Writing this update from the amazing Japanese bullet-train (Shinkansen), on the way to Hiroshima.
We spent 4 action-packed days in Kyoto. Luckily, our arrival still coincided with prime cherry blossom-viewing time, and it was really amazing to see the trees covered in this delicate, precious layer of white/pink. This magical ‘mist’ greatly added to whatever we were seeing - temples or nature!
We did 2 separate hikes, that were connected to Chion-in temples and Fushimi Inari Shrine (best known for the orange arches). Some good views, extending as far as the skyscrapers of Osaka!
Japan is clearly laid-out, so long walks were very pleasant. We explored the Imperial park gardens, and also the Nijo castle. Both were significant locations from a historical perspective, with Kyoto being the seat of power for nearly 500 years - before eventually the Edo Period ended, and the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1868. That’s an all-too-brief, hopefully not too inaccurate summary... any corrections are welcome though!
We explored the old district of Gion in Kyoto, also watching a mixed Japanese cultural show (admittedly very tourist-trappy, but overall happy we saw it!), which included a Geisha dance.
Also taking of Japanese culture, we did a samurai class!! It was at a Kembu school, which is the dance developed by the samurai to preserve culture and show expression (outside of battle). In case you are wondering, many of the Samurai Kembu dances also use a fan - for feelings that could not be easily expressed with the Katana sword!
Quite sleepy/ tired now, but looking forward to next parts of the trip.
We spent 4 action-packed days in Kyoto. Luckily, our arrival still coincided with prime cherry blossom-viewing time, and it was really amazing to see the trees covered in this delicate, precious layer of white/pink. This magical ‘mist’ greatly added to whatever we were seeing - temples or nature!
We did 2 separate hikes, that were connected to Chion-in temples and Fushimi Inari Shrine (best known for the orange arches). Some good views, extending as far as the skyscrapers of Osaka!
Japan is clearly laid-out, so long walks were very pleasant. We explored the Imperial park gardens, and also the Nijo castle. Both were significant locations from a historical perspective, with Kyoto being the seat of power for nearly 500 years - before eventually the Edo Period ended, and the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1868. That’s an all-too-brief, hopefully not too inaccurate summary... any corrections are welcome though!
We explored the old district of Gion in Kyoto, also watching a mixed Japanese cultural show (admittedly very tourist-trappy, but overall happy we saw it!), which included a Geisha dance.
Also taking of Japanese culture, we did a samurai class!! It was at a Kembu school, which is the dance developed by the samurai to preserve culture and show expression (outside of battle). In case you are wondering, many of the Samurai Kembu dances also use a fan - for feelings that could not be easily expressed with the Katana sword!
Quite sleepy/ tired now, but looking forward to next parts of the trip.
Comments
Lots of love and more happy times in the next few days xxx s&j
Have a wonderful onward trip. Enjoy the culinary delights. Looking forward to more write ups and photos. Thanks so much for the update.
Much love.
D