Our time in Kyoto was a welcome change from Russia. This cultural city served as Japan's capital until the late 19th century when the capital changed to Tokyo. Today it is home to 1600 temples and 400 shrines - we have 1594 temples and 399 shrines to go!
We set off with our guide Marie to discover the highlights of Kyoto. First on the agenda was the Golden Pavilion. With the most perfect weather, we were treated to a beautiful reflection of the pavilion and its surroundings in the water below.
Kyoto's famous Golden Pavilion
After the Golden Pavilion we visited the Ryoanji Temple, made famous by a visit from Queen Elizabeth. This Temple is home to a zen rock garden with 15 rocks scattered around. From any given angle, all 15 rocks are unable to be seen. They claim the ability to see all 15 means your third eye is open....all of our third eyes were closed that day.
a Monet-esque pond and garden at Ryoanji Temple
Hannu in a zen moment
counting rocks
After our first two temples we enjoyed a traditional Japanese noodle lunch where we tasted two types of noodles - SOBA (buckwheat) and UDON (wheat flour). Quite the challenge with chopsticks but we persevered! And it was another meal on the floor.
Gontero, our restaurant for lunch, is in the Arashiyama district. A scenic area along the riverside with art, history and japanese culture. It being a Saturday for our visit, the streets were packed. Arashiyama is also home to the Bamboo Forrest - a perfect retreat from the hot temperatures!
Arashiyama District
an apparent "must-do" in Kyoto is to dress in a traditional kimono. Couples everywhere were partaking - no one in the group was game!
Last but not least we visited Fushimi Irini Shrine - comprised of thousands of orange torii gates, this Shinto Shrine gathers locals and tourists alike for well wishes in all aspects of life.
Marie, our guide, showed us the purification ritual done prior to entering the Shinto Shrine. Some could have used a bit more water than others!
needless to say we didn't see all the torii gates
