the main hall is a wonderful old cherry tree in full blossom. Gnarly and with thick, creamy blossoms, quite unlike the trees on the approach, which, I believe, are are a fairly modern hybrid and now the commonest type. I much prefer these older variants. There is a nice, bright blue and red Fudo statue, and in its own little building a truly exquisite painted carving of a Thousand-Armed Kannon.

So now I have finished, 108 temples. Heading to the station I stop in next door to the temple at the Atago Shrine. Many Atago shrines, like this one, are located on the tops of hills or mountains. This one is quite popular for the views it offers over Fukuoka. The shrine has some interesting komainu, and the viewsfew other visitors and split the fare - the museum personnel arranged this for us. They can call you a private taxi, too.

We returned to Naruko Station, and what's a tired and cold tourist to do but eat? Our morning ended pleasantly at a local cafe, where we each enjoyed a plate of curry and rice.

Tuesday, December 01, 2015

The Yamanote line's new E235 train comprising 11 cars began running yesterday, November 30. The new train features a lot more digital signage, and a lot more free space for wheelchairs and baby buggies. This is the first new Yamanote line train in 13 years.

Just one of the new trains has been put into operation at this stage and will be limited to no more than 19 circuits of the