Kyoto (Part 2)

On Sunday, our final full day in Kyoto, we continued our theme of walks and temples (and food). Up first, Ginkakuji, (or the Silver Pavilion). The leaves and the landscaping were impressive.

Armed with a few hot buns and rice balls, we continued on our way down the Philosopher's Path.

Temple 2 of the day was the Heian Shrine, built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto as the capital of Japan.

Snack #2: a cappuccino and some pastries from the farmers' market nearby.

Not a temple, just baseball practice!

Our third temple was Nanzenji, which features aqueducts! We were able to walk along the top of them, and saw lots of backyards.

Following the Sunday crowds got us to Yasaka Shrine. We saw a wedding here, which was beyond cool to essentially be a part of - they processed through the open area of the shrine and everyone there formed the processional line.

Snack #3: a ham&cheese sandwich and chili cheese dog, plus...

 Temple #5 of our day was Kiyomizudera, with its waterfall and breathtaking views of Kyoto.

We visited our final temple of the day, Benzaiten Chokeiji, briefly before going to the nearby Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. It's small and off the beaten path, but the sake barrels outside show passersby what it's all about. At the museum, we started off with three sake samples, plus some plum wine, then buzzedly wandered around to view all the paraphernalia and try some of the sweet spring water.

After all that walking (and snacking), we decided to end our day with a solid (and solidly American) meal: burgers and beer. Kyoto, you were a success.