So, anyone who knows me even a little likely knows that I love, love, love monkeys! And today’s ultimate adventure was a trip to Arashiyama, near Kyoto, to an awesome monkey park. I have heard many a scary monkey tale since living in Japan, but none of these warnings could keep me away. However, there are a number of rules regarding monkey viewing that I found interesting. One that I found particularly curious is that you can’t make eye contact with the monkeys or they will feel like you are threatening them and will attack you. This I found to be true when I was trying to get a picture near a baby monkey and someone I assumed to be his mother became rather aggressive. I promise, I was trying not to make eye contact but she was staring at me. Next thing I knew she was growling and bearing her teeth, and quickly I was using my friend as a human shield against a possible attack. Other than this little incident, I had an absolute ball wandering around monkey park!
Another intriguing location we visited was a bamboo forest, which I have to admit I find strangely creepy for some reason. And we also checked out a very well manicured Japanese garden where we enjoyed a traditional tea service.
And finally, I had a delicious meal of local cuisine in the evening. Kyoto is know for its tofu, and in particular yuba, which I enjoyed at a stylish little restaurant in Arashiyama.
And of course I took plenty of pictures! Enjoy!
