We hopped on a local train back to Shinagawa Station. Now it’s feeling pretty normal to navigate train stations. After a bakery lunch we dropped our luggage off at our hotel.
Our first tourist stop of the day was Sengakuji, the Buddhist temple where the 47 Akorishi (the 47 Ronin) are buried. (If you’re not familiar with the story - see the recap of it here on Wikipedia.)
We visited the little museum and saw the wooden statues of each of the samurai. (No pictures allowed there.) They ranged in age from 16 to their 70s. It was so serene. We didn’t take many pictures as it seemed irreverent. But they encouraged us to burn incense for the samurai, their lord, and his wife. (And you know I got a stamp!)
There was a lovely light pink camellia bush (I think that’s what it was) on the grounds.
One last look from inside the grounds.
Then we made our way to the Aoyama Traditional Crafts store. On the way, we passed the huge grounds of the Akasaka Imperial Residence. There were quite a few police out in force patrolling the grounds.
There were so many amazing things at the Aoyama Traditional Crafts store. Oh my goodness, the temptations! In the end, I restrained myself to a modest purchase (as a gift - so it’s secret). Our suitcase is pretty full! (If you’d like to see the types of beautiful crafts they sell - see this playlist and watch the artists create!)
We stopped at another bakery for supper. (Seriously, Japanese bakeries are the BEST!)
And finally checked into our hotel. We’re on the 30th floor and have a stunning view! (We can see the Yokohama Ferris Wheel from here. Waves to Kyoko and Makoto-san.)
It’s hard to believe we’ll head home tomorrow. I’m ready and I’m not at the same time. I miss our family, friends, and the ferrets back home. But I think I love Japan even more than when I visited the first time. Thank you Japan, for such an incredible visit! Mike and I are already whispering about “the next trip.”
I'm so happy you were able to make this trip. Please enjoy your last moments in Japan and travel safely home. Your friends and family are looking forward to even more pictures and wonderful stories. Oh, and I could not agree more. Japanese bakeries are the best!