There was a gradual release of urbanism as the buildings grew smaller. The ports and industrial lands hugging the coast; went away replaced by blue seas. The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge is big and resembles the bridges connecting Lantau Island and Kowloon. Awaji Island is rural with seas of rice fields, mountains, trees and blue ocean. The tallest building is about five stories. I felt more at ease: calmer. Everything was great with the world.

The bus reached Shikoku by crossing anohter bridge and finally ending up in Tokoshima. The sun was red as a fire ball and setting over the mountain when the bus pulled into the city’s train station.

I was about to continue the 88 Temple Pilgrimage, and I was feeling fantastic.