Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
Wednesday 16th October weather 24 overcast morning, humid, and clearing to sunny late afternoon.
Today we retrace our steps to the Tea Ceremony District which is located in the south eastern part of the city.
We exit the bus and visit the Yasaka Shrine which as around 6 main buildings including the gates and the Shrine, a place to purchase Amulets and fortunes and some food outlets for the hungry.
From here we walk through the narrow streets passing private gardens and other Temples and Shrines. It's very pretty, old and traditional. We circle back and end up at the gardens to the Yasaka Shrine called the Maruyama Park. We see a group of school children sitting eating lunch from Bento Boxes. When the school children are out of school they all wear a hat so they are easily identifiable.
In this area, in particular, many, many tourists hire traditional kimonos and wear for the day. It's mainly groups of young girls, but there are quite a few couples and also tour groups of older women. I suppose they are immersing themselves in Japan's cultural experience.
On our way back I see a Maiko on her way to an appointment, I could tell from her perfect hair-do and make-up. They do not wear white make-up during the day unless it is a special occasion. They have their hair washed and styled once a week only.
This afternoon we wander back to the hotel, window shopping at various department stores. We enjoy lunch and an excellent mocha coffee.
Our only purchase is a change purse to keep the supply of coins that are required for the washing machines.
We go shopping at UNIQLO this afternoon, I noticed that not all shops stock the same items and buy a cashmere jumper I like. The shops are full of winter clothes, but it's still too hot here to be interested.
Returning to the hotel we sit to have a drink during Happy Hour. There is going to be a free performance tonight by a Maiko at 6.30. We are so lucky to see her perform. It is something that the hotel arranges for its guests once a month. She is elegant and beautiful, and does just one dance which last around 5 mins.
After the performance we go to dinner at a nearby restaurant and enjoy tempura and a chicken dish with miso and rice. It's been a much quieter day for us but I still managed 14,500 steps.
2025-03-20