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So this update is a little behind schedule as we are about to leave Hong Kong!!
We spent less than a day in Osaka but it was one of our favourite - we went to a little Japanese restaurant directly opposite our hostel and got chatting to who we think were the owner and his friend. Lots of sign language and communicating through camera photos later, they were buying us beers and trying to give Dave free sushi "as present"! It was really cool getting to know them and managing to communicate even though they could hardly speak any English. The one guy was making a cross with his fingers for bad! Apparently, even though "English and Japanese no speak same, we share hearts" -very cliche but sweet! We even had a photo with them!! We haven't managed to find anywhere to upload more photos yet, as the computers we've been using dont have usb ports and are limited on time!
After Osaka, we were off to Koyasan (Mount Koya) via train, cable car and bus where we stayed in THE hostel there, which was actually really lovely and traditional. The next night we stayed in Shojoshin-in; a Buddhist Temple inhabited by monks. It was a unique experience that we thoroughly enjoyed-including our kimono wearing!! :) We had to get up about 5.45 for morning prayer at 6, which was amazing! They chanted non stop for about 45 minutes and we even got to take part in the ceremony by placing incense in the burner on the altar. I only realised that two of the monks were women at the very end when we left to go for breakfast! The meals were really interesting and i counted 11 dishes for dinner and lots for breakfast-cant say we enjoyed thamall ,nor can i say what they all were! We tried them all though, whilst enduring cramp sitting on our knees, especially Dave!!I got bitten to shreds by insects while there which wasnt nice!
After the temple, we returned to Tokyo as we were flying out the next day. We hadnt booked any accommodation though and almost stayed at the airport overnight!! We found an internet place at the station and booked a Holliday Inn right at the airport and an hour and a half later we were there! It was really nice and a good break from the tatami mats we had been sleeping on! After stuffing our faces on the free buffet breakfast we were off to Hong Kong, which is another story.........time running out on computer! Got to go!!!!!
Claire and Dave xxxxx
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