Our first train ride

On Thursday, as part of our orientation, we went to a nearby town called Kamakura. One of the purposes for the trip was for us to learn how to use the Japanese train system. A little intimidating because most everything is in Japanese. And because we are not familiar with all the towns and cities in the area - very important because the trains will have the last stop listed on the trains (not just the stop where you want to get off). For instance, we took the Chiba train to get to Kamakura yet Chiba is actually just a little east of Tokyo about 70 miles away. Same thing when we wanted to go back to Yokosuka - we took the Yurihama train which is a town about 10 miles past Yokosuka. This we had to figure out on our own.

We needed to get money the night
before for the trip. No dollars, only Yen.

That morning, we walked from our lodge
to the orientation. Everyone is excited.

We are taking the bus to the train
station. Macie is excited, Mona is not
as excited.

Japanese school children. The hats
signify which class they are in and were
a common sight.

The map to guide us to our destination.

Our first Japanese train ticket.
It cost 220 Yen.

Macie and I waiting for the train.

I gave Macie girl a hug for good luck.

Once we got on, Macie got a little nervous.
Wish I had taken a picture of Mona.

This is on our way back. Macie is now
an expert on riding the train. At least, until
the next time.

We made it back. Mona can relax now. Actually,
everyone did really well and had a great time.