The lone Cherry Blossom tree at the entrance of the Kyoto Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji, a small city situated between Kyoto and Nara, two of Japan's most famous historical and cultural centers. (March 28, 2024)
Goodbye South Korea; Hello Japan and Happy 68th Birthday to me!
(Japan, my 78th U.N. Country)
I took the AirPort Express train using my T-Money card to get back to Gimpo International Airport in Seoul from my hotel, the Lotte City Hotel Map. Other than a lot of walking to the metro and the airport, I made it to the check-in point for my flight, proceeded thru security with my liquids in a baggie and made it thru even without TSA pre-check, which of course is not recognized in other countries. And, I was still able to carry-on my luggage on my All Nippon Airways flight from Seoul to Tokyo. Had no problem putting my luggage in the overhead bin with even space for my backpack.
But before boarding the plane, I still had to get thru the no agent immigration station. Basically, it’s a 2-step clearing process thru an individual and enclosed entryway. The first clearance process required me to place my passport on the reader and when the machine has scanned it, within a countdown so you don’t remove the passport too early, it states its completion.Then, I passed thru to the next portion which asked for my right hand index fingerprint on the fingerprint machine. Once it has that, then I can proceed thru an open door into the airport.
The little more than two hours flight was great. But the best part of landing safely in Tokyo was meeting up with my dear niece/cousin Jacque, my first cousin, Gerry’s daughter, who has wanted to visit Japan for quite some time.
Originally Jacque and I had planned to take a tour, but the more research we did, the more we realized we could do Japan on our own. So, let’s get started in Tokyo.
Welcome to Haneda Airport in Tokyo. It was about an 2-hour flight from Seoul. (March 15, 2024)Jacque and I heading to the Welcome Suica card machines to purchase the Suica card at the Haneda Airport in Tokyo so that we can get to our hotel, the Hotel Resol Akihabara. After purchasing the card, we took the Tokyo Monorail into the city and then, following Jacque’s great sense of direction, took the metro to within blocks of our hotel. The card was a prepaid convenience for access to the subways, buses, and all local trains in Japan. (March 15, 2024)The Welcome Suica card Jacque and I purchased for ourselves at a vending machine at Haneda Airport in Tokyo is a prepaid contactless way to access subways, buses, and all local trains in Japan, including Tokyo Metro lines. (March 15, 2024)Getting in those first impression photos after exiting the monorail station at Akihabara to make our way to our way to the metro station and our hotel, the Hotel Resol Akihabara in Tokyo. Thanks Jacque for the photo. (March 15, 2024)Walking to the metro station at Akihabara to make our way on the metro to our hotel, the Hotel Resol Akihabara in Tokyo. (March 15, 2024)Our first subway ride, from the airport monorail to our hotel, the Hotel Resol Akihabara, in Tokyo. Jacque understands how to use these trains because I certainly do not. What I love is that it’s quite quiet on the train everyone seems to be on their mobile devices. (March 15, 2024)This is the rather touristy and crowded Shibuya Scramble Crossing in Shibuya, a district of Tokyo. We made it here on the metro…thanks to Jacque… after finding our hotel and dropping off our luggage. We literally moved quickly to make it to our 6:00 pm Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Food Walking Tour. (March 15, 2024)The crowded street crossing in Tokyo’s Shibuya area. This intersection called the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is frequently recognized as the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world. (March 15, 2024)The crowded street crossing in Tokyo’s Shibuya area. This intersection called the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is frequently recognized as the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world. (March 15, 2024)The crowded street crossing in Tokyo’s Shibuya area. This intersection called the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is frequently recognized as the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world. (March 15, 2024)The crowded street crossing in Tokyo’s Shibuya area. This intersection called the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is frequently recognized as the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world. (March 15, 2024)Jacque in Tokyo! The Shibuya district of Tokyo. (March 15, 2024)The Shibuya district of Tokyo. Jacque ended up having to call our food walking tour guide, Jackie, because the meeting place, by the Starbucks was not made clear so we ended up walking a short distance to meet up with our guide. (March 15, 2024)The Shibuya district of Tokyo. Jacque ended up having to call our food walking tour guide, Jackie, because the meeting place, by the Starbucks was not made clear so we ended up walking a short distance to meet up with our guide. (March 15, 2024)The first restaurant of our food walking tour in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. (March 15, 2024)The first restaurant of our food walking tour in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. (March 15, 2024)Our food walking tour group at our very busy first restaurant of our food walking tour in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. (March 15, 2024)Celebrating my 68th birthday with my absolutely beautiful cousin/niece Jacque during a food walking tour on our first day in Tokyo’s exciting and crowded Shibuya area. I’m trying the plum wine and Jacque is drinking the Oolong tea. (March 15, 2024)I just wanted something familiar, and the fried chicken hit the spot at our first restaurant on our food tour in the Shibuya area of Tokyo. It was nicely seasoned, tender, hot and delicious. We only went to two food places on the tour but we were able to order several items from each of the menus. But by the time I finished with the chicken and fries, I was full and just ended up enjoying the rest of the night drinking my fair share of plum wine and sake. Happy birthday to me! (March 15, 2024)Happy Birthday to me in the glitzy and crowded Shibuya area of Tokyo. (March 15, 2024)My food walking tour group walking to our second restaurant in the Shibuya area of Tokyo. These wonderful people sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to me and made it a memorable birthday! (March 15, 2024)Since I was already full after our first restaurant stop, I just drank my liquid-fill of Sake. (Match 15, 2024)All hands on deck, at our second restaurant for making Octopus balls or Takoyaki on our food walking tour in Tokyo. After pouring a pre-made batter into the round slots of this table-side grill before putting pieces of octopus and using the sticks to turn the fried octopus balls around. Photo from our guide Jackie. (March 15, 2024)A close up of the Octopus balls at our second restaurant during our food walking tour in Tokyo. (Match 15, 2024)Our food walking tour group at the second restaurant of our food walking tour in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. Photo from our guide, Jackie. (March 15, 2024)Walking to our third and final bar, a karaoke bar, for drinks and song during our food walking tour in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. (Match 15, 2024)Our third and last visit of the evening was to this bar for karaoke and drinks. I just love this lantern light collection. (Match 15, 2024)Our third and last visit of the evening was to this bar for karaoke and drinks. I just love this lantern light collection. (Match 15, 2024)Jacque taking the mike and singing the words to Hakuna Matata from the movie and play ‘The Lion King,’ at the third and final stop of our food walking tour, a karaoke bar in Tokyo. (March 15, 2024)Walking back through the crowded street crossing in Tokyo’s Shibuya area to take the metro back to our hotel. This intersection called the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is frequently recognized as the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world. (March 15, 2024)My very small hotel room at the Hotel Resol Akihabara in Tokyo. Jacque and I stayed at the same hotel but in different rooms because as you can see, the rooms are rather tiny. (Match 15, 2024)My bathroom in my hotel room at the Hotel Resol Akihabara in Tokyo. I’m loving the toilets. This one has a seat-heating feature and a bidet. (March 15, 2024)
Our Private Walking Tour of Tokyo
Since Tokyo is a mega-city with so much to see, having a guide show us the ropes of the public transportation system, which Jacque had already figured out, and educate us on Tokyo’s history and historical sites.
Our guide, Noriko, came to our hotel to meet us and from there, we began with a metro ride to the Sensoji Temple; a peaceful stroll through the Kokyo Gaien National Garden around the Imperial Palace and back to the Shibuya Crossing area for a sushi dinner just a bus-ride away at the Hollywood Beauty Plaza…along with a variety of stops along the way.
