Kyoto is one of the main tourist destinations in Japan, and with over 1000 temples and shrines, it’s not hard to see why! We visited perhaps 10 or so temples and shrines, each different from the next and each with something just a little special.
Also known as O-higashisan (honourable Mr East), this temple was founded in 1602 and is the head temple for one of the main sub-sects of Shin Buddhism
Chion-in is mostly known for the nightingale floors, but the garden is just as lovely
Ginkaku-ji (the silver pavilion) is so named because it was going to be covered in silver leaf… but it wasn’t. It has beautiful gardens to wander
We happened to be in Kyoto during a festival where 15 city temples were illuminated at night.
Kiyomizu-dera was spectacular at night!
The Golden Pavilion – unfortunately a very chilly wind was whipping the lake
Easily my favourite zen garden, and designed in such a way that you could never see all of the stones at once
This wee temple was just around the corner from where we stayed!
Kennin-ji was probably my favourite temple to visit. Very calm and quiet
Not an original part of the temple, but astonishing just the same!
Written by:Marie Armstrong