We’re off today on one of my “I have got to get out of the city” trips. The urge comes infrequently, but it’s very strong. I need to see something new, smell some fresh air, and sleep in an unfamiliar bed.

After a quick check of Shinkansen timetables and weather reports, I realise that the entire country is due for rain tomorrow with the exception of Yamanashi-ken which expects only clouds. But the mountains and lakes of Yamanashi-ken do not appeal, so I think we’ll brave the bad weather elsewhere.

Our umbrellas will go north to Sendai and tomorrow I will photograph what we do—get wet, visit museums, ride the train home—to celebrate Leap Day.