#photos: shrines/temples/castles

[tokidokitokyo]

福島県

Japanese Prefectures: Tohoku - Fukushima

都道府県 (とどうふけん) - Prefectures of Japan

Learning the kanji and a little bit about each of Japan’s 47 prefectures!

Kanji・漢字

福　フク　blessing, fortune

島　しま、トウ　island

県　ケン　prefecture

東北　とうほく　north-east, Tohoku (northernmost six prefectures of Honshu)

Prefectural Capital (県庁所在地) : Fukushima (福島市)

Fukushima is the third largest prefecture of the 47 prefectures of Japan and stretches between the mountainous interior of Northern Honshu to the Pacific Ocean. Like most of the other Tohoku prefectures, Fukushima boasts expansive natural beauty, relaxing hot springs, a rich history, and excellent ski resorts. The feudal Aizu Clan, of the still-standing castle town of Aizu-Wakamatsu, remained loyal to the shogun, even after the shogun was removed from power during the Meiji Restoration. This loyalty led to the Aizu area becoming a battleground of the Boshin War in 1868, where those loyal to the shogun were pushed northwards into Tohoku and Hokkaido as they resisted the reformers and those loyal to the emperor. The Aizu area boasts the post town of Ouchijuku, with buildings retained from the samurai era; Tsuruga Castle; hot springs; and a famous sake brewery.

The March 2011 earthquake and tsunami devastated the coastal areas of Fukushima Prefecture and caused a nuclear accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant. Tens of thousands of residents were evacuated and a no-entry zone was set up around the nuclear plant. The no-entry zone makes up less than 3% of the prefecture's area, and even inside most of the no-entry zone, radiation levels have declined far below the levels that airplane passengers are exposed to at cruising altitude. Thus Fukushima has been deemed safe for tourists to visit. Wide areas of western Fukushima, in particular, escaped much contamination, including the mountainous interior around the historic city of Aizu-Wakamatsu. And even in most of the eastern parts of the prefecture, radiation levels have by now decreased to pre-2011 levels due to natural decay and decontamination efforts.

Recommended Tourist Spot・おすすめ観光スポット

Ouchijuku - 大内宿

Photo by JR Times

If you want a taste of Edo Period Japan, Ouchijuku is the place for you. This is a former post town along the Aizu-Nishi Kaido trade route, which connected the centers of Aizu (a former castle town to the north in Fukushima) and Nikko (to the south in Tochigi prefecture) during the Edo Period. Restrictions set by the shogunate required travelers to make the journey on foot, and thus post towns such as Ouchijuku developed along the route to provide food, accommodation, and rest. Ouchijuku has been restored to look as it did in the Edo Period, with thatched roof buildings that house a variety of shops, restaurants, and minshuku (small traditional Japanese inns).

The former Honjin, or principal inn for high ranking government officials, is currently a museum, offering an example of elegant traditional housing interiors of the Edo Period and includes a collection of dishes, clothing, and other artifacts.

The Takakura Shrine is a five minute walk off the main path and hosts a unique purification fountain in the midst of a stand of Japanese cedar trees, and was dedicated to Prince Mochihito, who died in June 1180. Near the beginning of the Genpei War (1180-1185) during the Battle of Uji, the prince fled to the Phoenix Hall of the Byōdō-in temple, where he was later captured and killed at the torii gate of Kōmyōsan. It was said that he managed to escape, and hid in Ouchijuku.

Shohoji Temple is located at the end of the main street and up a steep flight of stairs. At the top of the path visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Ouchijuku and its surroundings.

Regional Cuisine - 郷土料理

Kitakata Ramen - 喜多方ラーメン

Photo by JR Times

Kitakata ramen is a gourmet specialty from Kitakata, Fukushima prefecture. The origin of these noodles is said to be from Chinese noodles sold in stalls by young people who had come from China from 1920-1930. The noodles are thick and flat with a firm appearance and texture and a relatively high moisture level. The soup is a soy base, with flavors varying depending on the shop, from miso to salt. To determine where to eat, there is a Ramen Map located at the tourist information center in Kitakata.

The popular Kitakata Ramen Burger is made from baked and hardened noodles together with pork, menma, and green onions. Kitakata is also known for its unique culture of eating ramen early in the morning. People who started work very early in the morning at sake breweries and on farms would eat ramen early in the morning, and thus the habit began. "Morning ramen" is available at many shops in the area.

Fukushima Dialect・Fukushima-ben・福島弁

Fukushima-ben or the dialect of Fukushima is similar in some ways to the other Tohoku (or North-East Japan) dialects, but also has some key differences. Here are some interesting phrases I found.

洗濯物をおっこむ (sentakumono o okkomu)

Standard Japanese: 洗濯物を取り込む (sentakumono o torikomu) English: to take in the laundry

ぶっちめた (bucchimeta)

Standard Japanese: ぶつけた (butsuketa) English: to hit (e.g. one's head)

すっぺったこっぺった (suppetta koppetta)

Standard Japanese: ごちゃごちゃ言うな (gocha gocha iu na) English: don't complain about it

うっちしい (ucchishii)

Standard Japanese: うるさい (urusai) English: noisy, annoying

[benkyoutobentou]

（再）自己紹介 | Langblr Reintroduction!

皆さん　こんにちは！I recently hit a follower milestone and figured that it was time to reintroduce myself, as it's been quite a while, and I don't really have much information about me easily accessible on my blog. Additionally, I'd like to actually write stuff down about how this blog is organized. じゃあ、始めましょう！

Hi, my name is Nobody (they/them), my native language is English, and I like studying languages! Languages have interested me ever since I was a child, but I feel like I never knew how to properly learn a language until I started studying Japanese in 2020. Now, I also study Mandarin Chinese and German! Japanese is my main target language, and I would some day like to make Japanese my primary language. Yes, that means I'm interested in moving to Japan long-term.

Immersion is my favorite way to study, but as of right now, most of my immersion has been done in Japanese. Please tell me what you're reading or watching, or ask me what I'm reading or watching! I especially love talking about books and manga and would be more than willing to share recommendations!

Outside of language learning, my hobbies include horseback riding, gardening, and reading (in English). I also have a degree in music performance, but I don't really consider that to be a hobby since it's something I'm actively pursuing as a career.

As for my blog, I keep it mostly Japanese focused, mainly because I made this blog when I was only studying Japanese, but my other languages do show up once in a while, and much of the content I post/reblog isn't tied to a single language. Here are the tags I frequently use to organize my blog and what they all mean:

#benkyou posting - these are my own posts! These are usually tagged with at least one of the other tags, as this tag just denotes that I was the one who made it, not necessarily the content that it contains.