Jacque and me at the metro station for our first full day of learning about Tokyo with our own tour guide. (March 16, 2024)The Kaminarimon Gate or thunder gate stands at the entrance to the processional road leading to Sensōji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple. It is a Buddhist temple located in Tokyo’s Asakusa district and is considered as one of the city’s most colorful and popular temples. Inside the gate on either side are enormous wooden statues of the protective Buddhist deities Fujin (wind god) and Raijin (thunder god), from which the gate gets its name. The original gate was erected in 942 but burned down several times over the centuries. The one standing today was built in 1960. (March 16, 2024)A quick selfie with our Tokyo private walking tour guide, Noriko, in front of the Kaminarimon Gate or thunder gate at the entrance to the processional road leading to the Buddhist Sensoji Temple, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple. (March 16, 2024)Jacque and me at the Hozomon or second gate of the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The large red lantern at the Kaminarimon Gate or thunder gate at the entrance to the processional road leading to Sensōji, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple. (March 16, 2024)The dragon symbol under the large red lantern at the Kaminarimon Gate or thunder gate at the entrance to the processional road leading to Sensōji, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple. (March 16, 2024)Getting in a selfie at what is considered one of Tokyo’s landmarks, the Kaminarimon Gate featuring a huge red paper lantern at the entrance to the processional road leading to Sensōji, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple. (March 16, 2024)Past the Kaminarimon Gate is the crowded Nakamise Dori street lined with shops. This is the processional road leading to Sensōji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. (March 16, 2024)Past the Kaminarimon Gate is the crowded Nakamise Dori street lined with shops. This is the processional road leading to Sensōji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. (March 16, 2024)Colorful balls at a shop along the the processional road leading to Sensōji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. (March 16, 2024)A fan shop along the processional road leading to Sensōji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. (March 16, 2024)Past the Kaminarimon Gate along the crowded Nakamise Dori street lined with shops and approaching the second gate, Hozomon on the way to the Sensoji temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The lanterns along the crowded Nakamise Dori street lined with shops and approaching the second gate, Hozomon on the way to the Sensoji temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The Hozomon or second gate of the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The Hozomon or second gate of the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The Sensoji Temple main hall. Completed in 645, it is the oldest temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The smoke pit in front of the main hall of the Sensoji Temple brings good health with it. (March 16, 2024)The Sensoji Temple main hall. Completed in 645, it is the oldest temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The monk and people gathered inside the main hall of the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The pagoda at the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The Sensoji Temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The Asakusa observatory is a terrace at the top floor of the area’s Culture and Tourist Information Center’s building with views of the , facing Kaminarimon in the north-east of Tokyo. It offers a unique view along the processional/shopping street leading to the famous Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)A view of the processional road, a shopping street, leading to the Sensoji Temple, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple as seen from the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information observation deck in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The Tokyo Sky Tree from the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information observation deck in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The Tokyo Sky Tree from the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information observation deck in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)Jacque and I in front of the main inter-city terminal of the Tokyo Station in the Chiyoda Marunouchi business district near the grounds of the Imperial Palace. The facade is made primarily of bricks, and partly dates back to the station’s opening in 1914. (March 16, 2024)The original Tokyo Station, located in Chiyoda’s Marunouchi business district near the Imperial Palace grounds. (March 16, 2024)The main station facade of the Tokyo Station on the Marunouchi side is made primarily of bricks, and partly dates back to the station’s opening in 1914. (March 16, 2024)The original Tokyo Station, located in Chiyoda’s Marunouchi business district near the Imperial Palace grounds. (March 16, 2024)Wedding photos being taken by the moat between the Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)Wedding photos being taken by the moat between the Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)A view of the Marunouchi business area skyscrapers and outer moat of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The Imperial Palace moat and guard tower in Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)The manicured pine trees at the Kokyo Gaien National Garden just east of the Tokyo Imperial Palace with skyscrapers of the Marunouchi business district in the distance. (March 16, 2024)The manicured pine trees at the Kokyo Gaien National Garden just east of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. (March 16, 2024)The manicured pine trees at the Kokyo Gaien National Garden just east of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. (March 16, 2024)The Tokyo Imperial Palace, the Emperor of Japan’s main residence, in the distance behind the trees and the elegant stone Seimon Ishibashi bridge over a wide moat which leads to iron bridge and main gate of the fortified walls of the palace, both of which unfortunately cannot be seen. The Imperial Palace was completed in 1993 on the site of the former Edo Castle that was built in 1457. And the bridge was built in the span of three years from 1624 to 1627. The current structure was built in 1889. (March 16, 2024)Jacque and me with views of the Tokyo Imperial Palace, the Emperor of Japan’s main residence, in the distance behind the trees and the elegant stone Seimon Ishibashi bridge over a wide moat. (March 16, 2024)The Tokyo Imperial Palace, the Emperor of Japan’s main residence, in the distance behind the trees and the elegant stone Seimon Ishibashi bridge over a wide moat. (March 16, 2024)The Ginza line platforms at the Shibuya metro station in Tokyo. Shibuya was the last stop on our private Tokyo walking tour. (March 16, 2024)The Shibuya area of Tokyo. (March 16, 2024)A night view of the Tokyo Sky Tree near the Hollywood Beauty Plaza in Tokyo, a quick bus ride from the Shibuyo area. (March 16, 2024)I’m not much of a sushi person, or should I say a raw fish person, but Jacque certainly is. But, I’m game to try. We found a sushi place at the Hollywood Beauty Plaza and I decided to try the Tuna roll. It was as exotic as I could get. It was okay. I was hungry but what made them edible for me was the soy sauce and a heap of spicy wasabi. (March 16, 2024)The sake with my sushi also helped. The glass is filled to overflowing and the glass coaster is too, like a second layer of sake. (March 16, 2024)
Yanaka Walking Tour
I was on my own today. Jacque took in Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea while I took a walking tour of the historical Yanaka district of Tokyo with its old town atmosphere.
Yanaka is one of the few areas of Tokyo that was spared from bombing in WWII. It’s Tokyo’s most traditional district and is home to artisans, temples, winding lanes and some great restaurants. Yanaka was developed as a temple town during the Edo period of 1603 to 1867.
We visited several temples in the Yanaka district starting with the ancient Tennoji Temple. Originally constructed in 1274, this temple is one of the last remaining refuges for the Tendai sect of Buddhism. Today, Tennoji is found bordering Yanaka cemetery, which overlooks Nippori Station.
Let’s see what the Yanaka district of Tokyo has to offer.
Me at the imposing sitting statue of Shaka Nyorai, a copper Buddha of the Tendai Hokke sect of the Meiji era at the Tennoji Temple, a sacred place in Yanaka Cemetery Park in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. The Tendai Buddhist temple was erected in 1247. (March 17, 2024)The Yanaka Cemetery in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. Yanaka is known as Tokyo’s most traditional district and is home to artisans, temples, shrines and narrow winding lanes. (March 17, 2024)The Yanaka Cemetery in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The Yanaka Cemetery in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The Tennoji Temple, a sacred place in Yanaka Cemetery Park in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)This imposing sitting statue of Shaka Nyorai, a copper Buddha of the Tendai Hokke sect of the Meiji era at the Tennoji Temple, a sacred place in Yanaka Cemetery Park in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The Tennoji Temple, a sacred place in Yanaka Cemetery Park in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The Tennoji Temple, a sacred place in Yanaka Cemetery Park in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)Me under an early blooming cherry blossom tree at Tennoji Temple, Taito-ku, a sacred place in Yanaka Cemetery Park in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. Yanaka is one of the few areas of Tokyo that was spared from bombing in WWII. It’s Tokyo’s most traditional district and is home to artisans, temples, shrines and narrow winding lanes. (March 17, 2024)Me standing by one of the many shrines of Jizo a bodhisattva, that is, one who achieves enlightenment but postpones Buddhahood in order to help others. One of many such shrines in Yanaka, a district of Tokyo. This one is at the Tennoji Temple, Taito-ku, a sacred place in Yanaka Cemetery Park in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. The Jizo was originally the keeper of souls before they were born. From the late 1800s, Jizo came to be known as the guardian of travelers and children, both in this world and the next. (March 17, 2024)A close-up of the Jizo shrine at the Tennoji Temple, Taito-ku, a sacred place in Yanaka Cemetery Park in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)A nearly 100-year-old home in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The alleyway of three wooden, once private homes, built in 1938 in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The alleyway of three wooden, once private homes, built in 1938 in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The alleyway of three wooden, once