Wandering Ozzies

Last day in Tokyo as we prepared to catch the Shinkansen Bullet Train to Kyoto. Our large luggage had already been shipped to the Kyoto hotel and we were glad we did. We had booked the train for 11:00am to give us plenty of time to get to Tokyo Central station and find the platform. Tokyo Central is reportedly the busiest station in the world. Well the trip on the Metro showed just how busy it becomes. When we boarded we couldn't find a seat but it wasn't overly crowded. After one stop a couple left so Faye and I sat. We only had a small backpack and 1 piece of carry-on sized luggage. As the train travelled towards Central it became fuller and fuller until people were being pushed on at closer stations. I expected many to get off at Central so wasn't too worried. Arrived at Central and no-one moved. It was a nightmare pushing through the standing crowd to get off. Lucky to make it before the train left. Ended up with plenty of time to find our platform and have a coffee before leaving. The Bullet Train was excellent. So smooth and fast of course. We were lucky to again see Mt Fuji on the trip. Arrived on time in Kyoto, checked our bags had arrived at the hotel and went for a wander around. Found the Nishi Hongan-Ji Temple which was magnificent. Back at the hotel we checked in to the smallest hotel room I've ever seen. Lucky we could store the luggage under the bed. Dinner was at a tiny Mum & Dad restaurant nearby. Dinner story too long to tell here but it was definitely an experience.Read more