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Run run run! Go go go! Why can't I just settle down for awhile? Perhaps this is the problem with my whole life, but at least I get to see a lot! I've really struggled with which photos to add to this entry as I have taken so many. I hope I can give the Kansai area of Japan justice! I've taken the night bus from Tokyo, arriving in Kyoto at 5am. The bus ride wasn't too bad. Apart from the fact that the guy sitting next to me snored his way onto my shoulder, and then both of the reading lights were directed onto his side. When I arrived in Kyoto, I was slightly overwhelmed by the magnitude of the station. I hadn't envisioned the cutting edge granite and glass towers in a city known mostly for its' temples and peace agreements. Nonetheless, I found the lockers and the washrooms and made myself respectable for an early start on the temple tourist track.

Historic Temples and Futuristic Expo

Coffeecat
2005-12-24 19:27:10

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but I like the idea of somebody else dressing me! Johnny then took us to the original building that Nintendo occupied before inflicting thumb injuries to youngsters around the world. The company originally manufactured cards that locals would play with, and can still be bought here. It was funny to see the young boys on the tour suddenly light up with awe from the history in Kyoto. Different history for different folks.

All in all, I visited only 5 temples in Kyoto. You would need to spend many many months there to take in the 1600 within the area! The Golden Pavillion Kinkakuju gleamed in the waters surrounding. It didn't
seem real to have such brightness in the middle of nowhere! Nearby the Stone gardens of Rion-ji confused me, as I just didn't quite get it. Then there was Higashi Hongan-ji nearest the station. It's size dwarfed all modern attempts nearby. Sanjusangen temple was overwhemning to see 1001 staues staring back at me as I walked by. Each statue has 40 arms in order to save 25 different worlds. I'd have to study Buddism to understand the complexities of their symbols. Unfortunetly, there were no photos allowed here. (however that's probably a good thing for me!!) Heianjinju temple is one of the countrys' symbols of pride, although the many many layers of red laquer didn't do a lot for me in terms of absorbing the history. Oh actually, one more and it was my favourite. Tucked into the hillside, Kiyomizu has a platform that allows you to see over all of Kyoto. I looked across the treetops to see another temple enveloped in a rolling mist. I found it easy to distance myself from all of the other tourists and take in the beauty and step back in time. This is what I've wanted to experience in Japan.

It's a
Although I never saw Toji up close, the view of it from Kyoto Tower was rewarding
great shame that my time in Kyoto didn't happen ...