#languages - these are posts that are typically tied to a specific language or the specific study of languages. Resources for learning languages will also show up here.

#tips - these posts are general studying tips and may not be specifically about language learning, but are applicable to the study of languages.

#study - these posts are aesthetic posts of peoples' notes and study spaces.

#inspo - these posts are inspirational posts, for when you might have a bit of trouble getting into the study mood.

#art - this is just for Japanese art! Usually, it'll be traditional arts and I must admit that I'm a sucker for woodblock prints. If I reblog any sort of Japanese fashion (think more kimonos), it'll also show up here.

#culture - these are posts about the cultural aspects of Japan, such as explanations of festivals and the such.

#aesthetic - these are just beautiful photos of Japan, mostly temples. Again, these are just photos I like, and I really like shrines and castles (once someone called me a "temple weeb" and I'm still laughing about it).

#memes - this tag is for anything fun! Memes aren't the only thing that go in here- things such as polls and silly text posts will also show up here.

Things that I don't post or reblog include vocabulary lists and grammar explanations. I have nothing against them, I just don't particularly use them on tumblr and therefore find no reason to put them on my own blog. I've made a few vocabulary lists in the past, but have found that it's just not for me! Remember that language learning is a deeply personal journey and what works for you might not work for me and vice verse. Just because these things aren't particularly what I look for out of langblr content doesn't mean that they're not important to other people, but I would like to be clear about what shows up (and doesn't!) on my blog.

So welcome to my blog! I hope you choose to stick around a while! And for those who don't know Japanese, my blog name means "studying and lunch boxes."

[fioreofthemarch]

Finding Her - Chapter Photos

Finding Her has a header photo for each chapter, taken using the in-game camera. These photos were inspired by the chapter contents or recreating one that Link takes in that chapter (if I could manage it!). Here they all are in one place!

Chapter 1

Log is accompanied by a picture of a Zonai Steward Construct. Its large, see-saw head is angled slightly to the side, as if perplexed.

Chapter 2

A photograph of a soft brown mare, saddled and ready for travel. Link is sitting in the saddle, smiling at the camera. The immediate next photo is a self-portrait taken by a Hylian Guard, Scorpis, the camera too-close to his face as he tries to snap a picture of himself and Link, who is waving to the camera from his horse.

Chapter 3

A photograph taken from Impa’s hot air balloon of the geoglyph of Hyrule Ridge, depicting a large figure with long ears and an outstretched hand. 

Chapter 4

A photograph of the huge dark cloud that stretches high into the atmosphere. It is encircled by two dozen or so floating wooden structures.

Chapter 5

A photograph taken from the underside of a Lightroot, its sturdy vines wrapping around the central orange tuba and rising up towards the surface above.  

Chapter 6

A photo of the Gorondia, the Fire Temple, emerging from the Depths. It is flanked by lava falls and seems carved from the bedrock itself. Unseen to the photographer is a small, ghostly figure of a young woman, with blonde hair and green eyes, standing on an upper level of the enormous structure. She looks at the camera with a blank expression. 

Chapter 7

[Kakariko Village - this photograph is not depicted in the chapter]

Chapter 8

A photograph of a lone house in Hateno, in the old pre-Calamity style. It has a single chimney and a rendered brick exterior. Beside the house is a small garden with a large oak tree and a pond that glints in the moonlight. There are frogs in the water, strategically located beneath a concert of fireflies that have gathered at the pond.  

Chapter 9

[Penn at Wetlands Stables - this photograph is not depicted in the chapter]

Chapter 10

[Mipha's Court - this photograph is not depicted in the chapter]

Chapter 11

A photograph of a Zonai contraption: a cart with a steering stick and two small wheels attached. There is a Zonai rocket attached to each wheel. The vehicle looks as fast as it is flimsy. 

Chapter 12

A photograph of the Great Plateau with its evergreen trees and rolling landscape. The Temple of Time is in the foreground, ahead of a gentle hill that rises towards the overlook leading into the Shrine of Resurrection. A campfire is burning, just off the pathway up the hill. 

Chapter 13

A photograph of the painted mural in the Gerudo underground shelter, a determined Riju standing before it. She is deep in thought, a hand to her chin. There is no hint of fatigue on her features. 

Chapter 14

[Purah at Lookout Landing - this photograph is not depicted in the chapter]

Chapter 15

A photograph of Lurelin Village and the Pirate Ship on its shores. The huge, horned skull on the bow leers with blank menace. On the ship, a group of bokoblins and their boss bokoblin dance and jeer. 

Chapter 16

A photograph taken from the Thunderhead Isles of the Popla Foothills to the north. The Light Dragon is seen flying just below the clouds. There's a sense that, no matter where someone is in the world, the dragon’s light would shine upon them. It's a familiar feeling, like the light that shone from Hyrule Castle when its Princess called out to— wait. No, stop that. That’s— what are you talking about? The feelings aren't familiar at all. It’s just a dragon. Nothing more. This isn't even a good photo. It’s blurry, and dark, and should just be deleted. 

Chapter 17

A photograph of a ring of Silent Princesses. They grow tall, strong and radiant, and are clustered around a small shallow in the ground. At the centre, a dragon tear awaits. 

Chapter 18

[Josha at her research station - this photograph is not depicted in the chapter]

Chapter 19

[Penn at Washa's Bluff with the Light Dragon overhead - this photograph is not depicted in the chapter]

Chapter 20

[Rist Peninsula as the sun rises - this photograph is not depicted in the chapter]

[wufflesvetinari]

Hi! This is so bizarre, and feel free to ignore, but I'm planning a trip to Japan in November. If you feel comfortable, would you share some of your favorite places. And also where you saw the shows? It looked like such a good trip from what you've shared.

