This morning we met Akiko who is our wonderful guide for two days. We are so privileged to have her with us as she provided much entertainment and insight into Japanese history and culture today. We travelled from Tokyo to Hakone and stopped to take in the sights at Koutokuin Temple, Hase Kannon Temple and Lake Ashi along the way.
Koutokuin Temple was quite fascinating and had a large statue of a great Buddha and many took the opportunity to go inside the statue. Then, Hase Kannon Temple was beautiful with peaceful water gardens and statues to bring people happiness and guidance. Akiko shared many beliefs and stories about Buddhist rituals and their belief in the afterlife which was quite interesting.
Then, we went to Lake Ashi and boarded a pirate boat for a cruise across the lake. The lake is beautiful but unfortunately the clouds today meant that we couldn't quite see Mount Fuji. There is an interesting nine-headed dragon legend and many Japanese people believe the dragon lives in the bottom of the lake.
Finally, we arrived at our Ryokan called Ichinoyu which is a traditional Japanese style accommodation. We had a delicious Japanese meal dressed in our traditional yukata (robe) and then relaxed in our rooms to enjoy a private Japanese onsen (hot bath) in our rooms. Tonight we will sleep in a futon which is a mattress on the traditional tatami floor. A lovely and relaxing end to the day.
Koutokuin Temple was quite fascinating and had a large statue of a great Buddha and many took the opportunity to go inside the statue. Then, Hase Kannon Temple was beautiful with peaceful water gardens and statues to bring people happiness and guidance. Akiko shared many beliefs and stories about Buddhist rituals and their belief in the afterlife which was quite interesting.
Then, we went to Lake Ashi and boarded a pirate boat for a cruise across the lake. The lake is beautiful but unfortunately the clouds today meant that we couldn't quite see Mount Fuji. There is an interesting nine-headed dragon legend and many Japanese people believe the dragon lives in the bottom of the lake.
Finally, we arrived at our Ryokan called Ichinoyu which is a traditional Japanese style accommodation. We had a delicious Japanese meal dressed in our traditional yukata (robe) and then relaxed in our rooms to enjoy a private Japanese onsen (hot bath) in our rooms. Tonight we will sleep in a futon which is a mattress on the traditional tatami floor. A lovely and relaxing end to the day.