It had to be done!

We were so lucky to see the iconic Mt Fiji today. We’d hoped to use our last day with the rail pass to go to Hakone where we’d wanted to see the mountain across the lake. But it was raining heavily and we were told we’d not see it as the cloud would be down all day.

Rather than be good tourists in Tokyo in the crowds of umbrellas we decided to spend 40 minutes in a crowded local train then get the 2 hr 40 minute bullet train from Tokyo central to Kyoto. I know, we have spent several days there already, but we did not have time to see the Silver Temple and walk along the Philosophers’s Path by a quiet canal. The bullet train was so relaxing. The passengers are quieter than those in the so-called quiet coach at home, so it was really relaxing.

Once in Kyoto we had to find the right bus which took 40 minutes to get to our stop. After that we saw the lovely temple and stunning gardens, before the amble along the paved way by the canal. It would have been out of this world when the white blossom was out, but we had some pink blossom as well as wonderful fresh green colours. It was enchanting. From the other end of the Path we had quite a walk to find the bus stop and the long return journey. On the bus an old man chatted to me and gave me a Buddhist postcard. (I wish I’d brought postcards from home to give to people as everyone we chatted to has given us a little gift of food, drink etc.). He advised us to try to sit on the left side going back as he was sure Fuji would be clear, and it was. We feel so lucky.

Last night we went to look around the red light district with its “Information Centres“ for men only, weird boys bars, robot restaurants etc, not to mention all the crazy bright signs.

I’m loving Japan, but finding the heaving mass of people tiring. Tomorrow we’ll look around the city, then the next day I have the dentist, (which I hope I can find). Mr C has been researching reputable camera shops and thinks we can find one after the Dentist. Wish us luck!