hey not bizarre at all, i love talking about it!!!! disclaimer that i don't know shit

so we chose to do something slightly unusual and skip kyoto, which is like. the big one other than tokyo. we did it because 1) we wanted to spend half the time in a less touristy place and 2) we think we will come back. so keep in mind that my experience missed a really big "essential" stop according to some. so we did 1) an urban leg in tokyo 2) an outdoorsy/quiet leg in nagano prefecture and 3) one night at a ryokan in hakone

in tokyo, staying in shinjuku was great for nightlife/people watching during said nightlife. it was also very central both for getting trains out of town and for easy access to harajuku and shibuya, which were my favorite neighborhoods. ginza was also a good contrast as like a very high-class commercial center. go to Bar Owls for a secluded li'l classy basement bar. our two super splurge restaurants in tokyo: X X

also a kind of overlooked neighborhood is yanaka, which is quieter with more historic buildings + a huge cemetery. yanaka ginza is a cute cheap shopping street themed around black cats

the show in this first photo is the samurai restaurant in shinjuku, which is VERY touristy but so much fun. the dancing and costuming and atmosphere were all super good

we also did a tea ceremony with MAIKOYA (where you are invited in to participate and given context for everything that is happening) and saw a sumo tournament with an english-speaking guide

in nagoya prefecture we based ourselves in hakuba for the hiking--it's an off-season ski resort and quite charming. i do think if i did the area again i'd stay in matsumoto nearby, which besides its castle has more public transport and central routes to a national park, the snow monkeys outside of nagano city, etc (we did not get to see the snow monkeys but they might be more present in november, idk). we saw several shrines and buddhist temples, and rode the ski lifts up happo-one to hike (bottom left)

LOVED going to a ryokan. hakone is a hot spring resort town and we could have spent more than a night there!! we stayed at kowakien mikawaya. they fed us SO well and we got a room with a private onsen (top two + the food middle right). very good, very relaxing concept for a vacation

my other bit of general advice is to double-check whether the things you really want to do need reservations, and do it EARLY. there's a great direct tourist train from shinjuku to mt. fuji, but tickets were sold out by the time we got there (it's better to get a service to buy them for you ahead of time is my understanding) and the same was true for the ghibli museum. but we had a lot of fun just meandering in neighborhoods between our booked activities so i don't feel like we were missing much

[umichenginabroad]

Week 1: Place Japan

Howdy y’all, it’s me Connor, checking in after my first week here in Nagoya, Japan.

First off, holy guacamole the culture shock is real. Who could have guessed being in a country 6000 miles away from home is a bit disorienting. However, I have begun to get used to all the changes. Because classes have yet to start I have done nothing but eat, explore and experience this amazing country, that I have somehow found myself in. So let’s go over some highlights together:

First day in I visited the forefront tourist destination the Nagoya Castle. There is nothing I can say about this location other than stunning, an absolute marvel of scale and human ability. Every inch was intricate and precisely made.

This is a photo of me in front of Nagoya Castle. Sadly the main portion (The white building) was closed to visitors however I was able to tour the palace (The smaller wooden building) which was astoundingly beautiful. The entire area was filled with history and I was able to learn so much. I even got to see the largest stone ever placed in a handmade stone wall (Photo not included).

(left) A cup of matcha and a green tea mochi dessert I had. Both had a wonderful earthy flavor which I really loved. I even got to sit at a traditional Japanese table on the ground it was a ton of fun. (right) a photo I got with two real life ninjas at Nagoya Castle. Later this week we even got to explore Iga, a city renown for the Ninja arts.

Day two was orientation, this is the first day where I met all the new people I’m going to be spending the next month with. Luckily everyone was super friendly so I had no problems introducing myself. I moved in with little issue and got done with the orientation for classes quickly. We even had a huge party afterwards with the professors and some other Nagoya University students.

A banquet and party held by the staff. This is where I met a lot of the tutors who are current Nagoya University students who are helping us adjust to life here. They are all super cool and telling me I shouldn't be a Chunichi Dragons fan (The local major league baseball team) but I still can't wait to go to a game (Hopefully next Friday).

This is my dorm room, it is actually smaller in real life but I can't wait to call it home for the next month.

The next couple days were spent on a huge group trip to the cultural capital of the country, Kyoto. We saw a ton of amazing architecture between the number of castles and shrines we visited along with the clustered and vibrant streets of the downtown. This trip is when I met a lot of my new friends too. I had such an amazing time and plan on going back at some point later this trip.

The first of the temples we visited in Kyoto, this was the Kinkaku-Ji. It was a massive gold structure surrounded by beautifully cut wilderness. This will truly be a place I will never forget. Funny enough this temple was also known for its mochi, I got the brown sugar flavor which was quite delicious.

This was our trip to the Kiyomizu-Dera one of the most famous temples in the entire world. This is where you wash yourself with sacred water which was a wonderful time. Another absolute wonder of human ingenuity. Most of it was built simply with wood fittings and no nails.

I lit incense and candles at temples for a number of reasons. I was shown how to by some of the staff for the NUSIP program and how to properly pray to ensure my wishes come true.

This was me visiting the Fushimi-Inari Shrine (More commonly known as the primary Torii Gate Shrine). Fun fact I woke up at 3:45 am to see this and it was well worth it. Another absolute marvel of scale with there being about 10,000 gates you can walk through.

On the left I am joined by some friends at a river in Kyoto we actually took a quick dip in because it has been exceptionally hot and humid out this week. On the right it is another group of friends I have made at an Izakaya, a type of Japanese restaurant often know for its large number of appetizer-like courses and large drink menus.

During the Kyoto excursion we also stopped in Nara, another huge cultural center of Buddhism within Japan, more important though, THEY HAVE SUPER FRIENDLY DEER THAT YOU CAN FEED AND PET.

Finally the weekend came and we were left to our own devices:

Saturday we has a chock full day of visiting Nagoya's very own shrines which although less impressive than the ones in Kyoto were beautiful never-the-less. This day also included a trip to the Nagoya Port Aquarium where we saw an amazing dolphin show.

Sunday we went to Nagoya Spaland. It is a combination amusement park, water park and spa. It was so much fun and there were no lines and I even went on the longest roller coaster in the world. Sadly we got caught in a massive rainstorm and you can see me and my friends rocking trash bag ponchos to protect ourselves. We got laughed at by everyone but we made the bus so it all ended well.

Classes are finally going to start this week and I am eagerly awaiting them. I have gone over all of the syllabus for my engineering course and I am going to learn an incredible amount about the automotive industry. I truly cannot express my excitement as Japan is just filled to the brim with automotive history. I am also ready for my Japanese skills to improve with class. Its been fun being the Americans who don't speak any Japanese but it has made traveling quite a bit harder.

Lastly for a little surprise here is a tik I made in Kyoto to the song Kyoto by Phoebe Bridgers :)

Until next time, さようなら, また 来週

Connor Gilfillan

Mechanical Engineering

NUSIP Automotive Engineering in Nagoya, Japan

[greay-rosewood]

so I was doing a run through Eden recently, and taking screenshots whenever I could, when I noticed something during the flight to orbit.

