Kyoto

Thank you, Kyoto, you have restored my faith in Japan. Finally, I have found what I have been looking for — so much history — I was overcome with a cultural overload almost unmatched, at least for me. This is what I came to Japan for, and I couldn't be happier. Kyoto was, of course, always top of my list of places to visit on this holiday, but even I wasn't prepared for the sheer magnificence of this stunning city, just a short train ride away from Osaka.

It was another full-fat breakfast this morning at the Miyako City Hotel. My waistline is expanding on a daily basis, despite walking more than 25000 steps a day. In the past, I wouldn't have been piling on the pounds like I am now. But at 55, my body isn't what it used to be. Despite watching the calories at home, I certainly can't on this holiday. The food in Osaka is delicious, and I am buggered if I am monitoring my weight, while travelling around this beautiful part of Japan.

Body suitably filled, Darrell took charge of directions, and we made our way to the Keihan line and the local train that would take us to Kyoto. Darrell has always been the map reader — it just isn't my forte. I am absolutely useless with directions and have often been known to get lost a few hundred yards from home. Thankfully, Darrell is marginally better at that kind of thing, and I leave it in his capable hands.

We intend to travel to Kyoto over several days — there is a lot to see, and it is rather spread out. The biggest mistake a first-time visitor makes when visiting this historic site, is believing it can be navigated in a day — it can't! Today, we were making our way to the Kiyomizu-dera temple, which is supposed to be the most beautiful religious monument in the region.

The sun was out finally. After the rain and overcast weather yesterday, Kyoto was destined for a more agreeable 27 degrees, which most definitely suits my current disposition. It has been a challenge deciding what clothes to wear during this holiday because the weather has been so changeable. Today I dressed for all eventualities and instantly regretted it. Today was shorts and flip-flop weather, and there I was wearing a pair of trousers and a collared shirt — you could tell I was British a mile off.

Taking the limited express train, we arrived in busy Kyoto and were immediately taken aback by the view as we walked up from the train station. Traditional Japanese houses lined the length of the canal, offering a glimpse of what was to come. This was the history I had been looking for, and I knew I wasn't going to be disappointed.

It took us about half an hour to walk to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, after stumbling past a rather large shrine on the way — clearly a taster of things to come. Walking to the temple itself, you are greeted by smaller monuments constructed in traditional Japanese style. The complex of small shops, eateries, and places of architectural significance that surround Kiyomizu-dera, are wonders in its own right. Small overpriced stores and stalls selling objets d'art that nobody really needs, but everyone buys to take home as souvenirs, are everywhere you look. Darrell and I have done more shopping here than we have ever done, and I will probably have to pay for extra baggage on the way home.

Walking up steep cobbled lanes, you finally reach the pinnacle and the wondrous temple, set harmoniously into a green, lush mountainside. I was taken aback by the Majesty of the place. We spent a good hour walking around this astonishing monument, surrounded by hordes of tourists, even after Golden Week had come to an end. I was impressed, in awe, and truly content in a setting that has made this holiday worth every penny. You can't put a price on memories, and I am pleased this city is now crossed off my bucket list - in part at least.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kennin-ji Zen Temple

Kennin-ji Zen Temple was another religious monument we stumbled upon, as we made our way to the train station home. This structure was in complete contrast to the first temple we visited and offered a sanctuary from the thousands of tourists climbing the small lanes to the larger Kiyomizu-dera Temple. It was quiet, relaxing, and almost serene, set in some of the most beautiful gardens I have seen on our journey.

The buildings here were less ornate in nature, more calming and intimate. This was a welcome pit stop on our way home — somewhere to sit a while, chat, discuss the day, and unwind. It was a special oasis in a jungle of endless tourists, that just kept on coming.

Recently, I read an article about residents in Kyoto, being fed up with the long lines of tourists constantly flowing into the city, and it's easy to see why. I found most of them extremely rude — especially the usual suspects. Now, I have to be a bit careful here, but American tourists are the rudest of all. In fact, it has been that way on every holiday I have been on. They act entitled and treat the locals with such disdain. I first noticed this when visiting Vietnam, and it really angered me. I remember speaking sternly to one gentleman — I use that term loosely — after verbally assaulting a waitress at the hotel where we were staying in Hoi An. Today they were equally bombastic and rude, pushing and shoving, screaming at the top of their grating voices, as though they are the only important ones in the World — just like their ghastly President, Donald J Trump!

Not all Americans are like this, obviously. I have met many recently who have been extremely apologetic about the current state of politics in their country. Today, however, I had, well and truly, had enough of their appalling attitude. At the end of a long day of sightseeing, I was glad to be sitting somewhere less touristy, less busy, and less stressful. For just a few moments, I was at peace. Taking in the ambience of a temple that literally lived up to its name was the perfect conclusion, to a near-perfect day.

... And finally, I have to admit I failed. Don't shout and scream at me too much, but I actually had lunch at the Western, Hard Rock Cafe. I was so hungry after walking for hours, and this was the first restaurant we saw after our mammoth sightseeing day. I did, however, have a miso, wasabi, and avocado burger, as a homage to the country we are visiting. That did negate the guilt somewhat. I have to say, though, the standard of service was top-notch, and our server, Nancy, was a joy. If you go there yourself, ask for her; she was a dream. Tomorrow a more relaxing day and a steaming hot bowl of Ramen!