A full day sightseeing tour of Kyoto today. What a wonderful city this is. Plenty of history, architecture, temples, shopping and once again great food. Our first stop this morning was Nijo Castle which housed Shogun when he was visiting from Edo (Tokyo). Built in 1603 it is a great example of early building designs housing lavish paintings and carvings. In 1868 the castle was handed over to the imperial family and was designated as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1994. On then to the Ryoanji Temple for a wander through the gardens to visit the Rock Garden which was constructed around 1500ad by a respected zen monk, Tokuho Zenketsu . Only 15 rocks and white gravel is used in the garden. From there we headed to Kinkaku (The Golden Pavilion). In 1397 the Shogun took a liking to the temple and surrounding gardens and acquired it for his family. The garden and buildings, centered around the Golden Pavilion, was said to represent the pure land of Buddha in this world. Gold foil on lacquer covers the upper two levels. What a beautiful and tranquil place this must have been. After a traditional Kyoto lunch it was up the hill to the highest temple here for views over Kyoto and a spot of souvenir shopping. We are off to watch a Maiko show tonight and then our final day in Kyoto tomorrow before travelling to Osaka for our flight home at 10pm.
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