After getting up at 9:00am (this was considered a sleep in) we were off to the train station to catch a bus to Kiomizu Dera Temple in Kyoto. Dating back to 1633, the Kiyomizu Dera is a buddhist temple and is considered one of the most famous landmarks in Kyoto. The temple is dedicated to the God of Mercy, and offers many opportunities to pray, think and relax. The temple also hosts a breathtaking panoramic view of Kyoto.
After exploring the temple and doing a little shopping we took a bus back to the hotel and collected our luggage. We then walked for 3km, which was actually 300m (maybe my whinging the entire way made it seem a lot longer) with our suitcases to our platform. It was at the station I discovered (for the second time) that escalators aren`t really my thing when I have a suitcase. I almost fell down it with my luggage, luckily Mr. Rankin was able to hold me up.
Fifteen students, two teachers and all their luggage = chaos on a local train. We defied all odds whilst taking up half a carriage and receiving a few frustrated looks from fellow commuters.
Fifteen students, two teachers and all their luggage = chaos on a local train. We defied all odds whilst taking up half a carriage and receiving a few frustrated looks from fellow commuters.
It was finally time to meet our host families, and the nerves and excitement were obvious. We were greeted by Mr. Morikawa and Mr. Okamoto at the train station and bussed to Gojo. An unusually for us, it was raining, which lasted for more than a day. Our host families were waiting anxiously to meet us.
Upon our arrival at Gojo High School we were invited to a welcome ceremony. Speeches were made as we were welcomed formally to the school.
Everyone then departed the school and headed to their host student`s house for a week of laughs, fun and friendship.
By: Rhylee Elliott.
On Gojo Senior High School`s website, they have photos of our welcome ceremony with the host families. See the picture below and click the writing beside the red arrow to access this page. The website is:
At Kiyomizu Temple.
Mitchell, Tom and Courtney infront of a pagoda.
The view across the small valley between one side of the temple and the other.
Looking back towards the main building.
One of the many memorial statues around the temple.
Another one of the statues. This one was guarding a smaller temple.
Cate getting water from the temple to promote long life.
Looking for donations outside the temple.
Packed into the local train headed for Gojo.
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