NOTE THAT BEYOND THE CUT HAS SPOLIERS FOR THE FLIGHT TO ORBIT!

Look familiar to anyone?

Thats because it is the exact same as what is on the final floor of the vault of knowledge.

I thought it was interesting, as we only can see this after the light whale smashed the fallen debris, and we head into the eye of the storm. With everything happening so quickly I wanted to make sure that I was right on the timing, and this happens to be the last part of the Eden castle we can actually see, as afterwards we he'd into the first section of orbit, with all of the spirits we have awakened.

I think its an interesting thing to think about because, all of the "shrines" we see in these photos, can be found in the different temples where we give the elder spirits light.

I just thought it was a neat comparison, and something to add onto the piles and piles of headcanons and theories I have on this game.

[morporkian-cryptid]

Really quick update without photos because I didn't have time to write yesterday. Or today. I'll write more later!

Day... 5 I think

We went to the region of Hakone yesterday, at the foot of Mount Fuji; gorgeous place, I felt like I stepped right into a Ghibli movie, nature everywhere, pine-covered mountains, water-filled moss, tiny forest trails and everything. It was raining too ❤️

We took the rope train to the Mt Fuji viewpoint but sadly it was too cloudy and we didn't see the mountain.

Next we took a trip on a GODDAMN DUTCH SAILBOAT (it was actually cheating, it used only the motor) that was gifted by the Netherlands to Japan in the Meiji era.

We saw the floating torii at Hakone Jinja

did some easy hiking in the countryside, and even came across a small trail that suddenly got super dark - Aime: "There has to be yokai here." Me: "It's like Spirited Away! Sweet, I can have my own Ghibli adventure!" Aime: "If we see a yokai I'm throwing you at it."

Day 6

We left early in the morning for KYOTO!

It is said that Kyoto is the capital of temples and shrines, and boy people aren't lying. We found a street that was just temple after temple after temple. Basically they have complexes with a bunch of temples or shrines together.

We found a super cute little temple to Jizo (Buddha protecting mothers and children), tucked away between two buildings, where I got my Goshuincho stamped - we even saw the priest do the calligraphy himself!

I bought twin omamori as a gist in another cute little temple, where the priest took a moment to pray over the omamori before giving them out.

There was a shrine where two separate people left senbazuru (one thousand folded paper cranes). And I found my first shrine to Inari-sama!! (my favourite shinto deity.) We're going to visit the world-famous Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine in a few days.

We ate at a seafood restaurant in the middle of a covered gallery with TONS of food stalls, like EVERYWHERE, with mostly fish and seashells, like I cannot even begin to describe the ambiance of this place. Some of them were just fisherman shops with like one or two tables in case someone wanted to eat lunch. I bought a squid skewer 🐙

Then we tried to go to Jijo Castle, lost a lot of time registering for the disabled discount, and rushed the thing in ten minutes because we had to get to Kinkakuji before closing time.

Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavillon, is just as gorgeous as the photos suggest. The park itself is beautiful too.. and we had to rush through the whole thing again (even run) because the Goshuincho bureau closed at 4:30. We went back into the park after I got my stamp tho. (there was a really nice security guard who showed us the way.) And I bought yet another omamori 😁

Oh and I found my first kimono thrift shop!!!!! I didn't find anything that caught my eye, but DAMN they were cheap as fuck and so pretty. We'll visit more thrift shops in a few days.

Now we're on our way to a ryokan hotel with a luxury dinner and animation with a maiko (a geisha apprentice) and an onsen. It's gonna cost an arm and a leg but it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience ❤

(also I need to go to an onsen so bad, my feet are going on strike)

[algernoninwonderland]

BotW's Great Plateau, the start of the game, really, gives you so much freedom, it really feels as though you're left to your own devices. TotK's Great Sky island, the first couple of hours of the game, really feel much more tutorial-y and hand-holdy and overly linear. It's not bad but it's a downgrade.

It's not awful, still perfectly decent, and the game gets much, much better once you're past that, but I feel like TotK's first couple of hours could test the patience of people wanting to immediately get to the good stuff.

Outside of horses, photos and the paraglider, the Great Plateau doesn't frustrate you, and it doesn't make you go anywhere, you can do the shrines in any order, and sure you have to go to the Temple of Time eventually but then you glide away and you're off doing whatever you want. You don't need any of the previous abilities to get to the next shrine, and oops, you need to go back and do another shrine now otherwise you can't progress, even though that's to show the teleport thingy. You don't have to go to the castle and talk to a guy and then come back to get the glider, while being told that you can't access certain rooms because the captain won't allow it.

I understand that the linearity is so that you don't miss out on stuff, I understand that you're no longer on your own in TotK, I like how populated the world feels and it's interesting to see how Hyrule has changed since BotW, so you can't just mess about on your own anymore, but there are moments like these that put a huge dent in the illusion of freedom the game often gives you.

[thrillonhills]

Best Manali Tour Packages For Family

Manali, nestled in the majestic Himalayas, is one of India’s most beloved hill stations and an ideal destination for families. With its stunning natural beauty, thrilling adventure activities, and rich cultural heritage, Manali has something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re planning a relaxing escape or an action-packed holiday, Manali Tour Packages for Family promise an unforgettable experience. Let’s explore some of the best family tour packages that can cater to different needs and interests.

1. Adventure-Packed Family Package

For families with a spirit of adventure, Manali is a playground of thrilling outdoor activities that will keep everyone entertained.

Package Highlights:

Solang Valley Adventures: From paragliding to zorbing and skiing, Solang Valley offers exciting activities for all ages.

Rohtang Pass: Experience snow even during the summer months, with options for snow biking, sledging, and building snowmen.

River Rafting: Enjoy family-friendly river rafting in the Beas River, offering moderate rapids and scenic views.

Why Choose This Package?

Perfect for active families who thrive on adventure, this package combines adrenaline-fueled activities with breathtaking landscapes.

2. Relaxation and Wellness Family Retreat

If your family is looking to relax and unwind in the serene beauty of the Himalayas, this package offers the perfect combination of leisure and rejuvenation.

Package Highlights:

Vashisht Hot Springs: Soak in the natural hot springs of Vashisht, believed to have healing properties and surrounded by picturesque views.

Hotel Stay: Relax in comfortable Hotels set amidst apple orchards and cedar trees, offering the perfect retreat for a peaceful family vacation.

Old Manali Cafes: Stroll through the quaint lanes of Old Manali, where you can enjoy the charming cafes, local food, and peaceful ambiance.

Why Choose This Package?

