Shinkansen

Checked out of Awa Machiya this morning. Took taxi to Kyoto station. Left Kyoto at 10.53am on the Shinkansen. So efficient, smooth and quiet. Didn't even realise it was already going when I hadn't even sat down. Three seats together in one row and one seat in the row in front. Phil and I tagged team sitting with the kids. Still found it a difficult morning dealing with it all.

Nicholas felt a bit seedy and Catherine just wanted to play iPad games and eat. Arrived in Tokyo about 1.15pm. After a bit of a maze getting out of the station, we caught a taxi to our apartment for the next 5 days. Staying at Shiba Daimon. Tight living area, but upstairs loft is spacious. After a rest, set out to Shiba Park. Explored Zojoji temple. Quite a neat contrast of old buildings with surrounding skyscrapers and Tokyo Tower. Found a playground down the road before getting dinner and groceries and heading back to the apartment. Stuck to American chains tonight and got Subway and Yoshinoya for dinner.