Traveling Outside and Within: Still More Temples, Each a Unique Marvel

Our time in Kyoto--indeed our time in Japan--is nearing an end, but we'll pack it as full as we can! There is SO much to see!

Today we walk the Philospher's Path, a haven of calm within the city. Quiet residential areas, occasional shops, and temples line the route, which is pretty much level or gently downhill.

The Path begins as Ginkakuji, the mate of Kinkakuji, the Golden Temple from a few days ago. Interestingly, this temple is a Japanese favorite, while the Golden Temple is the favorite of Westerners. The Golden Temple is, to my opinion, more photogenic, while the grounds of Ginkakuji are the main attraction.

The gravel here is more than raked, it is shaped into rows and furrows as well, not to mention a depiction of Mount Fuji!

But the grounds are not a desert, there is water as well--

A group of school girls were enjoying their time--

This gardener was sweeping stray leaves and twigs from the moss with a twig broom--

We came across this little shrine along the way__

The rope rings a gong/bell, and the upper box receives offerings.

It's a pretty great place, Ginkakuji!

Then back to the Philosopher's Path

There are some shops along the way, small and unique. This man paints jeans, among other crafts he sells. There is a pair hanging behind him as well as the pair he's wearing--

Pretty amazing!

Another small shrine is up in the trees dedicated to the sign of the Asian 'zodiac' represented by the Rat. It was charming, unfortunately it didn't photograph well.

Next up: Eikando Temple

Where is housed a Buddha looking back urging his follower Eikan to follow him. No photos were allowed of the statue, but this is the elaborate building housing it:

Nanzenji is the terminus of the Walk, and what a marvel it is! There are many screens and painted walls within the several buildings; naturally photographs are not permitted inside, but the grounds are exquisite, with large and small gardens around every corner--

Notice the elaborately raked gravel.

These fellows, which I think are probably end caps of a roof, were lying on the ground awaiting something--

Our final shrine was Heian Jingu. Brilliantly-colored buildings and an amazing garden are its treasures! So many of these temples are favorites, all for different reasons.