could do some walks together.

You do need a taxi to get to trailhead, yes, so it is a kind of pricey option. Actually, I've already made definite plans to go there in the very near future. So if you're interested, I'd like to climb your old friend Ashitakayama with you instead when you're back in shape.