This is an excellent choice for families seeking relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to unwind in the beauty of nature.

3. Cultural and Heritage Family Package

For families interested in exploring the cultural richness and heritage of Manali, this package focuses on the historical and spiritual aspects of the town.

Package Highlights:

Hadimba Temple: A visit to the Hadimba Temple, a 16th-century shrine, allows families to delve into the local traditions and spirituality of the region.

Manu Temple: Learn about the legend of Sage Manu at the Manu Temple, which is believed to be the only temple dedicated to him.

Local Markets: Explore Mall Road and Tibetan markets to shop for local handicrafts, shawls, and souvenirs, providing a glimpse into Manali’s vibrant culture.

Why Choose This Package?

Ideal for families wanting to connect with the cultural and spiritual essence of Manali, this tour provides a deeper understanding of the town’s rich heritage.

4. Nature and Sightseeing Family Package

For families who want to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of Manali, this package offers a delightful experience of nature and sightseeing.

Package Highlights:

Van Vihar National Park: A peaceful retreat in the heart of Manali, Van Vihar offers a quiet place for picnics and boating, surrounded by towering deodar trees.

Jogini Waterfalls: Embark on a short trek to the beautiful Jogini Waterfalls, where you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning views.

Naggar Castle: Explore the historical Naggar Castle, with its wooden architecture and panoramic views of the Kullu Valley, providing a perfect photo opportunity.

Why Choose This Package?

Customized for nature lovers, this tour is great for families who want to take in the serene landscapes of Manali at their own pace.

5. Family Fun and Entertainment Package

This package is designed for families looking for a fun-filled vacation with a variety of entertainment options for all ages.

Package Highlights:

Amusement Parks: Visit fun adventure parks that offer zip-lining, rope courses, and other thrilling activities that the whole family can enjoy together.

Shopping at Mall Road: Explore the vibrant Mall Road for family shopping, delicious food, and local souvenirs.

Manali Club House: Spend time at the Manali Club House, where you can enjoy games, go-karting, and even indoor activities for children.

Why Choose This Package?

If you’re looking for a mix of excitement and entertainment, this package guarantees a memorable experience with fun-filled activities suitable for every family member.

Why Book Manali Tour Packages with Thrill on Hills?

Customized Packages: At Thrill on Hills Travel Agency, we offer tailored packages to suit your family’s specific needs, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable vacation.

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[healeroflightanddark]

Dancing With the Dragons, Chapter 11: Temple

The city that the Sakakis were in at the moment was a very popular place for tourists, with lots of sights to see. Each of the boys had wanted to visit the city for years, and they were very excited to finally have the chance. The boys were very eager to see the historic locations of the city. The most notable places they wanted to check out were the temples and shrines, the bamboo grove, and the historic castle.

“Don’t you worry, boys,” Yusho said, smiling at his sons. “We’ll certainly be checking out those locations! I know how much you five have wanted to see them.”

“Where are we gonna go first?” Yuya asked excitedly.

“I wanna see the temples!” Yuri said immediately. His brothers all chimed in with agreement, so Yusho chuckled. “Alright, temples it is!”

The family made their way to the most famous temple in the city, a beautiful zen golden pavilion. There were lots of tourists exploring the temple, many of whom noticed the celebrity family. There were whispers of excitement as people pointed and stared in awe. Some people started taking photos and videos of the famous family. The Sakakis ignored the mild commotion, having gotten used to people’s reactions to seeing them in public a long time ago.

“This temple was originally built in the late 14th century,” Zarc told his brothers. “It was constructed as a retirement home for a shogun, but was later converted into a zen temple.”

“It’s so pretty!” Yuya said appreciatively, looking up at the golden pavilion. Yuri read a brochure and said, “It says here that in the mid-twentieth century the pavilion was burned down by a young monk, who later claimed that he believed that its opulence and material wealth went against the principles of Buddhism. The pavilion was eventually rebuilt using the same architectural plans and methods as the original.”

Yugo shook his head and crossed his arms. “That was so rude of him! He robbed the city of one of its most prized cultural treasures!”

“Yep,” Yuto agreed. “Even though it was rebuilt, it was still a tragic and senseless crime.”

“Well, why don’t we all take a group selfie in front of the pavilion!” Yusho suggested, pulling out his phone. His boys all gathered around him. “Everyone smile!”

[crystal-in-nagasaki]

the great kyushu road trip of 2023, part 1: kumamoto

During summer break of 2023, I had some time to kill and was itching to visit a new place, so I decided to take a road trip with my friends to the remaining Kyushu prefectures that I had yet to visit, which were Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures (and Kumamoto, which I had been to before.) Since these places are known for their natural beauty and are relatively close to each other, we decided to drive between each location in a big loop over about 5 days. Here's a map of Kyushu for reference:

On the first day, we drove down through the Shimabara peninsula and took my car over on the ferry to Kumamoto city, where we planned to stay for just one night.

After arriving, we first drove a bit north of the city to visit Unganzenji Temple.

At the top of the hill by the parking lot of Unganzenji was a statue of Miyamoto Musashi, a legendary Japanese swordsman, alive in the 1600s who was born and lived in Kumamoto prefecture. He created the technique of using two swords and the swordsmanship philoshophy of Niten Ichiryu, and is said to have never lost a duel. He wrote the famous book, Gorin no Sho, the Book of Five Rings, which contains his philosophy behind both swordsmanship and the art of war. (source)

Next we visited the temple itself. We walked along a scenic path lined with hundreds of stone monk statues. It was very peaceful and beautiful.

At the end of the path was a small cave, where the goddess Iwato Kanon is enshrined. It is said that Miyamoto Musashi used to meditate in this cave while writing the Book of Five Rings.

As we were heading out, we saw this cat drinking out of a shrine offering cup. Of course cats are not informed of the sanctity of certain religious customs and will do as they please.

Before leaving the temple grounds, we went down one last path which took us to an overlook of the valley. Since it was in the middle of summer, the greenery and sky were a brilliant color and it was very beautiful.

We were sweating a ton in the August heat, so we stopped next at a roadside shop called Fruits Marche UFO for some rest in the air conditioning. The shop was on a fruit farm where you could also enjoy fruit picking throughout the year for a fee. I got some ice cream made from the fresh fruits of the farm.

