Do-Dodonpa

The tunnel is the end of Do-Dodonpa's launch area.  The white box-track above it is the segment leading into the final break run.  Even though the trains are subject to aerodynamic drag and rolling friction from its many tires while speeding through the course, they carry a lot of speed into the braking section.  I wish that I had pictures or video of this occurring, but the persistent rain prevented the ride from opening when I visited this part of Japan.

This picture shows some of the reasons I love visiting Japanese amusement parks.  In addition to some really cool rides, I love the diverse food offered at these parks.  Even if you don't read hiragana or katakana, most restaurants and food vendors have pictures of their food offerings to help you select your meal.  Many large restaurants also have full-sized recreations of many courses on display near their entrances.  These realistic recreations, often made of plastic, allow both locals and foreign guests to get a good look at the items offered.  And if you don't speak Japanese, a simple point at the dish, or a cell phone photo of your choice is all that it takes to order your meal.  And if you are looking for something else, vending machines are everywhere in the country, and amusement parks are no exception.  The three machines shown here had bottled beverages, but it is not uncommon to find machines offering up a variety of hot or cold food, hot and cold drinks, snacks, and even electronic devices and accessories.

©2022 Joel A. Rogers.