On Friday we enjoyed our 180 mph train ride to Kyoto. These bullet trains (ours was not the fastest) are smooth and very comfortable. Near our hotel is Pontocho Alley, a narrow passage way with innumerable bars, clubs & restaurants. Many of these are pretty forbidding for foreign visitors as everything is in Japanese. During a brief thunderstorm, we ducked into a very small bar playing Motown music. The owner had a collection of albums (Stylistics, Supremes, etc.) that is probably unusual in Japan. On this street, we couldn’t find the 2 sushi restaurants recommended by our hotel (no English signs) until we brought back pictures of what we thought might be restaurants. The sushi was good but not outstanding that we found in Tokyo.
Kyoto River DiningMotown BarPonchoto AlleyKyoto River Clubs at Night
Today we wandered into the “French Section” (Kagurazaka District) of Tokyo. We dined at a small French bistro and had the most challenging time ordering since we arrived. The owner was disappointed to learn we weren’t French! The Imperial Palace Gardens (that are open to the public) weren’t that interesting. We also visited Shinjuku Golden-gai District – a area of old narrow streets and many small bars. The Kabukicho District (a portion of which is the Red Light District) has entertainment for all ages!! Off to Kyoto tomorrow!
Lesley (through the water) near the Imperial PalaceShinjuku Golden-gai District – Old TokyoKabukicho District – Entertainment Galore!
Tokyo is a city of contrasts – from the 170 acres of the Meiji Shrine which consists of 120,000 trees of 365 different species to the few interesting skyscrapers among the mostly boring buildings. We visited Shibuya Crossing within the fashion district. Shibuya may be one of the busiest intersections in the world with crowds pouring onto the street from all sides as the crosswalk signs turn green.
Meiji Shrine within TokyoView from the City Government ShrineShibuya Crossing at noon
We spent the day wandering. Sushi in the fish market is outstanding. The subway system is great – but it is important to remember what entrance you originally used. We are near the busiest station in the world – 3.5m people use it daily! Heading back to the hotel we got hopelessly lost within the station for 40 minutes.
Our Japan Airlines flight was great and we enjoyed our first Japanese meal on the plane. Great service. Everyone has been very formal and courteous – even the bus ticket taker finishes her job by bowing to all from the front of the bus.