private homes, built in 1938 in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The alleyway of three wooden, once private homes, built in 1938 in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)An early blooming cherry blossom tree at the alleyway of three wooden, once private homes, built in 1938 in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The Yoshida old sake store which closed in 1986 is now a small a free sake museum in Ueno Sakuragi, right on the border with Yanaka. Originally built in 1910, it was partly reconstructed in 1930, but the history of the store itself goes way back to the Edo period. (March 17, 2024)Old barrels of sake on the shelves inside the Yoshida old sake store, which closed in 1986, in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. The former store is now a small free sake museum in Ueno Sakuragi, right on the border with Yanaka. (March 17, 2024)A restaurant in Yanaka, a district of Tokyo, where I had a quick lunch. (March 17, 2024)Inside the restaurant in Yanaka, a district of Tokyo, where I had a quick lunch. (March 17, 2024)The Jishō-in Aizen-dō Temple was criginally built in Kanda in 1611, and moved to its present location in Yanaka in 1648. People pray to Aizen Myo-o particularly for finding marriage partners and for household harmony. (March 17, 2024)The Jishō-in Aizen-dō Temple was criginally built in Kanda in 1611, and moved to its present location in Yanaka in 1648. (March 17, 2024)Various headstones at the Jishō-in Aizen-dō Temple in Yanaka. (March 17, 2024)Various headstones at the Jishō-in Aizen-dō Temple in Yanaka. (March 17, 2024)The entrance to the Myogyo-ji Temple and former bell tower was built in 1650 and moved to this location in Yanaka in 1689. (March 17, 2024)The wooden gated entrance to the Myogyo-ji Temple in Yanaka with a former bell tower. (March 17, 2024)The former bell tower inside the Myogyo-ji Temple in Yanaka. (March 17, 2024)A shrine made on top of lava rock from Mt. Fuji by a resident in the Yanaka district of Tokyo in honor of Mt. Fuji which has been worshipped since ancient times in Japan. (March 17, 2024)The Enjuji Nikkadō Temple in Yanaka was built in 1656 and enshrines a 14th century monk called Nichika that protects the legs of walkers and runners. (March 17, 2024)A close-up of the Jizo shrine at the Enjuji Nikkadō Temple in Yanaka. A Jizo is a bodhisattva, that is, one who achieves enlightenment but postpones Buddhahood in order to help others. The Jizo was originally the keeper of souls before they were born. From the late 1800s, Jizo came to be known as the guardian of travelers and children, both in this world and the next. (March 17, 2024)Prayers from walkers/runners/strollers hang outside of the Enjuji Nikkadō Temple in Yanaka enshrining a 14th century monk called Nichika that protects their legs and feet. (March 17, 2024)The Enjuji Nikkadō Temple in Yanaka (March 17, 2024)The Enjuji Nikkadō Temple in Yanaka (March 17, 2024)The Enjuji Nikkadō Temple in Yanaka (March 17, 2024)Inside the Enjuji Nikkadō Temple in Yanaka. It was built in 1656 and enshrines a 14th century monk called Nichika that protects walkers/strollers. Inside are depictions of traditional walking shoes along the top sides of the wooden building. Runners come to this temple to pray. (March 17, 2024)The sloping streets in Yanaka are remnants of the Edo period of 1600-1868. (March 17, 2024)The sloping streets in Yanaka are remnants of the Edo period of 1600-1868. (March 17, 2024)Walking through the narrow streets in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The Tori gate entrance to the Nezu Shrine, a Shinto shrine located in the Bunkyō ward of Tokyo and within walking distance of the Yanaka district. Established in 1705, it is one of the oldest places of worship in the city. The shrine area is famous for its Azalea Festival held on its grounds from early April until early May. (March 17, 2024)The azaleas at the entrance to the Nezu Shrine in Tokyo. It is famous for its Azalea Spring Festival, when around 50 species of azaleas are in full bloom from late April to May. (March 17, 2024)The Romon Gate at the Nezu Shrine built in 1705, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Tokyo and located in the Bunkyo-ku area. (March 17, 2024)The Romon Gate at the Nezu Shrine built in 1705, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Tokyo and located in the Bunkyo-ku area. (March 17, 2024)The Karamon gate at the Nezu Shrine built in 1705, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Tokyo and located in the Bunkyo-ku area. (March 17, 2024)A close-up of the Karamon gate at the Nezu Shrine, built in 1705, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Tokyo and located in the Bunkyo-ku area. (March 17, 2024)The Honden or main hall of the Nezu Shrine, built in 1705, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Tokyo and located in the Bunkyo-ku area. (March 17, 2024)Me at the entrance of the vermilion Tori gates just left of the main hall of the Nezu Shrine in the Bunkyo-ku area of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)The entrance of the vermilion Tori gates just left of the main hall of the Nezu Shrine in the Bunkyo-ku area of Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)A famous feature at the Nezu Shrine is the path of vermilion Tori gates through the hillside just left of the main hall. In the middle of the tori gate path there is a viewing platform over a pond of koi. (March 17, 2024)A famous feature at the Nezu Shrine is the path of vermilion Tori gates through the hillside just left of the main hall. In the middle of the tori gate path there is a viewing platform over a pond of koi. (March 17, 2024)My crispy soft shell crab dinner at the Hotel Resol Akihabara’s Chianti I’ll-Chianti Cafe in Tokyo. (March 17, 2024)
The Stunning Mt. Fuji on a Chilly but Clear Day
The chances of truly being able to see Mt. Fuji in all its glory is limited. But that was not the case for us because Mother Nature provided a beautifully chilly, sunshine and blues skies day to show off the majestic Mt. Fuji.
Japan’s Mt. Fuji is an active volcano about 62 miles or 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. Commonly called “Fujisan,” it is the country’s tallest peak, at about 12,388 feet or 3,776 meters.
People have feared and revered Fujisan, which has erupted repeatedly, as the mountain in which the gods resided. Fujisan and its beautiful form also have been featured in many artistic works such as poems and paintings.
Taking a bow to all things Fujisan, commonly known as Mt. Fuji, and Mother Nature for a glorious day.
Me and Mt. Fuji at Lake Kawaguchi is in the town of Fujikawaguchiko. It is the second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes in terms of surface area, and is located at the lowest elevation. (March 18, 2024)We began the day with views of Mt. Fuji along Honcho Street which runs through the center of Fujiyoshida, a city that lies at the northern base of Mt. Fuji and was built upon old lava flows. (March 18, 2024)A stunningly clear view of Mt. Fuji along Honcho Street which runs through the center of Fujiyoshida, a city that lies at the northern base of Mt. Fuji and was built upon old lava flows. (March 18, 2024)A quick selfie along Honcho Street which runs through the center of the city of Fujiyoshida with my first stunning views of Mt. Fuji. As you can see, tourists like me are brought here to get those instagrammable photos of Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)A view of Mt. Fuji on a walk towards the Arakurayama Sengen Park and the Chureito Pagoda in Fujiyoshida. (March 18, 2024)The beginning of the 398 steps leading up to the five-story Chureito Pagoda inside the Arakurayama Sengen Park’s observation deck that looks out over the cityscape of Fujiyoshida City and majestic Mt. Fuji. I did not take these steps up, but Jacque did. (March 18, 2024)Jacque made it up the 398 steps up to the Chureito Pagoda with views of Mt. Fuji inside the Arakurayama Sengen Park in the city of Fujiyoshida. (March 18, 2024)I did not make it up the 398 stairs hike to the observation deck with the Chureito Pagoda and majestic views of Mt. Fuji so I chose a different park in the Arakurayama Sengen Park to get in a photo. (March 18, 2024)Our next stop along the Mt. Fuji trail was Oshino Hakkai touristy village with its variety of ponds filled with fish and more views of Mt. Fuji. Plus this is where our group stopped for lunch. (March 18, 2024)One of the eight ponds at the village of Oshino Hakka with its impressive views of Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)Jacque getting in that food photo at our Mt. Fuji tour lunch break in the village of Oshino Hakka. Our Hoto noodle soup, apopular regional dish originating from Yamanashi, Japan. It’s made by stewing flat udon noodles and vegetables in miso soup. Though Hoto is commonly recognized as a variant of Udon soup, locals do not consider it to be an Udon dish because the dough is prepared in the style of dumplings rather than noodles. (March 18, 2024)Our Hoto soup of flat noodles and vegetables in miso soup at a restaurant in Oshino Hakka village, one of our Mt. Fuji viewing spots. (March 18, 2024)For dessert, we had the Japanese ice cream sandwich of wafers and a matcha ice cream filling, at a restaurant for lunch in Oshino Hakka village. One of our viewing spots for Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)A decorative sewer or manhole plate along a street in Oshino Hakka village featuring the village and Mt. Fuji on the plate design along with views of Mt. Fuji in the distance. (March 18, 2024)A decorative sewer or manhole plate along a street in Oshino Hakka village featuring a design of the village and Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)Views of the striking Mt. Fuji from the village of Oshino Hakka. (March 18, 2024)Views of striking Mt. Fuji from the village of Oshino Hakka along one of its several ponds. (March 18, 2024)I’m not sure why taking a photo of Mt. Fuji in front of this Lawson’s convenience store in Fujikawaguchiko, on our way to Lake Kawaguchi is a thing, but it is. So, here is a Lawson store with a clear and gorgeous view of Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)Jacque and I getting in a selfie at Lake Kawaguchi, one of the scenic Fuji Five Lakes, with the stunning Mt. Fuji in the distance. (March 18, 2024)Jacque’s beautiful photo of remarkable Mt. Fuji at Lake Kawaguchi. (March 18, 2024)The beautiful surroundings of Lake Kawaguchi and the impressive Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)Me at the beautiful surroundings of Lake Kawaguchi and the impressive Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)The beautiful surroundings of Lake Kawaguchi and the impressive Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)The beautiful surroundings of Lake Kawaguchi and the impressive Mt. Fuji. (March 18, 2024)One more photo with the stunning Mt. Fuji at Lake Kawaguchi before calling it a beautiful end of the day seeing the glorious Mt. Fuji from a variety of locations. (March 18, 2024)
Saying goodbye to Tokyo and taking the Shinkansen to Kyoto
Saying goodbye to Tokyo for now and taking the Shinkansen, or high speed train to Kyoto, our second city visit, during our visit in Japan.
