Japanese schoolchildren group at Sanjusangendo hall

Kyoto and Osaka

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October 13th 2009
This is week 4 in Japan and we are starting to feel like old pros with this whole Japan thing. We are able to find a roof every night and put food in our bellies. Everything else is gravy. True in life and in travel! Day 1 of week 4 is a very exciting day because we head to Kyoto and get to stay at the Westin Kyoto. This is where English royalty stay when they’re in town. The Toyoko Inns b ... read more

Asia » Japan » Kyoto

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In 1603, a Tokugawa shogunate (military dictatorship) ushered in a long period of isolation from foreign influence in order to secure its power. For 250 years this policy enabled Japan to enjoy stability and a flowering of its indigenous culture. Fol... ... read more