Tokyo continued

So off we went up to Yoyogi Park, it was only 15 minutes up a fairly steep hill , just a couple of rest stops on the way.

Up past the NHK TV studios, I quite often watch this channel when at home as it has an interesting mix of news and articles about Japan and the neighboring countries.

Soon we were in a fairly big park with a couple of lakes and fountains and pretty busy with locals enjoying a walk or a picnic

The temperature was creeping up past 23C and we sat in the shade , relaxing in the tranquility of the park.

After a brief consultation of our map a visit to the nearby shrine seemed like a good idea. 20 minutes later we arrived at the first gate leading to the Meiji Shrine.

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It was built in honor of their restoration to the throne in 1868 and completed in 1920. The shrine is set within a peaceful forest and surrounded by towering trees, making it feel like a serene oasis in the bustling city. As you walk through the torii gates you feel a sense of timeless peace and tranquility.

20 minutes further on we came across a surprising scene. A rack of wine barrels from the Bourgogne region of France that had been consecrated here.

On the opposite side of the gravel path was a rack of Sake barrels from local producers

I’ve not tried sake before but sure I will soon

The shrine itself was a peaceful place despite the many visitors

After a brief stop we were off back through the park to central Shibuya for some lunch

Crikey, said Diane, we’ve walked over 2 miles! As we moved towards the park exit.

Over the bridge on the main road towards the city we came across a level crossing.

After waiting for several trains passed off we set. Turn left we all agreed and strode off chatting about the sights of the day so far.

20 minutes later we all looked quizzically at each other. I don’t remember this said Diane and I agreed.

Gary looked at his Google maps and said ” we should turn west and cross the main railway line and then head towards the sun with the wind behind us and we’ll be there in no time”

Off we set eagerly watching the sun and putting a finger in the air to test the wind direction. 2 rest stops later we were at the top of a hill, out of breath and longing for a cold beer.

“Are you sure this is the way we quizzed Gary”

Diane and I consulted our Google maps and soon realised…….

“You’re not connected to the Internet!, your map is upside down! FFS where the f##k are we!

The 3 of use decided on a way forward and 2 hours later were back in the city with a cold beer.

In the pub Diane consulted here map and called out, “crikey boys, we just walked 7.8 miles!”

My feet know I moaned, ordering 3 more pints!

Gary sat quietly in the corner seat looking innocently out the window!

TTFN

Bibbley