Entrance to Nijo Castle
Garden on the castle grounds
Day 4: June 4, 2004
Kyoto
On the road again, this time to the Kyoto, which is probably the most popular tourist city in Japan. It was the only major city in Japan to escape massive bombing in World War II, mostly because of its wealth of ancient temples and shrines. You could easily spend a number of days here, but since we only had one day, we picked out three spots: Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple, and the Heian Shrine. We also did some souvenir shopping at a huge handicrafts store near Heian Shrine.
Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle contains beautiful painted screens and is also famous for the "Nightingale" floor that chirps when you walk on it (to warn of possible intruders). There are also beautiful gardens around the castle. You aren't allowed to take pictures inside the castle.
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Kinkakuji Temple
Kinkakuji is perhaps the most well-known
temple in Japan. The main pavillion is covered in gold leaf; hence its
nickname "the Gold Pavillion." The extensive wooded grounds of the temple
make for a nice walk.
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Heian Shrine
Heian Shrine is a scaled-down reproduction of the original Imperial palace built in 794. If you like the color orange (actually vermillion), this place is for you.
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| Day 3: Kobe and Dinner at a Steakhouse | Home | Day 5: Bullet Train to Hiroshima and Dinner at a Korean Barbecue |
