Yesterday was our second day of biking on the “art island” Naoshima. This time we cycled around the entire island, stopping in a couple of small villages and sleepy fishing hamlets. Another day of beautiful weather.

There’s a really warm atmosphere on Naoshima. People we passed on the street greeted us with cheerful smiles — “ohayō gozaimasu” (good morning) or a little wave and a friendly “konnichiwa” (hi/hello).

It reminded me a bit of Vejbystrand and other small towns and islands we’ve had a connection to over the years.

Tomorrow we’re getting back on the Shinkansen. This time to Osaka, where I’m looking forward to meeting up with my buddy, photographer and “fellow wanderer” Henry Arvidsson for a night of burgers & beer. A bit farther from home than our trip to Svalbard earlier this year.