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Run run run! Go go go! Why can't I just settle down for awhile? Perhaps this is the problem with my whole life, but at least I get to see a lot! I've really struggled with which photos to add to this entry as I have taken so many. I hope I can give the Kansai area of Japan justice! I've taken the night bus from Tokyo, arriving in Kyoto at 5am. The bus ride wasn't too bad. Apart from the fact that the guy sitting next to me snored his way onto my shoulder, and then both of the reading lights were directed onto his side. When I arrived in Kyoto, I was slightly overwhelmed by the magnitude of the station. I hadn't envisioned the cutting edge granite and glass towers in a city known mostly for its' temples and peace agreements. Nonetheless, I found the lockers and the washrooms and made myself respectable for an early start on the temple tourist track.

Historic Temples and Futuristic Expo

Coffeecat
2005-12-24 19:27:10

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to my roots, I was pleased to be offered the VIP tour. For those that know how my accent has changed over

It's a bit embaressing to admit how many photos I have taken of myself. But it really was to figure out the camera!
the years, it was with great pleasure that I got the VIP tour for the English and Irish pavillions as well! It felt strange when I was in the American pavillion as I had to ask for an english translation!! Other pavillions gave me great insight into the future travels. Having walked the grounds from back to front, I was fairly exhausted by the end of the day. The announcements warning us of the ligtening storms dampened only a few passers by, although I'm sure those in the cable car above were a bit eager to get out! Just before I stepped foot off the grounds, I sat and watched hundreds of women dance to the live drum, koto and other Japanese instruments that I'd not seen before.

One of the most impressive sights of this trip has got to be Himeji Castle. Also noted for its beauty as a back drop in the Bond movies and in Tom Cruise's Samarai movie. It's many tiers of white can be seen from everywhere and even the surrounding gardens were stunning. I had an interesting dinner in Himeji that night. Having filled the machine with tokens outside of the restaurant, my meal

Potential Starbucks location
was very quickly brought to me once I handed over my printed coupons. I wonder if this will take off anywhere else in the world.

Back in Kyoto I joined a walking tour from the city's finest leader. 'Johnny Hillwalker' was entertaining and able to give us much more insight into Buddism and the back streets of the Geisha areas called Pontocho. We saw fans being made, pottery being painted, shrines being tended. And yes, I even tried on a kimono! I don't think it's quite my style at the moment, ...