Where to start? We are back home and recovering from any jet lag we might have had. I’ve had time to reflect on our holiday- here’s a few of the things that spring to mind.
Our basic itinerary was organised by a company called “Inside Japan”, after they’d had a conversation with me about what our interests were and what we wanted to achieve. Their organisation and support was excellent and I’d recommend them to anyone who wants a bespoke holiday in Japan. Everything went to plan and there were lots of little touches that really made a difference.
We visited three cities : Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. At times we found them somewhat overwhelming, Tokyo in particular. Enormous crowds of people, lots of lights and noise, a strange mix of the modern and the ancient and of technology and superstition. We liked Kyoto best, and particularly enjoyed our walk around the Geisha district of Gion.
And of course Anna and I hiked some of the KUMANO KODO trail. This was a real adventure for us both. The forests and mountains were in total contrast to the cities – very few people, very quiet, peaceful. So much so that at one point Anna took a recording of the silence. Major highlights were the ryokens which we stayed at, each very different and each with its own identity. I’d certainly recommend staying in one of these traditional lodging houses if you get chance. I was also pleasantly surprised by the friendship and camaraderie of the people we did meet on the trails.
Food. I wasn’t at all familiar with Japanese food before we went there. I’d had good reports of it though from friends who had already been. I must confess that although I think I gave it a good try I didn’t particularly enjoy it or come to appreciate it. It was always beautifully presented and had clearly been prepared with care.
But I just can’t take to either sushi or sashimi. And sometimes one just fancies a chip butty!
And finally I must mention Japanese toilets! High tech and with lots of buttons to press and warm toilet seats!! I’ve no idea what all the buttons do but there does appear to be one which just makes a flushing sound.
All the toilets were clean and well maintained, even those out in the wilds of the KUMANO KODO trail.
That’s it then. Japan done and dusted. A new and very different experience for us all. Our next holiday is in June when we go back to Naxos for a month. A place we are very familiar with and which holds a special place in our hearts. Before that, though, there is the small matter of bringing the Premier League to a successful conclusion.
Pearl Blog 3 