Two weeks ago, I visited the amazing city of Kyoto. It is both old and new at the same time, having the Gion Geisha District, and modern restaurants along the river. Actually getting to see the real Geisha up close and personal was like walking onto the movie set of "Memoirs of a Geisha"...their make-up, beautiful kimonos, and very very tall sandals were almost unreal. They walk with such grace and timidity and they are very difficult to capture on camera.
During our stay in Kyoto, we saw the beautiful Golden Pavilion Temple, Imperial Palace, and many other beautiful zen gardens. There are so many gardens and temples to visit, it's almost too overwhelming. But, I think we were lucky enough to see the main highlights...I wouldn't recommend going in the summer, or at least this summer...it was SO hot that sweat was more present then I would like to admit or remember ;)
My favorite place was probably the Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, Tenru-ji Gardens...the bamboo grove there is almost spiritual and well-worth the visit, or the Inari Shrine with its hundreds of orange gates. Kyoto is a special place that everyone must visit before they die...even if that sounds corny, it's true because you can really get lost in the beauty that Kyoto offers.
As a side trip, we visit Nara where we could pet wild deer in the park and visit the largest wooden building in the world. Inside is an impressive golden buddha statue. My trip to Kyoto was definitely memorable and I hope to go back again in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom :)
In one of the photos, you can see me eating soba noodles with scrambled egg on top from the oldest soba noodle restaurant in Kyoto..this place has amazing food and sits on a little side street off of the main boulevard...so unless you know about it, you ain't gonna find it ;)
So, for your future trip to Kyoto, GO EAT THERE...you won't be disappointed.
xoxoxoxoxo
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