Another sunny day and an ideal time to visit the Ritsurin Koen in Takayama. A leisurely walk through the covered shopping arcade allowed us to have morning coffee and, since part of the arcade is at least 1km long in the direction of the koen, kept us shaded while we walked. The koen, or garden, is extensive. In the blossom season it would be fantastic. We spent at least 3 hours wandering the paths. Lakes, thousands of immaculately pruned trees and bushes, herons and the inevitably carp.Back in town we had traditional local noodles with some tasty pickles. Afternoon coffee and cake - the yellow ochre coloured one which could be pumpkin - it's tastes great so who cares ...
After a quick look at the Takamatsu Art Gallery we walked down to the Castle Park. The gardens are fine but, we were fortunate to catch a bonsai exhibition. The plants were flowering and nothing like any we had seen before.
Time for rest, washing and dinner ...