We traveled from Bari to Tokyo – Part 3
We took a flight from Bari Palese (BRI) to Rome then Rome to Tokyo
Shinagawa Prince Hotel – 4-10-30 Takanawa Minato-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to. 108-8611 Japan; 81-3-3440-111; We stayed here because it was close to the train station since we were leaving the next morning. Very convenient.
Amazing first impressions:
Heated musical toilet seats with bidet wash and drier! We found them everywhere including train station and convenience stores.
Cleanliness. There are no public trash cans. You are expected to take any trash you generate home with you. There is no graffiti. The streets are clean. When you go to the toilet you are expected to clean it before you exit in order to leave it clean for the next person.
Manners. Everyone we met was so kind and polite. They smile and bow and seek to assist. Children are taught obedience early and are very respectful. Every adult takes responsibility for whatever child is nearby.
Orderliness. Everything is organized and punctual. The trains are on time to the second. They wait in line for as long as it takes without complaint or movement.
From Tokyo we traveled by high speed train to Kyoto
Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station 1-9. Kamadono-cho, Higashi Shiokoji, Shimogu-ku, Kyoto, Japan, 1-800-991-0805
Things not to miss:
Gion – the Geisha district
Ninjo-jo Castle – The residence of the first Shogun and location of Shogun training. Built in 1603 he palace features beautiful painted screens. 541 Nijojo-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto.
Nishiki Market – the 400 year old shopping street. As you exit the market look for the Le Napoli restaurant sign. This hide-away restaurant is small but has a big screen tv playing Disney movies and good wine.
Yasaka Shrine was established in 656. Colorful, active, and the center of the July Gion festival. Admission is free and open 24 hours. 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073.
Kyoto Aquarium – Be sure to see the dolphin training show, penguins, giant salamander, and colorful jellyfish tanks. Then walk the gardens. 35-1 Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835.
Kyoto Botanical Garden – over 12,000 plant species, bonsai garden, Orchid house, beautiful rose garden, and so much more. Shimogamo Hangicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0823. +81 75-701-0141.
Kyoto Aquarium – Be sure to see the dolphin training show, penguins, giant salamander, and colorful jellyfish tanks. Then walk the gardens. 35-1 Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835.
Kyoto Botanical Garden – over 12,000 plant species, bonsai garden, Orchid house, beautiful rose garden, and so much more. Shimogamo Hangicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0823. +81 75-701-0141.
Kyoto – Tokisacho Temple which is known as one of the largest wooden structures in the world. 754 Tokiwacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8505.
There are many temples and shrines in Japan. Some will allow you to visit, others do not.
