Takayama

We took the bus for 2.5 hours this morning, travelling comfortably and with precision timing, through the tunnels in the mountains, to Takayama where we will be staying for the next 2 days. Takayama is a delightful 17th century town perched high in the Japanese Alps which is best explored on foot to appreciate the wooden architecture and friendly vibe of the centre. A few things about the Japanese culture. They think of everything. Even the seats in the public toilets are heated and have “remotes” on them and the hotels have a device to stick your wet umbrella in to dry it, etc. Everyone is polite and accommodating and they don’t rush you even when you are in their way on the streets. We spent the afternoon strolling around the old town, partaking in saki tasting and trying some Japanese tea and sweets. Hida beef is big here so I had a skewer to whet my appetite for dinner this evening. When in Japan…,Read more