We've had a few excursions outside of Tokyo already. We spent a lovely day in Nikkō (日光), about two hours north of Tokyo walking around the peaceful Rinnō-ji Temple and Shōyō-en garden. Even though the December air was brisk, the traditional Japanese garden was beautiful with green moss, conifers, and a reserved elegance. Traditionally Japanese gardening was passed down from sensei to apprentice, and could only be practiced by masters.
