Saturday, September 6, 2008

Kyoto



Kyoto is a perfect place for people who love authentic taste of Japanese culture where you can find many world heritage landmarks such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, To-ji Temple and some other beautiful places.

Christmas 2007, it was my second visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple located in Higashiyama. This popular temple is one of the oldest in Kyoto, has a marvelous wooden structures and beautiful mountain view at one side and city view at the other side. Japanese people believe this temple has pure water as what Kyomizu literally means. On my way up to the temple I had a quick look at Kimura Oshido, a traditional gift store. There are many stores lined with shelves displaying souvenir, snack and food as well.

I skipped To-ji temple beside I have been there 3 years ago, at that time I didn’t have enough time to visit all beautiful places in this ancient capital of Japan. Another temple you shouldn’t missed when visiting Kyoto is Kinkaku-ji temple, known as Golden Pavilion Temple with beautiful Japanese garden where you can experience a unique Japanese Tea Ceremony.

In Kyoto, especially in Pontocho district you can find many authentic Japanese restaurants, bars and tea houses where you can see Geisha or Maiko and even having experience being entertained by them if you are happy to pay the price! Geisha is a traditional entertainer dressed in beautiful kimono, having heavy make-up and has skills such as tea-serving, dancing, playing music and conversational skills, while Maiko is an apprenticeship before become a professional Geisha.

Brown McDonald's is only in Kyoto! if you are trying to find this famous fast food in Kyoto, you wouldn't find a bright red and yellow logo of McDonald's, instead you would see a brown McDonald's sign due to the city regulation to maintains it's reputation as Japan's preserved cultural and traditional city.

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