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Published: November 8th 2007
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A future World Traveller - Evan Fortin
My young nephew Evan and I had lots of fun discussions about this trip before I left. He's a near genius when it comes to geography! I meant to include this picture earlier, but it's never too late....... And I'm back! We just had a fabulous dinner, in our hotel, in the revolving restaurant at the top of the hotel. Very tasty (as you will see from the pictures)......unfortunately, you won't see a picture of the dessert because we all started eating it right away and.......a picture didn't get taken! Oh well.....
After a great sleep last night, we all met for breakfast. Some people went downstairs and enjoyed the traditional Japanese "fare"; others, went upstairs (in the revolving restaurant part) and enjoyed a typical Western-type breakfast. It was a gorgeous day today; lots of sun, no humidity or wind. Perfect for touring! Many people said that they were wide awake at 3 a.m., and very hungry! Most were able to just roll over in bed and go back to sleep. We're still adjusting to the time changes.
On to the buses and I begin my first official day as Group Leader! I am blessed, and delighted, to have so many happy, energetic and interesting people in my Green Group. I am starting to get to know them and I know that new friendships will be made over the course of the next month. (You, too, could
have this once-in-a-lifetime experience by checking out this website: www.privatejettours.ca Sign up and come along for the fun! - Irene, I think you and Terry should seriously consider one of these trips!!!!)
So we headed out to our first destination: Nijo Castle, followed by a trip to the Nishijin Textile Hall (where we saw a Japanese Kimono Show), followed by visiting Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion).
We did lots of walking; the day was perfect for it. Traffic wasn't very heavy as we toured around the city. Our bus drivers are miracle workers as they maneuver around the narrow streets and parking lots. It's a typical city, othewise. Lots of traffic; lots of people on bicycles. As we drove around, you could see the Golden Arches (MacDonalds!!!), Kentucky Fried Chicken, Starbucks, etc. The West has arrived!!! Lots of history at Nijo Castle and beautiful grounds as we walked around enjoying the sunshine. The birds were out in their splendor.
Then, on to the Nishijin Textile Hall, where (on the second floor) we could see demonstrations of weaving, painting and various other art forms. Such talent! We could also purchase a number of items........ties, kimonos, purses, knick-knacks, etc. On
the main floor, there were rows of different food/snack choices. The Japanese Kimono Fashion show was delightful. Beautiful young ladies in gorgeous kimonos. Most Japanese women have at least 5 kimonos, typically bought by their parents (when they are single).
Back on the bus and heading for the Golden Pavilion. (I'm getting hungry though, and thoughts of lunch race through MY head!). Walking around the grounds at the Golden Pavilion gave us the chance to stretch our legs, enjoy the fresh air, see some beautiful sights, meet with some Japanese children who were out on a school trip with their teacher and wanting some of us to discuss English with them. Then it's time to head for lunch.....to the Shozan restaurant, where we have a typical Japanese Bento box lunch. Yum! I know some people were a little hesitant about this, but hey......when in Japan! I loved it! We had sashimi, miso soup, rice, vegetables, soybean curd, mackeral, etc. Nice and light and tasty, and of course beautifully presented! Refreshments were available and many people sampled the Japanese beer and sake.
Then everyone had the chance to get on one of the 3 buses: 1) head to downtown
and do some shopping; 2) head to the Arts & Crafts center, or 3) head back to the hotel (many people wanted to rest/nap before dinner). I headed back to the hotel and went straight to the pool; I intend to stay committed to my daily workouts! I missed you in the pool, Gail! Brenda (the other new group leader) and I had a good workout in the pool. There were only 2 other people there; the facility is lovely - very professional, quiet and clean.
At dinner, most of the people at my table had gone shopping downtown. They said the stores were amazing, TONS of "stuff", very overwhelming and intimidating and no one bought anything. But they loved the experience. And that's what it is all about.
Dinner was a relaxing and enjoyable experience. It was "Western fare", as I may have mentioned earlier. You will see some of the pictures. An early evening, some blogging, and off to bed. Had a great sleep (it's 5:30 a.m. right now) and am ready for another full day. You're gonna love the stories and pictures ......
Enjoy. Happy Birthday, Jill Mason in Stratford! Wish you were here.
There are lots of pictures to enjoy; be sure you scroll down on the page, and then click on the no. "2", which will take you to the second page of text and pictures.
(Hi Mom! Hope you're enjoying the pictures and stories. I love you!)
Happy Pat
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Kent
non-member comment
I'm Watching You.
Hi Pat. My email was correct and am following your adventures. Tried to send you a private email but got an error message. Too bad we couldn't meet in Dubai. Kent