After our rest, we headed back into Kumamoto city to Kumamoto castle. Outside the castle grounds was a statue of Kato Kiyomasa, a distant cousin of the Shogun Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Kato Kiyomasa first ordered the contruction of Kumamoto castle and was its first lord. He developed the area's agriculture and economy and is still well-loved in Kumamoto today. (source)

Below the castle area, we explored a small shopping quarter called Sakura no Baba Josaien. It's meant to create a small taste of an old-fashioned bustling shopping street below the castle. We stopped here for lunch and shopping, and I snapped a photo with Kumamoto's famous bear mascot, Kumamon. Kumamon is one of the most popular and well-known characters in Japan. The design of Kumamon is not restricted, so companies can use him as they like in their products and advertising. The total sales of Kumamon merchandise reaches almost $1.5 billion (USD) each year.

We stopped for lunch at a ramen shop in Sakura no Baba Josaien and I ordered "Kumamoto ramen," which from what I understand is almost the same as tonkotsu ramen, but a bit milder and with charred garlic on top. I love tonkotsu ramen, so it was really tasty.

After enjoying our food and contributing to the Kumamon Souvenir Industrial Complex, we finally headed up to Kumamoto castle.

In 2016, a large earthquake hit Kumamoto and caused a lot of damage to the castle. It has mostly finished reconstruction, but they are putting a lot of time and care into the job, so there are still some parts of the castle that are being fixed. But the main castle building is good as new, and features six floors filled with exhibits and information about the castle. There were also some interactive screens where you could take a quiz about the castle and play a simulation in which you are a ninja trying to infiltrate the castle. No matter which route you take, you will always lose, because Kumamoto castle is known to be virtually impenetrable.

On the upper floors, you can enjoy a view of the city, framed by the Aso mountain range in the back.

Kato Kiyomasa had a very distinct set of samurai armor with a tall and imposing helmet, which you could see earlier in his statue. Therefore outside of the castle, they had a recreation of his armor so you could pose with the castle for a fun souvenir photo. Here's me making my best scary samurai face:

As the day wound down, my friends and I went to a mall for dinner and shopping. We also saw the Barbie movie since it just came out that day in Japan (which is why I was wearing a hot pink shirt all day.) On the terrace of the mall was a large Kumamon statue, lit up in the dark looking like lord of the underworld, which we naturally took pictures of. Then we stopped at Starbucks to get the newest seasonal drink, which was a watermelon frappuccino. It was super refreshing and perfect for summertime.

After this, we headed to our hotel for the night. The next morning we packed up the car again and headed out to another shrine, called Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu shrine. You can reach this shrine by following a long stairway through the forest, lined on both sides by almost one hundred lanterns. After visiting the shrine building itself, you can continue farther up to a large rock with a cave underneath.

According to Wikipedia, the history of this shrine is largely unknown, but it's said to be a shrine to the creation gods Izanami and Izanagi. According to Japanese mythology, the huge opening beneath the rock was created when it was kicked by a follower of the god Takeiwatsu called Kihatsu. Many people come to pray at the cave because it's said to bring victory and success in study. The shrine was also the setting for a popular anime film called Hotarubi no Mori e, Into the Forest of Fireflies Light.

The shrine was very beautiful and deep in nature, which is my favorite kind of shrine to visit.

After this, we got back in my car and headed into Miyazaki prefecture for more adventures, which I'll cover next post in part two! Thanks for reading, and stay tuned :)

[osakatourism]

Osaka Tourism Blog - Day-By-Night Guide by Neighborhood

You may think of romantic Kyoto or Tokyo when planning a trip to Japan, but Osaka deserves just as much attention as its well-known neighbors. The third largest city in the country is a vibrant hub for nightlife, food and shopping. This Osaka tourism blog aims to highlight some of the best places for both local and international visitors to enjoy. Check their site to know more details 大阪観光.

There’s something for everyone in Osaka, and while the majority of tourists are drawn to the glitzy neon lights and restaurants of Dotonbori, other neighborhoods like Namba and Shinsekai have their own charms as well. The day-by-day guide by neighborhood makes it easy to plan your Osaka itinerary.

Start your day at Osaka Castle, which may look like a temple from afar but is actually one of the most important reconstructed castles in Japan. Often overlooked by many visitors, it is worth spending the full day here to explore all that Osaka Castle has to offer.

Next, head over to the imposing Namba Yasaka Shrine, also known as the Lion’s Head Shrine. As you approach the shrine, you’ll be greeted by what looks like a giant greenish lion head with huge eyes and a mouth that opens up to show teeth. This funky shrine was constructed in the 16th century and is a fun and interesting place to visit for some urban street photos.

The Namba area is also home to the famous Dotonbori street, which is a must-visit for all first-time visitors to Osaka. This photogenic strip is packed with restaurants, shops and bars and is especially fun to visit after dark. The entire area is a feast for the senses and a great spot to get some cool, colorful street photography.

A short walk away is the famous Glico sign, which has become a symbol of Osaka’s nightlife and can be seen from almost any point in Dotonbori. Many people take a selfie in front of the lit up athlete, but it’s even more fascinating to read the history behind the symbol.

If you’re in the mood for a little shopping, make sure to check out the Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street. This covered arcade stretches over a mile-and-a-half and is loaded with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to kitchen utensils and tourist knick-knacks. The Osaka Book Center is also located in this district and is a must-visit for book lovers.

Lastly, make sure to take a tour of the Osaka Sky Deck and see the city from above. This observatory is accessible by high-speed elevators and a glass-enclosed escalator and offers stunning views of Osaka from the top of the Floating Garden Observatory.

The best time to visit Osaka is in the spring and fall when the streets are bursting with cherry blossom and bright red leaves respectively. There are also many festivals and events to attend, so be sure to keep an eye on the calendar when planning your Osaka trip.

[adamburt1984]

Countries I wanted to visited

Not fond going aboard much, but there other countries I really wanted to visit. Used going holidays in my country (England) and going aboard is different. I find it annoying people live in ENgland always go aboard instead holiday in England and don't think it's a holiday and even comparing England to other countries. People have opinions but it's stupids.

