Whenever we land in a new country we try to spot the first thing that's different or unique from the other countries we've visited. In Tokyo Louis Vuitton reigns supreme. Practically every second person it seems (both women and men) carries a Louis Vuitton handbag in some form or another. Japan is, after all, the land of the elegant, demure geisha and as in the distinguished mark of a Louis Vuitton handbag, we find a refined, sophisticated style prevalent in its people, with a few Goths and trashy-trendys thrown in for added flair.
With only a couple of days to experience Tokyo we get down to business by going up for a view of the cityscape. The Tokyo Tower (above) is the stand-out. Built in 1958 for broadcasting through the Kanto region, it was modelled after the Eiffel Tower—just over 30m higher than its Parisian counterpart.
On to the area of Asakusa and the temple of Senso-ji. Thought to have been founded in the 7th century, it was rebuilt in 1945 after WWII bombing. The atmospheric energy is the real attraction here.
The Imperial Palace is the home of Japan's emperor and the imperial family. We stroll the area around the palace—one of the best places in Tokyo for leisurely exploration with picturesque scenes like the bridge over the Babasaki moat.
If it lives in the sea, it's probably for sale here—the Tsukiji Fish Market—where acres and acres of fish and fish products pass hands in a lively, almost chaotic atmosphere. Mountains of octopus, rows of giant tuna, endless varieties of shellfish, tanks of unnameable fish. Sushi heaven.
Tim-san has always wanted to ride the 'bullet train' from Tokyo to Kyoto so here we go. The Japanese have got it right when it comes to efficiency—this thing smoothly and quietly whisks us along at a speedy 300 kilometers per hour!
Hazy, snowcapped, postcard-perfect Mount Fuji (look closely) through the window of the bullet train.
The joy of travelling in Kyoto is the quest, the pleasure of uncovering that perfect Zen garden, of happening upon a quiet temple, of mustering up the courage to slide open the door to an unfamiliar restaurant and being rewarded with the perfect bowl of noodles.
We walk through the famous district of Gion where streets are lined with 17th century traditional restaurants and teahouses, many of which are exclusive establishments for geisha entertainment. Men of considerable means may pay more than US$1,000 to spend an evening in the company of a geisha. Tim is very glad he has Sandi who asks only for a gin and tonic.
The narrow alleys in Gion come alive at night with red lanterns hanging outside of restaurants luring patrons inside to dine.
As with many of Japan's traditional crafts, fans were first made in Kyoto and continue to be produced prolifically here.
A Buddhist monk stands still and silent, waiting for alms.
We wander around Kiyomizu-dera Temple, first built in 798 with reconstructions now dating from 1633. The main hall has a huge veranda that juts out over the hillside supported by 139 15m-high wooden pillars while the terrace commands an excellent view over the city centre.
The Chion-in Temple is a must-see for those with a taste for the grand and glorious. The massive two-storey gate at the main entrance is the largest in Japan.
Ginkaku-ji is easily one of Kyoto's most beautiful sights. The gardens include meticulously raked cones of white sand known as kogetsudai, designed to reflect moonlight and enhance the beauty of the garden at night.
Nature's glory in a Japanese garden.
Sandi purred when Tim bought her this cute kitty (which we named Myowko). Lucky cats are very popular in Japan. They are placed at the entrances of houses and in store windows. Japanese love to have them as mascots, to bring good fortune, to invite happiness and to bring prosperity to businesses.
We head back to the United States now aboard a 12 hour flight from Tokyo to Chicago where we'll stop for a couple of days of rest before heading home to Litchfield. The time has gone so fast and we've had the adventure of a lifetime. What a world!!! We'll keep posting until we have arrived in Litchfield so stay with us.
No comments:
Post a Comment