Month: August 2006

Departure from Osaka was tough.  Eight kilometers and two hours later, Serge knew it would be a long day.  For the first time, Serge was bare legged, wearing shorts.  He can’t stand having anything on his irritated skin. Between his legs the skin is raw.  He changed shorts and T-shirts three times because within an hour they were completely soaked.  Someone suggested that we use milking grease to prevent chaffing due to humidity.  Unfortunately, we don’t have any.

One road followed another: #25, then #176, #423, #9 and at last #142 which led from Osaka to Kyoto through the countryside.

Kyoto, the capital of Japan until 1868, is a veritable jewel.  A castle, many temples, the historic patrimony is impressive.  Serge stopped in front of To-Ji Temple, which dates from the VIII century.  It’s pagoda is four stories high, which makes it the highest wooden structure in Japan.

Fuji TV accompanied us all day and was with us into the evening, since Serge, lying on his futon, was interviewed from 18H00 to 19H10. Fuji TV brought a French interpreter, which meant that the questions were a bit more in-depth.

It was time to eat.  Small shops not far from the hotel had take away.  Serge ate lying on his Futon, like they did in Roman times.  For him, it’s impossible to remain in seated position on the floor.  19H45, lights out.