AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Kyoto - Amazing Beauty, Culture and Salsa! DATE: Wednesday, March 23, 2005 ----- BODY:

Kyoto was a highlight of the trip! I wish I had been able to spend more time there, as the city is just unbelievably stunning. I opted for an English walking tour of the city with Johny Hillwalker - this fairly hysterical older Japanese guy who is a master at promoting himself. The tour is a lot of fun, and was completely packed with people. He takes you see some of the more famous sites and shrines, and down a few back alley streets, where you see Kimonos being made (and you can try them on), pottery, and even tatami mats. All in all, it's a pretty good way to get in touch with the city.

As opposed to Osaka, I was actually able to find my way around Kyoto! It actually had street names (don't laugh - many japanese cities do not), and it's a very kind place for the English speaker. Anyway, after the tour, a small group of us split off, got some food, and did his recommended after-walk. This is where it really got incredible! At night, the streets and shrines are lit by lantern, and you just wander the streets where there are beautiful flower arrangements, lakes of lit candles, and of course, many temples and shrines. Hands down the most beautiful place on the trip! Absolutely stunning night - wandering the streets of Kyoto (on a completely clear and crisp night), lit by lanterns, with plenty of open shops, and throngs of people. This was the week before the cherry blossoms were blooming - so don't ask. We did see some early blossoming going on.

Yes, I also went salsa dancing, although only on one of the nights I was there, to Cafe Rumbita. A really nice, small place, run by a very friendly husband and wife. Lots of people for the class, and a very friendly atmosphere, made this a really nice club. As with most clubs in Japan, outside of Tokyo, it ends early (by 12), mostly because the people leave to eat, or catch a train, versus the club actually shutting down. While the Kyoto salsa was fun, the highlight was the beauty and culture of the city, which is simply breathtaking! You can expect some pictures, and more details, in the full travel report.

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