The rain having finally subsided today, we took advantage of every minute under the sunshine to thaw out ... I think my shoes have actually dried. Our timing was just right - for once - as we hit the once-monthly "flea market" at To-ji temple in Kyoto, where we browsed through craft vendors, antiques and filled up on the obligatory dried fruit and pickled-veggie samples. The day's highlight by far, however, was getting molested by tame deer in the Nara parks hungry for biscuits, starbucks and tourists' sweatshirts. The Todaiji temple (largest wooden building in the world) was pretty impressive too, but doesn't quite measure up to the deer. Considering the abundance of zen gardens and temples, I'm starting to understand how this country can have such an air of peacefulness and contentment.
And that amazing cup of cinnamon tea sent me reminiscing of those blissful sips of indian chai ... so soon, so soon.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Thursday, March 20, 2008
week ichi
Despite some pressure from my fuzz-headed partner, I couldn't quite force myself to do a joint blog. However, I did succumb to the pressure of many others who have requested a blog, period.
Almost a week into our journey already, many of the early memories from Tokyo and Kyoto are beginning to fade slightly, as I struggle to recall the many details that have expanded the past 6 days into an eternity. To summarize my impressions so far, this country is one of impressive efficiency and organization, and really admirable patience and kindness. I have yet to witness any display of anger or selfishness from these people, and I find myself highly aware of my own "east-coast" roots emerging as frustration and impatience.
To touch on a few highlights so far ... in Tokyo, cherry blossoms beginning to bloom in some random Tokyo garden ... the generosity of Jan to play tour guide for a day ... free milk tea at the cyber cafe :) ... temples tucked in amongst skyscrapers ... Shibuya crossing to people watch and become frozen by stimulus overload ... everything being clean, on-time and efficient!
in Kyoto, mochi mochi mochi! can`t seem to get enough of nishiki market ... the overeager welcome cries of our Ryokan owner and the green tea that always awaits us when we return home ... the one-man chef show last night that whipped up some innovative gourmet veggie grub at our red lantern pub ... and today, the surreal bamboo forest sheltering the Tenryu-ji temple ... a yudofu feast of tofu hotpot ... yummy.
and how surprisingly freeing it is to rid your life of hair, make-up, and all but the bare necessities. although an income would be nice to have again.
Almost a week into our journey already, many of the early memories from Tokyo and Kyoto are beginning to fade slightly, as I struggle to recall the many details that have expanded the past 6 days into an eternity. To summarize my impressions so far, this country is one of impressive efficiency and organization, and really admirable patience and kindness. I have yet to witness any display of anger or selfishness from these people, and I find myself highly aware of my own "east-coast" roots emerging as frustration and impatience.
To touch on a few highlights so far ... in Tokyo, cherry blossoms beginning to bloom in some random Tokyo garden ... the generosity of Jan to play tour guide for a day ... free milk tea at the cyber cafe :) ... temples tucked in amongst skyscrapers ... Shibuya crossing to people watch and become frozen by stimulus overload ... everything being clean, on-time and efficient!
in Kyoto, mochi mochi mochi! can`t seem to get enough of nishiki market ... the overeager welcome cries of our Ryokan owner and the green tea that always awaits us when we return home ... the one-man chef show last night that whipped up some innovative gourmet veggie grub at our red lantern pub ... and today, the surreal bamboo forest sheltering the Tenryu-ji temple ... a yudofu feast of tofu hotpot ... yummy.
and how surprisingly freeing it is to rid your life of hair, make-up, and all but the bare necessities. although an income would be nice to have again.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
