July 13 - Most tourists visit Kyoto's famous temples, palaces, and shrines. But one of my favorite Kyoto memories is something much more ordinary - riding on the Keifuku Railways Arashiyama Line. I enjoy the leisurely quality of this journey on narrow rails and through city streets.
Boarding this train recently at Arashiyama Station, I stood at the front of the single car along with two small boys. We stared ahead out the front window in order to share the best view with our conductor. The two boys pressed their noses to the glass, and their eyes were full of wonder as they gazed at the passing cityscape. We heard the metal wheels clacking over the track, the squeal of the brakes, and the occasional horn as our driver honked out a warning to cars driving too close. All this added to our shared experience.
The train rolls right through the street traffic.
On the benches behind me, groups of school classmates, mothers and children, and elderly couples sat and conversed about the weather, their daily activities, and a variety of other topics. I recall that one small girl was eager to press the button to request a stop, but her mother patiently explained each time that she needed to wait for their actual destination before she could press the button. I am sure that was a difficult lesson in patience for a small child to learn.
Arriving at my destination all too soon, I paid the 200 yen fare and disembarked. What an inexpensive and wonderful memory of my vacation in Kyoto!
I did not take this movie myself, but watching it reminded me very much of my own ride on the Arashiyama Line.
Until next time,
Jim
Nice to see someone else appreciates the joys of riding the smaller rail lines in Japan!
