Photo of Mt Fuji Sunset by Peter Bloomer

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EXCURSION TO KYOTO

Shinkansen Bullet Train

The fastest and best-known train services in Japan are the Shinkansen. Our trip from Tokyo to Kyoto took only 1.5 hours to travel 250miles
Shinkansen Bullet Train
Tokyo Train Station
Stop #14 is pink
Engineer waits with his carry-on bags
Conductor with his train orders
Rail sensor/detector
Special wheels and high speed bearings run on this track to achieve speeds as high as 215 mph.
Japanese rail fans
Signal and catenary electric system for trains
Here comes the train!
Train lineup

Kyoto

Kyoto was first settled in the 7th century and was once the capital of Japan. It has many historic temples, shrines and villas. At the same time it is thoroughly modern. Our luxury hotel was inside the new train station along with department stores and restaurants. A medical clinic was in our hotel, open to the public, and treated a few of our tour for the flu.
Tokyo Station Platform
Heian-jimgu Shinto Shrine Complex
Heian-jimgu
Very old cherry tree protected with bark wrapping
Heian-jimgu
Kiyomizu-dera temple
Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera
Side garden on Chawan-zaka Teapot Lane
Restaurant