Hikone

Sam's parents also graced us with their presence earlier this year in April. We met them in Kyoto and did a couple of day trips out of Kyoto with them. It was surprisingly cold when they came. I had expected the weather to have warmed up during the second half of April but nope.

The first day we went to Hikone, which is about an hour by train and is situated on the east side of Lake Biwa north of Kyoto. Hikone was a very quiet town with not much to see apart from the castle.

Lake Biwa

Green maple leaves

I can't believe they used to use these steep and narrow staircases with no railings.

What a tree! It needs support to keep it's branches up. =P

Hikone castle and water reflection

Cherry blossom

 We saw this cat dressed up in samurai gear (the same clothes that the local mascot wears) riding on some lady's shoulders. When she saw that Lois and I wanted to take a photo of the cat she put it down, made it look presentable and gave it it's sword. =P

Love how Japan has beautiful flowers in pots everywhere

 On the way back to the station we stopped at Zuiho jr. cafe for lunch. The food was great, especially for the cost! A recommended place for lunch if you are to visit Hikone castle.

Deconstructed sandwich?

Salad with glass noodles.

Meatballs with a sweet sour sauce and vegetable chips

Ramen noodles

For dinner we tried out a tempura restaurant on the 11th floor of Kyoto station.  It was kind of disappointing for a tempura specialty restaurant. The batter wasn't as crisp and light as I have had at other places.

Tempura-don