Sarah-Jane Harris 2003
I woke
up this morning to a beautiful view of the mountains that surrounded the traditional
inn where we had stayed the night.
Breakfast was taken in the banquet hall and we wore our yukatas. We said goodbye
to the Inn staff and set off for the old peoples' home. I can't put into words
how wonderful the one and a half hours there were. The staff and the facilities
were all amazing - it's the sort of place I'd like to go to when I'm old and
need looking after...
At Odawara station we caught our first bullet train. The station was, as is
everywhere in Japan, very clean and the train pulled in exactly on time. I
was in awe of its size and sheer presence. After 15 minutes we changed to
an even faster train and were taken swiftly to Kyoto.
Here we all had a go at some kimono designs by the old dying method using
stencils. Our efforts were very impressive although those helping us tried
constantly to prevent us using too much of each colour.
We checked into our hotel for the next three nights - the Rhiga Royal - a
beautiful and calming place to be after the past few hectic days. Dinner was
eaten in the hotel's restaurant after which we decided to go and look for
a bar. We ended up in a traditional karaoke bar. After a few beers most people
found a voice which they never knew they had (including me!). We talked to
some Japanese business men who seemed most interested in Annastasia's wriggling.
We also found that the Japanese gesture for angry is making horns on your
head (another 'difference' to add to the list Mr. Yokoyama told us about).
My first impressions of Kyoto are that it is a beautiful place with beautiful
people; without a doubt this has been my best day so far.
Trippers'
Reactions
P.O.W.
and Parents Reactions
British and Japanese Government Reactions
Water Polo!
Lessons
Getting in to the swing of things