Reason I like to go to United States, cos they made Superheroes, there one of the reason. I wanted to go there as it seem a bit of fun place I know every country has it downside. Places in America I want to visit: -Metropolis (See Superman Statue, Super Musuem and Superman Water Tank) -Elkhart (Visit Superheroes museum: Hall of Heroes) -Phildaelphia (See Liberty Bell) -Waco (Visit Dr Pepper museum) -New York (See Empire State Building, Chysler Building, Brookyn Bridge, One Trade Centre and Little Red Lighthouse and bridge near it and of course Statue of Liberty) -Chicago (See Cloud Gate/Bean and Willis Tower, some thank to playing Watchdog that there more to city than just Bean) -St Louis (See Gateway Arch) -San Francisco (See Golden Gate Bridge, Japantown/Peace Pagoda and Dagongate and maybe Transamerica Pyramid, Thank to playing Watchdog 2 to see more of city than just Brigde, also see Alcatraz Island accounding to my dad's famliy tree had someone related to working there) -Point Pleasant (See Mothman Statue and Mothman museum) -Cincinnati (See Lucky Cat museum) -Washington DC (See The Capitol Building and The White House) -San Antonio (See The Alamo) -Seattle (See Space Needle) -Grand Canyon (See Delicate Arch and Mounment Valley) -Orlando (Visit Disneyworld and Univeral Studio) -Maybe visit Mount Rushmore and travel through the Roune 66 and Kentucky- birthplace of KFC.

Reason I wanted to go to Japan, cos of Anime, Manga and Hatsune Miku, they show me what great of Japan. Places I want to visit and do in Japan: -Tokyo (include see & go up the Tokyo Tower & Tokyo Skytree and visit Akihabara & Nakano Broadway and Godzilla statue and Hachiko Dog statue) -Kyoto (Kyoto Tower, Fushimi Inari Taisha and Toji tower) -Mount Fuji -Itsukushima Shrine -Osaka (Visit Tsūtenkaku & Puff fish, and Osaka Castle) -See where Lucky Cats from and made (Gōtoku-ji Temple) -See where Daruma Dolls from and made -Ao Island (Cat Island) -See some Troii Gates -Four Japanese Castles -Manekineko-dori Street

Like to visit Singapore cos I find Merlion statue very interesting and fascinating and bright lights of Supertrer Grooves.

Like to visit Australia, to see Koalas, been more obessive with them since 2020. And like to see Playtus.

Of course, I visit my mum's country philippines, and photos and selfies with Jeepneys and see Baguio City Lion Head and Eagle of the North Statue. And met my relatives.

Falkland Islands, South Georgia Islands and South Sandwich Islands, and maybe Gibraltar.

Like to see alot in USA and Japan, but worry may never do these. No job and being in near 40s, but sure not need to worry about ages yet.

[asterinjapan]

Yoshinogari Historical Park today, including the mirror I made.

[inkandmoonbeams]

Hello!! Do I see prompt requests! How about this: BOTW Zelda saving Link, whether it’s in combat, politically or he’s just about to step off a cliff.

Hello Braidy! 💜 🥰 Thank you so much for this prompt! I lovelovelove the Zelink dynamic in BOTW so this was really fun to write (and I'm sorry it took me forever to finish it!)

Big thanks to @silentprincess17, @zeldaelmo, @zeldadiarist for reviewing this piece and offering suggestions! @braidy-maidy, thank you specifically for the mushroom idea (dsaifhds I was not specific when I asked for help so you ended up helping with your own prompt, it's fine 😅). You were all a hugehuge help and I love you all! Full fic is under the cut.  💜

Link was never sure what to expect from Zelda’s research.

There was always something new to discover; something to test or tinker with. The princess often helped Purah program Guardians, and her study was littered with spare gears and springs. Sometimes, Zelda ventured to a new shrine or practiced using the Sheikah Slate’s runes (her favorite was Stasis–something about how it could store kinetic energy. Link just thought stopping time looked like fun). A few weeks ago, she had started studying a flower called the Silent Princess. Her evenings were usually spent huddled at her desk, reading about its medicinal properties and experimenting with various breeding methods. She said she was determined to grow the Silent Princess in captivity.

Today, she wanted to head to the Great Plateau.

“You will not need to accompany me,” Zelda informed him. “It’s not far, and you’ll just be in the way of my research.”

She always said this.

And, as always, Link still came along, ignoring the glares she threw his way.

The glares were nothing new; after all, she wasn’t exactly happy with the fact that he was her appointed knight. Link had taken away her last scraps of independence, and reminded her of all the powers she could not unlock. She had every right to hate him. And knowing she probably did—well, it didn’t hurt as much as it used to.

But he missed catching a glimpse of her smile every now and then.

They walked along the plateau in near silence. Occasionally, Zelda held up her Slate to take photos or consult the map, muttering to herself as she tapped the screen. Link’s mouth twitched, and he had to force down a smile. She was just so cute—so focused and determined and unashamedly intelligent.

Not that he was allowed to think about Zelda in that way. She was a princess, and he was her knight, but this was no fairy tale. This was his job. End of story.

Plus, there was the whole thing where she hated him.

Eventually, Zelda found an area she deemed worthy for conducting research. There was a shrine a few yards away, and she snapped a few pictures before returning her full attention to the Slate. Then, she started pacing, venturing farther and farther until she stopped and did it all over again. Link leaned against the trunk of a tree as he watched her work.

“Princess?” he finally asked.

“Yes?”

“What exactly are you looking for?”

“I want to test out the Slate’s Sheikah Sensor,” Zelda explained. She fiddled with the Slate again and frowned. “It should be able to help us find more shrines. Purah says the Slate might be able to find other objects, too. For example, if I take a photo of a Hylian Herb, the Slate could catalog it, and then I could use the Sensor to find more. It has incredible potential.”

“Oh. Can I help?”

“No.”

Well. He tried.

Link sighed and scanned their surrounding area. He had grown to love the Great Plateau, with its views of Hyrule castle and the Temple of Time. It was familiar—a comforting sort of quiet during their otherwise hectic adventures. Zelda continued her pacing, and Link counted three glowing shrines in the distance. Birds flew overhead. A cluster of bright white mushrooms grew near his feet.

He didn’t recognize the species—they were shaped differently than truffles, and were too white to be Silent Shrooms—but maybe he could try one and come up with a few recipes for later. They looked tasty enough, and he had a feeling they’d be there for a while. He cocked his head and knelt to pick one.

And then—

“Link! Don’t eat that!”

He had barely gotten back to his feet when Zelda rushed towards him and smacked the mushroom out of his hand.

She smacked him hard, too.

“Hey! What—”

Link’s eyes followed the mushroom as it sailed down to the ground. “I wanted to eat that.”

Zelda huffed. “No, you didn’t. That’s a Skullshroom. It’s poisonous.”

Her voice was almost a snarl. She looked more agitated than relieved, as though he should have known that this area of Hyrule was full of dubious foods.

In Link’s defense, they couldn’t all be scholars.

For a moment, he could only stare at her in shock. His eyes darted from Zelda to the discarded mushroom and back again.

Poisonous. He really almost ate something poisonous. Who knows what would have happened if it weren’t for Zelda?

