Following a five days by ourselves in Tokyo (including Typhoon Lan), we met up with Patrick and set off by rail to Takayama. Great train trip, with impressive mountain scenes and many hydro electricity generating facilities.
Takayama overnight accommodation was fine.
Next morning, Patrick took us on a very interesting walking tour, before heading off to Kanazawa. A great day with very fine accommodation overnight.
Next day off to Kyoto,
Patrick's knowledge of the rail system, railway stations (where the escalators rise and fall!) made traveling with our medium wheeled cases far less traumatic for a couple of 77 year old (relatively fit) Australian tourists. Patrick excelled in his management of all our rail and subway travel!
Kyoto railway station is most impressive (and new). Our hotel was close by and despite undergoing renovations, proved very comfortable.
A further talent of Patrick's, lay in his knowledge of local eateries. One of which was on the 7 floor of a shopping mall. Doubt that we'd have ever found several without his guidance. Interesting and very tasty food!
Patrick's arranging of a fine Japanese whisky tasting during half-price Happy Hour in our hotel was the highlight of my 78th.
Two standouts; the Inari Fushimi Shinto shrine (10,000 Torii gates) in Kyoto and a visit the following day to Nara. Passing showers did not detract from the visit.
All in all an excellent 6 day 5 night mini tour closing with a Shinansen trip back to Shinagawa, then onto Narita airport to return to Perth, Western Australia.
