We had a long journey from Koyasan to Nagasaki, which included a flight from Osaka after we ruled out a complex train journey, so by the time we arrived, we were relieved that we had booked 3 nights in Nagasaki to slow down a bit. The arrival on the island of Kyushu seemed to coincide with a lot of rain, so we didn't feel pressure to rush around and try to see everything. Troy had wanted to come to Nagasaki specifically to learn more about the WWII events, and w...

(That title is from Troy...does anyone know this song??) We ventured deep into the misty mountains and forest for a 1 night stay at Koyasan - the headquarters of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. After three trains, a funicular, and a bus, we arrived at our temple stay for the night, where we were warmly greeted by the monks and taken to our traditional Japanese room, complete with futon on tatami mats. Touristy, yes, worth it, absolutely. This spiritual se...

A quick 2 night stay in Nara has proven to be laidback breather, as we have been able to take our time and slowly explore this little place. Nara is known for its famous deer park, and the deer did not disappoint, as they mingled amongst the shrines and temples and tourists - quite the unique experience! Most of the sites in Nara are in the wooded park, so we followed the path today to visit ponds, gardens, temples, and the Giant Buddha - the biggest bronze Buddh...

Okay that was bad. But we are tired! And since Kyoto is the headquarters of Nintendo, Troy felt we needed at least one video game reference in the blog. We have fallen in love with Kyoto, and have been making the most of our 4 nights here by motoring through as many sights as possible (which goes against our new travel philosophy which is to "see less and see it better"), but it is so hard not to! Every temple, shrine, and garden is stunning, and we float around...

We have made our way 2 hours north of Tokyo to Nikko for two days to visit the National Park, and we are back in the chill! Up in the mountains, we have entered what might be described as a British Columbia/Algonquin experience, complete with sky high trees, lush, crisp air, and the beginning of the autumn colours. We have a handy bus pass to take us around the area, and have visited the natural sites, as well as the Toshogu Shrine site, which is full of elaborat...