Here are the photographs from my day trip to Kyôto with Mako. The whole day proved to be a very romantic one in addition to seeing all these wonderful historic places. We went to three different temples and one large shrine. My commentary will be limited as my input isn't going to be very helpful. I don't know what most of this stuff was, I merely absorbed it. Click on any photo to see a larger version. If you want a full-size photo, let me know and I'll send it to you.

Ginkakuji


Ginkakuji (銀閣寺) is the silver companion to Kinkakuji which I saw on my last visit to Kyoto (photos here). Here's a map of the temple grounds.


This what everyone comes here to see: a building covered in silver. So where the hell is it? Apparently they never got around to putting the silver on the building so I guess "Silver Pavilion" is one of those ironic names. You know, like when you call a tall guy "Tiny." At least they included a silver 鳳凰 (Hôô) on top.

Kitano tenmangu


Kitano tenmangu (北野天満宮) is a large Shinto shrine right in the middle of the city. Unlike like those exorbitant Buddhist temples, there is no entrance fee.


I specifically photographed this thing because I didn't know what it was. It's probably supposed to represent a family crest but to me it looked like a concrete donut.

Ryôanji


Ryôanji (竜安寺 or 龍安寺) is a famous Buddhist temple known for its rock garden. However, I was also impressed by some of the beautiful natural surroundings. And yes, that is Mako's head.


O-Jizô-san! These little guys are everywhere!


There it is, the famous rock garden. Well worth the 500 Yen admission fee!


I'm kidding, of course. This is the real one.


Here are those "water lilies" I mentioned in my original post. ^_^

Ninnaji


Ninnaji (仁和寺) is a short walk from Ryôanji. Here's a map of the grounds. I waited at least two minutes for this guy to get out the shot but he never left.

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Page Last Updated 10/22/05