Left the cities behind venturing up to the start of the Japanese alps ,as always Japanese efficiency the mountain train has extra large windows and a raised floor so you can enjoy the views on the way unfortunately I slept most of the way due to a slight hangover.alot cooler up here and more relaxed atmosphere from the hustle and bustle .although it is a lot more expensive less touristy and more Japanese which can be an issue but there is always a helpful Japanese person that seems to appear when confused or slightly lost .considering my grasp of the japanese language is poor at best they try to accommodate .going to check out the old city and take a trip up into the mountains not hiking as it is pretty hardcore and I'm ILL prepared maybe a trip to the onsen ( traditional public bath house) if I can find one that allows tattoos which is also pretty impossible as the Japanese hate tattoos ( something to do with the local mafia) .stubbled on the local hangout had some noodles and beers with a friendly local,getting a real taste for the local beer Kirin and as its available on most street corners it can be a problem.