(Retraction: I traveled to Fugi a couple years ago but this trip I went to Mount Fuji)
We took the bullet train to our next destination. This train travels about 160 mph. The new one due to start in 2027 will go 308 mph. We had to take a local train and then a bus ride to the famous:
There are many Shrines (gates) in this large urban area. It has beautiful landscaping and the Japanese believe the water in the river will purify you. Many who practice Shinto religion make frequent pilgrimages to this site. Of course there was shopping and food stalls nearby.
Our next overnight stop was the Hotel Todaya, Toba. We stayed for two days and dressed in provided kimonos.
We could access the traditional Japanese onsen (hot springs). No pic were permitted since there were “no bathing suits permitted”. We also had Japanese banquets and gigantic buffet breakfast and dinner options. I have become extremely proficient with chop sticks.
We had a visit to a local pearl farm and harvested our own one year old cultured pearl from an oyster.
Lunch was at a local hut along the cliff side shore were we had a vegetable and seafood meal cooked and served by an ama (women sea diver).
They wear the shirt and cap when they dive for the local seafood.
It was back on the train to our final destination: the ancient city of Kyoto. We made a stop along the way in Nara to visit the famous Todaiji Temple. The Daibutsu-den Hall is the largest wooden building in the world. The main Buddha statue is 52 feet tall. There are beautiful statues and this temple is a favorite site for Japanese visits.
It was onto Kyoto for two days of sightseeing. We began the first day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine. We witness the site’s magnificent tunnel of an estimated 10,000 torrii gates.
Lunch at ancient tea house was a banquet of 8 courses.
We had a visit with a Maiko- an apprentice geisha. I’m not sure I am a fan of this Japanese tradition.
It was on to one more beautiful site: Kinkakuji Temple also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. It dates from 1387, when it was built by the third shogun (military commander/ruler). The gold plate covering the temple requires constant attention.
Of course Kyoto would have a famous market with food and shopping stalls.
Our last day we visited the Bamboo Forest and Tenryuji Temple. It is one of the most famous zen sites in Japan.
We ended the trip with a visit to Nino Castle Complex, whose grounds span nearly 70 acres and are home to multiple palaces, gardens and water features. The Ninomaru Place was home to the ruling Shogun in the 1300’s when he visited Kyoto. Shoguns were the leader/ruler of Japan for about 200 years.
This was a Great trip and I enjoyed and appreciated all the food, sites and traditions of Japan.
I couldn’t leave without a “green tea” ice cream!
Barb Does The World 