Saying goodbye to Tokyo for now and taking the Shinkansen, or high speed train to Kyoto, our second city visit, during our visit in Japan. Here we are, waiting for our Shinkansen or high speed train ride to arrive at the Tokyo station. (March 20, 2024)The Shinkansen station in Tokyo for our high speed train ride to Kyoto. (March 20, 2024)Inside our Shinkansen high speed train ride car from Tokyo to Kyoto. (March 20, 2024)In our ‘big enough’ shared room at the Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto. The tiny hotel room in Tokyo was a one bed room and our hotel in Osaka will be about the same. But for Kyoto, we get to share a room for a few nights. (March 20, 2024)The entrance to our dinner adventure for the evening, and just a slight 10 minute walk from our room at the Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto was the Umemura, traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto, defined as a Kaiseki, Japan’s haute cuisine. Jacque, the food aficionado that she is, found the traditional restaurant. (March 20, 2024)The screened entrance to Umemura, traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto, is defined as a Kaiseki, Japan’s haute cuisine. It is a multi-course dining experience of the utmost sophistication with each dish, upwards of 10, meticulously prepared and exquisitely presented, the result being more like a work of art than a meal. The 8-course meal was a little more than $100 for each of us. But it was a nice traditional experience. (March 20, 2024)I could not possibly name each dish of our 7-course meal at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. This was our first course of three different items. It is a multi-course dining experience of the utmost sophistication with each dish, upwards of 10, meticulously prepared and exquisitely presented, the result being more like a work of art than a meal. The 8-course meal was a little more than $100 for each of us. But it was a nice traditional experience. (March 20, 2024)The beef at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. The meat was very tasty but cold. (March 20, 2024)I’m describing this as a very fancy vegetable soup with fish at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. (March 20, 2024)A tasty piece of fish swimming in some kind of sauce and topped with Wasabi at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. (March 20, 2024)Jacque and me getting in food photos at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. (March 20, 2024)Pieces of suchi which I could not eat, but thankfully Jacque did, at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. (March 20, 2024)A nicely seasoned rib-let that I enjoyed eating at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. (March 20, 2024)A kettle keeping meatballs of some kind in a soup broth of vegetables at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. Jacque likes Japanese food and she ate a lot of what I wouldn’t or couldn’t. (March 20, 2024)Meatballs of some kind in a soup broth of vegetables at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. Jacque likes Japanese food and she ate a lot of what I wouldn’t or couldn’t. (March 20, 2024)To be honest, I’m not quite sure what this was, but I did try to eat it and to me, it looked better than it tasted at Umemura, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto. (March 20, 2024)Leaving Umemura, the traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto, where Jacque and I had dinner. (March 20, 2024)
Discovering Kyoto on a Day Tour
Jacque and me at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a Buddhist temple and the first stop on our Japan Panoramic day tour of Kyoto. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills east of Kyoto, and gets its name from the fall’s pure waters. In 1994, the temple was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. (March 21, 2024)Niōmon Gate, the main entrance (left) and the Sai-mon Gate (right) in front of the three-story Pagoda of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills east of Kyoto, and derives its name from the fall’s pure waters. The temple is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (March 21, 2024)The red two-story Niomon or main gate entrance of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in east Kyoto. The temple complex is home to both a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine. It was built in 780 and rebuilt in 1633 after a fire. (March 21, 2024)The red two-story Niomon or main gate entrance of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in east Kyoto. The temple complex is home to both a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine. It was built in 780 and rebuilt in 1633 after a fire. (March 21, 2024)Me at the red two-story Niomon or main gate entrance of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in east Kyoto. The temple complex is home to both a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine. It was built in 780 and rebuilt in 1633 after a fire. (March 21, 2024)The Saimon Gate or West Gate in front of the three-story pagoda of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in west Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)The Saimon Gate or West Gate in front of the three-story pagoda of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in west Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)A vermilion or red-orange three story pagoda at the entrance to the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto. The three-story pagoda was originally built in 847. The present one was rebuilt in 1632. It is one of the largest three-story pagodas in Japan, standing approximately 105 feet or 31 meters tall. While we were at the temple, it snowed a little and the blue skies also made an appearance. (March 21, 2024)The Hondo or Main Hall of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in east Kyoto. It juts out above the wooden hillside with views of the numerous cherry and maple trees below that erupt in a sea of color in spring and fall, which we did not get to see, as well as views of the city of Kyoto in the distance. (March 21, 2024)The Hondo or Main Hall of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in east Kyoto juts out above the wooden hillside with views of the numerous cherry and maple trees below that erupt in a sea of color in spring and fall, which we did not get to see, as well as views of the city of Kyoto in the distance. (March 21, 2024)The Hondo or Main Hall of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple stands on the steep cliff of Mt. Otowa, is a renowned wooden structure reconstructed in 1633. (March 21, 2024)The Hondo or Main Hall of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple stands on the steep cliff of Mt. Otowa, is a renowned wooden structure reconstructed in 1633. (March 21, 2024)The Hondo or Main Hall of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple stands on the steep cliff of Mt. Otowa, is a renowned wooden structure reconstructed in 1633. The assembled pillars and rails work like a scaffolding and support the structure so firmly that it is highly earthquake-resistant even on its steep slope. Overhanging the main hall is an imposing veranda, called Kiyomizu Stage. (March 21, 2024)A view inside a shrine of the Hondo or Main Hall of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in east Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)The Kiyomizu-dera Temple in east Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)The Buddha at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)The Buddha at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)The grounds of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto with the the three-story pagoda Koyasu on the hillside. The pagoda is popular with mothers as it is known to help facilitate childbirth. (March 21, 2024)The grounds of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto with the the three-story pagoda Koyasu on the hillside. The pagoda is popular with mothers as it is known to help facilitate childbirth. (March 21, 2024)The grounds of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto with the the three-story pagoda Koyasu on the hillside. The pagoda is popular with mothers as it is known to help facilitate childbirth. (March 21, 2024)Me, standing in line at the Otowa Waterfall located at the base of Kiyomizu-dera Temple’s in Kyoto. Its waters are divided into three separate streams, and visitors use cups attached to long poles to drink from them. Each stream’s water is said to have a different benefit, namely longevity, success at school and a fortunate love life. I chose longevity. (March 21, 2024)Me, standing in line at the Otowa Waterfall located at the base of Kiyomizu-dera Temple’s in Kyoto. Its waters are divided into three separate streams, and visitors use cups attached to long poles to drink from them. Each stream’s water is said to have a different benefit, namely longevity, success at school and a fortunate love life. I chose longevity. (March 21, 2024)The Otowa Waterfall located at the base of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple takes its name from the pureness of waters and is believed to be sacred. It is called “Konjiki-sui”, meaning