There were  Odysseus   ( who Homer in Greek mythology said traveled 10 years, mostly at sea, trying to return from the Trojan War ) and   Phileas Fogg   ( that Jules Verne character played by David Niven in a 1956 film who traveled around the world ), so our five-week trip to Japan was not particularly adventurous.  While most of our journey was indeed wonderful, there were some disappointing moments.  Yet, the best part of these long expeditions is returning home. After my wife passed away 14 years ago, I traveled the world several times, partly to drop off her ashes at monumental sites.  There were  MUGA 2013  ( by click on that, you can access every day of my 51-day global adventure ) and  GAWA 2015  that were exceptional. But since early in 2019, there has been a travel partner, who makes the experience different and better.  I generally keep her out of this blog by request, but in my advancing years, I need all the help I can get, plus there are added benefits. Our combined cruise

Very few international visitors take the time to visit Kagoshima, and even fewer to Miyazaki.  I came several decades ago because I used a lot of Japan Rail Passes, and wanted to maximize my distance travelled.   Sheraton Grand Kagoshima was the best hotel we've stayed in, all things considered, like value and cost.  They had a shuttle service from the train station to hotel and back, featured excellent service, had an excellent club lounge and an impressive breakfast buffet.  It only opened a few months ago.  Best of all, it cost $125/night for two.  So a few more photos to get us the the Sheraton Grand Ocean Resort in Miyazaki, starting with another view of Sakurajima. Club lounge at Sheraton Kagoshima. Morning view of Sakurajima from our room. The breakfast buffet was terrific. First course. Second course. Walked 3492 steps. Final shot from hotel of Sakurajima. Lobby Christmas tree. Shuttle arriving. Entrance to Kagoshima-Chuo Station. Our train to Miyazaki. Kyushu and train mea