beppu and the seven scorching hells

A slight smell wakes me from sleep - what is that? Wait, is that me? I turn my nose towards my underarm to make sure it isn’t. I then remember we have just arrived in Beppu, land of the seven scorching hells and the aroma of sulfur. 

We dress and race up to the top deck with a coffee in hand to see this new destination. Pillars of steam billow up throughout the volcanic city where more than 2,000 hot springs live. 

Since I cannot visit any of the hot springs due to tattoos, myself and a few other inked humans remain on board. Trevor and I decide to have our own ‘hot springs’ day on Silver Dawn, but after a bite to eat and a mimosa or two. More like two. The conversation was wonderful - so why not?

Deck 10 is ours as the sun breaks through the clouds and we take full advantage. My current read is, Atlas Shrugged, and I feel the range of emotions Ayn Rand elicits from me while sipping a cortado. Damn you Jim Taggart!

Reading and relaxing have made me hungry so we ready ourselves in fine attire for lunch on deck. Long black trousers, a cream silk blouse, Tom Browne heels, and a camel Max Mara jacket -  I feel like a star with champagne in hand. Trevor is my arm candy and looks regal. A long Latin lunch unfurls and the afternoon turns late.

Stretching out the leftovers of the day, I watch kids play soccer across sand-colored fields from the ship. Round mountains are silhouetted with low clouds relaxing around them, the sun piercing through with golden rays. So stunning!

I notice the ship gently pulling away from the dock as I balance in tree pose from the yoga studio. The drumming send-off! I’ve missed it!! Racing outside all I catch are lovely Beppu-ians waving us off and a giant rabbit dancing and bowing in the distance. Once again Japan's hospitality and kindness are breathtaking.

Tonight is a world cruise family dinner with an Italian theme…in Japan. We make it through 2 courses and retreat as we cannot put any more food in our bellies. 

An early start tomorrow as we arrive in Kagoshima where an active volcano sends out continuous smoke signals.