Kyoto was the capital of Japan for 1000 years in the days when imperialism and emperors ruled. It's also the manaufacturing hub for silk and is the home of Nintendo's HO.I got a good feeling about Kyoto soon after getting off the train. It's more personable than Tokyo with a lot less people - population is only 1.5m. Transport wise it only has 2 metro lines - one going north to south and one going west to east. So all the places in between are reached by bus which, on first glance, deserves a medal for it's complexity. Kyoto has some nice temples, palaces and Gion corner where the famous miako or geisha girls used to operate in their heyday. The buildings in this area are very traditional in style and the geisha are still there although they tend not to wear the white make-up these days. It was worth the visit and I'm glad I made the effort.
Japan sounds fascinating. Fab pics! Kids sending love and huge thanks for all the postcards...been on hols so now catching up with your travels. It's been a little like travelling with you...amazing pics and great insights....now looking forward to seeing you when you get home. As you are a tad long in the tooth for Maiko training ...think you will eventually leave Kyoto!! xxxx
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