Kyoto

Konbanwa,
I just got in from my first full day exploring the wonders of Kyoto, often regarded as Japan's most beautiful city. I don't have photos now (I can't be bothered uploading them, but I might do either later tonight or tomorrow), but the aforementioned regards are true - it's amazing, and a far cry from the concrete jungle of Osaka (at least, if you wander even slightly off the beaten track).

And wander off the beaten track I did. I started off visiting the Imperial Palace (where new Emperors are still sworn in). You have to be over 20 and have a reservation to actually go in (s0 that's me out) but the public gardens/forest around the outside are wonderful. Then I attempted to navigate the Kyoto City Bus system and somehow made it to Kinkaku-ji, the famed 'golden temple' and one of the defining sights of Japan. Google it if you want a sneak preview, but it's pretty stunning. I'm tempted to go back when the light is better and/or in the cherry blossom (sakura) season to get even better photos.

Then off to the old town of Arashiyama, where I managed to get a tasty lunch of tempura soba (battered prawns on a bowl of thin buckwheat noodles in a fishy broth). When I say these prawns were the size of a fish like a sardine, I'm not lying. Following that I explored the temple and grounds at Tenryu-ji, and actually tagged along with a young couple of Stoke, UK (whoever you are, thanks for the map).

Following that I got utterly lost in Arashiyama, a much nicer prospect than getting lost in Osaka. This lead me not to find the temple I was looking for (Gio-ji) but a little place called Danrin-ji. The old guy obviously in charge of the place gave me a personal guided tour of the traditional Buddhist temple - despite the fact I caught him about 15 mins before closing time, he was more than happy to show me around. Again, another example of how so many people seem more than happy to go out of their way for foreigners in their midst.

After than I stumbled back through the streets of Arashiyama, with no particular clue where I was, and happened to spot a pair of apprentice geisha on their way down the street. I'd heard this was the place to see geisha and I wasn't let down.

I've not even scratched the surface of Kyoto here - indeed, there's more to see in Arashiyama and I may go back tomorrow to catch the things I missed.

Right, must run before my time on this PC runs out again...

Take care,
James