The two main attractions in Kyoto are the beautiful temples and gardens and the narrow laneways in Gion. I visited Kyoto for the first time in 2007 and was absolutely enthralled by the atmosphere. This week the magic escaped us – maybe because it rained a lot but also because we’ve already seen many beautiful places that were less commercial. However we’ve still got a few photos we would like to share…
Yasaka pagoda around the corner from our flatWe stayed in Gion, a charming traditional area with secretive looking bars, kimono-dressed tourists (we still didn’t see the real thing) and temples galore. But our closest neighbours were small ‘hotels’ named the Love Inn, Mona Lisa and Sunday Brunch – typical love hotels where couples can go for a bit of privacy.
Gion laneway
Restaurants overlooking the main river in the centre
Nishiki is the main food marketWe already showed you the gardens, here are a few details from Tenryu-Ji Temple in Arashiyama, on the outskirts of Kyoto
Most buildings have been reconstructed after fires, this is an older original gateWalking back from Ginkaku-Ji along the canal, on what’s known as Philosopher’s Path:
I went off to check some local artworks…
… while Nick philosophisedWe don’t wish to discourage anybody from visiting Kyoto, it’s the best place to temple-hop (with 2000+ temples and shrines to choose from) and there is plenty to enjoy – but if you have the time it’s worth visiting some lesser-known cities too…