Kyoto - Gardens, Temples and Castles

Kyoto is absolutely jam-packed with gardens, temples and castles.  There is just not enough time to see them all - so we went with the highlights package.

Fortunately from Gion (the area where we were staying) there are heaps within relatively easy access.  The subway makes getting to some easier, but a lot had to be seen on foot.

Over the past week we reckon we have, on average, walked about 6kms per day.  Fortunately we had a hot onsen at the end of every day to soothe the sore feet after a long day of walking.



Yasaka Shrine - shrine, gardens and food on a stick

Yasaka Shrine was really different to the other shrines across asia as once you get past the gate and the main shrine there is a huge park with cherry blossoms and vendors selling just about anything on a stick - Adam was pretty pleased about this and refused to eat anything that wasn't on a stick for days afterwards. See the photos tab for food on a stick photos.



Nijo Castle  - circa 1603 world heritage area




Shoran-in Temple - Buddhist temple with lovely garden and good views of Kyoto.




Tenryu-gi Temple - Zen - Heavenly Dragon, 14th century zen garden. Another world heritage listed temple.



Selfie in front of the Jojakkoji Temple.



Famous Arashiyama Bamboo Groves.