golden water, and “Emmei-sui”, meaning life-prolonging water. (March 21, 2024)The Sanjusangendo Temple in Kyoto is home to a thousand “Senju Kannon” statues. Unfortunately, photos are not allowed of the many statues which run the length of this temple. (March 21, 2024)The Sanjusangendo Temple in Kyoto is home to a thousand “Senju Kannon” statues. Unfortunately, photos are not allowed of the many statues which run the length of this temple. (March 21, 2024)The Sanjusangendo Temple in Kyoto is home to a thousand “Senju Kannon” statues. Unfortunately, photos are not allowed of the many statues which run the length of this temple. (March 21, 2024)Inside the Sanjusangendo Temple in eastern Kyoto. The temple, founded in 1164 and rebuilt once after a fire destroyed the original structure in 1266, is famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. This photo is from japandeluxetours.com. (March 21, 2024)In the center of the Sanjusangendo Temple in east Kyoto is this massive statue of Jūichimen Senju Kannon in a seated position with 11 faces and 20 pairs of arms, which in total, symbolize a thousand arms since each (arm) saves twenty-five worlds. This photo is from voyapon.com. (March 21, 2024)The beautiful garden at the Sanjusangendo Temple, a Buddhist temple founded in Kyoto in 1164. (March 21, 2024)The beautiful garden at the Sanjusangendo Temple, a Buddhist temple founded in Kyoto in 1164. (March 21, 2024)Jacque at the red gate entrance to the Sanjusangendo, a buddhist temple in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)Views of Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)Views of Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)Me at the Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto. A paved walkway runs through the middle forming the famous “Bamboo Alley,” one of Kyoto’s most photographed sights. It was a cold and rainy day with some actual snowflakes. (March 21, 2024)Walking thru the Bamboo Alley of the Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto. “Japan has a long relationship with bamboo. Bamboo appears in myths and legends as a metaphor for the strength of men. It’s eaten in many dishes in Japanese cuisine. And, it was historically used to make tools for the home and in battle. The opportunity to enjoy bamboo forests these days, however, has become rare making Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Grove a unique opportunity for travelers,” from alljapantours.com. (March 21, 2024)Walking thru the Bamboo Alley of the Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)Walking thru the Bamboo Alley of the Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)Jacque and me walking thru the Bamboo Alley of the Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)Walking thru the Bamboo Alley of the Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)The Tenryuji Temple in Kyoto was built in 1339 by the ruling shogun Ashikaga Takauji. It is the head temple of its own school within the Rinzai Zen sect of Japanese Buddhism and located within walking distance of the Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Forest. (March 21, 2024)The Tenryu-ji Temple garden pond in Kyoto is a beautiful landscape garden featuring a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees and the forested Arashiyama mountains. (March 21, 2024)The Tenryu-ji Temple garden pond in Kyoto is a beautiful landscape garden featuring a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees and the forested Arashiyama mountains. (March 21, 2024)The Tenryu-ji Temple garden pond in Kyoto is a beautiful landscape garden featuring a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees and the forested Arashiyama mountains. (March 21, 2024)Me at Tenryu-ji Temple in Kyoto. It was actually lightly snowing and needless t say, cold. (March 21, 2024)On our next step of our Kyoto history tour was at the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen temple whose two top floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Formally known as Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and according to his will it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after his death in 1408. (March 21, 2024)The Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto is a Zen temple whose two top floors are completely covered in gold leaf. (March 21, 2024)Kinkakuji is an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond, and is the only building left of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s former retirement complex. It has burned down numerous times throughout its history including twice during a civil war that destroyed much of Kyoto; and once again more recently in 1950 when it was set on fire by a fanatic monk. The present structure was rebuilt in 1955. (March 21, 2024)The Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto is a Zen temple whose two top floors are completely covered in gold leaf. (March 21, 2024)The Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto is a Zen temple whose two top floors are completely covered in gold leaf. (March 21, 2024)Me at the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto is a Zen temple whose two top floors are completely covered in gold leaf. (March 21, 2024)The grounds of the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)A rock shrine along a pathway of the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto where people toss coins. (March 21, 2024)Last stop of the day and on the tour; walking to the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Fushimi-ku, Tokyo. (March 21, 2024)Last stop of the day and on the tour; walking to the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Fushimi-ku, Tokyo. (March 21, 2024)Walking to the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Fushimi-ku, Tokyo. (March 21, 2024)Another Kyoto history stop was the Torii Gate entrance to the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto which is known for its thousands of Torii gates. (March 21, 2024)The open stage prayer hall (left) and up the stairs to the main shrine of the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)The main shrine of the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto which is known for its thousands of Torii gates is said that the shrine was founded in 711 before Kyoto became Japan’s capital. (March 21, 2024)Jacque with the crowd heading through the second Torii gate entrance of the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto to the famous tunnels of more than 10,000 closely-spaced orange torii gates. (March 21, 2024)Heading up more stairs of the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto to the famous tunnels of more than 10,000 closely-spaced orange torii gates. (March 21, 2024)Jacque and me at the Fushimi Inari Shrine of 10,000 Torii gates in Kyoto. The seemingly endless path of vibrant orange torii gates line the approach to Mt. Inari. (March 21, 2024)This long tunnel of the vibrant orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, an iconic sight in Kyoto. The shrine sits at the base of Mt. Inari but the 10,000 Torii gates provides a trail up the mountain to many smaller shrines. The trail spans about 2.5 miles or 4 kilometers, about a two hour walk up. Some of the torii were dedicated in the Edo period (1603-1867). (March 21, 2024)Me looking up to one of the many Inari foxes at the orange torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. In the Japanese Shinto faith, there are many different gods of the natural world. The foxes are considered messengers of the god of Inari. (March 21, 2024)This long tunnel of the vibrant orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, an iconic sight in Kyoto. The shrine sits at the base of Mt. Inari but the 10,000 Torii gates provides a trail up the mountain to many smaller shrines. The trail spans about 2.5 miles or 4 kilometers, about a two hour walk up. Some of the torii were dedicated in the Edo period (1603-1867). (March 21, 2024)This long tunnel of some 10,000 vibrant orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, an iconic sight in Kyoto. Some of the torii were dedicated in the Edo period (1603-1867). (March 21, 2024)This long tunnel of some 10,000 vibrant orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, an iconic sight in Kyoto. Some of the torii were dedicated in the Edo period (1603-1867). (March 21, 2024)Me in the crowded tunnel of the vibrant orange torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, an iconic sight in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)Jacque in the tunnel of some 10,000 vibrant orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, an iconic sight in Kyoto. (March 21, 2024)
Morning Food Walking Tour
I started our morning food walking tour by leaving my iPhone plugged into the charger at the hotel. So periodically, I bugged Jacque to take a photo or two with her phone.
The food walking tour was more about a walk through Nishiki Market and lunch at, what I would call, a touristy restaurant.
Even though I enjoyed the walk, without being able to take photos, the best part of this day was having dinner out at a steak restaurant. I was just hungry for meat and potatoes.
Here’s a quick view of our last full day in Kyoto before moving on to Osaka.
