9 March Moved on to Tokyo

This morning was an early one. Well it was for us as we've been used to leisurely starts to the day!

Up before 7am, bags packed, breakfast eaten and then a trek via several tube and trains to outskirts of Kyoto for a craft morning.

We spent the morning creating a traditional tile from our blobs of clay.

Two hours later this was my effort.

Ian's creation.

They're both very different despite having the same instructions. We've left them to dry out and be fired before they get posted back to us. I wonder what the finished product will look like?

After our creative morning it was a walk to the Shinkansen station in Kyoto for a bullet train to Tokyo. Just over 2 hours to do nearly 300 miles!

Our Tokyo accommodation is along the traditional Japanese style. Futons and sitting on the floor at low tables. Not quite sure how the hips and knees will cope with getting off the floor but we've got 5 days to practice.

We originally thought we'd booked accommodation without a bathroom but after opening every possible door we found the shower and sink area in between in bedroom and the kitchen. For a few minutes I thought I'd have to visit an onsen (a natural hot spring traditionally enjoyed like a normal bath but often communal). Without my swimming costume (it had gone back with Amy to reduce my baggage) it might've been the only option 😄.

Luckily not an option I had to take so we'll be sweet smelling by morning when we go off to explore Tokyo and the surrounding area.