Waiting for the train at Odawara Station was an experience. It was amazing how fast the bullet train pass through the station. This video does not capture the sensory overload you have as they rush by.

Two hours later we arrived in Kyoto Station and a quick cab ride allowed us to drop our bags at the hotel and head out for lunch.

The first of many planned activities was Kabuki Theatre.

Before the performance there was an introduction to Kabuki that included dressing up an audience member to demonstrate how elaborate the outfits are.

And a review of the instruments

The next day we met our guide, Tat, who had two days mapped out for us. With his assistance we moved around the city by subway and train an made the most of our time.

Once outside the Temple we visited a 1000 year old bridge before heading off to lunch.

Is there a better way to top off a great meal than a Saki Tasting?

To start the next day, we visited another temple in Style!

We then walked around the temple and the surrounding area in our kimonos. The odd thing was that it didn’t seem weird at all.

After a morning of playing dress up, it was time to have tea with a real life Maiko, which is basically a Geisha in training

Then off to a class on Furoshiki Fabric Gift Wrapping and fabric painting

Without naming names, a few of us needed special attention.

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And you can see the intensity that we approached the fabric painting

Our next day was a near pictureless day. It began with a Zen class with the head monk at the largest temple in Japan

After two hours of meditation training and practice, it was time to EAT.

We went straight to the Nishi Market and met our guide to buy food and then leave to cook Shrimp Tempura and a chicken rice bowl with miso soup.

After more shopping and a nap we were able to meet up with a high school friend and his wife who also just happened to be in Kyoto. Small world! Another unique dining experience where we barbecued our food at the table.

So with that great ending, Kyoto was a wrap and as I write this we are on the train to Hiroshima to continue our adventure.