Kyoto was once the capital of Japan. Famous for classical Buddhist temples, Zen gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines & traditional wooden houses.
Kiyomizudera (Pure Water Temple) is most celebrated. Vibrant views of cherry & maple trees erupting in a sea of colours in spring & fall.
Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is an ethereal Zen temple. Top floors are covered in gold leaf. The temple was a villa of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.
Tofukuji Zen temple displays spectacular autumn colours. The head temple of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.
Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) is a Zen temple along Kyoto’s eastern mountains. A center of contemporary culture. Amazing tea ceremonies, flowers, theatre, poetry & architecture. Hosts a stunning statue of Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy.
Kyoto Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Located in the surreal Imperial Park. Weeping cherry trees stand beside Konoe Pond. Pristine.