Japan 2018 - the first few days (Tokyo & Kyoto)

The trip begins 😃

Starting the trip off in style

In Japan the baggage handlers put all the bags on the conveyor belt facing the same way, with the handles out so that it is easier to pull off your bag - why don't they do this in airports all around the world!!!

The hotel we stayed in the first night had a pillow menu - you chose from this selection (which is good because the pillow in our room was filled with hard plastic balls and was super uncomfy).

Our hotel room the first night in Tokyo was tiny - we even had trouble getting the wheelchair into the room. However, it was perfect for one night and was very close to Tokyo Station making it easy to get the Shinkansen to Kyoto the next day.

Our Bentos on the Shinkansen were both cute and delicious

Kamo River, Kyoto

Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto

Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto

Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto



Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto


Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto


Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto


Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto


Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto

The Baked Cheese Tart store had a lego counter

I loved the graphics on this poster - Pumpkin Forever!

Chugenjumeyamihizo, Gion (Kyoto)

Whislt S was resting I did a cooking class (with Cooking Sun), and was lucky enough to have a private class. My teacher, Maya, was really helpful and lovely. We cooked 7 dishes and I learnt a lot.

 Soaked Grilled Eggplant

 

 Soaked Grilled Eggplant and Gyoza - these were both delicious and I'll definitely be cooking them at home.


Daifuku Mochi, Burdock Root and Carrot Sesame Salad, Yakitori (Negi), Japanese Rice Pasta (men) with Chicken and Miso Sauce.

An early morning walk in Gion

Near our hotel in Gion


Early morning Gion

Nishiki Market

Sweet potatoes in Nishiki Market

I ate a LOT of baked sweet potatoes when I lived here in 1987 - these were delicious and reminded me of my time as an exchange student.

 H & J have been in Kyoto a few days ahead of us and so have been showing us the good Ramen places :)

 
Mmmmmm Ramen