Leaving behind the bright city lights and hustle of Tokyo, Kyoto is the next stop. While still full of tourists during the hot and humid days, Kyoto has a calmer way of life. Gone are the skyscrapers and young professionals. The demographic drastically changed. The passengers of the local buses are primarily retirees. The trendy Kawaii outfits, makeup and platforms transformed into modest clothing and comfortable walking shoes. One of our favorites spots of the whole city was the Nishiki Market. Here is where the charm of this city lies. The small and narrow street is hidden in between a modern outdoor shopping mall. Think Santee Alley in downtown LA, but much much tighter. The stalls are small, but the flavors are anything but. The variety of food is overwhelming. Every step you take shines a light on a different local delicacy. There is something for everyone. Fresh and raw seafood, sushi, tempura, desserts, teas, matchas, coffees, chopsticks, souvenirs, clothing, dumplings, deep fried yummies on a stick and did I mention desserts?
This city hosts traditional tea ceremonies and we definitely had to try it. This included dressing up in traditional Japanese attire. The application of a Kimono is a complex and lengthy process. Multiple layers are involved. Each fold is precise and has a purpose. Like the kimono, the tea ceremony is complex and each step is completed with precision. Safe to say, I can now make a delicious matcha, with the proper etiquette.
Outside of the city lies a bamboo forest. What better time to visit a forrest than after dark? A small group of us daredevils decided to take a stroll into the “haunted” bamboo forrest. The area is dark, lit with just the moon when visible and a few scattered lights. The bamboos were tall and the tales the tour guide told were even taller. The folklore and urban legends related to this forrest were truly scary. The residents are superstitious and continue to pass down the stories to the new generations to avoid more tragic endings. Part of our journey was to enter through a narrow path lined by bamboos and pure darkness. We were told to go alone and with no flashlights. A guest appearance was made halfway through the walk by the girl from the ring. Yes, that girl! Glad I made it out without being cursed.
Another popular item that is sold in Kyoto is their speciality knives. Of course I had to get one. None of them really spoke to me, so I had to make one instead. Yup, that’s right. I put on yet another outfit, but this time it wasn’t for status, it was for hard labor. Coach B became Blacksmith B. I crafted a knife that started from a rectangular bar. After blistering heat and calluses, the rectangle resembled a blade. Next up was shaping and creating the sharp blade. The last step was polishing. In the end, my one of kind knife was ready for use. I am now in charge of all chopping in my household. The skill and craftsmanship it takes to create these knives are truly a work of art. On to Osaka!
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