Japan 2010 Day 1

090910 1143 local time (GMT +8)
B-HKE over the Pacific Ocean

Had a quick rest in the hotel, then headed to the airport for my free breakfast. The spotting wasn't that good this morning, so I enjoyed the lounge.

I was pleasantly surprised to see B-HKE at gate 64. Distinguishable by her PW engines compared to the usual RR of CX, this aircraft once flew the Singapore flag.

We took off slightly late, leaving China behind for Japan at 1022. Got a nice view of the new ICC on the way out too.

The new CX seats are way more comfortable than the old ones, and the entertainment system is a vast improvement. It is a little glitchy though. Lunch was better than last night's dinner too, except that I still prefer SQ's soba.

1401 local time (GMT +9)
B-HKE over Japan

It's been a pleasant flight so far, the best I've had on Cathay, and I'm almost sad to land. We're running parallel to the Japanese coastline now, and I'm preparing for our carrier landing by listening to Perseus, Ocean and Sky.

1652 local time (GMT +9)
Sakai, Japan

Once again, I'm back in the Empire of the Rising Sun. We touched down at a rather empty Kansai Airport at 1426 and taxied over to gate 3, just opposite where 9V-SRL and 9V-SRP parked back in 2008.

Going through the arrivals area brought back fond memories, especially the cool arrivals screens. I then caught a Rapi'T Beta, which is apparently what they call their airport express, and changed to a local train at Tengachaya. The train system is highly confusing, but once you figure out how to read the information board, you'll get the idea

1805 local time (GMT +9)
Kiikamiya, Japan

I'm enjoying some beautiful vistas as I take this 2 carriage rural train up the mountain. It's quite relaxing really, and a little amazing to think people live like this in Japan, in stark contrast to Osaka and Tokyo.

2230 local time (GMT +9)
Koyasan, Japan

After the train journey, I took a cable railway up to Koyasan station, where I transferred to a local bus. Interestingly here you get on at the back and off at the front.

The temple is nice. It has no aircon or chairs, but Internet. I always thought the Internet was on a higher tech level than aircon.

Also, the feeling of partaking in a Japanese bath once more was indescribably good. I wish I could set a good one up at home.

Ah well, off to sleep and time for another day tomorrow.

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