Kyoto
Kyoto is a beautiful city surrounded by hills and exudes the atmosphere of
the glory and splendor of Japan's ancient culture. From Tokyo, we took a
"Bullet" train for Kyoto, the classical city which was the capital (794-1868) of
Japan.The main attractions are the temples, shrines, gardens and two magnificent
imperial villas, visiting Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle noted for its gorgeous
interiors.
Golden Pavilion ( Kinkakuji ):
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| The second and third stories of this lavish structure are coated with lacquer (urushi) over which has been applied countless squares of genuine gold leaf. The roof is thickly shingled with thin boards of sawara (Japanese cypress) and crowned with a gilded finial in the form of a phoenix, an imaginary bird. |
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| This castle stands on an area as big as 275,000 square meters. 7300 square meters of this area are occupied with buildings. It was built in 1603 and finished in 1626.When you enter the Palace you won't be able to do so without making noise. The floor is called the 'Nightingale floor'. This floor will squeak when you step on it. The cramps under the floor will move up and down which creates friction between the cramps and the nails, which will make a squeaky noice. A great and simple alarm system. |
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 The Dragon fountain |
| It is one of the most celebrated temples of Japan. It was founded in 780. Kiyomizudera stands in the wooded hills of eastern Kyoto and offers visitors a nice view over the city from its famous wooden terrace. Below the terrace, you can taste the spring water, which gives the temple its name and which is said to have healing power. |
