Looking back, my Kyoto experience was probably the biggest trip I've taken in ages. Somehow, in four days, the Tanakas and I managed to hit every major cultural spot in the region and still had time for New Year's. I'll probably never see so much history in one week again.

And that was that. The next morning, the Tanakas took me to the station and bid me farewell. They were wonderful hosts who made me feel like part of the family, and I'm sure we'll meet again someday.

All of a sudden, I can't stop thinking about tunnels.

I assumed my sightseeing was over once I was comfortably on my way back to Tokyo, but my day had one last surprise in store for me. Halfway through the ride, I glanced out the window and saw something I'll remember for the rest of my days.

People, it's like no other mountain on earth.

A minute later, it was swallowed up by the clouds again. One more reason to ride the Shinkansen.