Postcards Mashike and Cape Ofuyu

A few postcards. A bit late, as tradition requires.

I arrived at twilight, paddling, in the rain, at Usuya port, and regretted the decision at the time. It was a long way in, there was no inviting place to sleep, and the town doesn't have a konbini. Oh well, when you leave it to fate you don't win 'em all.

The rain passed through and the morning was more optimistic. A friendly young fisherman, Keita-san, struck up a conversation and I liked his enthusiasm for Hokkaido's wildlife. Keita showed me his Instagram that has lots of beautiful pictures of bears, killer whales... and also tiny little birds that Keita-san says are his favourite. We decided to try for some pictures as I sailed towards Cape Ofuyu. I enjoyed meeting Keita and am grateful for the pictures (it's difficult to get pictures!). Check his Instagram here:
https://www.instagram.com/jpn_ocean_photographer/

It was a windless day, and later I paddled to Mashike. The port has a marina, and even a few sailboats, the first I have seen since Sendai (a long way back)! Looking after the installations was Coseki-san. He was immediately welcoming, ushered me inside for a hot shower, then dashed to a "konbini" for sandwiches and green tea. Upon departure the next morning I was gifted a pendant.

Up next was Cape Ofuyu. I started out paddling but soon a stiff headwind arrived. The sun shone and the coastline was glorious. The Cape is rounded rather than pointy. The beginnings of autumnal colours tell of the cold months that must surely follow.