Starting our morning sampling some food at the Nishiki Market in Kyoto. We’re actually trying a creamy fried Tofu that was pretty tasty. (March 22, 2024)This statue alongside the Kamogawa River is of 1603 Izumi no Okuni presenting her Kabuki Odori or Kabuki Dance in Kyoto. She is considered to be the founder of kabuki, but her birthplace is unknown. Here in Kyoto, she first gained fame for her shows, then toured around amid growing popularity. Later, in the beginning of the Edo period (1603 to 1868), onna kabuki (kabuki played by women) was banned as a corrupting influence on social morals. Men took over, even playing the female roles (onna-gata), and the resulting shows developed into the kabuki of today. (March 22, 2024)The Kamogawa River and Sanjō Ōhashi Bridge in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)The Kamogawa River and Sanjō Ōhashi Bridge in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)Walking through the 400-year-old Nishiki Market is a downtown covered pedestrian arcade lined with 135 open-fronted shops selling seafood, produce and souvenirs. (March 22, 2024)Walking through the 400-year-old Nishiki Market is a downtown covered pedestrian arcade lined with 135 open-fronted shops selling seafood, produce and souvenirs. (March 22, 2024)Sake barrels lined up along a street in the Nishiki Market in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)Enjoying sake and munchies during our morning food walking tour through Nishiki Market in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)The lantern entrance to the Nishiki Tenmangū’s Shrine in the Nishiki Market in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)Me at the Honden or main sanctuary at the Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Tenjin at the Nishiki Market in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)The Honden or main sanctuary at the Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Tenjin at the Nishiki Market in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)The Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Tenjin at the Nishiki Market in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)Jacque enjoying lunch at our morning food walking tour through Nishiki Market in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)Our small morning food walking tour group having lunch to end our tour and our morning together. I know many people talk about how delicious the food is in Japan. But, it’s not for me. Miso soup is good but different places make it differently and I did not care for the taste of this one. But the fried chicken and salad were good so I ate that. And, I think places like this are where guides take tour groups too so for me, it’s eating tasteless touristy foods that the locals stay away from. (March 22, 2024)Passing a market on our way to dinner at Beer Thirty along the Shimomaruyacho road. (March 22, 2024)Passing a market on our way to dinner at Beer Thirty along the Shimomaruyacho road. (March 22, 2024)I needed something familiar and a good steak and fries at Beer Thirsty, a 2-minute walk from our hotel, the Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)Jacque and me getting in our drink photos, in this case our Peace Beer Drops, at Beer Thirty in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)My Peach Beer Drops drink at Beer Thirty in Kyoto went well with my steak. And, the peace beer drops melted down into the beer. (March 22, 2024)Dinner on our second night in Kyoto after a Japanese traditional dinner the night before, I needed some stick to the ribs kind of food. Now this is my kind of a meal, tasty, well-cooked American Gold Angus Rib-eye Steak at this wonderful place called Beer Thirty in Kyoto. (March 22, 2024)My small hotel room at Y’s Hotel Shin Osaka in the Yodogawa Ward of Osaka. Needless to say, Jacque and I had our own rooms. And, even though this room was about the same size as my hotel room in Tokyo, it was actually half the price. (March 22, 2024)My small hotel room at Y’s Hotel Shin Osaka in the Yodogawa Ward of Osaka. (March 22, 2024)
Tea Ceremony in Kyoto
Me at a Tea Ceremony at Tondaya, a former wholesale kimono business in the Nishijin district of Kyoto. And yes, that’s me dressed in a kimono holding my tea bowl of green tea. An important part ritualistic and ceremony. (March 23, 2024)We slept in on our third day in Kyoto. But scheduled a late afternoon Tea Ceremony that brought us to this wonderfully traditional neighborhood in Kyoto’s Nishijin district, an area which flourished in the Edo Period from 1603 to 1868 as a center for the weaving industry. (March 23, 2024)Walking through a traditional neighborhood in Kyoto’s Nishijin district, an area which flourished in the Edo Period from 1603 to 1868 as a center for the weaving industry. (March 23, 2024)Walking through a traditional neighborhood in Kyoto’s Nishijin district, an area which flourished in the Edo Period from 1603 to 1868 as a center for the weaving industry. (March 23, 2024)Entering Tondaya, a wholesale kimono business built in 1885 by the 10th generation head of the family, Tanaka Tobei, where our Tea Ceremony and Kimono Dressing Experience was held. Tondaya is located in Kyoto’s Nishijin district, an area which flourished in the Edo Period from 1603 to 1868 as a center for the weaving industry. (March 23, 2024)Jacque getting dressed up in her kimono as a part of our Tea Ceremony at Tondaya in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)Jacque and me Jacque dressed up in our kimonos at our Tondaya Tea Ceremony in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)Jacque dressed and looking beautiful in her Kimono at our Tondaya Tea Ceremony in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)One of our hostesses preparing the tea during our Tondaya Tea Ceremony in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)One of our hostesses preparing the tea during our Tondaya Tea Ceremony in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)A display of 150 year-old dolls inside the Tondaya house where our Tea Ceremony took place in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)The beautiful central garden of the Tondaya house where our Tea Ceremony took place in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)The beautiful central garden of the Tondaya house where our Tea Ceremony took place in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)The beautiful central garden of the Tondaya house where our Tea Ceremony took place in Kyoto. (March 23, 2024)
Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour (Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori)
On our first full day in Osaka we took a 5-hour walking tour that began with traditional Osaka at the Osaka Castle Park before making our way to the neon heart of Osaka, Namba and Dotonbori. Here we go!
Me walking through the lively and retro Shin-Sekai area in Osaka where we ended our five hour walking tour with views of the Tsūten-kaku Tower in the distance. The tower was first built in 1912, then damaged by fire in 1943 and rebuilt in 1956 (following popular demand) with a new 1steel-frame tower that now serves as a retro symbol of Shin-Sekai. (March 25, 2024)On our first full day in Osaka we took a 5-hour walking tour that began with traditional Osaka at the Osaka Castle Park. The castle is surrounded by two moats, an inner and outer, as defensive fortifications. Although the original castle was completed in 1598, there have been several iterations due to wars and fires. (March 25, 2024)The Osaka Castle at the Osaka Castle Park is surrounded by two moats, an inner and outer, as defensive fortifications. (March 25, 2024)The Osaka Castle at the Osaka Castle Park is surrounded by two moats, an inner and outer, as defensive fortifications. (March 25, 2024)Jacque and me with views of the Osaka Castle at the Osaka Castle Park. (March 24, 2024)The Osaka Castle at the Osaka Castle Park is surrounded by two moats, an inner and outer, as defensive fortifications. (March 25, 2024)A close-up of the gold ornamentation on the exterior of the Osaka Castle at Osaka Castle Park. (March 25, 2024)The Osaka Castle at the Osaka Castle Park. (March 25, 2024)Me at the Osaka Castle in the Osaka Castle Park. (March 25, 2024)Getting off the Osaka Namba Station train in the Namba district of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Getting off the Osaka Namba Station train in the Namba district of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Namba Hips in the Namba district of Osaka is an entertainment and leisure center with bowling alleys, restaurants, pachinko and other activities. The modern center was built in 2007. (March 25, 2024)After visiting the Osaka Castle Park we hopped on the metro to begin our walking tour of the Dotombori entertainment area in the Namba district. Dotombori is known as one of Osaka’s principal tourist and nightlife areas. (March 25, 2024)Me on our walking tour of the Dotombori entertainment area in the Namba district. Dotombori is known as one of Osaka’s principal tourist and nightlife areas. (March 25, 2024)Although there are 7-11 convenient stories, Lawsons is another convenient store where you can buy fast food items throughout Japan. (March 25, 2024)A quartet of giant, realistic human faces at the Dotonbori Hotel in Osaka. The faces are said to represent four races of the world: Western, Arab, African, and Asian so guests from all over the world can feel at home at the hotel. (March 25, 2024)A quartet of giant, realistic human faces at the Dotonbori Hotel in Osaka. The faces are said to represent four races of the world: Western, Arab, African, and Asian so guests from all over the world can feel at home at the hotel. (March 25, 2024)The Tombori River Walk is one of the most famous waterways in the Dotombori area of Osaka with its murals and illuminated signboards at the Ebisu Bridge along the canal. (March 25, 2024)A walking path along the Tombori River Walk in the Dotombori district of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Jacque at a shop in the Amerikamura (often shortened to “Amemura”) area of Dotombori in Osaka is an American-themed shopping area and has been its center of youth culture and style since the early 1970’s. (March 25, 2024)Love the artful manholes on the ground in the Dotonbori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)In Amerikamura, an American-themed shopping area and well-known center of Japanese youth culture in Osaka. Within this small area there are over 2,000 stores selling local and imported fashions, cafes, restaurants, bars, and clubs. Everything is centered around this area, Sankaku Koen Park, a triangular concrete plaza and popular local hang-out for young people. (March 25, 2024)The Amerikamura, a well-known center of Japanese youth culture in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)The Amerikamura, a well-known center of Japanese youth culture in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)The Amerikamura, a well-known center of Japanese youth culture in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)The Amerikamura, a well-known center of Japanese youth culture in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Starbucks Coffee is quite popular in Japan. This one is steps away from a shopping center called Big Step in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Big Step, a commercial complex with fashion stores, restaurants, a cinema, sports gym and live music venue, in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Peace on Earth is a famous piece of street art painted by Seitaro Kuroda in the 1980s in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)The Shinsaibashi shopping district in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)The Shinsaibashi shopping district in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Inside the Shinsaibashi shopping district in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)A painted manhole on the ground in the Shinsaibashi shopping district in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Not sure why but I decided to take a selfie on the Ebisu Bridge in the Dotombori area in front of an array of billboards including what I came to find out is a famous photo spot because it includes the Gilco sign overlooking the Dotombori canal. The Glico running man is one of the most well known landmarks in Osaka for more than 80 years. (March 25, 2024)It might have been a cold and rainy day but that surely did not stop people like me from being out and about enjoying Osaka, walking across the Ebisu bridge and taking photos with the Gilco running man in the Dotombori district of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)It might have been a cold and rainy day but that surely did not stop people like me from being out and about enjoying Osaka, walking across the Ebisu bridge and taking photos with the Gilco running man in the Dotombori district of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Enjoying the illuminated billboards, video screens and mechanized signs in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Enjoying the illuminated billboards, video screens and mechanized signs in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Me in the middle of the crowded Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Enjoying the illuminated billboards, video screens and mechanized signs in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Enjoying the illuminated billboards, video screens and mechanized signs in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Walking through an alleyway in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Walking through an alleyway in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Art work walking through an alleyway in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Art work walking through an alleyway in the Dotombori area of Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Walking towards the Hozenji Temple from the alleyway. The small temple lies between the bright neon signs of Dotonbori and the shopping malls of Namba. (March 25, 2024)The small Hozenji Temple between the bright neon signs of Dotonbori and the shopping malls of Namba in Osaka. Built in 1637, Hozenji Temple pays homage to Fudo Myoo, one of five guardians of Buddhism. (March 25, 2024)The green moss statue of Fudo Myo-o, representing discipline and firm moral character, at the small Hozenji Temple between the bright neon signs of Dotonbori and the shopping malls of Namba in Osaka. Built in 1637, Hozenji Temple pays homage to Fudo Myoo, one of five guardians of Buddhism. Usually, the Fudo spirit is shown with a very fierce and angry face, however, this statue appears much gentler because it is completely covered in lush green moss. (March 25, 2024)The small Hozenji Temple between the bright neon signs of Dotonbori and the shopping malls of Namba in Osaka. Built in 1637, Hozenji Temple pays homage to Fudo Myoo, one of five guardians of Buddhism. (March 25, 2024)The small Hozenji Temple between the bright neon signs of Dotonbori and the shopping malls of Namba in Osaka. Built in 1637, Hozenji Temple pays homage to Fudo Myoo, one of five guardians of Buddhism. (March 25, 2024)Walking through the lively streets of Shin-Sekai, a retro cool entertainment district with views of the steel-framed Tsūten-kaku Tower in Osaka. (March 25, 2024)Walking through the lively streets of Shin-Sekai, a retro cool entertainment district in Osaka as we end our walking tour. (March 25, 2024Walking through the lively streets of Shin-Sekai, a retro cool entertainment district in Osaka as we end our walking tour. (March 25, 2024)Walking through the lively streets of Shin-Sekai, a retro cool entertainment district in Osaka as we end our walking tour. (March 25, 2024)Walking through the lively streets of Shin-Sekai, a retro cool entertainment district in Osaka as we end our walking tour. (March 25, 2024)
Hiroshima & Miyajima Bus Tour
Before getting on the bus tour, we had to take the 1 hour and 20 minutes Shinkansen or bullet train from Shin-Osaka Station in Osaka to Hiroshima Station in Hiroshima.