“Thank you,” Link finally said, still trying to process the fact that Zelda, of all people, had stopped him.

Zelda rolled her eyes. “You have nothing to thank me for. I only did what anyone else would do. Besides, It’s only deadly if your illness goes untreated, and the royal medics are more than capable of handling it.”

“I think that still warrants a thank you.”

“Fine,” Zelda said haughtily. She brushed dirt off her pants and sighed. “You’re welcome.”

And with that, Zelda returned to her Slate as though nothing had happened.

Goddess, she was stubborn. Link shook his head in disbelief and returned to his post, taking care to hide his grin.

Because she could have let him eat the mushroom. She could have let him get sick and enjoyed the rest of the day alone. Instead, she had smacked the danger right out of his hand.

Maybe she did care about him.

Just a bit.

[awkwardspontaneity]

A Special Favour

Part 9 of Memories of You

BOTW!Link x GN!Sheikah!Reader

Prev | Next

AN: I got hit with writers block so this took me soo long to finish but i’ve finally got it. This is tha last chapter before the finale so enjoy the happy vibes while they last :’) 

Summary:  The ceremony for a group of heroes unites the diverse group as the Champions of Hyrule and, later they unite in the best cure for the crushing weight of destiny. Laughter.

------

“Lead our Champions, Princess. And together, protect our kingdom from the threat of Calamity Ganon.”

Y/n stood with their fellow Champions in a small pavilion outside the castle. The ceremony had been the longest hours the Sheikah had ever spent standing around, and they had once spent 6 hours meditating over the sacred temple deep beneath the shrine of resurrection. It was to unify their spirit with the great elders that now resided in a secret shrine of the hero. Apparently it would only open when the time was right. Guess the impending doom of the rising calamity wasn’t enough to wake the monk from their sleep to oversee the trials.

Moving on from their painful memories of meditations, the Sheikah now stood watching Daruk stretch out his arms. He was moaning about how exhausting fancy events were- something Y/n could definitely agree with. They were more of an outdoors person. Nonetheless, the Sheikah Champion stood with their pinky linked through Links as they played with the new scarf they had received.

“Y’know, as boring as these uppity ceremonies are,” This drew the attention of the other Champions and the Princess to their white-haired friend. Revali scoffed at the dismissal of the ceremony, naturally being a fan of the boost such high praise gave his ego. “I do have to say I’m a fan of these tokens you made for us Princess.”

The mentioned princess bowed her head with a soft smile. “It was nothing, truly. I am merely showing my gratitude towards you as the Champions that will protect Hyrule from the calamity.”

Y/n grinned back, dragging Link over with them to the bashful princess. That poor girl needed to get used to praise and up her confidence. Good thing she had her loyal friends beside here- yes, even Revali. “Now now Princess, don’t forget that you’re one of those Champions that will protect Hyrule. Why I’d even say you and Mr. Hero over here have the biggest roles of us all. And before you get down on yourself for not unlocking that power of yours don’t forget that, with or without the sealing power, you are just as much a hero as us. We have the utmost faith that when the time is right, you’ll blast good ol’ bacon-breath away and free us all!”

“Y/n is right.” Urbosa stepped between the Hylian and Sheikah, lacing a warm hand on their heads. Y/n grinned as they received head pats from the tall woman, sticking their tongue out as the princess giggled at the sight. “You are just as valuable to us as we are to you. Don’t you ever forget that we have faith in your abilities whether that power shows itself or not.”

Zelda looked between her friends with a soft smile. Perhaps she could do even a fraction of what was expected of her as long as she had her Champions standing beside her. She allowed her eyes to fall upon the Sheikah who was now teasing Link with the same praise. Zelda giggled as she watched red paint the boys cheeks from Y/n holding his hand to their chest as they sung his praises. He was just as bad at taking the compliments as her. Especially when it was from Y/n. The Sheikah had a way of making people feel like they could do anything with their infectious energy and confidence.

Mipha was the one to change the topic, having been given the Sheikah slate from Revali. “Is it true that this device can create true-to-life images?”

“Yes!” Zelda made her way over to the Zora Princess to explain the use of the rune she spoke of. While they had not unlocked all the functions of the device yet, they had focused their efforts on mastering the ones available to them. As such, they were quite good at capturing these images for their compendium.

Mipha stared at the tablet in awed thought. “Princess… may I ask a special favour of you?”

------

And that was how the group of Champions stood on the grass in front of an excited Purah and Robbie who was waving his arms around as a form of direction. As per Mipha’s request, they were about to take a photo together to commemorate the day they were officially named the Champions of Hyrule.

“Daruk can you crouch down? You’re as big as death mountain.” With a hearty laugh, the Goron Champion leaned closer to the group. Y/n meanwhile, was too busy teasing their bird-friend after they had caught him changing his stance upon seeing it matched Urbosa. Revali was swatting away their hands as they poked at him, ignoring Purah directing the rest of the group to fit into the picture. “Y/n, you’re gonna need to leave him alone or we’ll never get this done!”

The mentioned Sheikah gave one last poke at the Rito, snorting at his huff when arms wrapped around their waist. Link had grabbed his partner, bringing them to his side instead of Revali’s then closing their hand in his grasp. Y/n looked at him with wide eyes as they felt heat crawl up their neck. They offered a sheepish grin at the boy, something he matched with his own flushed grin. The two seemed so lost in their moment that they missed the click of the camera. Purah cackled as she stared at the zoomed in picture she had taken of the pair locked in a love-sick stare.

“Stay just like that!” Y/n grabbed her friend and boyfriend by the hands grinning widely at the Sheikah Slate. They felt a squeeze from LInk, catching his soft gaze again. THey were drawn out of it by Purah calling for them again. “Now, Smiiile!”

Just as the shutter clicked the group was knocked forward by the giant Goron behind them. Revali let out a squawk as he was thrown into the Gerudo beside him. Urbosa smiled down at Mipha who was matching Revali in her shock. Y/n laughed as they were knocked into Link who was staring at them in surprise, an arm out to steady them.

As the group stumbled to regain their balance (and dignity for Revali) Purah and Robbie cackled at the image on the slate. Revali was the first to recover, spinning to face Daruk in indignation. His glare however, had the opposite result he had hoped for seeing as the Goron let out a booming guffaw. Y/n was the next to react, letting out a snort as they watched Revali’s feathers literally get ruffled by Urbosa and Daruk. Watching the chaos unfold amongst the diverse group, they became unified- not only in their roles- but in their bonds.

And together they laughed.