March 10, 2002
Kyoto here I come

On Monday morning, at 9:32, I will board one of Japan's infamous shinkansen, bound for Kyoto. The approximately 500 km trip will take less than 3 hours aboard the bullet train and deposit me safely in Kyoto station before noon.
Once there, I'll find my way to the ryokan that I've reserved in central Kyoto. Ryokan are the traditional Japanese inn, with tatami style rooms, communal bathrooms, usually run by a small family--kind of a Japanese bed and breakfast. When I made my reservation, the very nice woman who answered the phone wasn't so confident in her English, so she handed the phone to another guest (American) who was happy to jot down all my pertinent information. I'm envisioning this woman shuffling around, being very pleased to see me when I arrive on Monday, bowing politely and requesting that I take my shoes off at every opportunity. I'll be there three nights.
When I leave Kyoto on Thursday, it won't be via shinkansen. As a bit of adventure, I've decided to take the much slower local trains back to Tokyo. According to my Lonely Planet, the route takes about 8 hours and involves as many as 4 transfers. Apparently, there is no local line in existence longer than about 100 km. I figure this way, I'll have a chance to see the Japanese country side at something less than 200km/hr, get hopelessly lost, and possibly meet that Japanese girl of my dreams.

Posted by jimray at March 10, 2002 08:04 AM
Comments

Howdy,
I guess you have already started your adventure to Kyoto by now. I have learned the following about Kyoto: It was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years and is an important religious center. Its original name, Heiankyo meant capital of peace and tranquility. Kyoto means capital city. It was the center of activity during the rise of the shoguns. Seems like quite a place to visit. We can't wait tohear about your adventures. Have fun!
Love Ya, Dad

Posted by: Allen Ray on March 12, 2002 12:47 AM

It's interesting to see that your dad's little "tidbits of information" are never far from your reach. :o) Guess he's spent a little time in the WC. We love you and are glad that you'll get to experience the bullet train! Wow, perhaps when you return you can be an advocate for this type of service between Atlanta and Ashville... or Durham and Ashville. I'm equally as glad that you'll take the slow train trip for the return. Do I hear a "slow boat to China" in your future?!?!?

Posted by: Lani on March 13, 2002 05:36 AM
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