Taking the bus tour with a guide, gave us the freedom to really understand the history of Hiroshima which was devastated by an atomic bomb firestorm that destroyed five square miles or 13 square kilometers of the city. Almost 63% of the buildings in Hiroshima were completely destroyed and many more were damaged. In total, 92% of the structures in the city were either destroyed or damaged by blast and fire on August 6, 1945. Prior to 1945 the population was 300,000. That decreased by half after the world’s first atomic bomb was dropped by the American B-29 bomber, the Enola Gay.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, an area reduced to ashes by the atomic bomb is now home to the the Atomic Bomb Dome, a registered World Heritage Site, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a window into what Hiroshima was like at the time of the atomic bombing.
From Hiroshima, we took the ferry to Itsukushima, an island in the western part of the Inland Sea of Japan, located in the northwest of Hiroshima Bay. It is popularly known as Miyajima, which in Japanese means “Shrine Island”. Itsukushima is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its Torii Gate, the site’s most recognizable landmark, which appears to float in the water.
Here’s to another incredible day in Japan.
Me standing on the Aioi Bridge which crosses the Motoyasu river with views of the skeletal remains of the Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)The Atomic Bomb Dome or Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on 6 August 1945 and is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This photo was taken from the Aioi Bridge which crosses the Motoyasu river. (March 26, 2024)The Atomic Bomb Dome or Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on 6 August 1945 and is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This photo was taken from the Aioi Bridge which crosses the Motoyasu river. (March 26, 2024)The Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima where the effects of the atomic bombings killed 90,000 to 146,000 people in Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, “was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on 6 August 1945. Through the efforts of many people, including those of the city of Hiroshima, it has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing. Not only is it a stark and powerful symbol of the most destructive force ever created by humankind; it also expresses the hope for world peace and the ultimate elimination of all nuclear weapons.” (March 26, 2024)The skeletal remains of the Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima were preserved. (March 26, 2024)The skeletal remains of the Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima were preserved. (March 26, 2024)The skeletal remains of the Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima were preserved. (March 26, 2024)The Children’s Peace Monument in Hiroshima features a bronze statue of a young girl lifting a golden crane entrusted with dreams for a peaceful future. Figures of a boy and a girl are located on the sides of the monument which stands in memory of all children who died as a result of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)The Children’s Peace Monument in Hiroshima features a bronze statue of a young girl lifting a golden crane entrusted with dreams for a peaceful future. Figures of a boy and a girl are located on the sides of the monument which stands in memory of all children who died as a result of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)The Flame of Peace with views of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)The Flame of Peace with views of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park with a view of the skeletal remains of the Genbaku Dome and the Flame of Peace in the distance. (March 26, 2024)The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in Hiroshima displays the actual damage wrought by the atomic bombing. This is also Hiroshima’s way of promoting the abolition of nuclear weapons and the realization of lasting world peace. (March 26, 2024)The crowd of people entering the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)Photos from a photo wall inside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum of what the city of Hiroshima looked like after the United States detonated two atomic bombs on August 1945 over the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombings killed between 129,000 and 226,000 people, most of whom were civilians, and remains the only use of nuclear weapons in an armed conflict. (March 26, 2024)Photos from a photo wall inside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum of what the city of Hiroshima looked like after the United States detonated two atomic bombs on August 1945 over the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombings killed between 129,000 and 226,000 people, most of whom were civilians, and remains the only use of nuclear weapons in an armed conflict. (March 26, 2024)Photos from a photo wall inside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum of what the city of Hiroshima looked like after the United States detonated two atomic bombs on August 1945 over the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombings killed between 129,000 and 226,000 people, most of whom were civilians, and remains the only use of nuclear weapons in an armed conflict. (March 26, 2024)Photos from a photo wall inside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum of what the city of Hiroshima looked like after the United States detonated two atomic bombs on August 1945 over the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombings killed between 129,000 and 226,000 people, most of whom were civilians, and remains the only use of nuclear weapons in an armed conflict. (March 26, 2024)Some articles of clothing inside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum from the peopled maimed or killed from the atomic bombing in Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)Portraits of the people killed during the 1945 bombing of Hiroshima as displayed inside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)A view of the Pond of Peace, the Flame of Peace and the Genbaku Dome of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. (March 26, 2024)Views of present-day Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)Views of present-day Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)Views of present-day Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)Views of present-day Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)Views of present-day Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)Taking a 45-minute lunch break before moving onto our next stop, the ferry to the Itsukushima Shrine on the Miyajima island. Lunch was a part of the tour and for lunch was this, the Japanese Pancake. It is filled with cabbage, meat, veggies, noodles and topped with a fried egg. (March 26, 2024)The Japanese Pancake is filled with cabbage, meat, veggies, noodles and topped with a fried egg. I was hungry but in all honesty, the Japanese Pancake is not my thing. (March 26, 2024)Me trying out the Japanese pancake that was ordered by the day tour company for everyone to eat. (March 26, 2024)Views of present-day Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)The apartment buildings built after the 1945 atomic bombing in Hiroshima to house the many people displaced. (March 26, 2024)Views of present-day Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)
Miyajim Island by Ferry
After visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, our day tour group ventured to the Miyajimaguchi Terminal in Hiroshima to take the ferry over to Miyajima Island and the famed O-Tori Gate of the Itsukushima Shrine. Formally named Itsukushima, the island is more popularly known as “Miyajima”, literally “shrine island” in Japanese, thanks to its star attraction. The shrine is known worldwide for its iconic “floating” torii gate. (March 26, 2024)Inside the ferry from the Miyajimaguchi Terminal in Hiroshima to Miyajima Island and the famed O-Tori Gate of the Itsukushima Shrine. (March 26, 2024)Inside the ferry from the Miyajimaguchi Terminal in Hiroshima to Miyajima Island and the famed O-Tori Gate of the Itsukushima Shrine. (March 26, 2024)Jacque and me on the ferry from Miyajimaguchi Terminal in Hiroshima to Miyajima island and the famed O-Tori Gate of the Itsukushima Shrine. (March 26, 2024)Approaching Miyajima Island and the O-Tori Gate of Itsukushima Shrine from our 10-minute ferry ride from the Miyajimaguchi Terminal in Hiroshima. (March 26, 2024)Exiting from the ferry onto Miyajima island. (March 26, 2024)Exiting from the ferry onto Miyajima island. (March 26, 2024)The island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)A sign on the island of Miyajima alerting vistors about the deer. There were also periodic announcements made while leaving the ferry terminal to warn people that the deer are not tame and ‘please do not get too close or touch them’ because this actions can cause personal injuries. (March 26, 2024)Walking to the O-Tori Gate of Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)Walking to the O-Tori Gate of Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)Walking to the O-Tori Gate of Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)Walking to the O-Tori Gate of Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)A little boy getting close to a Sika deer, one of many that wander around the streets of Miyajima. Although the deer are said to be tame, warnings were given at the ferry terminal to be aware of the deer. (March 26, 2024)Walking to the O-Tori Gate of Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The O-Torii Gate of the Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. In 1168 (Heian Period) the huge torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was created in its current form by Tairo no Kiyomori (head of the Heike clan). At high tide the gate appears to ‘float’ on the water, whereas at low tide you can walk out to the gate and admire the structure up close. (March 26, 2024)The O-Torii Gate of the the Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The O-Torii Gate of the the Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The O-Torii Gate of the the Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)Views of the O-Torii Gate from the Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)Views of the O-Torii Gate from the Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The Itsukushima Shrine located in a small inlet on the island of Miyajima. Formally named Itsukushima, the island is more popularly known as “Miyajima”, literally “shrine island” in Japanese, thanks to its star attraction. The shrine is known worldwide for its iconic “floating” torii gate. The shrine was designed and built according to the Shinden-zukuri style, equipped with pier-like structures over the Matsushima bay to create an illusion of floating on the water during high tide. (March 26, 2024)The Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The village area on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The village area on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)Views of the Goju-no-to or Five-Storied Pagoda on the island of Miyajima Island is dedicated to the Buddhist God of Medicine. The pagoda was built in 1407 and reconstructed in 1533. (March 26, 2024)The Goju-no-to or Five-Storied Pagoda on a little hill on the island of Miyajima is dedicated to the Buddhist God of Medicine. The vermillion-colored pagoda with its mainly Japanese architectural style also shows some Chinese influence, especially in parts of the top of the wooden pillars. The roof is made with layers of Japanese cypress bark shingles. (March 26, 2024)The Omotesando shopping street is the Main Street in the city area of Miyajima with many souvenir stores, cafés, and restaurants. (March 26, 2024)The Omotesando shopping street is the Main Street in the city area of Miyajima with many souvenir stores, cafés, and restaurants. (March 26, 2024)A sake store along the Omotesando shopping and main street on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)Inside the sake store along the Omotesando shopping and main street on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)The statue of Taira no Kiyomori on the island of Miyajima. Tiara (1118 to 1181) was a military leader who established the first samurai-dominated administrative government in the history of Japan. It is unclear when and how Kiyomori started to develop a religious faith and feeling for the Itsukushima Shrine but he visited the shrine a number of times. In 1168, he remodeled Itsukushima shrine into its present form and created the Torii Gate. (March 26, 2024)A close-up of the statue of Taira no Kiyomori on the island of Miyajima. (March 26, 2024)
Nara Park Uji Sakura day tour (from Osaka)
This was the day I was looking forward to the most, the Sakura day tour. Sakura is a girl’s name of Japanese origin that means “cherry blossom.” Due to their quick blooming season, cherry blossoms also symbolize the transience of life, a major theme in Buddhism.
Today’s day tour was all about seeing those gorgeous cherry blossoms in a variety of locations. Even though the weather had been cold and rainy, things were starting to warm up and so I was hopeful.
It certainly wasn’t the slew of cherry blossoms I had hoped to see in Japan, but the lone cherry blossom trees here and there had to suffice. Never the less, it turned out to be a good way and day to end my time in Japan with Jacque after our day at Kyoto Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji and Nara Park in Nara.
Thank you Japan and the Japanese for sharing your history, food, high speed trains and welcoming kindness.
Jacque and me at the Sahogawa River among the many Cherry Blossoms trees that have not yet bloomed in the Nara – Shibatsujicho area during our Sakura tour of the not yet blossomed trees. Sakura means “cherry blossom” and is derived from saku, which means to bloom, or alternately to smile/laugh. This was the beginning of our tour in the quest of seeing the gorgeous Cherry Blossom trees which, along this basin, were still not yet blooming. (March 28, 2024)The Sahogawa River among the many Cherry Blossom trees that have not yet bloomed in the Nara – Shibatsujicho area during our Sakura tour of the not yet blossomed trees. (March 28, 2024)The Sahogawa River among the many Cherry Blossom trees that have not yet bloomed in the Nara – Shibatsujicho area during our Sakura tour of the not yet blossomed trees. (March 28, 2024)Our next stop was Nara Park, a large park in central Nara. Established in 1880, the park is home to the Todaiji Temple hundreds of freely roaming deer. (March 27, 2024)Nara Park, a large park in central Nara was established in 1880. The park is home to the Todaiji Temple hundreds of freely roaming deer. (March 27, 2024)Jacque bought deer crackers from one of the many vendors at Nara Park specifically made to feed the deer. (March 28, 2024)Jacque feeding the deer with specially made deer crackers purchased at Nara Park in Nara. (March 28, 2024)Me feeding one of the many Sitka deer at Nara Park in the city of Nara. Jacque bought crackers from a local vendor specifically made to feed the deer. (March 28, 2024)Along the approach to the Todaiji Temple in Nara Park is the Nandaimon Gate, a large wooden gate watched over by two fierce looking statues. (March 28, 2024)Me at the large wooden Nandaimon Gate leading to the Todaiji Temple in Nara Park. (March 28, 2024)The fierce looking statue guarding the Nandaimon Gate leading to the Todaiji Temple in Nara Park. (March 28, 2024)The Todaiji Temple at Nara Park was constructed in 752. (March 28, 2024)The Sika deers at Nara Park in Nara chilling after being fed crackers sold by vendors for feeding the dear…are now relaxing. (March 28, 2024)The lone Cherry Blossom tree at the entrance of the Kyoto Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji, a small city situated between Kyoto and Nara, two of Japan’s most famous historical and cultural centers. (March 28, 2024)A close-up of the blossoms of the lone Cherry Blossom tree at the entrance of the Kyoto Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji. (March 28, 2024)And, this is the lone Cherry Blossom tree at the entrance of the Kyoto Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji that so many of us, including Jacque and myself, hovering over the lone tree for photos. (March 28, 2024)The Byodoin Temple’s Amida-do or Phoenix Hall in the city of Uji, a Kyoto Prefecture or under the regional authority of Kyoto. The Hall was constructed in 1053. It is the only remaining original building, surrounded by a scenic pond; additional buildings making up the compound were burnt down during a civil war in 1336. A full-scale renovation of the hall was undertaken in 1670. (March 28, 2024)The Amida-dor or Phoenix House at the Byodoin (“Temple of Equality”) is a Buddhist temple at the Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji and was constructed in 1053. (March 28, 2024)Jacque and me with views of the Amida-dor or Phoenix House at the Byodoin (“Temple of Equality”) is a Buddhist temple at the Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji and was constructed in 1053. (March 28, 2024)The Byodoin Temple’s Amida-do or Phoenix Hall in the city of Uji, a Kyoto Prefecture or under the regional authority of Kyoto. The Hall was constructed in 1053. (March 28, 2024)Me under the blooming cherry blossom tree by the Ajiike Pond with views of the Phoenix Hall at the Byodoin Temple at the Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji. (March 28, 2024)Eureka, more blooming Cherry Blossom trees by the Uji River at the Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji. (March 28, 2024)Me with more blooming Cherry Blossom trees by the Uji River at the Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji. (March 28, 2024)After our day at Kyoto Prefectural Uji Park in the city of Uji, Nara Park in Nara and stops along the way in an effort to see the not yet bloomed cherry blossoms, Jacque and I stopped at this ramen corner restaurant, Kyushu Ramen Kio Dotombori, for dinner in the Dotombori district of Osaka. It’s a little hole in the wall with a line of people, including us, waiting in a line outside in the light rain to get it. (March 28, 2024)Inside the ramen noodle restaurant, Kyushu Ramen Kio Dotombori, in the Dotombori district of Osaka where Jacque and I stopped for dinner on our way back to our hotel. (March 28, 2024)My plate of Pork Ramen at the Kyushu Ramen Kio Dotombori in Osaka. It was delicious! (March 28, 2024)Jacque and I riding in the women’s only subway car back to our hotel in Osaka after a long and wonderful day. Platforms and train doors are marked with signs indicating boarding areas for the cars, and the days and times when the cars are women-only. (March 28, 2024)Inside the women’s only passenger car on our metro ride back to our hotel in Osaka for the evening. (March 28, 2024)Inside the women’s only passenger car on our metro ride back to our hotel in Osaka for the evening. (March 28, 2024)Jacque and me in the women’s only passenger car on our metro ride back to our hotel in Osaka for the evening. And, the end to our time together in Japan. (March 28, 2024)
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